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Beat the Winter Chills With the Best Inflatable Hot Tubs

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 15 Mar 2023

When it comes to everyone’s favorite weather, the world has always been torn between summer and winter. But, there are a few things that everyone unanimously loves, like a beach day when it’s hot outside or a steaming cup of coffee when it’s cold. One such pleasure is sitting in a cozy hot tub in peak winters! 

This experience used to be a luxury of the affluent, but that’s not the case anymore. Inflatable hot tubs can help you relax, unwind, and enjoy zen at home. Aside from their low price, they’re also super portable, which means you can pack them with you on your travels or freely move them outdoors and indoors. You can even fill it up with cold water to sit in the sun during the summers, making it a great investment for year-round utility. 

With that said, there are many factors to keep in mind to make sure it suits your needs. For instance, there’s size and capacity — the inflatable hot tub needs to be roomy enough to fit your friends or family, without being too big for your space. You’ll also have to look for features like LEDs, jets, headrests, cupholders, and much more. If that sounds like a hassle, you’re in the right place. After deep research and shortlisting, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite inflatable hot tubs in 2023, along with a buyer’s guide to help you decide. Let’s get started!

Best Overall
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Bestway Inflatable Hot Tub
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Most Affordable
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Coleman Inflatable Hot Tub
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Check Price On Walmart
Most Aesthetic
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Intex Inflatable Hot Tub
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Quickest Setup
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WAVE Inflatable Hot Tub
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Smartest Thermostat
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Bellogoo Inflatable Hot Tub
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Sturdiest Walls
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SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub
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Buying Guide: Inflatable Hot Tubs

From stress relief to muscle relaxation, hot tubs have countless mental and physical health benefits. But even if you don’t care much about the science behind it all, the whole experience feels great. It even makes for a great excuse to socialize and spend some quality time with your friends and family. 

For all the value you get for the affordable price of an inflatable hot tub, it’s a no-brainer for most people to grab one. But, finding the right model isn’t nearly as simple! There are many factors and features to keep in mind, all while making sure you don’t get ripped off with a bad deal. We’ve got you covered, though. Here’s a list of everything you need to consider to spend your hard-earned cash in the right place. 

Size Matters (A Lot)

Let’s start with size. It’s the most crucial consideration to bear in mind when you’re in the market for an inflatable hot tub. If it’s too big, you’d not only have to pay a lot more for the tub itself but also higher water and electricity bills down the line. A tub that’s too tight, on the other hand, won’t offer you the relaxation and comfort you deserve! 

With that said, you’ve also got to worry about whether or not it fits in the limited space you have for it in your bathroom, patio, backyard, or wherever you plan on placing the tub.

If you plan on using the tub with your four other siblings or friends, you can’t buy one with a capacity of just three or four. Many people make that mistake thinking they’ll still find a way to fit in somehow, but that completely ruins the overall experience. Some extra space is always worth the additional few bucks if you plan on sharing it! 

Just make sure to carefully measure the spot where you plan on putting the tub. If it’s large enough to accommodate six people but doesn’t fit anywhere in your small apartment, it’d be useless. 

Jets

What makes hot tubs so special is that they don’t just offer you immersion in hot water (like a bathtub), they elevate the experience with lots of bubble jets all around. These are electrically powered to pump air, creating a disturbance in the water that massages your muscles and makes the whole thing come alive. Luckily, this feature isn’t just limited to premium jacuzzis, it’s also available in most modern inflatable hot tubs. 

If jets mean a lot to you, we’d recommend carefully looking at the advertised number between different models to find out which would offer a “bubblier” experience. It can vary between 80 to 140 jets on average, but some inflatables can have less or more depending on their price point.

The number and type of jets can also influence the energy efficiency of your inflatable hot tub, but we’ll discuss that a bit later. 

Warranty 

Though inflatable hot tubs are an affordable version of jacuzzis, they’re still a hefty investment to make. That’s why aside from the product itself, you should also look for excellent after-sale services while finalizing your purchase decision. Only buy from sellers who have a proven track record of being helpful to their customers throughout the product’s lifetime. Carefully look into the warranty details and see what they cover and for how long. The better the coverage, the less likely it is that you’ll need it because it’s a testament to the product’s overall quality and reliability. 

