By Navitas Spa & SportsPublished: 25 August 20261 min read
At a glance
At the indoor pool of Hilton Istanbul Airport a swimming cap is required for everyone, guests shower before entering, no glass is allowed poolside, under-18s swim only with a parent, and lane etiquette applies when the pool is busy. The cap rule keeps hair and product out of the water, which keeps the filtration efficient and the water clear.

The rules
- Swimming cap required — bring your own or buy one at reception
- Shower before entering
- Swimwear only; no cotton clothing
- No glass, no food poolside
- Under-18s with a parent, supervised at all times
- No diving; no running on the wet floor
- Towels provided; please keep them on the loungers
Why the cap
Hair carries oils, styling product and sunscreen into the water and clogs the filters; a cap keeps it out. Cleaner water means less chlorine, which is better for your skin and eyes. Turkish hotel pools have required caps for decades for exactly this reason — it is the norm here, not a quirk.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a cap if I have short hair?
Yes — the rule applies to everyone.
Is the water heated?
Yes, all year.