Having inflatable hot tubs in your home is one of the best ways to have a readily available area for relaxation. They are easy to set up and can easily be carried around from one place to another. They are great for both indoor and outdoor use as well. 

There are a lot of inflatable hot tubs being sold in the market today, and it can be a little difficult to choose the best kind that suits your needs well.

Plenty of variants and types are available for you to choose from, such as bubble jets with LED lights for recreation and headrests and cup holders mainly intended for relaxation.

In this article, we will provide you with the information that you need for your future inflatable hot tub purchase. 

The best inflatable hot tubs you can buy today

Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 4 to 6 people
  • Water Capacity (Gallons): 254 
  • Maximum temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 114
  • Size: 77.0 x 77.0 x 28.0 inches
  • Weight: 88 pounds

Soaking up in cool, fresh water after a strenuous day is the best way to relieve the tension in the body. And what better way to do it than in an inflatable hot tub in the comfort of your own home? As we may have already mentioned before, the Coleman SaluSpa is the best in the market today.

Starting from its green and white color palette, the Coleman SaluSpa is made with long-lasting PVC materials and strong I-beam construction that adds up to the longevity of its lifespan.

You can be sure it won’t lose its form for a long time, even with frequent use. The pump can heat your water to 104 degrees Fahrenheit at the most while inflating the tub and operating the filtration system.

It also has 114 bubble jets, and you can set the temperature of the water for a maximum of 72 hours before use. The hot tub is easy to set up without additional tools. 

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Comfortable design
  • Cushioned floor
  • Customer favorite

Cons

  • Only one color variant
  • Available space claimed is misleading

Intex PureSpa 75

The best value for one of the best inflatable hot tubs

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 6 people
  • Water capacity (gallons): 210
  • Maximum temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 140Size: 77.0 x 77.0 x 28.0 inches
  • Weight: 115 pounds

Provided you have a wide space in your yard to place it, the Intex PureSpa 75 may just be the best and biggest tub you can purchase at a reasonable price. It has the capacity of up to 4 people with two contoured headrests and 170 bubble jets that pump water at maximum power, sure to release some pent-up muscle tension. 

The exterior of the tub is almost completely resistant to punctures and abrasions with the three-layered laminated material. The interior is also Fiber-Tech construction that lasts for a long time.

Setting it up and putting it away is a simple task and the insulations on the cover retain the temperature during steaming. It also comes with multicolored LED lights so you can use them at night. 

Pros

  • Excellent value
  • 140 high-powered bubble jets
  • Large capacity for the price
  • Has a filter system for hard water

Cons

  • The filter can be difficult to replace

Intex Greywood Deluxe Inflatable Spa Hot Tub

Best inflatable hot tub with built-in lights

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 4 to 6 people
  • Water Capacity (gallons): 210 to 290
  • Maximum Temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 140-170
  • Size: 77.0 x 77.0 x 28.0 inches to 85.0 x 85.0 x 28.0 inches
  • Weight: 98 to 102 pounds

There are only two sizes available for the Intex Greywood Deluxe Hot Tub, and the larger one has a capacity of 290 gallons of water and can fit no more than 6 people in it. It also has 170 bubble jets. The smaller version can carry 4 people and hold 210 gallons with only 140 bubble jets. 

The difference in size is the only feature that sets the two apart. Both versions come with multicolored LED lights for that extra spazz when used at night. There are also two foam headrests for both variants.

The exterior design is uniquely designed with a faux wood-style aesthetic as you can tell from the name. You can also adjust the temperature and the bubble jet set and set a timer to automatically switch it on and off using the wireless control panel that comes with it. 

Pros

  • Comes in many sizes
  • Simple maintenance
  • LED lights

Cons

  • Kind of pricey

Bestway SaluSpa Helsinki

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 7 people
  • Water capacity (gallons): 297
  • Maximum temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 83
  • Size: 71.0 x 71.0 x 26.0 inches
  • Weight: 87 pounds

Nordic is becoming a preferred aesthetic design nowadays. That is integrated into the Bestway Helsinki inflatable hot tub resulting in a rustic barrel look for the tub’s exterior.

