The Float Tank Association has created stringent standards for cleaning, water maintenance and sanitation in the float tank community. They state that water should be changed every 1000 floats or every 6 months.
Without getting technical, nothing dangerous lives in the water due to the epsom salt concentration. Weekly chemical treatments ensure the water lasts a long time, similar to a public pool.
You float naked so nothing touches your skin which would take away from the experience. Floatation is not for those with claustrophobia, epilepsy, kidney disease, low blood pressure, contagious diseases like diarrhea, open wounds or skin ulcers.
Tanks have up to 1500 pounds of epsom salt dissolved, raising salinity to inhospitable levels for bacteria and other pathogens. The interior is exceptionally sanitary.
There is currently no evidence that floatation tanks effectively treat anxiety or depression. The experience can range $50-150 per session, requiring multiple sessions. Since private tanks are expensive to buy and maintain, many must travel to special facilities.
Ideally, use a float tank weekly for months to feel full benefits. Some make it a daily habit like meditation. Flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy treats generalized anxiety disorder, putting sufferers into remission and improving sleep, emotional regulation, and depression.
In regular tanks, water changes primarily remove nitrates and waste. Nitrates in low concentrations are not dangerous but can create issues if allowed to build up. Owners change water regularly to keep tanks in top condition.
Water changes should equal twenty percent of the volume weekly. Sometimes every other week works but depends on other filtration. Tap water is ok for saltwater tanks. Saltwater tank maintenance is straightforward.