On average, manufacturers offer a one-year warranty with inflatable hot tubs — but they can last for much longer than that. It’s more about how carefully and frequently you use it.  

Sanitization

If you’re in the market for an inflatable hot tub, try not to be fazed by surface-level details or flashy color options. After all, a tub that’s easier to store, fill up, clean, and carry is way better than a unit that just looks better. Rather, look for essential features that make the product way more practical. One such feature is an in-built filtration system to keep the water purified. It’s a must-have in our books because, without sanitization, you’ll be at risk of health diseases. 

A filtration system captures water from all directions and keeps all sorts of contamination out, making it safer even when shared with other people. Aside from safety, it also does wonders for your ease of use since you won’t have so much cleaning trouble to deal with. But with that said, you’ll still have to replace the filters occasionally to maintain their optimal functioning. 

You might also have to use chemicals like chlorine for proper water sanitization, especially if you have a bigger six-person tub. These disinfectants kill pathogens like viruses and bacteria that can cause and spread diseases, and often thrive in clean stationary water. Make sure your inflatable hot tub is rated to be safe to use with these disinfectants, as some can get worn out through chemical reactions. High-quality hot tubs even have features to distribute such chemicals evenly for effective cleaning, but make sure not to overdo it with the quantity!

Power Intensity for Hydrotherapy

We’ve already spoken about the number of jets, but you’ll have to go deeper than that if you plan on using the tub for hydrotherapy. For the longest time, spas and jacuzzis have been used for health purposes. The bubbles generated can create a whirlpool effect that helps open up arteries, relieves pressure on joints, and boosts circulation. 

To reap these benefits in full effect, you’ll need a hot tub that features different power settings in a multi-jet system that’s built-in. You can easily adjust the level of intensity as per your preferences, and even get the option to turn off a few jets that aren’t in use. But, since these features often come in higher-priced models, it all depends on the budget you’re working with.

Hot Tub Construction

The construction of your inflatable hot tub determines factors like durability, portability, and ease of maintenance. Most models feature walls made out of reinforced PVC material, which is often marketed as big marketing buzzwords like TriTech or Fiber Tech, but in simpler words, it’s just a sturdier type of plastic. 

Well-built models also have a vertical beam that’s internally structured to offer support, helping maintain the shape of the hot tub despite all the movement and disturbances inside it. The sturdiest tubs are highly resistant to perforations and tears and stay in good shape for years. So, try not to cut too many corners when it comes to the build quality because that’s essentially what will protect your investment throughout the tub’s lifetime.

Accessories

At first, you’d think a hot tub wouldn’t have any additional accessories. But, you need stuff like test strips to keep a check on the water’s acidity level, as well as dispensers for chemicals like bromine and chlorine to maintain regular and measured doses — especially if you plan on leaving the inflatable hot tub filled for days.

There’s also stuff that can elevate your user experiences, such as footrests and seat cushions for extra comfort. Some people also like to place a smooth ground mat under the tub to prevent any punctures or damage from twigs or anything sharp that may be on the ground in your patio or yard. 

The more accessories you get in the package, the more attractive the deal is, so always be on the lookout for such add-ons.

Energy Efficiency (And What Determines It)

Aside from the initial cost of buying an inflatable hot tub, you’ve also got to consider the cost of ownership. The biggest one is its energy consumption, which also takes a toll on the planet’s health, so we’d suggest minimizing it as much as possible.

Here are some factors that directly influence it. 

Tub size

Aside from a larger footprint in your patio, backyard, or bathroom, a higher-capacity hot tub needs more power to heat up, which ultimately reflects on your utility bills! Bear that in mind and try not to buy a model that’s way bigger than your requirements. 

Insulation 

A tub with highly effective insulation will help save tons of energy since the water loses less heat to the environment. That way, the system takes up less energy to maintain your desired water temperature.

