Floating in a sensory deprivation tank, also known as a float tank or Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) chamber, offers a unique way to achieve deep relaxation. These chambers are designed to minimize all external stimuli, creating an environment that is dark, silent, and temperature-controlled. The water inside is saturated with hundreds of pounds of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), making it so buoyant that the body floats effortlessly on the surface, eliminating the sensation of gravity. This profound reduction in sensory input allows the mind and body to rest, promoting benefits like stress reduction and muscle relaxation.
The Primary Answer: Clothing or Lack Thereof
The consensus recommendation from float centers is to float without any clothing, often referred to as floating nude. This is directly tied to the core purpose of sensory deprivation, which is to remove all external distractions. Even a thin layer of fabric against the skin can introduce a tactile sensation, which may pull attention away from the deeper state of relaxation.
Wearing swimwear, especially if it is loose-fitting, presents several practical issues that can disrupt the experience. Fabric retains water and the high concentration of salt, causing it to press or rub against the skin, which can be distracting. Furthermore, the salt water can degrade the material and elastic of swimwear over time.
For those who are uncomfortable with complete nudity, wearing a simple, snug-fitting swimsuit is an acceptable alternative. It is important to choose one without ties, embellishments, or bulky fabric that might float around or press against the body. Float pods are located within private rooms with their own showers, guaranteeing complete privacy. If you choose to wear a suit, be mindful that the fabric will be saturated with salt, requiring careful handling and rinsing after the float.
Pre-Float Preparation and Logistics
A mandatory shower immediately before the float is a universal requirement to remove all traces of oil, lotion, makeup, hair products, and perfumes from the skin and hair. Failure to wash these off can contaminate the highly filtered and sanitized water, reducing the facility’s ability to maintain its cleanliness standards.
It is strongly advised to avoid shaving or waxing for at least several hours—ideally 24 hours—before the float. The high concentration of Epsom salt in the water will cause a stinging sensation on freshly shaved or abraded skin. For minor cuts, nicks, or small scrapes, facilities typically provide petroleum jelly to create a protective, waterproof barrier, preventing the salt from causing irritation.
Avoiding caffeine for several hours prior to the session helps the body and mind settle into a relaxed state more easily. All jewelry, including rings, earrings, and watches, must be removed to prevent damage from the salt and to eliminate any potential source of tactile distraction. Wearing contacts is also discouraged, as the salt water can cause severe irritation if it splashes into the eyes. Bring a case and solution for removal.
Essential Items to Bring and Post-Float Care
For most first-time floaters, the list of items to bring is surprisingly short because many centers provide the majority of necessary supplies. Essential items usually supplied by the facility include:
- Towels
- Earplugs to protect the eardrums from the salt water
- Post-float toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Robes and slippers for use between the shower and the float room
The items you should pack are largely for personal grooming and a smooth return to the outside world. This includes a change of comfortable clothes, a hairbrush or comb, and any specific makeup or hair styling products you may need that are not provided. If you wear contact lenses, remember to bring your case and solution.
The post-float routine is just as important as the preparation phase and begins with a thorough shower to wash the high concentration of salt from your skin and hair. After drying off and getting dressed, it is highly recommended to take several minutes, often in a designated quiet lounge area, to reorient yourself. This brief period of reflection and grounding is important before driving or immediately returning to a busy schedule, allowing the relaxed state to transition gently back to normal activity.