Spa Etiquette 101: Everything You Need to Know

Before You Arrive

Good spa etiquette starts before you even walk through the door. Arrive 15 to 30 minutes before your appointment. This gives you time to check in, change, and begin relaxing. Arriving late means your treatment time may be shortened since the therapist needs to stay on schedule for the next guest.

Shower before your treatment, especially if you are coming from the gym or a long day. Most spas have shower facilities in the change room for this purpose. Remove all jewelry and store it in your locker. Turn your phone to silent or leave it in your locker entirely. The spa environment is meant to be a quiet, phone free retreat for everyone.

If you need to cancel, do so at least 24 hours in advance. Most spas charge a cancellation fee for late cancellations or no shows, which is fair given that your therapist has reserved that time exclusively for you.

During Your Treatment

Communication with your therapist is not just acceptable, it is encouraged. Before the treatment begins, share any health concerns, injuries, allergies, or areas you would like them to focus on or avoid. During the massage or treatment, speak up if the pressure is too much or too little. A good therapist wants your feedback.

You may undress to your comfort level. Your therapist will step out while you get on the table and you will be covered with a sheet or towel throughout the treatment. Only the area being worked on is uncovered. If you prefer to keep certain clothing on, that is completely fine. Just let your therapist know.

It is normal to fall asleep during a massage. It is a sign that you are truly relaxed. Do not worry about snoring either. Therapists take it as a compliment. If you need to use the restroom during your treatment, simply let your therapist know. And remember, tipping is customary at most spas in Canada, typically 15 to 20 percent.

Shared Spa Spaces

Many spas have shared facilities like pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges. Keep your voice low in all of these areas. Whisper or speak softly, as sound carries in tiled and enclosed spaces. Respect other guests' desire for quiet.

Shower before entering any shared water facility. Sit on a towel in saunas and steam rooms. Do not reserve loungers with your belongings if you are not using them. And if a spa has specific rules posted about their facilities, follow them. These guidelines exist to ensure everyone has a peaceful experience. Through Voltage Leads, you can visit a participating partner spa and earn a $50 Virtual Prepaid Mastercard® after verification. Subject to partner participation, verification, and terms.