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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

To think a hot tub in the kitchen isn't a great idea?

141 replies

Shedbuilder · 27/08/2020 15:33

My work involves looking at plans for new builds/ extensions/ renovations. I've just been sent a set that includes a hot tub in a kitchen-diner.

The property's owners plan to build a 4m x 4m glass-walled extension onto the existing kitchen/diner and knock through, giving the kitchen a view of the garden. I imagine most people would put a dining table in the extension but the owners of this property are sinking a hot tub into the floor. The tub is shown around 1200mm (4ft) away from a run of kitchen units. To prevent anyone falling in while working in the kitchen there will be a glass screen positioned to prevent accidents. Otherwise it's open to the kitchen.

It's my job to think through the ventilation, humidity and heating issues, which can all be managed. So practicality aside, AIBU to think it's not a good idea — or would you love a hot tub in your kitchen?

OP posts:
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safariboot · 27/08/2020 16:35

It wouldn't be to my taste. But this is a situation where the customer is always right applies. If they want it, if what they want is doable, and they're willing to pay for it, then they can have it.

BlackAmericanoNoSugar · 27/08/2020 16:35

I don't think I could even go into a house that had an internal hot tub, unless it's more of a whirlpool bath type set up where it's filled and emptied with each use. My Dad had Legionnaire's disease and I'm always overly anxious about potential contagion sources.

The80sweregreat · 27/08/2020 16:35

These people sound more like cavier and champagne or something out of Waitrose than your usual egg ham and chips for dinner types! Still , it all has to be cooked and I can imagine the sausage jokes when if it's ever it's 'toad in the hole ' for tea.
My mum had a twin tub : it used to bubble up the clothes and get very hot. The clothes came out so clean though. Just a horrible machine to use.

notalwaysalondoner · 27/08/2020 16:35

No thanks! Puddles of water all over the floor for one thing as people get in and out. And such a waste of space for the few times a month you are likely to use it!

I also don’t like this trend for freestanding baths in bedrooms (and sometimes toilets as a pp mentioned!). I LOVE a bath and have one at least 2 times a week, but I like that I can lock myself in the bathroom and have it as a bit of a sanctuary. Having DH be able to walk in and start getting changed or telling me about something on our to do list kind of defeats the idea of a relaxing bath alone!

ClementineWoolysocks · 27/08/2020 16:36

Think of all the noodles you could cook at once!!

fuandylp · 27/08/2020 16:39

Ridiculous idea but if they want it and it's not illegal then it's up to them.

I suppose it's just a variation on the idea that nearly every couple spouts on Location Location Location "We need an open-plan kitchen and living area so we can chat to people while cooking when we have our friends round" (Which happens once in a fucking blue moon anyway. Total bullshit.)
Now they can install their friends in the hot tub with a glass of wine while they cook and chat to them at the same time.

The80sweregreat · 27/08/2020 16:51

I've got an open plan kitchen diner but my old dining table chairs are so uncomfortable everyone buggers off to the lounge for the softer seats so I'm mostly on my own anyway and we have to shout at each other. You would be shouting even louder over the humm of the bubble jets.
Still , there are a few advantages I guess.
Closer to the fridge for drinks top ups and food. At least you know their hands will be clean too! I can see it's appeal but i think the novelty would wear off and they also very expensive to run as well , so I'm told.
Not to mention the cleaning / chlorine / costs.
They are popular. I know a few people who have one , but outside.

NataliaOsipova · 27/08/2020 17:08

@Aroundtheworldin80moves

Sounds like the sort of idea my DH would have.
GrinGrinGrin
Original poster
Shedbuilder · 27/08/2020 17:08

I asked the architect about the smell (my experience of hot tubs has always been one of emerging chlorinated) but apparently the indoor ones use salt rather than chlorine and yes, they are legal and no, there are no issues regarding electricity and water/ bathrooms/ kitchens as long as the electricians observe all the required safety precautions, as they do when installing, say, an electric shower.

The challenge for me is how to install the kind of ventilation system required to give them the result they want in what is effectively an open-sided glass box. The solution is going to be far too expensive for the modest nature of this project, so I'm not expecting it to go anywhere.

OP posts:
CorianderLord · 27/08/2020 17:11

I'd buy it lol

StuckInPollyannaMode · 27/08/2020 17:14

Think how easy it would be to top up your wine though. Just lean over a bit and you'll be able to reach right into the fridge.

lipstickonapig · 27/08/2020 17:18

I looked at a house like this once when buying, the hot tub was in an extension open to the kitchen, the whole house smelled of chlorine. It was also very humid. This was years ago so maybe the smell of chlorine in hot tubs is not as strong now; I don't have a hot tub so I don't know, but I still wouldn't buy a house like that.

Spodge · 27/08/2020 17:22

It sounds grim to me. But I voted YABU in case you are looking for excuses to veto the plans when you have said that you cannot find anything wrong with them as regards the aspects you have to consider.

The80sweregreat · 27/08/2020 17:22

You can have salt water outdoor pools I believe. I've heard of them.

NiceGerbil · 27/08/2020 17:23

If they can afford it and want it then why not.

Original poster
Shedbuilder · 27/08/2020 17:28

Righty-ho, Splodge — though how on earth I'd have the power to veto the project I don't know.

OP posts:
Gobbycop · 27/08/2020 17:31

The humidity and dealing with that would be a headache wouldn't it.

Plus the stink of chlorine.

Stupid as fuck idea but who cares I guess. Not my money or house with mould.

Aridane · 27/08/2020 17:42

YABU to post something so niche and identifiable (to the hot tub bets)

Kpo58 · 27/08/2020 17:42

Hmm... I wonder if I could do the same. My kitchen is at the front of the house, so it means that I could wave to the traumatised neighbors from it. 🤔Grin

DoTheNextRightThing · 27/08/2020 17:44

That sounds ridiculous. I love it. I would absolutely fall in with a pot full of pasta in hand.

Chasingsquirrels · 27/08/2020 17:46

We've got an inflatable one this summer and I'm definitely considering having it in the conservatory (which is open to the kitchen) for a few weeks am over Christmas. Don't think I'd have a permanent one though.

The80sweregreat · 27/08/2020 17:49

My kitchen is also at the front of the house. I can just imagine Annie from number 14 seeing me in my swim wear on the way back from the shop! Poor woman.
Traumatize her for life.

nauticant · 27/08/2020 17:50

It'll add a whole new dimension to veg prep, popping in the hot tub to peel the carrots and scrub the potatoes*.

  • not a euphemism ** not a euphemism
CaptainMyCaptain · 27/08/2020 17:53

It's weird and I wouldn't want it but is it that much different to a bath? It would obviously need ventilation but so would a bath.

CaptainMyCaptain · 27/08/2020 17:54

Should say 'so would a bathroom.'