Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you might be wondering before your first session. If we haven't answered it here.
Call us: 01939 291 933.
A Wellness Centre Built Around One Idea: You Shouldn’t Have to Earn the Right to Recover
Shropshire Floats is a family-run wellness centre in Myddle, just seven miles north of Shrewsbury. We opened our doors to give people somewhere to properly stop - not a spa with piped music and scented candles, but a genuine therapeutic space where your body recovers and your mind gets quiet.
Whether you’re an athlete managing the toll of training, a professional carrying more stress than you’d admit, or someone who simply hasn’t slept properly in months - this is where that changes.
We’re Kevin and Suzie. No white coats. No clinical jargon. Just proper expertise, a warm welcome, and an environment designed around your comfort.
Flotation Therapy
What if I'm claustrophobic?
You're in complete control. You can leave the lid fully open, cracked, or closed, whichever feels comfortable. You can turn the light on or off. You can get out at any time. The pod door is never locked, and you're alone in a private room.
Many people who identify as claustrophobic find that floating feels more like open space than confinement. The darkness (if you choose it) removes walls, edges, and boundaries. Most people describe it as expansive, not restrictive.
If you're still unsure, try Driifloat instead. It's the same zero-gravity experience without the enclosed space.
How clean is the water?
Immaculate.
Between every single float, the entire water volume (around 250 litres) is filtered three times through a 1-micron filtration system. That's 100 times finer than a human hair. It removes bacteria, oils, skin cells, and any organic matter down to a microscopic level.
The water also passes through a UV sterilization unit and receives a small dose of hydrogen peroxide (a natural disinfectant). The salt concentration (around 30%) creates a naturally hostile environment for bacteria, nothing can survive in it.
We test the water daily. It's cleaner than the water you drink.
Can I float if I'm pregnant?
Yes, and many pregnant clients describe it as the most comfortable they've felt in months. The weightlessness takes pressure off your lower back, hips, and pelvis, especially during the third trimester.
If you're in your first trimester or have any pregnancy complications, check with your GP or midwife first. Otherwise, floating is generally considered safe and deeply restorative during pregnancy.
What if I have cuts or recently shaved skin?
Small cuts and freshly shaved skin will sting for the first 30–60 seconds in the salt water. It passes quickly. If you have larger open wounds, wait until they've healed before floating.
We provide petroleum jelly to cover small cuts if needed.
What do I wear?
Your float room is completely private, just you, the pod, and a shower. Most people float nude to avoid fabric touching the skin (which can be distracting when you're trying to achieve full sensory quiet).
If you prefer to wear a swimsuit, that's absolutely fine. It won't affect the experience significantly.
Will I drown if I fall asleep?
No. The water is so dense with Epsom salt (550kg in 250 litres) that you float effortlessly, face-up, with zero effort. Even if you fall asleep, your body stays buoyant. You can't roll over or sink.
Many people drift in and out of light sleep during a float. It's safe and completely normal.
What is Epsom Salt?
No. Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, a naturally occurring mineral compound. It's what makes you float (by increasing water density), and it has therapeutic benefits:
- Absorbs through the skin, supporting muscle relaxation
- Helps regulate the nervous system
- Softens skin and can soothe minor irritations
It's not edible, and it doesn't sting (unless you have fresh cuts or a shaving rash, then it stings briefly before fading).
Can I float if I have my period?
Yes. Just follow the same protocol you'd use for swimming (tampon or menstrual cup). The water is private, filtered immediately after your session, and completely sterile.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Is HBOT safe?
Yes. Mild HBOT (1.3–1.5 ATA) is non-invasive, drug-free, and has been used safely for decades. It's not the same as medical-grade hyperbaric therapy (which uses much higher pressures and pure oxygen for conditions like decompression sickness).
Our soft-shell chamber is comfortable, spacious, and designed for wellness and recovery, not medical intervention.
What does it feel like?
You'll feel mild pressure in your ears as the chamber pressurizes (similar to takeoff on a plane). You equalize by yawning, swallowing, or gently blowing with your nose pinched.
Once at pressure, most people feel calm and alert. Some drift into light sleep. Time passes quickly.
How many sessions do I need?
One session provides noticeable effects, but HBOT is cumulative. The benefits build with repeated use.
For general wellness or energy support: 1–2 sessions to start, then as needed.
For injury recovery, brain fog, or chronic fatigue: 4–10 sessions over 4–8 weeks for sustained improvement.
We offer a 4-Session Package (£220) for clients committing to a series.
Can I use my phone or read during the session?
Yes. The chamber is see-through and spacious enough to read, use a tablet, or listen to music/podcasts. Most people bring a book or just rest.
Fire & Ice Contrast Therapy
How cold is the ice bath?
Usually around 10°C. We can adjust it colder if you're experienced with cold exposure, or slightly warmer if you're new.
The first plunge is always the hardest. Your body adapts quickly, most people find the second round significantly easier.
Can I share the Fire & Ice room with a friend?
Yes. The room is designed for solo or shared use. It's a popular choice for couples, training partners, or friends who want the experience together.
Check out the Luxurious Package for Two (£195) if you're booking with someone.
Do I have to do the sauna and the ice bath?
No. You can use just the sauna or just the ice bath if you prefer. But the therapeutic benefit comes from the contrast, alternating between heat (vasodilation) and cold (vasoconstriction) creates the circulatory "pump" that flushes inflammation and accelerates recovery.
If you're nervous about the cold, start with one short plunge (1–2 minutes) and build up over multiple sessions.
General Questions
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. We're appointment-only (no walk-ins). Book online or call us to reserve your session: 01939 291 933.
Can I bring children?
Children aged 12+ can float with parental consent. Fire & Ice and HBOT are generally recommended for ages 16+, but we assess on a case-by-case basis.
If you're unsure, call us and we'll talk it through.
Is Shropshire Floats accessible?
We're the first float centre in the UK to install a ceiling hoist system for clients with limited mobility. Our ground floor is fully step-free with wide doors and accessible facilities, and both of our downstairs float pods are available to guests with mobility needs.
If you have specific accessibility needs, call us before booking: 01939 291 933. We'll make sure you're supported.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes. Gift vouchers can be used toward any treatment or package. Available in set amounts or open value. Link: Buy Gift Vouchers
What's your cancellation policy?
We ask for 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or no-shows may be charged at 50% of the session cost.
We're a small, family-run business - every booking matters. If something comes up, just let us know as soon as you can.
Still have questions?
We'd rather answer them before you book than have you show up uncertain.Call us: 01939 291 933
Email: tryus@shropshirefloats.me
Or just book your session and ask when you arrive. We'll take all the time you need.
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