Pump capacity 

As you can guess, hot tubs with smaller pumps built into them take up less power than those using large pumps. Be sure to check the product description and packaging of any model you consider to find the power rating of their motor. 

Heater usage

The longer the heater runs in your inflatable hot tub, the more energy it consumes. It all depends on the difference between the ambient temperature of your tap water and how hot you want it to be. 

You can bridge this gap by using water from a geyser or a tankless water heater to make it easier for the tub to reach your desired temperature (and hence save energy). Any experienced plumber or contractor can hook your tub up with a source of hot water. It’ll be a one-time expense but will save you way more money in bills over the years.

You can also move the inflatable hot tub indoors to take advantage of the warmer room temperature. That way, the water loses less of its heat to the environment and the tub’s heater doesn’t have to work as hard.

Maintenance

A hot tub is meant to help you unwind and relax after a long day of tiring work. But unfortunately, some hot tubs are a nightmare when it comes to maintenance, which kills the whole purpose and only adds a bunch of chores to your already filled to-do list. That’s why it’s important to look for an inflatable hot tub that’s easy to maintain, clean, and store away when not in use.

Quirks and Features

Lastly, we’ve got to talk about some additional features that can make your hot tub experience a whole lot better. From its energy efficiency to the convenience and overall vibe, everything can change with a few extra bells and whistles. Some models, for instance, are equipped with LED lights to make the ambiance come alive at night time. You can also find ones with a ground cloth or insulated cover for minimal energy loss — these add-ons can especially come in handy for those of you living in cold climates! 

More modern units also feature digital control panels and even smartphone connectivity, which allows you to operate jets or adjust the temperature through a few taps on your mobile device. If these quirks mean much to you, it might be well worth spending a few extra bucks!

Comparing the Top Inflatable Hot Tubs of 2023

1

Bestway Inflatable Hot Tub

– Best Overall
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Buy on Amazon

The top spot on our list goes to the Bestway Inflatable Hot Tub. This is the perfect option to have a relaxing spa experience with friends and family. The spacious round spa accommodates up to seven people and is designed with adjustable height settings for ultimate comfort. Its durable DuraPlus construction provides cushioning and extra stability, while its convenient drain valve adds even more reliability.

For a luxurious spa experience, this hot tub comes with 180 airjets that produce a gentle stream of air bubbles from the bottom of the spa as well as HydroJet nozzles that provide a soothing jetstream of water from the sides. Built-in ColorJet LED lights add an ambiance to your spa session that can be completely customized using the digital control panel. The spa is also designed for convenience and ease of use. It includes features such as the FreezeShield function to protect against freezing temperatures, a ChemConnect dispenser for ease of chemical application, and a power-saving timer. 

Pros
  • Includes tons of features
  • Fits seven people
  • Adjustable heights settings
Cons
  • Some had problems after a year of use
2

Coleman Inflatable Hot Tub

– Most Affordable
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Buy on Amazon
Check Price On Walmart

This hot tub is everything you like about hot tubs but comes in a way more portable, affordable, and lovable package. The heavy-duty build consists of three ply-inflated walls for added comfort and durability, which is further backed up by a reinforced cover with a built-in air chamber and some safety lock clips. Even more, its two lift handles are a thoughtful addition for ease of use. The tub inflates within a matter of minutes, while the rapid heating system can quickly get it to a cozy temperature of up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re not a fan of such hot water, don’t worry, the heat range starts at 40 degrees, so feel free to turn the heat down as you prefer. You’d also be saving loads of energy while you’re at it! 

The built-in massage system consists of 140 air jets situated all around the tub for a proper jacuzzi-like experience. It’s the ideal choice for those of you looking for a firm and effective air jet system to improve your circulation and soothe your sore muscles. Aside from the luxurious heating and bubbling, you even get an integrated water filtration system to ensure maximum safety, regardless of how many people you share it with. 

