FAQ
Float tank FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most. If yours is not here, call us on 021 485 6748 or email info@zerogravityfloat.ie.
Before you float
Getting ready
Everything you need to know before you arrive.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Just yourself, and your own towel if you can. We ask you to bring one towel for your float, but if you cannot, we have towels you can use. Optional earplugs, SLS-free body wash, shampoo and conditioner are provided, and there is a hairdryer and a make-up area. If you have long hair, bring a hairbrush or comb. If you wear contact lenses, bring your case, or wear glasses so it is easy to take them out before you get in.
What should I do before my float?
Come relaxed and ready to let go, as you will get more from your float if you arrive unhurried. Avoid caffeine for at least 6 hours beforehand. Try not to shave on the day of your float, as the salt water can sting.
What do I wear in the tank?
We recommend floating without swimwear, as it lets you get the most from the experience with nothing to distract you. Each room is completely private, with its own shower.
Do I have to wear earplugs?
Earplugs are provided and optional. We recommend them, as they keep salt water out of your ears and help block out sound. If you have a history of ear problems, you may want to bring earplugs you trust, or use our neck pillows to keep your ears above the water.
I have just dyed my hair. Can I float?
If colour is still running when you shower, wait a few more days before booking your float. We cannot float anyone who has had hair colour or treatment within the last 7 days.
I have just got a tattoo. Can I float?
Not yet. Salt water can irritate a fresh tattoo and may affect how it heals and looks. Wait until your tattoo artist says it is fine, and as a rule of thumb we suggest at least 4 to 6 weeks.
Can I float if I have my period?
Yes. Use your usual sanitary products, such as a tampon or menstrual cup, and treat it like going to a swimming pool. If you use a tampon, you may want to coat the string with petroleum jelly, which is provided in the room, to stop salt water wicking into it.
Can I bring a friend?
Yes. You can bring up to two friends, as we have three float rooms, so you can all float at the same time. Two people can also float together in the Ocean Float Room as a double float. Many people enjoy having someone to talk to about the experience afterwards.
In the tank
Your float
What it feels like and what to expect while you are floating.
What are the main benefits of floating?
Many people tell us they feel deeply relaxed, calmer and less tense after a float, with looser muscles and a clearer head. Floating is a relaxation experience rather than a medical treatment, and results vary from person to person. Our Float Therapy Benefits page has more detail.
How many floats do I need before I notice a difference?
Some people feel the difference after one float. Many find the second and third easier, as it takes a little time to get used to this unusual environment. We suggest booking three floats close together, ideally once a week, and our introductory offer is set up for exactly that. After that you can decide whether floating suits you, and whether a monthly membership makes sense. Our tips for your next floats can help you fine-tune it.
Can I drown in the tank? What if I fall asleep?
No. The water is only about 10 inches deep and saturated with Epsom salt, so it is very buoyant and supports your body completely. Some people do fall asleep. Turning over is very difficult, and if you managed it, the salt would sting your eyes and wake you straight away.
What if I am claustrophobic?
Many people who are nervous about enclosed spaces float comfortably. You are in control throughout. You can open the door of the Dreampod VMax or the larger Ocean Float Room at any time, and you are welcome to leave a light on.
What if I cannot swim?
No problem. You do not need to swim. You only need to lie back and relax, and if you can do that in bed at night, you are good to go.
What temperature is the water?
The water is kept at 34.5 degrees Celsius, close to skin temperature. At this temperature the water gives your skin very little to notice, which is part of why floating feels so still.
What are the differences between your float rooms?
We have three private float rooms: two Dreampod VMax pods and the larger Ocean Float Room, which you can book as a single or a double float. They look different but are set up the same way, so the float itself is the same. See our float rooms for photos.
How are the float rooms kept clean?
The water is filtered and sanitised for 30 minutes between floats using a UV filtration system and a 10 micron bag filter, with food-grade hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant. Tank interiors and all touch points are sanitised after every float, and everything in the room is replaced or cleaned. Read more on our sanitation and hygiene page.
Health and safety
Who can float
Please read this section before you book, and check with your GP if you are unsure.
Is floating suitable during pregnancy?
Some expectant mums enjoy floating, but we ask you to wait until after the first trimester. Please check with your GP or specialist first, especially if you have any medical history or a high-risk pregnancy. We cannot float anyone with a high-risk pregnancy.
Are there people who should not float?
For your safety, we cannot float you if:
- You are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- You have an infectious skin or respiratory condition, or a large open wound (the salt will hurt).
- You have epilepsy, seizures or blackouts, or a serious mental health condition.
- You have a history of heart trouble, or any medical history for which you have not had your doctor’s permission to float.
- You have incontinence.
- You are in your first trimester of pregnancy, or have a high-risk pregnancy.
- You have had a tattoo in the last 4 to 6 weeks, or a piercing in the last 1 to 3 months, depending on the area.
- You have had hair colour or treatment within the last 7 days, or colour is still running when you shower.
- You have had a spray tan within the last 48 hours.
- You cannot get in and out of the tank without assistance, unless you bring your own assistant.
Everyone completes a short online health waiver before their first float. If you are not sure, call us on 021 485 6748 and we will talk it through with you.
Memberships
Memberships and booking
How memberships work and how to book.
How does membership work?
A single membership is €54 a month and a double membership is €89 a month, with a minimum 3-month commitment. After that you can cancel in person at any time. Members get 17% off single floats and 11% off double floats, 10% off massage, retail, drinks and snacks, a discount on gift cards, float credits that never expire, and up to 75 minutes of floating at no extra charge when they arrive early. See our prices for the full details.
Still have a question?
Call us on 021 485 6748 or email info@zerogravityfloat.ie and we will help.