The ChemConnect dispenser is built within it for the water filtration mechanism, along with 2 types VI filter cartridges and a spa and hand inflation pump. A repair kit and an aluminum-lined cover for insulation

The pump also serves another purpose: to inflate the tub that can hold a maximum of 7 people. You can find the controls for the temperature and the water jets above the pump.

There is also a timer that allows you to set the temperature of the water up to 72 hours prior. The only downside is the price which is almost a thousand dollars. 

Pros

  • Functional design
  • Multipurpose water pump also inflates the tub

Cons

  • Less number of bubble jets
  • Pricey

Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii Square Inflatable Outdoor Hot Tub

The best square inflatable hot tub

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 4 people
  • Water Capacity (gallons): 177
  • Maximum Temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 114Size: 71.0 x 71.0 x 28.0 inches
  • Weight: 73.1 pounds

The square shape of the Coleman Hawaii SaluSpa inflatable hot tub deviates from the typical circular and round shapes of most hot tubs.

Nonetheless, it still has the essential features that hot tubs have. It is equipped with 114 bubble jets as well as a cushioned floor. It can also fit 4 people at the most. Blue and gray are the color variants available.

You won’t have difficulty controlling any settings because the controls are digital and easy to figure out. You can adjust the temperature, bubble jets, and timer above the pump. The filter cartridges are easily replaceable.

When not in use, you easily put it away as it is small enough to store in an average-sized garage. Inside the package, you will find the tub itself, a pool liner and cover, the pump, two filter cartridges, an air pad protector, a chemical floater, a repair kit, and the AirJet bubble system. 

Pros

  • Attractive design
  • Excellent construction

Cons

  • Too small for 4 people

Bestway SaluSpa Miami Hot Tub

Great buy for entry-level hot-tubbers

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 2 to 4 person
  • Water Capacity (gallons): 177
  • Maximum Temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 120
  • Size: 71.0 x 71.0 x 26.0 inches
  • Weight: 53.9 pounds

The Bestway SaluSpa Miami closely resembles the Coleman SaluSpa. With a capacity of 4 people and the ability to hold a volume of 177 gallons of water, this tub with 120 bubble jets is one of the most competitive in the market today.

But we just would like to give a heads up that only one massage setting is available and the bubble jets only operate for 30 minutes and then automatically switches off.

It can heat the water to a maximum temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit which can be adjusted using the LED control panel.

This product received a lot of positive feedback because of its size and durability. The tub’s material is optimally puncture-resistant, and the I-beam construction contributes to its large weight capacity. 

Pros

  • More affordable compared to other models
  • 120 bubble jets

Cons

  • Does not come with any additional accessories

Coleman Saluspa Havana Hot Tub

Best remote-controlled hot tub

  • Hot Tub Capacity: 2 to 4 person
  • Water Capacity (Gallons): 177
  • Maximum Temperature (Fahrenheit): 104 degrees
  • Bubble Jets: 60
  • Size: 71 x 71 x 26 inches
  • Weight: 73 pounds

This is the only remote-controlled hot tub that we put on this list and rightfully so because apart from that one unique feature, the rest of the specifications of the Coleman Saluspa Havana Hot Tub is quite competitive.

In terms of the remote control mechanism, you can control everything from the temperature to the massage system. Like the rest of its competitors, it also has a 4-person maximum capacity and a power-saving timer that allows advanced heating for up to 72 hours. 

Even with those features, the model still comes at a reasonable price. It has a multifunctional pump that can inflate the tub while regulating the water filtration mechanism. If you lose the remote, there is the main control panel where you can still operate the settings.

Though it does not have as many bubble jets as the others, there is still so much more to adore with this hot tub, and it remains to be a great choice, especially if the lack of bubble jets does not concern you that much. 

Pros

  • Can be controlled via the remote control
  • Features power saving timer

Cons

  • Not many bubble jets

What are the best inflatable hot tubs on the market today?

We have gathered a lot of information from multiple sources. After a thorough analysis, we conclude that the Coleman SaluSpa is at the top of the list of great inflatable hot tubs. It has 114 bubble jets and a well-cushioned floor, so anyone who lays on it feels comfortable. 

