Looking to add a touch of luxury to your backyard without committing to a permanent fixture? You might want to consider getting one of the best inflatable hot tubs. These portable tubs come in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find one that suits your needs. They're also perfect for those with limited space in their yard.
To find the right inflatable hot tub, consider the available space in your yard and the number of people who will be using it. Our guide offers a range of options, from 2-person hot tubs to larger models that can accommodate up to 6 people.
While high-end inflatable hot tubs may have advanced features like LED lights and built-in speakers, more budget-friendly options still provide a functional experience.
Check out our top picks for inflatable hot tubs to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. And if you're looking for even more options, we have guides on the best hot tubs available.
The quick list
Let’s start by quickly counting down the top three inflatable hot tubs featured in this guide. Scroll down or click ‘Read more below’ for a more detailed individual review of each product.
The best inflatable hot tub overall
Get more from your portable inflatable hot tub with soothing massage jets and a handy temperature timer. It also comes with a tub-saving Heat Shield.
The best inflatable hot tub with hydrojets
The Bestway SaluSpa Zurich hot tub is affordable and durable with winterizing technology, integrated water filtration, and excellent performance.
The best square inflatable hot tub
The Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet is a portable, durable hot tub with air jets, a heater, and safety locks, available for $599.
The best inflatable hot tubs we recommend: tested and reviewed
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We've rounded up the best inflatable hot tubs that you can currently buy. While we endeavor to review every product that we highlight, some of the reviews for this guide are still in progress. However, any unreviewed products will sum up the key specs, features, and user reviews to help you make the best decision for you and your household.
The best inflatable hot tub overall
✅ Affordable Price: The SaluSpa Fiji AirJet Hot Tub is reasonably priced, making it an excellent option for individuals or couples who want to enjoy a relaxing hot tub experience without breaking the bank.
✅ Easy Set-up and Maintenance: The hot tub is easy to set up and maintain, and it has a user-friendly digital control panel.
✅ Durable Material: Made of durable DuraPlus material, this hot tub is 33% more tear-resistant and 56% more stretch-resistant than other inflatable hot tub materials.
❌ Limited Seating Capacity: The hot tub comfortably fits 2-4 people, but three adults might cause water to spill.
❌ No Massaging Jets: While the AirJet system creates a bubbly experience, it does not provide a massaging experience.
❌ Temperature Sensitivity: The instructions warn of potential damage if the temperature drops below 42.8 degrees.
🔎 The SaluSpa Fiji AirJet Hot Tub is a great portable hot tub that fits 2 to 4 people and provides a relaxing experience at an affordable price. It's easy to set up, maintain, and move around and offers a bubbly hot tub experience with Freeze Shield Technology for year-round use ★★★★½
The Bestway SaluSpa Fiji AirJet can comfortably fit 2-4 people and is easy to set up and maintain. Made of durable DuraPlus material and equipped with 120 bubble jets, this hot tub offers a relaxing experience at an affordable price.
Setup: The hot tub is made of DuraPlus, a durable three-layer material that prevents possible tears. It comfortably fits four people and is easy to set up solo. However, our reviewer experienced some trouble inflating the hot tub and cover. After airing up the spa, they filled it with water and set the temperature to 104 degrees. The hot tub took about 15 hours to reach the desired temperature.
Design: The Bestway SaluSpa Fiji AirJet can comfortably seat 2-4 people and is made of durable DuraPlus material, 33% more tear-resistant and 56% more stretch-resistant than other inflatable hot tub materials. The hot tub features 120 bubble jets that surround the interior perimeter of the tub. The digital control panel is user-friendly, and the included cover helps retain heat and protect the hot tub when not used.
Performance: The SaluSpa Fiji AirJet Hot Tub has a child lock cover and a comfortable, padded bottom. It fits 2-4 people, but three adults might cause water to spill. The AirJet system creates a bubbly experience but does not provide a massaging experience.
The timer and Freeze Shield Technology are excellent features. Emptying and storing the hot tub is easy since it is smaller and lighter than other hot tubs. However, the instructions warn of potential damage if the temperature drops below 42.8 degrees, suggesting disassembling and storing the spa.
