Spa Etiquette

Whether it's a first time massage or your weekly manicure visit, etiquette is always important to keep in mind for a trip to the day spa. While you're there to relax and rejuvenate, there are a few important spa etiquette tips to keep in mind.

Arrive On Time

Start your spa treatment right by arriving on time for your appointment. If it's your first time to the spa, plan to arrive a few minutes early in case there is paperwork to fill out before you begin. This helps the spa employees and other guests avoid delays.

Turn Off Electronics

Visiting the spa is about relaxation, so be sure to turn off or disconnect your electronics when you arrive. No one wants to be halfway through a peaceful massage or pedicure, only to hear a cell phone ring!

Socializing

Remember that some people find silence relaxing while others just need to get it all out. Whether you talk with your therapist during a spa treatment is up to you, but keep the other guests' preferences in mind when you're in public areas such as the waiting room, saunas, or locker rooms. Usually the spa center will have soft music or other relaxing sounds to listen to while you're waiting.

By far the biggest spa etiquette question is tipping. At a day spa, tipping 15-20% of the service price is usually acceptable. At larger resort spas, a service fee may be added on, but you can still leave something extra for your therapist to acknowledge exceptional service. To pay with a gift certificate, ask the receptionist if tips are included or need to be paid separately.Whether you're treating your hands to a professional manicure or your toes to a pretty pedicure, remembering these tips for proper spa etiquette will ensure a pleasant experience for everyone involved.