Buying guide for best inflatable hot tubs
An ideal way to soothe sore muscles and relax at the end of the day, inflatable hot tubs are a budget-friendly alternative to hardshell models. You can take it on trips, and when it’s cold out, even move it indoors to a well-ventilated area with flooring that can handle being splashed (such as a garage) for year-round enjoyment.
Before purchasing an inflatable hot tub, look at the important features. Is it large enough to comfortably fit two or more adults? Is the pump strong enough to keep the water clean with normal use? How powerful is the heater? With an inflatable hot tub, the idea is to buy a luxury item at an affordable price, so be sure you're still getting the luxury and not just a low price.
Our favorite hot tub is the Coleman SaluSpa because it gives you the features you want with the convenience and price you love. You can heat the water to a cozy 104 degrees while being gently massaged by 140 air jets. If you are looking for something a little more affordable, the smaller Coleman SaluSpa is another model that gets the BestReviews thumbs-up.
Best inflatable hot tubs
This Coleman inflatable SaluSpa is 77 inches in diameter and 28 inches high. It can fit up to four bathers and is made of durable polyvinyl chloride, so it holds up to the weather.
For comfort, this model has 140 air jets and a heater, so you not only get to soak in a warm, relaxing pool, but your body is massaged by a gentle barrage of air bubbles. Everything is controlled by a convenient digital panel with a power-saving timer and automated temperature control that lets you adjust the water temperature up to 72 hours before use to save on your energy bill.
This hot tub is easy to set up and requires no additional tools. When the season is over, simply deflate and store it until you are ready to use it again.
Coleman is a respected name in camping and recreational gear. This inflatable hot tub features a rugged design and includes an insulated cover with safety locks. The two built-in handles make it easy to move and carry when not in use.
This model has 60 air jets and comes with a digital panel that gives you full control over the jets and temperature without getting out of the tub. At 71 inches in diameter, it’s a little tight, but four adults could squeeze in. For cleanliness, a chemical floater and two filter cartridges are included with the purchase to keep the water safe with minimal maintenance.
The immediate appeal of this 71-inch inflatable hot tub is the wood color of the PVC, which gives it an appealing aesthetic. Bestway tested the fortified material to make sure it can hold up to the weather. The hot tub also features FreezeShield, an automatic heating function that helps protect the liner and pump if temperatures drop too low.
There are 180 jets in the system, and the temperature can reach up to 104 degrees. ChemConnect technology ensures that you will always have a stable level of sanitizer in the tub to kill bacteria. And with tool-free assembly, any adult can easily set up this hot tub without hassle.
Intex has been making pools, spas and boats for over 50 years. The years have given the company insight into how to make a durable inflatable hot tub. This model has 48 fiber-tech beams that provide superior support without diminishing comfort.
If you have hard water, the built-in treatment system makes it gentler on your skin, clothes and the filtration system. The floating chlorine dispenser and test strip help you keep the water bacteria-free.
Besides the convenient control panel and maximum temperature of 104 degrees, the PureSpa Plus has two features not typically found in other models: You get two headrests for added comfort and a color-changing LED light for a relaxing ambiance.
If you prefer a square spa, this model from Bestway gives you that feature. It is 71 by 71 inches and designed for up to four people. The Tritech construction features a polyester mesh core encased between layers of high-gauge PVC to provide strength and structure while maintaining comfort. For convenience and peace of mind, a repair patch is included with the purchase.
This model has 114 air jets and a convenient, easy-to-reach panel that lets you control every aspect of your hot tub experience without getting out of the water. You also get a pump, an insulated cover and two filter cartridges with this SaluSpa.
If you’re looking for a model that gives a few extra precious inches of legroom, note that this deluxe offering from Intex is one of the larger inflatable hot tubs, measuring 86 inches on the exterior walls. The other standout feature is its octagonal shape. It is 28 inches high and made of laminate PVC, and it includes Intex's built-in hard-water treatment system.
For those who seek increased energy efficiency, the cover for this model is made of high-density thermal-resistant foam that can keep water warm for longer periods of time. It can also help protect your inflatable hot tub from scratches, punctures and weather. The cover comes with a locking safety belt for added security.
At 28 inches tall and 85 inches in diameter, this round inflatable hot tub from Bestway gives you a few extra inches to stretch out your feet. The spa holds 314 gallons of water and is made with DuraPlus materials for longevity. The cushioned floor is a thoughtful feature, while the brown wicker print gives the hot tub an intriguing aesthetic.
The spa system has 180 jets that release warm air into the water for a soothing massage. The heating system has a maximum temperature of 104 degrees. You control the air jets and the temperature by using a panel that tilts up for an easy reach.
What to know before buying an inflatable hot tub
Capacity
The capacity of an inflatable hot tub can be a little misleading. Unlike hardshell hot tubs, these models do not have seats. You have to take into account not only how thick the walls of your inflatable tub are but also the lengths of peoples’ legs. While a round 77-inch inflatable hot tub can physically fit four people, their feet will be overlapping if everyone sits with their legs out.
In models that boast a six-person capacity, bathers would have to sit with their knees tucked up for everyone to fit.
Shape
Most inflatable hot tubs are round. However, squares, octagons and other shapes are available. The shape you choose has more to do with the available space on your patio than capacity or comfort. For example, a square or rectangular inflatable hot tub fits better in a corner than a round model.