It also has a power-saving timer installed, which preheats the water before use, and a powerful pump that inflates the tub and regulates water filtration simultaneously. Some components are made of durable PVC. 

For those who want a slightly larger tub, you can also check out the Intex 75 PureSpa. It comes in a wide variety of sizes and has a maximum of 170 bubble jets. The headrests are efficiently formed and shaped to accommodate the user, and you can turn on the multicolored LED lights when it’s dark out. 

These products are very much in demand in the market today and most of the time they are almost always out of stock. So you have to make it a point to know what you really want so you’ll know what you’re after and check availability beforehand. Usually, around the summer, they are on sale. 

Inflatable vs. Traditional hot tubs

You have two choices for hot tubs. You can either go for a traditional hot tub or the inflatable one discussed in this article. Of course, there are perks and downsides to each one.

But in terms of the price, inflatable ones cost less, so it’s a good choice for those who do not want to spend a lot. They are also easier to set up in your yard as well as put away because it’s not permanently built into the area. Though it may not have the same number of bubble jets compared to traditional hot tubs, it still does well for relaxation. 

For traditional hot tubs, the jets are more powerful because of the construction, and the seating can be built more comfortably because you have more control over how it is built. They last longer and aren’t at risk of punctures unlike the inflatables.

But having a traditional hot tub built can cost you more than $3,000; some types can cost over $7,000, depending on the amenities.

Choosing the best inflatable hot tub

Here are the considerations you need to keep in mind when in the market for an inflatable hot tub. 

Size

The first thing you should think about is the size of your yard. You should have a decent amount of space available to set up the inflatable hot tub.

Remember that these big things can fit more or less 4 people. The smaller versions are great for relaxation with only a couple of people. But for the larger sizes that are made for family recreation, a larger space is needed as well. 

Material

Another important factor is the material the hot tub is made of. This will define how long it will last and its resistance to punctures and abrasions. Hot tubs are typically sturdy and optimally resistant to minor puncturing.

Some are made of PVC or vinyl, which is already a great choice, but some have superior reinforced walls. 

Level surface

The notion that inflatable hot tubs are the same as inflatable pools is wrong. Although, one thing that they have in common is that they both need an even surface to be placed on.

You will be putting water in them and people will get in on those things so putting them on an inclined surface will make them unstable. Only a flat, level surface can evenly support it. 

Jet preference

Now that you have the size and space all set, the bubble jets are the next thing to consider on the list. You can choose between air or water bubble jets. The former is cheaper, while the latter is more expensive since it usually comes with a booster pump.

There aren’t a lot of inflatable hot tubs that come with water jets. However, you don’t have to worry because air jets also perform well. You should know that these jets emit a lot of noise when they operate. 

Temperature

It’s not called a ‘hot tub’ for nothing. Its capacity to raise and maintain the water temperature is a vital factor to consider if you want to make the most out of your hot tub. Inflatable hot tubs apparently take a longer time to heat the water because of the size of the heater integrated in the tub.

Shape

Most hot tubs are round-shaped, but some brands make them in rectangular shapes, which leads to more leg room and can be well-fitted in corners or against a wall. 

Covers

Majority of inflatable hot tubs have a top cover that locks for safety. These covers can also often be used to insulation and hasten the heating process. Some insulations can be in the form of a well-fit covering for the tub and there are also those that are lined into the sides of the tub such as foam or foil. 

Seating

Traditional hot tubs already have built-in seats in them but inflatable hot tubs usually do not have built-in seating installed. However, they may not need it anymore because they are made to accommodate comfortable seating with cushioned floors.

But separate booster seats are being sold in the market if you want to install them in the tub. These are easy to attach and detach and can benefit smaller people and children. 

Filtration and pumps

There are pumps and filtration systems preinstalled in an inflatable hot tub that regulates water temperature and powers the jets. 

  • All inflatable hot tubs come with a filtration system to ensure that the water being supplied is clean and safe from extraneous debris and contaminants. You have to remember to periodically clean the filters and replace them according to the instructed time stated in the product manual. There are high-end hot tub models with filtration systems that treat hard water to eliminate calcium deposits from the water. 
  • The pumps serve as the heating mechanism for the water and the power source for the jet systems that release air or water for the massaging effect. Other multifunctional pumps can also inflate the hot tub. 