Value: The SaluSpa Fiji AirJet Hot Tub is available on online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Bestway. The price ranges between $500 and $750. Compared to other inflatable hot tubs, the SaluSpa Fiji is ideal for individuals or couples as it is easier to maintain. The Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki is more extensive but only equipped with AirJets, while the Hawaii Hot Tub has two back massage jets in every corner. For a similar size, the SaluSpa Zurich Airjet and Madrid AirJet offer energy efficiency and app control, respectively.
Read more: Bestway SaluSpa Fiji review
The best inflatable hot tub with hydro jets
✅ Affordable and convenient: The Zurich inflatable hot tub is an affordable and convenient way to enjoy a hot tub experience in your home.
✅ Durable and well-designed: The hot tub is puncture-resistant and has winterizing technology that prevents inner components from freezing.
✅ Great performance: The hot tub's numerous jets create a ton of bubbles and surprising pressure, providing a great hot tub experience comparable to tubs that cost ten times as much.
❌ Limited space: While the hot tub can hold 2-4 people, it can only comfortably fit two full-sized adults.
❌ Challenging setup: The assembly instructions are sparse, and inflating the tub can be challenging, especially if you're setting it up alone.
❌ Limited features: While the hot tub has some great features, such as a ChemConnect dispenser and integrated water filtration system, it lacks some of the more advanced features in more expensive hot tub models.
🔎 The Bestway SaluSpa Zurich hot tub is inflatable and costs around $700. It offers a good value for the price. It's an excellent option for renters or those who only use it during certain months—highly recommended ★★★★
The Bestway SaluSpa Zurich hot tub is an affordable and convenient way to enjoy a hot tub experience. With its durable material, winterizing technology, and numerous features, this inflatable hot tub offers excellent value for its price.
Setup: The BestWay SaluSpa comes in a large box with individual pieces separately inside. Assembling it alone might require opening and breaking the exterior box into smaller containers for more accessible transport. The assembly instructions are sparse, with only pictures to guide you, and can be challenging to follow. It took three hours for a computer engineer and their partner to assemble it. The most significant issue was inflating the tub, but the setup was relatively seamless once they figured it out.
Design: The Zurich inflatable hot tub boasts a durable, puncture-resistant "DuraPlus" material that is 33% more tear-resistant and 56% more stretch-resistant than PVC. The hot tub can maintain its shape through numerous inflations and deflations. It has winterizing technology to prevent inner components from freezing and a circuit interpreter to help ground the tub, preventing electrical shocks.
The tub has a timer that allows you to control its temperature up to 40 days in advance. A ChemConnect dispenser helps distribute a stable chlorine level, while an integrated water filtration system keeps the water clean. It can hold 2-4 people, but two full-sized adults are the max.
Performance: With its numerous jets that create a ton of bubbles and surprising pressure, the hot tub offers a great experience. The tub can reach 104 degrees and maintain its temperature for at least 15 minutes. After that, it can keep 100 degrees for an hour, even in colder weather, without significantly increasing electricity usage. It is a great hot tub that delivers an experience comparable to tubs that cost ten times as much.
Value: The inflatable hot tub can be purchased from Bestway and various retailers, including Amazon. While the tub's retail price is $729.99, it's almost always on sale. The Bestway SaluSpa Fiji is another excellent option for renters due to its smaller size, but both models struggle to fit four people comfortably. The SaluSpa Zurich's insulated liner and lid make it 40% more energy-efficient than other models, keeping it warmer in winter.
Read more: Bestway SaluSpa Zurich review
The best square inflatable hot tub
✅ Easy setup: Setting up the hot tub is quick and straightforward, taking only 20-30 minutes.
✅ Affordable: Compared to permanent hot tubs, the Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub is competitively priced at $599.
✅ Portable: The inflatable hot tub can be easily transported and stored.
❌ Limited space: While the hot tub can accommodate several people, it may feel cramped if six adults use it.
❌ Flimsy cover: The cover is not very sturdy, which may be a concern if you have young children or pets.
