Frequently Asked Questions

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Here’s a list of our most common questions. If you have a question not on this list, please reach out to us by sending an email to maddy@floatmilwaukee.com, or sending us a message to our Facebook Page for a faster response.

What are your COVID-19 procedures?

We have been taking Covid extremely seriously from the beginning. Although nothing can be 100% safe, given the circumstances we have addressed it in the following ways:

1. Due to the nature of our appointment based services we already had a limited amount of people – we have spread out our appointments even more to limit potential for crossing paths with another customer. This also allows for an even deeper clean in between each appointment.
2. We sanitize all hard surfaces after use.
3. Masks are optional for patrons and staff. If you feel more comfortable in a mask, please continue to wear one while you are not in the pod or pool room.
4. As always the water is treated with hydrogen peroxide and filtered through UV in between every appointment.
5. We had an ionizer installed in our rooftop HVAC unit to further treat the air in a continuous manner.
6. We have a waiver that confirms not to float if any symptoms and have no cancellation charges for canceling due to any kind of symptom or possible exposure for Covid. Our communications stress not to come in if there is any concern and that we will reschedule without any issue.
7. Floating is a private experience and contact is minimal during the visit. Staff will ask if there are any questions and go through the process if needed. Then they will show you to your private room. For most visits that is it. Once done, you shower in your private room, get dressed, and leave.

We feel we have done just about all we can to limit possible exposure. That being said, there is always a risk and it comes down to each person’s individual circumstances and comfort level in determining whether to use our services.

Why do people float?

People float for a wide variety of reasons. For example: athletes looking to enhance performance and speed recovery, people who want to manage pain naturally, others who are attempting to unlock their creative minds, and those who just want a break from their busy lives to relax have all found that floating helps them achieve their goals. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, mental focus, help with anxiety or just a proven form of relaxation, floating may be the perfect remedy. There are as many reasons to float as there are people in the world!

Is there anything I should do to prepare for my float?

Avoid drinking coffee for several hours before your float (it can make your system jittery). Also, you may not wish to shave or wax since the salt water can cause any nicks or sensitive/dry areas to sting. Eating a light meal about an hour to 90 minutes ahead of time stops your stomach from sounding like an angry monster while you float. Other than that, there’s no specific preparation needed.

What is the difference between a pod and a pool?

The pods are 7’1″ long and about 4’6″ wide in an oval shape. There is a lid that you pull down as you get in. They are domed, so even if the lid is closed all the way, you can still sit up and reach your arms up before you will touch the top. The inside of the pod tends to approach 100% humidity during your float, though you should feel temperature indifferent after a few minutes. The water, air, and your body settle into a common temperature.

It is my first time, should I pick a pod or a pool?

The pods are 7’1″ long and about 4’6″ wide in an oval shape. There is a lid that you pull down as you get in. They are domed, so even if the lid is closed all the way, you can still sit up and reach your arms up before you touch the top. The inside of the pod tends to approach 100% humidity during your float, though you should feel temperature indifferent after a few minutes. The water, air, and your body settle into a common temperature.

The pools are about 7’ 6” in diameter and have no lid. They tend to be less humid and allow for more space to spread out (and less touching of the sides) than the pods. They also tend to have slightly less consistency of temperature due to the lack of a lid.

Can I float if I’m pregnant?

You most certainly can! There is even a special position you can float in that relieves all of the weight of the baby off of the mother’s body. If you are in your third trimester, or have any other concerns, please consult with your physician before coming in.

What is NovoTHOR?

Read more about NovoTHOR and pricing at Float Milwaukee here.

How do I prepare for NovoTHOR?

Arrive at least five (5) minutes prior to your scheduled time to ensure you can receive your entire session. If late, we may need to shorten your session time. Ensure all jewelry is removed or covered, and hair up if dyed. Hair should also be at least towel dry. Finally, it is recommended using NovoTHOR completely nude to obtain maximum benefit as the light does not penetrate through clothing. Read more here.

What are the options for parking?

We have seven reserved parking spots in the gravel lot across the street from our entrance. These are marked with Float Milwaukee reserved signs. Additionally, street parking is all around us. It is unlimited and free all the way down Freshwater Way, and free but limited to two or three hours on 2nd Street and Pittsburgh.

Are there any specials going on?

Current offers can be accessed here (add link?). We tend to offer deals around major holidays and on our anniversary (one day only) at the end of August of each year.

Monthly memberships are the best way to receive a deal and have a consistent practice and we offer discounts for buying packages.

We offer an ongoing overnight float once per month. Pricing is $275 if one room is booked, $235 each if two rooms are booked, $200 each if three rooms are booked, or $175 each if more than three rooms are booked. Please call or email if interested.

Can I float if I’m on my period?

Yes. Just follow the same protocol you would for a swimming pool.

Can I float if I just dyed my hair?

While we cannot guarantee that the salt won’t strip some color from your hair, we recommend that you wait two weeks past your latest color treatment. If the water running through your hair in the shower at home is fully clear and no color transfers to a white towel prior to floating, you should be just fine. If there is still some color coming out, you may wish to wait a few more days/showers.

Do I need to bring anything?

If you have longer hair, you may want to bring a brush or comb. If you wear contact lenses, you may want to bring something to put your contacts into while you’re in the tank. Other than that, we’ll provide everything you’ll need (towels, robes, earplugs, body wash, shampoo, etc.)

