Are Chemicals Needed for Your Cold Plunge?

June 25, 2024

As Cold Plunging gains popularity for its perceived health benefits, many enjoy the potential boost it provides to physical and mental wellness. However, the question of whether to add chemicals to Cold Plunges to prolong water quality or to keep it chemical-free sparks debate. Whether cold plunging at home with bags of ice, which needs frequent replenishing, or a water chiller with ozone or UV sanitation, the water will still need periodic replacement. The interval between draining and refilling varies, depending on several factors outlined below.

Cold Plunging with Ice requires the most frequent drainage and replacement of water. Without the presence of a sediment filter or mechanism/solution to eliminate bacteria, water will become stationary and begin collecting elements such as hair, skin, oils, dirt, sand and other debris. Water will become cloudy and may present an unpleasant odor.
Cold Plunging with a Chiller without Ozone or UV Sanitation (typically 1/3 or 1/2 HP Chillers) should have water replaced every 3-5 plunges. Although a sediment filter comes with any standard water chiller, eventually the water will begin to cloud with many of the elements a debris filter cannot remove.
Cold Plunging with a Chiller with Ozone or UV Sanitation provides the longest period between water exchanges. With a debris filter and bacteria killing mechanism, one can plunge knowing the water is the cleanest amongst the listed setups. Generally 2-4 weeks will pass before noticing an oily film develop on the surface line or a slippery texture inside the walls and floor.

Since all the setups mentioned above will eventually require water replacement, some users opt to add chemicals to extend the water’s usability, reducing the need for frequent draining and refilling. This choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. Read below for the advantages of using chemical additives.

Advocates of Chemical Additives

Those who prefer adding chemicals to water highlight the practical advantages. Preservatives and antimicrobial agents can prevent bacterial growth, ensuring the water remains clean, clear and safe for reoccurring plunges and multiple users over time. With solutions such as oxidizers and sanitizers, the need to drain and replace water can be significantly reduced. This may be beneficial for those who prefer convenience or with cold plunge setups that cannot be frequently drained (e.g. a high rise condo or where an outflow drain may not easily be accessible).

Critics of Chemical Additives

Some individuals raise concerns about adding chemicals to cold plunges. Some chemicals, such as chlorine, can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Furthermore, the accumulation of chemicals in water need to be properly disposed of, ideally down a drain as to not threaten the surrounding ecosystem.

The debate over whether chemicals should be added to cold plunges revolves around balancing potential benefits such as convenience with longer water shelf life versus a more natural plunging experience that requires frequent water exchange. While additives can increase the shelf life of the water, they also can pose risks to sensitive skin and the surrounding environment. As interest in cold plunging continues to grow, consider the best option based on your setup, environment, convenience, health and wellness factors.

Back to blog