❌ Slow heating: It takes around 26 hours for the hot tub to heat up to 104 degrees.
🔎 The Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub has Freeze Shield technology for four adults. It lacks back massaging jets and has a flimsy cover. The power-saving timer can last up to 40 days, but maintenance is required ★★★★
The Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub is a portable, easy-to-install hot tub that can accommodate several people. It's made of puncture-resistant DuraPlus material and has all the necessary features for a relaxing soak.
Setup: Setup was easy, taking about 20 minutes to air up and another 20 minutes to fill with water. The DuraPlus material used to make the hot tub is durable and prevents punctures. Our reviewer placed a tarp underneath to be safe. The square shape accommodates more people than a circular one, and the deep teal color is nice. However, the cover could be better.
Design: The Ibiza AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub has three main components: the hot tub, cover, and pump. The pump heats and filters water and doubles as an air pump for inflating the hot tub and cover. The hot tub is made of puncture-resistant DuraPlus material and has handles on all sides for easy transport. It has a drain tube on the backside for water release.
Freeze Shield Technology can be used during winter if the temperature doesn't drop below 14 degrees. The pump has a digital control panel for temperature, filter, heater, and air jets. The cover is flimsy, but safety locks prevent kids from opening it.
Performance: The hot tub heated up to 104 degrees in about 26 hours. It's comfortable for one or two people but would be a tight fit for six adults. The air jets create a bubbly experience and release heat from the hot tub. The power-saving timer is an excellent function to save electricity. Maintaining the hot tub is easy; our reviewer added chemicals to maintain pH balance and prevent mold growth. They also rinsed off the filter twice a week and exchanged it once a month.
Value: The Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub is competitively priced at $599 and is available at Bestway, Amazon, and Walmart. It can accommodate several people and has all the necessary features for a relaxing soak. The Bestway SaluSpa Fiji is similar in most ways but suited for 2-4 people and has a round shape.
The Bestway SaluSpa Hawaii is a square inflatable hot tub with back massaging jets. For an extra $100, the Honolulu EnergySense Smart Signature AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub has an EnergySense cover that is 40% more energy-efficient and can be controlled using a smartphone app.
Read more: Bestway SaluSpa Ibiza AirJet review
More of the best inflatable hot tubs we recommend
The best inflatable hot tub under $500
The Aleko 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable and space-saving hydrotherapy solution at home. While advertised for up to four people, it's best suited for two individuals. The setup is straightforward, and the easy-touch control panel makes it simple to control the temperature and bubble jets.
The Aleko hot tub is ideal for those who want to enjoy a relaxing soak without worrying about complicated features or a high price tag. We love the hot tub's energy-efficient design. The tub heats up quickly and has a foil coating on the underside of the cover to retain heat between uses. The tub's square shape also makes it an excellent option for those with limited space, as it can fit into tight indoor and outdoor areas.
The Aleko 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub users have reported a comfortable experience, thanks in part to the tub's cushioned floor. The hydrotherapy system, which includes 100-130 bubble jets, provides a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. However, it's worth noting that the bubble jets may cool the water somewhat, so you may need to adjust the temperature setting after a hydrotherapy session.
While the Aleko 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub doesn't come with luxurious extras like headrests or LED lighting, it does provide everything you need for a relaxing soak at home. The fitted cover with heat-retentive aluminum helps to keep the water warm between uses, and the 'easy-touch' control panel makes it easy to adjust the temperature and bubble jets to your liking.
One of the best features of the Aleko 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub is its affordability. At a list price of $450, it's an incredibly competitive option for those looking to enjoy hydrotherapy at home. During seasonal sales, the cost can drop even lower, making it an even more economical choice. However, it's essential to note that a lower price point can sometimes result in a product that doesn't last as long.
The best 6-person inflatable hot tub
The Intex PureSpa Greywood Deluxe range is a top-rated inflatable hot tub in four- and six-person versions. Customers and professional reviewers alike have praised the tub's features and design. The tub's exterior has a faux gray wood grain finish and is made with a 3-ply construction designed to resist tearing and stretching during long-term use.
