A new survey from Hekla Saunas has revealed Brits’ biggest spa etiquette annoyances. It found that 45% of female responses found ‘women going topless’ to be unacceptable, while only 26% of men thought it was an issue.

With a 300% increase in people searching for ‘summer wellness’ over the last month, Brits are trying to find their zen, but what are their biggest issues when spending a day at the spa?

A new survey has revealed what Brits find unacceptable when it comes to spa etiquette.

The survey, which was conducted by Hekla Saunas, lifted the lid on the biggest pet peeves, from people going completely nude to not showering before and even people getting too steamy in the sauna.

When it came to what people wear to the spa, people were divided. Most notably, the survey found that 45% of female responses found ‘women going topless’ to be unacceptable. Similarly, Brits were divided on nudity at the spa; 52% of respondents thought that going completely nude was unacceptable.

Lorela Movileanu, Spa Manager at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa, commented that conversations surrounding what to wear don’t have to be uncomfortable.

Lorela explains, “We find the most common misconception for first-time spa guests is often around what to wear during a massage. Many might worry they need to be completely undressed, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety. The beauty of a massage is it’s completely customisable! Therapists will always communicate what level of undress is necessary for the treatment beforehand and ensure guests are comfortably covered up throughout the service.”

A breakdown of the top 10 things Brits find unacceptable in the spa:

Alongside how people dress, attitude and spa behaviour topped the charts of people’s biggest issues. 39% of Brits think getting drunk is unacceptable, while 37% disagree with people using inappropriate language or swearing.

A lack of personal hygiene also scored highly, with 36% of people finding it poor behaviour to not clean their feet before using facilities, and 35% disapprove of eating and drinking in the sauna, hot tub or steam room.

When it comes to a comfortable spa experience, it doesn’t just come down to what to wear and how to act. Many people may be apprehensive because of what their trip might involve.

Emma Pridding, Spa Director at The Spa at Carden stated that, “Don’t hesitate to tell your therapist about any preferences or concerns, such as massage pressure or areas to avoid. Clear communications mean a more comfortable and tailored experience. We also include a couple of questions like this on our pre-treatment forms so the therapist is aware before they start your treatment.”

The survey was conducted in June 2024 with a research pool of 1000 participants. The search data is correct as of 20th June 2024.