Foot spa machines pose many benefits when it comes to enhanced relaxation and stress relief for your body. They can also help reduce swelling and pain in your legs, ankles, and feet as well similar to massage. Using a foot spa machine can be a relaxing and rewarding experience, especially if you know how to do it correctly. That’s why we created this article to help you learn how to use a foot spa machine the right way. We also included some deeper insight into the benefits of using a foot spa machine and some other considerations that we think you should consider before you get started.
A foot spa machine is a relaxation device created for in-home use. You may be most familiar with using a foot spa when getting a pedicure where they use a more elaborate and permanent version of the same tool. While some foot spa machines have upgraded features with rollers, bubbles, and more, a foot spa generally consists of a tub designed for you to soak your feet in.
The chances are that if you are looking to learn how to use a foot spa machine, you probably already own one. Even so, you may not know about all of the potential health benefits that the experience of a foot bath with upgraded massage functions from the comfort of your own home can offer.
Using a foot spa machine can relax your body and enhance your well being by improving blood flow and blood pressure, increasing your energy levels, removing dead skin cells, and promoting better sleep. The benefits you receive from using a foot spa machine may vary, but almost everyone finds them to be relaxing and stress relieving for their body and feet at the very least.
Before you power up and start to use your actual foot spa machine, there are a few things you should do to help make the process as easy as possible.
While using different foot spa machines may have some slight differences, for the most part, the following directions should help you use just about any home foot spa bath massager like a pro. They will also offer some insight on how to keep your machine running smoothly, so you can have a soothing and enjoyable experience every time.
After setting your foot spa in your desired location, as we discussed above, plug it into the power source. Then press the power button and make sure the machine lights up, alerting you that it is ready for use.
Next, add either warm or hot water to the foot spa machine’s basin. Pay close attention to the maximum fill line, which is usually clearly marked inside the tub. It ensures you won’t accidentally overfill the spa machine, potentially hindering its performance or damaging the motor.
Do you put hot or cold water in a foot spa? The answer depends on your specific device, but with most machines, you can expect to use hot or warm water based on your personal temperature preference.
Some foot spa machines feature both temperature control and massage functions; however, some skip the temperature settings. Either way, select the desired settings on the machine or using a remote control. Try not to overthink this step. Choose the setting or function you find enticing at the moment. Common settings include features such as vibration, bubbles, or even water jets.
If you choose to further enhance your foot spa bath with the addition of essential oil or salts, now is the time to add them to the water, that is, of course, if your specific foot spa machine is compatible with these types of relaxation products. Some can handle soaps, some oils, and some salts, so pay special attention.
Gently place your feet in the foot spa machine making sure not to unnecessarily splash water outside of the device and on to the floor. Soak your feet for the desired amount of time. How long should you use foot spa equipment? Most people say between 10 and 15 minutes. Just make sure to use it long enough that you start to feel relaxed and then some.
Some foot spa machines have preset spa massager settings that are timed and will automatically shut off once complete. Regardless, enjoy the soothing hot water and massage combination.
When you are done soaking your feet, turn off the machine and remove your feet from the water.
Gently dry your feet with a clean towel. If you have a lot of residue on your feet as a result of using oils or salts, you may want to rinse your feet off with clean water, but this is not always necessary. To complete the foot care routine, we recommend applying lotion once your feet are dry. You may also want to use a pumice stone to smooth out any rough patches before applying the lotion.
Unplug your foot spa machine from the power source. Drain or dump the water inside the basin. Some foot spa machines have a convenient drain that you can open near the base to drain the water. Others you will need to dump for the top.
Lastly, rinse your foot spa machine with clean water and then set it aside to dry with the opening facing down to prevent the growth of bacteria or mildew inside the basin.
After several uses, you may want to undergo a deeper cleaning process that involves vinegar and salt or a mild soap. It will help to keep your foot spa in good running condition for as long as possible.
Foot spas are not recommended for use during the first two trimesters of pregnancy. During the third trimester, they are generally considered safe as long as you only use warm water. Also, essential oils and pregnancy don’t always go well together. In fact, some essential oils can be quite dangerous for the expecting mother and unborn baby alike, so leave them out unless you are entirely sure they are safe.