One of the things we love about the Greywood Deluxe is its 170 high-power massage jets, which provide unparalleled coverage throughout the tub. The tub's luxurious design has an integrated inflation system and hard-wearing material. However, heat-up can take a long time, which is not unusual for a giant inflatable hot tub.
The Greywood Deluxe is also highly comfortable, with a soft surface and reinforced walls that provide plenty of support and stability. The tub comes with inflatable headrests, which are reserved for two lucky bathers. Users have praised the tub's comfort level, and it's easy to see why.
The Greywood Deluxe's comprehensive features and accessories are impressive. The tub's wireless, rechargeable control panel is a core component, and extravagant extras, such as inflatable headrests and color-changing LED lights, are also included. This premium inflatable hot tub comes standard with every feature the average buyer will need.
However, it's worth noting that the Greywood Deluxe is an expensive option, with a recommended retail price exceeding $900 for the six-person version. The tub's high water capacity will demand significant energy and water usage during ongoing use. Despite this, the high quality and comprehensive feature set of the Greywood Deluxe may well justify its costs.
The best Coleman inflatable hot tub
The Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub is one of the most popular options for those looking for an affordable, quality inflatable hot tub. It has a well-earned reputation for excellent customer service and quality construction. This hot tub can hold up to 242 gallons of water and accommodate four to six adults at a time, although the upper end of that range might be a little tight.
The design of the Coleman SaluSpa is impressive, with more strengths than weaknesses. The included pressure gauge helps to avoid over-inflating, and the tightening wrench that comes with it is specially designed to tighten the valve setting to prevent leaking over time. However, one potentially frustrating aspect is that the tub's water takes quite a while to heat up, so you'll need to think ahead and start heating the water a day before use unless you want to keep it relatively warm at all times, which can be energy-intensive.
Comfort is also a highlight of this inflatable hot tub. The exterior has a vertical beam construction that helps the tub to keep its shape over time. A cushioned ground cover adds to the comfort of this very relaxing tub. The ground mat also protects the tub from debris on the ground underneath and retains the heat of the water. This is an impressively comfortable inflatable hot tub with pleasantly firm support below and behind the bather.
While the SaluSpa doesn't have too many fancy features, it does come with a fantastic set of essential components that support the excellent essential function of the hot tub. These components include a fitted top cover with a foil lining, clips to secure the cover, built-in handles for repositioning, a ground mat, a valve wrench, a pressure gauge, and more. One hundred forty jets positioned around the inside wall of the tub provide a soothing, hydrotherapeutic effect.
The price of the Coleman SaluSpa is also one of its main selling points. It usually runs around $400-500, which is a great value when you factor in the quality and durability of the product. However, according to online customer reviews, the tub's filters need to be replaced quite frequently. Additionally, the tub's relatively slow water heating means you might need to use quite a lot of energy to get your water nice and hot. These running costs take away a little from the hot tub's impressively modest price tag.
The best Intex inflatable hot tub
Intex is widely recognized for manufacturing top-of-the-line spa-style hot tubs and above-ground swimming pools. If you're a fan of aquatic chill-out sessions at home or in your yard, chances are you've heard of Intex. The SimpleSpa 28481E is one of Intex's most popular inflatable hot tubs, and it is designed for home use. It offers a delightful, 100-point bubble-jet massage system with a heat-retentive design that minimizes hassle and energy costs.
The Intex SimpleSpa 28481E Inflatable Hot Tub provides a relaxing and enjoyable spa-like hydrotherapy experience in the comfort of your home or yard. It features an adjustable heating system that allows you to adjust the temperature of the water to your preferred level, up to a hot 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The tub is made with high-strength materials, ensuring greater longevity than the average competitor.
Even without the relaxing bubble jets, this hot tub is incredibly comfortable, with a softly rounded backrest that molds to the user's body. There is also a drink and smartphone holder, which means you can stay in the water without leaving for anything. However, it should be noted that the SimpleSpa can become slightly crowded when filled to its maximum capacity of four bathers. This is a classic case of a hot tub manufacturer being generous towards themselves when estimating a product's usage limit.
