Hot Or Cold Shower: What To Choose?

A hot shower or a cold shower? This choice has always fueled the debate; each camp vigorously defends its position. Whatever the case, we still need heat in our homes, and to get it, let’s start by choosing the right boiler. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about showers.

Which boiler is for your home?

Each type of boiler has both advantages and disadvantages. To help you make the right choice, here are some things to keep in mind. If you choose condensing or wood boilers, they are the most economical to use. As for the purchase, you have to sacrifice your wallet, because a wood boiler costs about 5 000 €.

Boilers using renewable energies (thermal solar panels, biomass) are less expensive and eligible for state subsidies. Nevertheless, some boilers (geothermal or air-to-air heat pumps) are still unaffordable. For the maintenance and the repair of your boiler, entrust them to professional heating engineers. Now that you have something to warm you up let’s get back to the point: hot or cold water for your shower.

The advantages of a cold shower

The ideal temperature for a cold shower is 15°C. Just thinking about a cold shower makes many people shiver. However, it is very beneficial for your health. The cold shower is rather invigorating. When it comes into contact with the body, cold water stimulates blood circulation. Thus the body oxygenates itself better. You will have more energy to face the day.

In addition, the number of white blood cells in the blood increases, which strengthens our immune system. Goodbye to those little winter colds.

Taking a cold shower is also good for your skin. The pores are tightened, and the skin will be firmer and more elastic. You will keep your youth. It is also good for your hair, specifically for the hair fiber, making it silkier and shinier. Contrary to popular belief, taking a cold shower makes it easier to fall asleep.

On the other hand, there are precautions to take before taking a cold shower. Do not take a cold shower immediately after physical efforts to avoid thermal shock (or hydrocution). Blood vessels suddenly constrict (vasoconstriction phenomenon), causing an acceleration of blood circulation and can lead to cardiac arrest.

The benefits of a hot shower

A hot shower relaxes muscular and nervous tension and will help dissipate headaches and aches after a hard day. The secretion of endorphins (happiness hormones) is promoted.

By taking a warm bath, you can better remove dirt from the skin that hinders skin breathing. The opening of the pores allows you to eliminate impurities and toxins in depth. If you are a fan of essential oils or comforting foams, it will be better to do it with hot water.

The ideal temperature for a perfect hot bath is 37°C. If you shower too hot, your blood pressure will drop. This causes your heart rate to increase, making you feel dizzy.

Be careful; hot water removes the natural oils on the surface of the skin. This can make your skin dry. Finally, upon contact with hot water, the skin releases a substance called histamine, causing itching. Hot baths are strongly discouraged for people who suffer from eczema.

In any case, choose wisely the shower you need, cold or hot, depending on what your body wants: to have more energy in the morning before starting the day or to relax before going to sleep.

Final thoughts

Personally, I need a hot shower whether we are in winter or summer because I don’t feel clean otherwise, but this depends on you. Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about hot showers.