Additional features

Other features that are equipped in your hot tub aside from the essentials can add to the efficiency of its performance and the comfort and relaxation that it brings to the user. Insulated covers and fabric for the ground can help reduce energy consumption and maintain an optimal temperature for the water especially in cold weather. 

Some also come with digital control panels or remotes for easier control of the temperature and jet system settings. Multicolored LED lights are also built into the tub for an added aesthetic appeal and lighting for evening use. 

How to use an inflatable hot tub

  • Schedule your hot tub plans ahead of time. Some models would need you to set the heater timer for 12 to 24 hours to raise the water temperature to the optimum level. 
  • Only fill the tub with the correct volume of water that the tub is capable of carrying, which is stated in the user manual. This would prevent you from excessive and unnecessary water consumption and costs.
  • Do not let the water temperature exceed 104°F (40°C). The maximum temperature for the hot tub water considered safe for pregnant women is 100°F (37°C). A temperature of 106°F (41.1°C) and above can raise the neutral body temperature and be a cause of heat stroke, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  • Only turn on the heating mechanism if you will use the hot tub. Set aside time to allow the water to heat and use the built-in timer to monitor. If unavailable, you can set a timer on your phone or other devices that you can set time with. 
  • Hydrate yourself before and after getting in the hot tub. Immersing yourself in the warm temperature of the water can cause you to lose body fluids. 
  • Always keep an eye on if children are using the hot tub. We highly discourage bringing infants in a hot tub. 
  • Before using a hot tub, check with a physician first if you have health concerns like an existing cardiovascular disease, unstable blood pressure, diabetes, or heart problems. 
  • Do not take medications that can cause drowsiness, like antihistamines, sedatives, or tranquilizers. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as well when using a hot tub. 

Care and maintenance of inflatable hot tubs

Like everything else in life, hot tubs will last longer and benefit you better if you take care of them. It can last for a year and maybe even more and you can use it as frequently as you want. You will need a few accessories and tools for the cleaning and maintenance. But you won’t need to do this often as long as you use quality tools and clean it regularly. 

  • Empty the tub before cleaning.

Specific cleaning instructions depending on the model. But the general rule is to drain it and manually clean it regularly. It’s not much of a hassle – you just need a sponge and mild dish soap for most of it. After rinsing, you can simply air dry it before refilling it with water. 

  • Test the pH level of the water

You should monitor the acidity or alkalinity of the water. When you use it frequently, there can be very drastic and sharp changes in the pH of the water and even more so with the number of people in it. You shouldn’t let the pH reach critically low levels, or the tub’s interior can become damaged and disintegrate. 

  • Cover when not in use

Covering the tub protects it from fallen leaves, dust, debris, and possibly stray animals. You won’t have to spend a lot of time cleaning it. The covers also serve to keep warmth inside the tub. It won’t be able to maintain the temperature, but it helps heat the water more quickly than usual. 

  • Change the filters

The filtration system of your hot tub should be changed at least once a week to ensure the smooth circulation of clean water. Some hot tub models have a reusable filter that you can detach and clean but will need replacement after some time. Check the product manual to see instructions about filter replacement. 

  • Add sanitizing solution 

Aside from cleaning the tub and its filters, you should also sanitize the tub to add an extra layer of disinfection and protection from contaminants and microorganisms. You can add it before using the hot tub. 

How to reduce the cost of running an inflatable hot tub

  • Place it in an area that is less prone to the elements. It can be against a wall or in a corner, preferably a roofed area. If it isn’t exposed to the outside air, it will take less energy for it to heat the water so you’ll be saving a bit of power. 
  • If you can, buy an inflatable hot tub with an insulation lid, or you can also buy one separately. This way, you can effectively keep the heat in and it can also be an additional safety measure.
  • Aside from the lid, we recommend also getting a protector. An extra layer of protection between the bottom part of the hot tub and the ground can also be a form of insulation and protection from possible causes of puncture. 
  • If not many people use it, just opt for a smaller-size hot tub. It will consume less water and will take less energy to heat up. 
  • Use it in warmer weather instead of cold weather. Since the temperature is low, heating the water will require more energy than usual. On the other hand, if the temperature is already warm, it won’t take much energy to heat the water, lessening your utility bills. 
  • Do regular cleaning and filter monitoring. Maintaining the cleanliness of the hot tub will ensure the longevity of its lifespan and keep it operating efficiently. 