When you purchase this stylish hot tub, you get more than just the portable one. It has many high-quality accessories, including an energy-saving cover, insulation layer, inflation hose, carry bag, floating chlorine dispenser, and two filter cartridges. All these features make the tub easy to use and maintain. The energy-saving cover, which helps the inflatable hot tub maintain its temperature, is awe-inspiring, enabling you to conserve energy and reduce heat-up times.
The only downside to this inflatable hot tub is its cost. Typically priced around $500, the Intex SimpleSpa 28481E is relatively expensive, considering its four-person capacity. However, it is worth the investment if you're looking for a high-quality hot tub made by a leading manufacturer. If you're in a healthy financial position to spread the cost over time, you might consider buying the SimpleSpa 28481E on finance, with options of up to 24 months available.
The best luxury inflatable hot tub
The Intex PureSpa Plus Bubble is an inflatable hot tub that offers a premium experience for those looking to elevate their backyard soaking sessions. This model comes with various luxurious extras not typically included in other hot tub packages, such as a pair of inflatable headrests and color-changing LED lights that add a touch of ambiance to your soak.
Regarding hydrotherapy features, the PureSpa Plus Bubble boasts a bubble massage system with 140 jets that create a soothing massage effect to help you relax and unwind. The design of this hot tub is simple yet attractive, with a reinforced FiberTech construction that ensures both sturdiness and comfort. However, it's worth noting that the tub's relatively tiny capacity can accommodate no more than four people at a time, which may be a drawback for those looking to entertain guests.
User reviews consistently praise the PureSpa Plus Bubble's comfort, with many highlighting the headrests as a welcome addition. The package of accessories included with the hot tub is extensive, featuring cleaning materials, an insulated cover, and a thermal ground cloth to keep your tub running efficiently. However, some users have noted that certain safety features, such as child safety locks for the cover, are missing and could be added in future product iterations.
One potential hurdle for buyers is the price point of the PureSpa Plus Bubble, which can be pretty expensive compared to other inflatable hot tub models on the market. Around $600 may be too steep for some shoppers' budgets. However, this tub's high quality and premium features make it a worthwhile investment for those willing to splurge.
How to choose the best inflatable hot tub for you
If you've decided to invest in an inflatable hot tub, the sheer amount of choice may be overwhelming. Below, we've outlined a few factors to consider when purchasing so you can be sure you spend your money wisely.
Space: Before buying an inflatable hot tub, you will want to ensure it fits in the space you intend. Inflatable hot tubs have the advantage of being deflatable and more easily stored, unlike their permanent counterparts. However, they still come in various sizes, from smaller 2-person ones to more giant tubs. If you intend to host larger parties and have the yard size, you could invest in a 10-person tub!
Don't forget to consider where your hose and outlets are, as your inflatable hot tub must be plugged in to operate. Additionally, it could be worth noting how small you can get the tub to be once it's folded up to ensure it fits in your garage for storage.
Shape and design: While the choices aren't massively varied, you can choose between a round, oval, square, or rectangular inflatable hot tub. Rectangular ones are best for taller people or those who want more legroom. Some tub models come in various colors, styles, and designs. While you can get simple colored ones, you can also find luxury wood-paneled items or models with a fake stone exterior to blend into your decor.
Price and warranty: Your budget will decide when purchasing your inflatable hot tub. Prices vary widely between models, but the smaller ones tend to retail around $300, while premium and larger models will be closer to $1,000.
Apart from the upfront cost, there are also running costs to consider. Significantly, when water and electricity costs rise, it's important to consider efficiency ratings and maintenance costs.
A good warranty is also an indicator of the product's quality and the confidence a brand has in it. Most inflatable hot tubs tend to have a 1—to 5-year warranty that is split between the motor, parts, and manufacture. As this purchase is quite a significant investment, you'll want to ensure it's well-guaranteed to provide peace of mind.
