How to Take a Lake Bath

Generations of waterfront families have inherited the fun tradition of bathing in the waters of their respective lakes. Taking a lake bath is entertaining, hygienic and can strengthen the bonds of families and friends when done in a group. Grab the shampoo and head for the dock.

Instructions

1. Gather shampoo, conditioner and bar soap. Place them on the edge of the dock within easy reach. Make sure all of your soap containers float.

2. Jump or dive into the lake, wearing a bathing suit. This is not a time for experimental skinny dipping. Wear a suit during a lake bath. Submerge your entire body under the water, letting your hair soak in the water.

3. Find a place where you can stand in the water. You'll need your balance. Apply shampoo and scrub until you have a full head of soap suds. Dive under the water and swim a few yards away from the area where you were just standing. Swimming through the water rinses the soap from your hair. Repeat this a few times.

4. Use conditioner in the same way you applied the shampoo for a lake bath. Scrub it in above water, then swim around under the surface, avoiding the area where you first went under.

5. Stand in a shallow area of the lake to wash your body with soap. Wash the upper half of your body, then rinse. The lower half of the body is tricky to wash in a lake. You can sit on the dock and apply soap to your legs, or perch one leg at a time up on a rock.

6. Swim around for several minutes after you have bathed. This will rinse your hair and body thoroughly. Your movement through the water will also distribute and dilute the soapy water you have added to the lake, making it less harmful to fish and wildlife.

Tips & Warnings

• Some women find it easier to shave their legs and armpits in the lake, rather than in a cramped shower. If you are feeling motivated, take a razor and shaving gel with you to the dock.

• Some people like washing their hair and body on a dock or raft, then jumping in to rinse. This is a fun way for kids to bathe or for parents to help young children learn to enjoy the water.

• Avoid lake baths at night. The fish don't like being interrupted after dark, and unless your soap suds are glow-in-the-dark, it is much harder for people to see you in the water.

• Keep your eyes closed while rinsing during a lake bath.

• Many lakes allow bathing but many do not. Check your lake rule book for clarification.