How to Clean River Rocks for Hot Massage

Rocks used for hot stone massage should be cleaned between uses.

Hot stone massage is a popular spa therapy that involves placing heated smooth rocks on the body to relieve stress, promote relaxation and treat a variety of health conditions such as arthritis, poor circulation and muscle aches. River rocks made from basalt are typically used for hot stone massage, because they are smooth, flat and retain heat well. Massage therapists who give hot stone massages must keep in mind that the river rocks need to be kept clean to maintain a sanitary massage experience.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial dish soap
• Hot water
• Towel
• Rubbing Alcohol

Instructions

1. Wash river rocks with anti-bacterial dish detergent and hot water after each use to remove germs, skin particles and lubricant. Make sure to rinse the rocks well.

2. Place the clean river rocks on a towel to air dry.

3. Spray the river rocks with a disinfectant such as rubbing alcohol to ensure the rocks are completely clean and sanitized prior to use.

4. Change the water in the massage stone heater and clean the water reservoir with anti-bacterial dish detergent and water prior to immersing the clean rocks. Because the water can quickly become contaminated with bacteria, you must change the water between each spa treatment.

References

• Massage Magazine: Cleanliness with Massage Stones