FAQs

What can you put under the inflatable hot tub?

You can directly put the hot tub above grass or concrete as long as there are no objects that can puncture the material. You can make use of a folded or cut-out tarp to serve as an extra layer of protection for the bottom part of the hot tub. But it does become slippery when it gets wet. 

Rubber tiles or foam can also be good alternatives; you can buy them online or from physical stores. These can be good protection for your hot tub from sharp objects underneath. But if you really want a long-term and more reliable solution, a hot tub pad is your best option because it also serves as insulation. 

What chemicals can you put in an inflatable hot tub?

To control the water quality in your hot tub, you must conduct regular pH determination. You can add some chemical additives to disinfect the water and prevent algae growth, similar to what they do with traditional swimming pools.

The pH of the water should be near the neutral levels and should not be too acidic or too alkaline. You can use acidifiers or alkalinizes for adjustments. Chlorine or bromine derivatives are the most common chemicals for water disinfection or regular shock treatments. 

Can you use an inflatable hot tub indoors?

The great thing about inflatable hot tubs is that you can set them up anywhere, whether indoors or outdoors, as long as you have the power source and the space.

For indoor use, you have to consider the flooring of the room. Carpeted or wooden flooring is not waterproof and will therefore need a layer of protection. Line up some towels so you won’t be dripping and spilling water directly onto the floor. 

Hot tubs are heavy, so make sure that the flooring can take the weight of the entire thing, especially when filled with water and when people are in it. The best area to place an inflatable hot tub is somewhere on the ground floor. 

Do I need to build a fence around my hot tub?

It depends on the rules set forth by the authorities in your local community. But you might need a lockable barrier that passes the criteria stated in the ASTM F 1346. You can ask your local government or the homeowners association in your neighborhood if there are any specific rules regarding hot tub fences. 

A common fence is at least 4 ft in height and should not be scalable. Some communities require a concrete wall to be built around the hot tub. It must only have one access point and should not be easily climbed on but strong enough to take the weight of a full-grown person. 

They are quite heavy expenses but they also serve as additional protection for you and anyone else who will use your hot tub. 

Can I use the water from an inflatable hot tub to water my lawn or plants?

Yes. Just allow the water to cool down for a while and allow the disinfectants like chlorine and bromine to dissipate to a less concentrated level. Make use of a hose to distribute the water. 

Do inflatable hot tub spas offer hydrotherapy?

Traditional hot tubs are known for their hydrotherapy treatments with the water jets installed in them that generate high-pressure water for sore muscles. Inflatable models also have this feature, but the pressure’s intensity is less than that of traditional hot tubs. 

Instead of the high-performing water jets used in conventional hot tubs, inflatables use air-powered jets to create the bubbling effect. The pressure and water flow are not as strong because inflatable hot tubs are a lot cheaper; therefore, there will be some compromises regarding the features offered. 

Hydrotherapy can still be attained using air-powered jets in inflatable hot tubs because there is still a certain level of pressure emitted, and immersing in the warmth of the water also contributes to the soothing feeling. 

The number of jets varies in every model, so if this is important to you, you can check out those models with more than 100 built-in air jets if you want that massage feature. 

How much do inflatable hot tubs cost to run?

There are many factors that affect the overall cost of owning an inflatable hot tub – electricity, water, filters, maintenance, disinfectants. The size of the hot tub will also determine the amount of water it will consume and how much time and power it will take to heat such a volume.

The frequency of your use and how well you clean it add to how long it will last. In terms of the electricity bills, it depends on the area where you live. 

We have gathered that around $600 a year is the average cost of running an average-sized standard inflatable hot tub. A larger one and more frequent use will lead to much higher expenses. 

Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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