Slipping up to your neck in a tub of warm water after a stressful day can be like discovering the fountain of eternal youth. It's no wonder, therefore, that the idea of having your own hot tub is more tempting than ever.
However, buying and installing traditional hot tubs can cost more than $ 10,000. That's a hefty price for something we could forget about as soon as we can get back to the hot tub at the gym or spa. So we decided to explore inflatable hot tubs, because they cost a tenth. Some start at around $ 700. We put together selections from the two highest-quality and most reliable brands, Coleman and Intex, and we sift through reviews to find shopper favorites. .
For all the important details, we also spoke to "Swimming Pool Steve" who is a pool and spa builder with over 25 years of experience, along with a blog of the same name that provides tips on hot tubs and pools. According to Steve, "For a test drive before committing to a fixed hot tub or just an inexpensive approach, an inflatable hot tub is definitely worth a look."
Keep this in mind when purchasing an inflatable hot tub
Leveling: Although they may look similar, inflatable hot tubs are not the same as inflatable kiddie pools. Steve says, “Like any hot tub, these require a flat, stable concrete or paving base to rest. It is important that the ground is level to support the large and dynamic weight of the water.
Size: Steve says "choosing the right one will be a matter of size." He also shares that the two and four person models seem to be the most popular. Why? Bathtubs can take a long time to fill and heat up, so this is a situation where smaller is better.
Jet Preference: Sure, where you put it and what size you want are the first two things to consider, but Steve adds that you should also consider 'choosing between the cheaper air bubble jets and the more expensive water jets and with a booster pump system ». Based on our research, water jets are hard to find in inflatable hot tubs, but luckily the air jet impressions are great. Just be aware that they are loud when active.
Temperature: One thing Steve says could be considered a problem in an inflatable hot tub is its ability to maintain an optimal temperature. "Inflatable hot tubs can take longer than more expensive systems to heat up to the right temperature," advises Steve. "The heater is minimal in size, a compromise with plug and play spas, and as such, in very cold temperatures the tub can probably have a hard time maintaining maximum temperatures."
Best 2 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
Coleman SaluSpa Miami Air Jet ($ 844.93; amazon.com)
Although this spa claims to be for four people, its small size makes it spacious and comfortable for two. With a maximum water depth of 1.67 feet and a capacity of 107 gallons, it may seem like this isn't going to deliver a real spa experience, but the 120 jets of air bubbles will prove otherwise.
Best 6 Person Inflatable Hot Tubs
Intex PureSpa 6 Person 290 Gallon Outdoor Bubble Hot Tub ($ 889.99, originally $ 1409.99; amazon.com)
Complete with a seating set, cup holder, drink tray and headrest, this six person inflatable hot tub has plenty of amenities. With over 170 jets, the tub can be water ready in just 20 minutes and can be easily deflated for storage. There's even a control panel so you can control the jets with the push of a button.
Intex PureSpa Plus Round 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub Spa ($ 1,049.99; amazon.com)
This 290-gallon behemoth comes with all the extras, including a cozy six-person capacity. From an LED color-changing underwater light and insulating cover to two included headrests and a hard water treatment system, there isn't much this inflatable hot tub kit doesn't include. But Steve admits that no matter which inflatable hot tub you choose, you can't get over the fact that you "just set it up, fill it, heat it, and enjoy it."
Best Coleman Inflatable Hot Tub
Coleman SaluSpa 4-Person Square Portable Inflatable Outdoor Hot Tub Spa ($ 824.99, originally $ 1,199.99; amazon.com)
This well-reviewed inflatable bathtub from Coleman is square in shape, making it easy to seat four without feeling cramped. At around 250 gallons and roughly 70 inches on each side, this is noticeably larger than the two-person Coleman mentioned above. As one reviewer writes, “It was quick and easy to put on. Not only was I surprised by the amount of bubbles and pressure, but I was totally thrilled with my first use, and it only gets better every time I use it.
The best inflatable hot tubs from Intex
Intex PureSpa Greywood Deluxe 4-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub Jet Spa ($ 949.99, originally $ 1,379.99; amazon.com)
If aesthetics is your thing, this large inflatable hot tub comes in a lovely gray wood finish and has everything you'll need for an easy setup: an insulated cover, filter, hard water treatment system, LED lights, two headrests, an inflation hose and even a bag to help store it all.
Accessories for your hot tub
Blufree Bluetooth Speaker with Colorful Lights ($ 32.99, originally $ 39.99; amazon.com)
Add some atmosphere to your spa sessions with this waterproof floating Bluetooth speaker and its LED light show. The Bluetooth function connects it to your phone, and the speaker accepts voice commands so you can accept and make calls without moving a muscle. For more fun, play around with the seven lighting settings.
Vickea Inflatable Pineapple Drink Holder ($ 15.99; amazon.com)
Don't get out of the bathtub for a drink; make it float in this whimsical pineapple tray. It has three cup holders and a large center bowl for snacks, sunscreen, or whatever else you might need.
Feebria Enhanced Pool Drink Support Float ($ 19.99, originally $ 21.99; amazon.com)
Okay, maybe the pineapple drink holder is a bit for your taste. In that case, this drink float should suffice. It has two cup holders, two phone holders and a space in the center for other uses.
XLD Store Novelty Hot Tub Sign ($ 16.85; amazon.com)
This plastic "Life is Better in the Hot Tub" sign is a cheerful decoration that says what everyone probably already knows.
Eay Deluxe Waterproof Playing Cards ($ 7.88; amazon.com)
Relaxing quietly in the hot tub can be sublime… for a while. Stick around a bit longer with a deck of these waterproof cards.
Spa Frog @Ease Floating System for Hot Tubs ($ 85.90; amazon.com)
This kit will keep the hot tub water crystal clear and the surfaces inside the hot tub free of slippery silt. Each floating cartridge flips over when it's empty so you know when to replace it.
Sunlite Sports EVA High Density Foam Dumbbell Set (starting at $ 14.88; amazon.com)
If your reason for getting an inflatable hot tub is not just for relaxation, but for exercise or hydrotherapy, these water therapy dumbbells will add resistance to your workout.
Note: The above prices reflect the price at the time of publication of the article.