Additional features: Aside from the basics, some inflatable hot tubs have a wide range of features to improve your tub. While the exact options will vary depending on the model and brand, some extra features to consider in your desired model include:
• LED lights
• Headrests
• Add-in seats
• Water temperature timer
• LCD control panel
• Floating drink holders
• Bluetooth speakers
• Multiple massage jets
• Integrated water filtration
• Child protection locks
• Decent maximum temperature
Inflatable hot tub FAQs
Do inflatable hot tub spas offer hydrotherapy?
The therapeutic advantages of hydrotherapy treatments within hot tubs are well known, and you may be wondering if the same soothing effects can be found within inflatable models, too. While the good news is that inflatable tubs can mimic the experience of an actual tub, with an interchangeable number of jets and warm temperatures, there is a difference in the intensity of the massage available.
Unlike inflatable hot tubs with hydro jets, portable models use massage jets to create bubbles. The same high-pressure and high-flow jets used within hot tubs aren’t found in these more portable models, which keeps the price down and portability possible.
This compromise on the jets doesn’t mean that relaxation through hydrotherapy isn’t possible with an inflatable tub, as the warmth and the buoyancy of the water alone can help with stiffness and pain.
The number of jets will vary between each inflatable hot tub spa, so if the sound of more bubbles especially appeals to you, look for over 100 jets within your new purchase rather than a model that doesn’t prioritize that massaging feeling.
How much do inflatable hot tubs cost to run?
The cost of running an inflatable hot tub depends on a few significant factors: electricity, water, filters, cleaning, and chemicals. To a lesser degree, other factors will contribute to hot tub maintenance costs, like its size, where you set it up, how often you use it, and how strict you are about cleaning it. Electricity costs vary by state, so running a hot tub may be less expensive for Louisiana residents than for Alaskans or Hawaiians.
Our research found that the average cost of running an inflatable hot tub is $600 per year. If you purchase a giant hot tub and use it more often than three times a week, you’ll see a higher electricity bill, among other costs.
Another consideration is the cost of buying an inflatable hot tub. Our list of the best inflatable hot tubs features models costing between $300 and $700, depending on their size and features.
Are inflatable hot tubs any good?
Investing in one of the best inflatable hot tubs is enticing for many reasons, including the low initial cost and hassle-free installation. Outdoor inflatable hot tubs are also suitable for maintenance, cleaning, and storage. If you're using your inflatable tub as a test run for buying a proper hot tub, then cleaning and maintaining the pH levels of the water, as well as keeping unwanted debris out, will be an excellent learning experience before you commit to a permanent installation.
One drawback is that inflatable hot tubs with seats are rare. Although manufacturers may advertise a model with a certain number of seats, this most likely means the number of persons that can sit on the bottom of the tub, not that there are any actual seats. However, if you want seats to add to your inflatable hot tub, they can sometimes be bought online. Manufacturers often sell specific seats that are compatible with certain models of inflatable tubs.
Inflatable hot tubs are almost always made from either PVC or vinyl and come with an external combination pump and heater unit that controls both the water temperature and the massage jets. Inflatable hot tubs can generally be set up in 15 or 20 minutes and filled with a garden hose, and most can heat water to comfortably hot temperatures overnight.
Construction: Layered vinyl or PVC is standard for inflatable hot tubs, but many models have walls reinforced with fabrics like polyester or nylon. This is usually indicated with a proprietary name: Intex calls its unique blend of materials Fiber-Tech. Coleman uses Tri-Tech 3 Layer Material for its polyester mesh and layered PVC mix.
The design and structure are just as important as the material. Many manufacturers use a segmented inflatable design reinforced with a vertical I-beam internal structure. These internal vinyl panels make for a sturdier tub that can support users when they lean against it or even sit directly on the outer wall. Premium models add another level of stability and protection with interlocking panels surrounding the inflatable tub. These also provide a rigid wall that protects and insulates the tub.
Covers: All inflatable spas should include a locking top cover for safety. In some cases, this cover also insulates the tub and accelerates the water-heating process. Some models include inflatable covers that fit into the top of the tub like a stopper in a bottle, while others use insulating materials like foam or foil lining to keep the heat inside. Regardless of insulation style, you'll want a cover that offers more than a fitted piece of fabric.
