Whether you’re an athlete recovering from an intense workout or someone seeking the rejuvenating benefits of ice baths, keeping the water clean is crucial for a safe and effective experience. Regularly changing the water may seem like the obvious solution, but many enthusiasts are eager to find ways to extend the lifespan of their ice bath water. In this guide, we explore various techniques on how to keep ice bath water clean without the need for frequent changes.
Our Top Tips For How To Keep Ice Bath Water Clean
In our experience, keeping ice bath water clean is easy if you follow a few basic tips. You can’t beat an ice bath chiller with a built-in filtration system, but if you can’t stretch to that, there are still ways to prevent the constant changing of water.
1. Pre-Bath Rituals: Shower Before You Plunge
One effective way to keep ice bath water cleaner for longer is to shower before getting in. This simple step helps remove dirt, oils, and sweat from the body, preventing these contaminants from entering the ice bath water. This is particularly important if you are using your ice bath as a post-workout recovery tool, or using contrast therapy by alternating between a sauna and an ice bath. By minimising the introduction of impurities at the source, you can significantly prolong the cleanliness of your ice bath water. A quick cold shower can even help you to acclimatise to the cold water of the ice bath a little easier.
2. Use An Ice Bath Water Chiller With A Filtration System
For a more advanced solution, consider ice bath chillers equipped with built-in filtration systems, such as ozone or UV filters. Both ozone and UV are powerful disinfectants that can eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms, keeping the water fresher for longer periods. These filtration systems not only improve water hygiene but also reduce the need for constant water changes.
You also have the advantage that these units chill the water without the need for ice, and can be controlled to keep the water at the desired temperature – a real game-changer for your ice bath routine!
If you already own an ice bath and need a chiller unit to keep the water clean, we recommend this one from Ice Tank Adventure (GET 5% OFF THROUGH OUR LINK).
3. Chemical Additives: Keeping Water Pristine
Explore the option of using chemical additives to maintain water cleanliness in your ice bath. Chlorine-free water treatment tablets or solutions can help control bacteria and algae growth without the strong odour associated with traditional pool chemicals. This method is especially useful for those who prefer a low-maintenance approach to ice bath water care.
We recommend bromine tablets, such as these Bluewater Bromine Tablets with adjustable floating dispenser.
4. Regular Monitoring: Stay on Top of Water Quality
To ensure the effectiveness of your chosen method, it’s essential to monitor the water quality regularly. Invest in water testing kits that can measure pH levels, bromine content, and overall cleanliness. Regular checks allow you to identify potential issues before they compromise the integrity of the water, enabling timely intervention.
We recommend this one from Amazon.
5. Covering the Bath: Shielding from External Contaminants
When the ice bath is not in use, covering it with a securely fitted lid or cover can prevent debris, dust, and other external contaminants from entering the water. This simple step can significantly reduce the frequency at which you need to change the water, keeping it cleaner for longer durations.
We recommend purchasing an ice bath that comes with its own cover, such as The Lumi Recovery Pod MAX (GET 15% OFF THROUGH OUR LINK).
If your ice bath did not come with its own cover, you could try something like this one from Amazon.
You might also be interested in our article on the best ice baths to cold plunge at home.
How Often Should You Change Ice Bath Water?
Determining how often to change ice bath water depends on various factors, including the frequency of use, the number of users, and the measures taken to maintain water cleanliness. Here are specific estimates based on different circumstances:
Infrequent Use (Occasional Users):
If you use the ice bath infrequently, perhaps once or twice a week, you can change the water every 2-3 weeks. With fewer exposures, the water is less likely to accumulate contaminants.
Regular Use (Multiple Times a Week):
For those who use the ice bath more regularly, such as athletes incorporating it into their training routine several times a week, consider changing the water every 1-2 weeks. Regular use introduces more contaminants, requiring more frequent water changes.
High-Intensity Use (Daily or Multiple Times Daily):
In scenarios where the ice bath sees high-intensity use, such as daily sessions or multiple sessions in a single day, it’s advisable to change the water every 1-3 days. The increased frequency of use accelerates the accumulation of contaminants.
Large Number of Users:
If the ice bath is shared among multiple users, especially in a gym or athletic facility, consider changing the water more frequently. For communal baths, a change every 1-2 days may be necessary to ensure hygiene and prevent the spread of bacteria.
Use of Filtration Systems and Additives:
If you’ve invested in ice bath chillers with built-in filtration systems or are using chemical additives, you may extend the time between water changes. Regular monitoring of water quality is essential, but with chemical additives, you might be able to change the water every 3-6 weeks, depending on usage. If you invest in a chiller with a filtration system, filters may only need changing every 3-6 months depending on usage, and water may only need to be changed once a year.