Pump
Your priority should be the pump. This is the heart of the hot tub. It circulates the water and powers your jets, and it's what inflates the hot tub. To enclose all electrical components, the pump and heater should be housed in one container. Look for a built-in GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) to help protect against shocks.
Jets
Most inflatable hot tubs do not have the high-powered water jets you might associate with a spa. Typically, they have air jets, which produce a more gentle experience. If high-powered water jets are essential, research this aspect carefully to be certain you are not misled.
Controls
The ideal controls are intuitive and easy to operate. They require little more than a tap or two to execute your desired function. A timer is highly recommended as a power-saving feature and safety feature. In most situations, staying in a hot tub that’s set at 100 to 104 degrees for more than 15 to 30 minutes is not advisable, as it can cause overheating and dehydration.
Ground cloth
Your inflatable hot tub must come with a ground cloth to protect it from jagged debris on the ground. You can purchase more durable pads or add insulation beneath the pad to further protect your investment.
Cover
The cover can do a lot more than just keep dirt and debris from contaminating your water. It can help insulate the hot tub so you don’t lose as much precious heat when the unit is not in use. Some covers may even help heat the water. Make sure you know which type of cover you are getting so there are no surprises when your inflatable hot tub arrives.
Accessories
The accessories are the little things that can lift your hot tub experience from blasé to bodacious. These are not bells and whistles as much as they are thoughtful additions that make you feel pampered. Many accessories must be purchased separately.
- Seats: If you'd like something to sit on, consider purchasing seats that can be safely placed in your inflatable hot tub without risk of puncture.
- Headrests: A headrest is a quick and easy way to enhance the luxury aspect of your experience.
- Drink holders: You can easily dehydrate in an inflatable hot tub. Drink holders are not essential accessories, but they are highly recommended. The good news is, this is one accessory that might be included with your purchase.
- Lights: If you plan on using your hot tub at night, it's safer and more fun if you string lights around your patio.
- Steps: Purchasing a set of steps can greatly facilitate climbing into your inflatable hot tub.
- Canopy: You can purchase an inexpensive canopy to provide shade during the day. A more stable structure can be used to help protect against the elements during inclement weather.
- Tiki torches: Need to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay? Strategically placing tiki torches with citronella oil can help. Just don't place them too close to your inflatable hot tub.
How to clean and maintain your inflatable hot tub
- Circulate the water. Read the owner's manual. Different models require different daily filtering timetables. For instance, some might suggest two four-hour sessions while others might recommend a constant run.
- Don't forget your filter. The filter catches a great deal of the bad stuff in the water. Check your owner's manual to determine how often you need to clean or replace it.
- Stay safe. Sanitizing (with bromine, usually) is how you get rid of the harmful bacteria that quickly build up in an inflatable hot tub. You need to sanitize the water to keep it safe.
- Test your water. The pH levels of your inflatable hot tub need to be balanced at around 7.2 to 7.6. If it’s too high, your sanitizer won't be as effective; too low, and the water becomes more acidic and may irritate your skin. Test your water regularly to keep it properly balanced.
- Add tennis balls. Tennis balls can absorb oil in your water. They provide an easy way to help keep your hot tub clean.
- Clean everything. When scrubbing down your inflatable hot tub, don't forget to wash the cover.
- Drain it. If you use your inflatable hot tub frequently, there's a good chance you will need to change the water more often than every three or four months. Check your owner's manual for recommendations.
- Make a schedule. Whether you use a physical calendar or an app, set and stick to a cleaning schedule so your water is always at its best.
- Stock up. Keep the tools and chemicals needed for the care of your inflatable hot tub on hand and safely stored. If you have to run out to the pool store every time you clean your inflatable hot tub, chances are you won't be sticking to your maintenance schedule.
- Shower first. Before entering your inflatable hot tub, shower to remove oils, lotions, sweat and any other contaminants that might be on your body. This helps keep the water cleaner for longer.
FAQ
Q. How much does an inflatable hot tub cost?
A. Like everything else, the price of inflatable hot tubs has increased over the years. It may be hard to find a reliable model for less than $500. The good news is, even high-end inflatable hot tubs typically cost under $1,000, which is a fraction of what you'd pay for a hardshell hot tub.
Q. Where is the best place to set up my inflatable hot tub?
A. An inflatable hot tub is extremely heavy when filled with water, weighing approximately the same as a compact car. For this reason, it is not a good idea to put it on a deck. The best place to set up your inflatable hot tub is on a concrete patio or a level spot in your yard. The area must be able to uniformly support the hot tub's full weight.
Be sure there are no sharp objects or debris beneath your inflatable hot tub before setting it up. Your inflatable hot tub should be close enough to an outlet so you can easily plug it in but not so close that the outlet could be easily splashed.
Q. How much does an inflatable hot tub weigh?
A. Even unfilled, an inflatable hot tub can be quite heavy. Some weigh as much as 100 pounds. Water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon. Add in the people and the hot tub itself, and the average inflatable hot tub weighs roughly around 2,700 pounds when filled.
Q. Can I use my inflatable hot tub outdoors in the winter?
A. While you can probably use your inflatable hot tub all year (check the owner's manual to be sure), most models will not function adequately below 40 degrees. If you want to use yours in the colder months, consider adding additional layers of insulation beneath the ground cloth before setting it up.
Building an enclosure around your inflatable hot tub can help protect it from the elements. Some people set up their inflatable hot tubs inside a garage or basement. Just be sure that any water that splashes out cannot damage anything or create safety issues.