Other accessories: All sorts of accessories are available for maintaining and enjoying your portable spa, from chemical dispensers to inflatable cushions. If you plan to leave the tub filled for days or weeks at a time, you should choose one that includes chemicals like chlorine or bromine, along with the necessary dispenser and test strips to monitor the water's pH levels.
How to care for an inflatable hot tub
With regular maintenance, you can keep your inflatable hot tub running optimally all year round and use it whenever you want. To facilitate this, you'll need various accessories, tools, and cleaning equipment for maintenance. It's worth investing in quality equipment and cleaning your hot tub regularly, as this will ensure the tub lasts longer and develops fewer problems during its lifetime.
Empty and clean the tub: Cleaning instructions vary slightly from hot tub to hot tub. However, most need to be drained and physically cleaned quite frequently. Luckily, this process isn't too complicated – a sponge and some mild dish soap do the trick in most cases. Let the tub thoroughly air-dry after rinsing and before filling it back up.
Test pH levels: You must regularly test the alkalinity of the water in your hot tub. The pH may change very little when you're not using the tub but more sharply during frequent use, mainly if more than one or two people use it. If the pH levels drop too low, the hot tub's interior materials, or even the entire tub, could deteriorate.
Keep it covered: When there's water in your hot tub and you're not using it, keep it covered. This serves two purposes. Firstly, it removes the issue of leaves, debris, and animals, so your inflatable hot tub stays clean. Secondly, the lid helps hold in heat. Although a cover won't maintain the water at a temperature comfortable for soaking, keeping it as warm as possible shortens the time it takes to heat it when you want to use it.
Change filters: Like a standard pool, your inflatable hot tub's filter should be changed roughly once a week to keep it clean and debris-free. Most models have a filter you can clean and reuse, though you may want to replace a filter occasionally for freshness. Consult the user manual that came with your hot tub for filter replacement recommendations.
Add a sanitizing solution: This should seem obvious, but it bears emphasizing: in addition to regularly draining and cleaning your hot tub and changing its filters, you should also sanitize it. You can add sanitizer before each use or on a less frequent (but regular) basis if you don't use the tub often.
How we test the best inflatable hot tubs
At Top Ten Reviews, we are committed to providing our readers with honest and reliable reviews of products, including the best inflatable hot tubs in the market. Our expert reviewers conduct extensive research and testing to ensure that we recommend only the top products to our readers.
Our reviewers possess prior experience and industry knowledge, allowing them to identify and analyze the most critical features of each inflatable hot tub. To deliver comprehensive and consistent reviews, they put each product through a series of tests, including set-up, performance, temperature control, ease of use, maintenance, and more.
We test each inflatable hot tub in real life to ensure our reviews are accurate and reliable. Our goal is to provide our readers with authentic and trustworthy reviews that help them make an informed decision when purchasing an inflatable hot tub. For more information about our testing protocols, please visit our comprehensive guide on how we test.
Alex Temblador is a skilled freelance writer and product tester who has a passion for testing and reviewing products such as inflatable hot tubs. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including Top Ten Reviews, Tech Radar, and Tom's Guide. As a first-time homeowner, Alex recently purchased a beautiful 103-year-old Sears & Roebuck house on half an acre of land, complete with a stunning wraparound porch, original hardwood floors, pocket doors, and a butler pantry. When she's not busy with her writing work, Alex can be found relaxing and enjoying her outdoor spaces, especially her favorite inflatable hot tubs!
Emily Price, a seasoned technology journalist, has a diverse portfolio that spans across multiple publications. Her expertise extends beyond just tech topics, proven by her thorough testing and reviewing of inflatable hot tubs for TTR. Her work has been featured in The Guardian, Fast Company, Popular Mechanics, Entrepreneur Magazine, MORE Magazine, The San Francisco Chronicle, Conde Nast Traveler, Paste Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Esquire, Marie Claire and Harper's Bazaar.