If you’re about to use a spa pool for the first time—at an Airbnb, a friend’s place, or a holiday rental—it’s natural to have questions: How do I turn it on? Is it clean? What are the rules? This user guide explains everything you need to know.
Whether you're soaking in a spa for the first time or sharing your spa with guests at your Airbnb or holiday home, it’s essential to know how to use it properly.
From hygiene to water care and etiquette, this guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure everyone enjoys a safe, clean, and relaxing experience.
This step-by-step guide is designed for:
Before you hop in the spa, make sure you’ve got everything you need for a safe and comfortable soak.
1. Clean swimwear (“togs”) Only wear proper swimwear—no cotton clothing or underwear. Avoid clothes with dyes that may bleed into the water.
2. Towel Bring a large towel or robe to dry off and stay warm after your session. If you're heading indoors afterward, place a mat near the door to prevent slipping.
3. Drinking water Hot water can dehydrate you quickly—especially in longer sessions. Have a bottle of water nearby and drink before and after using the spa.
4. Waterproof sandals or slip-ons Useful for walking on wet surfaces after getting out. Helps prevent slipping and keeps your feet clean.
5. Hair tie (if applicable) Long hair should be tied back to avoid tangling with jets and to help keep the water clean.
6. Spa-safe glasses or cup (if drinking) Use plastic or shatterproof glassware—never glass.
7. Bag or dry place for personal items Store your phone, watch, and jewellery somewhere dry before entering the spa.
Host tip: If you're preparing a spa for guests (e.g. Airbnb), consider providing these essentials—or a checklist in your welcome binder—to help them enjoy the spa safely and respectfully.
Before using the spa, make sure it’s clean, heated, and has had the right chemicals added to keep the water safe. Spa water should be treated (sanitised) and checked for things like pH and water quality—this helps prevent skin irritation and keeps the spa working properly.
If you’re a guest, it’s a good idea to ask:
If children are using the spa: They should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone in or near the water.
If you’re the host:
Why it matters: Showering removes sweat, oils, lotions, and sunscreen that can clog filters and affect water quality.
Also avoid:
Tip: Hosts should mention this in spa rules to reduce sanitiser demand and maintenance.
Important hygiene note - If your spa is being used for commercial purposes, for example an AirBnb or bed and breakfast, the spa should be degreased, emptied and refilled with spa water between each guest stay.
Before entering the spa:
Why?
Smartphones and tablets should be stored in a safe, dry place away from the spa to avoid water damage. If you're using your device for music, set your playlist before getting in.
Some spas feature a smart bar with storage for devices. Check out Spa World's stylish smart spa bar here..
Most spas have a control panel for:
Do not adjust the temperature unless instructed. Heating changes can take hours and may be locked.
Keeping the water clean and safe is essential—not just for hygiene, but also for protecting the spa’s internal components like pumps, jets, and filters.
Spa World recommends daily sanitising during periods of regular use, and always sanitising between guest stays.
Here’s what to know:
1. Do not use test strips to measure chlorine levels. Instead, always follow the dosing instructions on the sanitiser container label. These instructions are specific to the product you’re using and the size of your spa.
2. Test strips should only be used to monitor pH and alkalinity: pH: 7.2–7.6 Alkalinity: 80–160 ppm Unbalanced pH or alkalinity can reduce the effectiveness of your sanitiser and may damage spa components.
3. If sanitiser is needed:
4. Safety and Compatibility Warnings:
Spa water is typically heated to 37–39°C. While it feels great, prolonged soaking can lead to overheating, dehydration, or dizziness.
Best practice:
Once you're finished in the spa, taking a few quick steps will help keep the water clean, protect the spa equipment, and ensure it's ready for the next person—or your next soak.
Here’s what to do:
For hosts: Consider leaving a printed checklist or reminder near the spa. Clear, friendly instructions help guests use the spa correctly and reduce the risk of damage or extra cleaning.
DO:
DON’T:
This can be copied into Word or Google Docs and printed.
Before Using the Spa
During Use
After Use
1. Daily or after heavy use:
2. Weekly:
3. Monthly
4. Every 3 to 6 months:
For swim spas, water may only need replacing every 12–18 months, depending on use and care.
Whether you're using a spa for the first time or sharing your own with guests, the key to a good experience is taking a few simple steps:
Stick to these basics and you’ll enjoy a cleaner, safer, and more relaxing spa—every time.
Spa World has been helping Australians relax since 1985. If you’ve enjoyed a spa on holiday, now might be the time to get one for your home.
Start here:
With expert advice, reliable brands, and nationwide support, Spa World makes it easy to choose a spa you’ll use and enjoy for years to come.
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