Can more than one person float in a tank at a time?

Our tanks are sized to accommodate only one person per tank or pool. We do have five float rooms available, so multiple people can float at the same time in different rooms.

Do I have to stay in the whole time?

There aren’t any latches on the tank doors, so you’re free to get out any time. That said, sessions usually go by way faster than you’d expect.

What’s the longest someone has been in the tank?

The longest float that’s taken place at Float Milwaukee has been nineteen hours. John Lilly, the inventor of the float tank, is said to have floated much longer.

How long have float tanks been around?

The first float tank was developed in 1954. These involved full submersion in water and a breathing device that completely covered your face. The first lie down commercial tanks were invented in the early 70s.

What if I’m claustrophobic?

Being in the tanks is more like floating in outer space than being shut in a box. You’re always in control of your environment, and even people with extreme claustrophobia have reported having no problems with their time in the tank.

We also have two open float pools. Those would be a great option if the cover on the pods concerns you.

Is this new-agey mumbo jumbo?

Nope. Floating has been around for over 40 years and has oodles of published research to back it up. No mumbo or jumbo here.

How do you clean the tanks?

The water is fully filtered at least three times between each float, passing through a one-micron reverse-osmosis filter. In addition, the water is cleaned using a hydrogen peroxide solution, and UV light process. Each tank and pool also contains approximately 900 pounds of dissolved Epsom salts (also known as magnesium sulfate). Epsom salt works as a natural antimicrobial. In fact, the salt levels in the tank water are so high that most microbes and bacteria simply can’t survive in it. Researchers have actually introduced bacteria into heavily salinated water, and it was immediately neutralized.

Can I get dehydrated from soaking for so long?

No. Your skin doesn’t even “prune up.” In fact, due to the mineral content of the dissolved salts, you’ll more likely find that your skin has become silky soft afterwards.

Can I drown if I fall asleep in there?

No. Some people fall asleep, but the density of the dissolved salts in the water makes the body so buoyant that you stay afloat. The worst that can happen is getting woken up by a bit of salt water in your eyes.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the appointment time will result in the session(s) being returned to your account for future use. Alternatively, a full refund may be requested in the form of the original payment. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the appointment time and no shows will result in the full charge with no refund or the usage of a stored session.

Is this like “Altered States”?

Yes. Except that you’re not submerged in water, you don’t eat ritualistic mushrooms, and only a small percentage of floaters turn into proto-human monkeys. If you do turn into a proto-human monkey, you’ll be offered a full refund, a sincere apology, and a complimentary Float Milwaukee t-shirt (size XXL only).

Will I need any assistance getting into the center or the pods?

We are wheelchair accessible into the float rooms. Additionally, room 3 has an ADA handheld shower and we have a portable ADA shower bench available if needed or desired. The pods themselves have a wide lip to provide the ability to sit and swing over into the pod. If you are unsure whether or not you may need assistance, please bring someone with you who can help get you into and/or out of the pod or pool. They are welcome to stay in the room with you, or relax in the lobby while waiting for your float to finish.

Should I bring a swimsuit?

We strongly recommend not wearing anything in the tank. This way you are not distracted by the feeling of the suit and you can more easily float away to a state of nothingness. However, it is fine to wear a swimsuit if it is more comfortable for you.

Is there an age limit?

There is a minimum age requirement of 8 years old to float. We’ve had people ranging from 8 to 87 float in our pods so far. If you think you may need assistance getting in and/or out of the pods, then someone should accompany you to the center who can help.

If you are under the age of 18 we will require a parent or guardian to sign a standard waiver. If you would like a copy of the waiver before you arrive, please email us at maddy@floatmilwaukee.com and we will be happy to send it over.

What is the policy for minors? 

Minors must be 8 years old or older to float at our facility.

Those between 8 and 12 will need to have a parent/guardian present at the center for the entirety of the session. This parent/guardian should not be scheduled to float at the same time if it is the minor’s first session.

Minors between 13 and 15 will also require a parent/guardian to be present, however they are welcome to float at the same time.

Minors 16-17 are required to have parent/guardian authorization to float at our facility, this can be done by email, and does not require the parent/guardian to be present during the session.

Do I need to bring anything?

We provide everything you’ll need. However, you may want to bring a brush or comb, or a contact case.

Should I wear ear plugs?

We strongly recommend everyone wear ear plugs when floating. If you choose not to, we recommend rinsing your ears thoroughly in the shower after your float. And we provide swim ear drops in the post-float prep room just in case you still feel water in your ears. If you still feel water or salt in your ears after you leave, we suggest using a 50/50 water and either white vinegar or rubbing alcohol solution to remove the sensation.

What if I am prone to motion sickness?

Some people who are prone to motion sickness may get a similar feeling while floating. Please consider this when deciding about floating. You do have the ability to control light and music (and you’re free to get out at any time) which could alleviate some of these feelings if they do come on. You also can choose between the closed pod or open, larger pool. We have ginger chews available by request for after your float.

Do I need to bring cash to leave a tip?

We do not take cash tips, as the amazing customer service we strive to provide to everyone is part of the overall experience that comes with the price of your float. What you pay for your float is all you need. Most people book online (pre-pay) or over the phone. If you’d like to show your appreciation for our staff you are welcome to at our online store here — quantity is equal to the dollar amount.