Guide
The float therapy guide
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A float session is one of the simplest recovery services to try — you lie back in warm, heavily salted water and let everything go quiet for an hour or so. A little preparation makes a first float smoother. This guide covers what to bring and how to settle in. It is general information to help you get the most from a visit, not health advice.
Before you go: what to bring
Most float centres provide the essentials — towels, earplugs, and body wash in the shower — but a few of your own things make the visit easier. Silicone earplugs are the main one: the water is saltier than the sea, and keeping it out of your ears is far more comfortable. If you have long hair, a cap helps keep it out of the water, though you will rinse thoroughly afterwards either way.
It is worth taking a moisturiser for after, since the salt can leave skin feeling dry once you have showered off, and a water bottle for the walk out. Contact-lens wearers usually take them out before floating and bring a case and glasses. Avoid shaving right before a float — freshly shaved skin can sting in the salt.
Bring with you
Silicone earplugs
Soft mouldable earplugs that keep the salt water out of your ears, which most people find far more comfortable than going without.
around $8–$20 (2026)
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Swim cap
A simple cap to keep longer hair out of the water during a float.
around $10–$25 (2026)
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Moisturiser
A moisturiser for after your shower, since the salt can leave skin feeling dry once you have rinsed off.
around $10–$30 (2026)
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Insulated water bottle
Something to sip from before and after a quiet hour in the tank.
around $25–$50 (2026)
View on AmazonGetting the most from your float
There is no technique to master. After a quick shower you step into the tank, settle back, and the water does the rest — the salt makes you float without any effort. Most people leave the light on at first and turn it off when they feel ready; either is fine. If your neck feels tense, a float halo or the tank's head support takes the weight off.
It is normal for the mind to be busy for the first while and to settle later in the session. Slow breathing helps. Sessions usually run around an hour, and the centre will let you know when it is ending, so there is nothing to keep track of. Afterwards, take your time getting up — people often feel very relaxed and in no rush.
Last updated 2026-07-12
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