The package includes two easy-lift handles (to help with moving around the spa pool when it’s not in use), a pool liner, a pool cover, two filter cartridges, a complete AirJet system, a chemical foster, a spa pump, an air pad protector, and finally a repair patch to help with the upkeep! There’s even a digital control panel that allows you to easily adjust the temps until you find the comfiest settings, and that’s not a common feature by any means. 

Pros
  • Large enough to fit six people
  • Comes with many essential accessories
  • Quick to heat up 
  • Has a digital control panel
Cons
  • Cannot operate under 39 degrees Fahrenheit
3

Intex Inflatable Hot Tub

– Most Aesthetic
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Buy on Amazon

Featuring a Fiber-Tech construction consisting of a three-ply laminated PVC, the Intex Inflatable Hot Tub is one of the sturdiest options you can find on the market. There’s a highly durable insulated cover that keeps all the heat in, and all the external contaminants out. As you know, minimizing heat loss leads to power savings, which is a crucial feature in this day and age. It has a water treatment system built-in which makes the water safer for your skin and clothes! There’s even a floating chlorine dispenser to make cleaning that much easier. 

But, what’s really impressive is that this inflatable hot tub is beautiful inside and out! The design features two well-contoured headrests and some bright multicolored lights to make the whole thing come alive. Your friends will think it’s the coolest thing ever since they’re still not as common as they should be, even in more expensive homes. Plus, it’s not like any other inflatable tub either. With 140 high-power bubble jets and a high max temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit, massages are certainly the strong suit of this model. You can also easily adjust every detail about these settings through intuitive controls positioned on the control panel as per your preferences. 

Pros
  • Covered by a one-year warranty 
  • Has headrests for added comfort
  • Very durable build quality
Cons
  • Cover could be better
4

WAVE Inflatable Hot Tub

– Quickest Setup
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Buy on Amazon

Sitting at number four, we have the WAVE Inflatable Hot Tub. It creates the ultimate hot tub spa experience in the comfort of your own home without any compromises on luxury and ease of use, all while boasting a humble price tag! It has 95 air jets that can soothe away all your pains and aches even after a long day at work. While most other alternatives have over a hundred jets, it’s quality that counts — and these 95 are powerful enough to work like a pro masseuse, bringing you the relaxation and comfort you deserve. The tub is spacious enough to house four people at once with some extra room to spare for comfort. This makes it ideal for small house parties or to have a fun time with your siblings. 

From relaxing on your own to making home hangouts more memorable with your friends, this hot tub won’t let you down. It fills up in just five minutes, and you can set it up without any tools whatsoever. So, even if you happen to have spontaneous plans out of nowhere, just plug this bad boy in, set it up, and it’ll be all set and bubbling in no time. The package comes with everything you could possibly need, including a super helpful, detailed user manual and an all-weather ground sheet to keep the inflatable safe from punctures. There’s also a protective cover that goes on top to make sure no leaves, dust, or dirt gets in even as you leave it idle for days. Even if some debris does sneak in, the integrated filter system takes care of it to maintain optimum cleanliness inside at all times. 

With rigid vertical chamber walls that boost thermal efficiency, this inflatable hot tub has a highly durable anti-cold build. Its laminated fabric fiber makes it rough and sturdy enough for all-weather usage, no matter how tough the going gets. Also, it goes up to a maximum of 102 degrees Fahrenheit and has a maximum water capacity of 170 gallons. Best of all, you can use it all year round to get the biggest bang for your buck! 

Pros
  • Powerful jets offer a strong massage function
  • Comes with a heavy-duty groundsheet 
  • Durable enough for all-weather use
Cons
  • Some reviews have complaints about customer service
  • Heater may have issues
5

Bellogoo Inflatable Hot Tub

– Smartest Thermostat
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Buy on Amazon

The Bellogoo Inflatable Hot Tub has a four-person capacity with a whopping 120 jets for the ultimate massage experience. Paired with the highly effective heater built into it, the whole setup naturally helps you unwind and forget all your stress and worries. You can inflate it within a matter of minutes, and the water heats up just as quickly. Then set it to a relaxing temperature of your choice between 86 to 107.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and enjoy a luxurious spa session in the comfort of your own home. With so much space to work with, you can even use it as a romantic retreat with your significant other. Just don’t forget to throw some rose petals in for the effect!

