The Best Hot Tubs
Hot tubs are one of the ultimate luxuries — but that doesn't mean they're entirely out of reach. An inflatable hot tub is a convenient option if you want all the benefits of a hot tub without the money or space commitment. Not only are they easy to store away, but they're also great to transport if you'd like to bring your hot tub on the go. We've rounded up a few of our favorite hot tubs, any of which would make for a perfectly soothing evening.
Intex PureSpa Plus Inflatable Hot Tub
The all-around favorite
Consider this Intex hot tub as the complete package on all levels. Made of the company’s patented Fiber-Tech construction, the hot tub has great structural stability and the water goes up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s equipped with 140 water jets, all of which are high-powered and make for one relaxing experience. The control panel is intuitive to use, and it tilts, too, so it’s easy to read. While we love this tub’s features, it’s also the practicality of the thing that makes it such an easy pick. The tub comes with all the practical setup items, including an air blower, insulated cover, and inflation hose. You truly can have it all with this hot tub.
Pros:
- Mult-colored LED lights add a fun touch
- Very easy to set up
- Comes with great maintenance items, including filter cartridges and a water test strip
Cons:
- Thicker sides make it a little more difficult to climb in if you’re shorter
Intex Simple Spa Inflatable Hot Tub
Don't sweat it
If you want a hot tub that you feel totally safe in and that you can leave out on a more permanent basis, this Intex tub is the one for you. The tub comes with an insulated ground cloth, and the tub has a mesh cover on the outside that provides extra protection. The horizontal beam construction adds stability to the tub, too, so you can lean back without the tub’s walls giving out on you. The compact keypad is easy to use and doesn’t lock or change settings when it gets wet. The tub goes up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and has 100 jets to provide soothing relief.
Pros:
- Comes with floating chemical dispenser, filter cartridge, and insulated ground cloth and cover
- Ideal for those who are leaving the hot tub out for extended periods outdoors
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with lights
Bestway SaluSpa Vancouver Inflatable Hot Tub
Rest and relaxation
While hot tubs are usually for outdoor use, an inflatable version is a perfect excuse to move the tub indoors. Bestway’s tub is especially great for this reason since its slimmer sides make it easier to set up and move. The drop stitch material means that the thin walls are supported by interwoven threads that give the tub a rigid structure that’s surprisingly sturdy. The tub comes with a cover, filter cartridges, and a chemical dispenser. Its max temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and we like that the bubbles are released from the center and sides of the tub so that you get relaxation from every direction.
Pros:
- Compact size is ideal for indoor use or those who are more cramped on space
- Pump features cup holders in addition to the control panel
- Power saving timer allows you to control the temperature up to 40 days in advance
Cons:
- Doesn’t hold heat as well as others
Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii Inflatable Hot Tub
The more, the merrier
It’s the shape of the Coleman hot tub that makes the difference to us. We love that having corners makes the hot tub feel not only cozier, but also roomier since people can have their own corner. While the standard inflatable hot tub can fit up to four adults, most are more ideal for two to three adults. Coleman’s definitely fits four comfortably, and the heating — up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit — and bubbling from the 114 air jets create a wonderful spa-like experience. It’s made of tri-tech inflated walls for sturdy support and comes with a liner, spa pump, filters, and other necessary items.
Pros:
- Cover is reinforced and has safety lock clips and a built-in air chamber for superior insulation
- Convenient drain valve at the bottom
- Great for larger groups
Cons:
- Cannot be used in temperatures less than 39 degrees Fahrenheit
Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki Inflatable Hot Tub
Blending in
A hot tub is meant to ease the body and mind, and Bestway’s Helsinki tub has a built-in softening system that helps reduce the effects of hard water. The result? Soothing water that heats up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit that’s great for sore muscles and joints. The digital control panel is easy to access from inside the tub. The drop stitch tri-tech material ensures that the tub will keep its shape despite the thin walls. The tub comes with a chemical dispenser to disperse chlorine and a cover. We like the wooden design as it blends seamlessly into almost any outdoor setting and looks like a hard-style hot tub — all while being ultra-portable.
Pros:
- Thinner walls mean this tub is easier to store and pack away
- Multifunction pump inflates the tub and regulates the filtration system
- The tiny air bubbles are ideal for those who prefer a softer touch
Cons:
- Some prefer thicker sides for better armrests
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of upkeep do I need to do for a hot tub?
Hot tubs are often continuously sanitized with bromine tablets in a floater. We suggest investing in a quality test kit so you can check and adjust pH and alkalinity regularly. You’ll also need a filter to trap dirt and particles, and a net is also great for scooping up large debris on the surface.
Any other tips?
We recommend purchasing extra insulation cloths in order to retain more heat. You also might want to lay ample tarp if you’re setting up the hot tub indoors.