It’s built with an ultra-durable PVC material that is structurally reinforced by an I-beam structure on the inside, yet offers a pleasing softness when you feel it against your skin. There’s also a smart thermostat system built into it which allows you to easily control the temperature throughout the year. You can even input a selected preset temperature and the tub maintains it every time you turn it on until you change it back. This way, you always get to enjoy the ideal water temperature whether it’s spring, fall, or peak winter! But, bear in mind that the tub won’t go under 39 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Aside from a thermostat, there are also many other useful quirks integrated into this model. One is its filtration system, which follows a one-step process to quickly drain out all the impurities, saving both time and effort. It does this through a multifunctional pump that can not only inflate the tub but also activate heating and filtration, sort of working like the brain of the entire operation. Set up is also quite easy —  it’s a pretty rapid process and you don’t need any additional tools for it either. Everything that’s required is already included in the package, along with essentials like a reinforced cover with safety lock clips, and an in-built air chamber insulator to shelter the tub when it’s sitting idle. 

Pros
  • Smart and responsive thermostat controls
  • Sturdy yet soft to the touch
  • Quick, simple setup process
Cons
  • Doesn’t work under 39 degrees Fahrenheit
6

SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub

– Sturdiest Walls
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Buy on Amazon

The SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub has a 71 x 71-inch sitting area that’s large enough to fit four to six adults comfortably. All of the crucial parts are covered under warranty with 360 days for the heater pump, 30 days for all the fittings, hoses, and accessories, and 180 days for the pool liner. The walls on the inflatable are heavy-duty and made out of puncture and UV light-resistant 3-play material. It’s sturdy enough to keep scratches and holes at bay, but soft enough to keep you comfy at all times. Even after many cycles of inflation and deflation, the tub retains its original shape pretty well — which makes sense since the brand offers such long warranties to back it up! 

The design features two well-positioned handles that make this whole thing easier to carry around. You also get an inflatable reinforced cover included in the package that can be secured with safety clips. It has a built-in air chamber for additional insulation, so your tub will stay warm for days when it’s not in use which ultimately results in energy savings. Speaking of which, this hot tub’s heating system works wonders, allowing you to enjoy temperatures of up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. And, with 140 AirJet openings at the bottom and eight HydroJet nozzles surrounding the sidewalls, the effectiveness of this model’s massage function is also second to none. Pair those powerful bubbles with a soothing temperature of 100+ degrees Fahrenheit, and your sore muscles will thank you for it! While you’re at it, you’ll develop a special appreciation for the cushioned floor at the bottom as you unwind, relax, and enjoy the zen in your mini-spa.

With a 70% capacity of 210 gallons of water, there are more than enough water filtration systems built into this model as well. For instance, there’s a ChemConnect floating dispenser that’s meant to provide a consistent yet calculated injection of chlorine. There are also two IV filter cartridges and a drain valve to channel out the water as needed during the active filtration process. You can adjust all the settings for its heating, inflation, filtration, and jets by the touch of a button on the digital control panel — without even getting out of the comfort zone of your bubbly spa! The package includes one pump, one ChemConnect dispenser, a filter cartridge, a repair patch, and a cover to keep all the dust and debris out.

Pros
  • Made with stress-tested DuraPlus material
  • Spa pump has cup holders for convenience
  • Powerful massage system with jets
Cons
  • Manual is hard to read for some

People Also Asked

Q: Can inflatable hot tubs get punctured outdoors?

A: Inflatable hot tubs are designed to be sturdy on the outside, which means they can sit directly on concrete and grass. Just be sure to clear away all debris or objects that can potentially puncture it like twigs, sharp rocks, and glass shards beforehand. 

Q: What can I put under my inflatable hot tub?

A: As an extra layer of protection, you can lay out a heavy-duty tarp underneath the inflatable hot tub. You can also purchase a hot tub pad, or invest in some rubber tiles to form a smooth foundation to raise your hot tub off the ground. 

Q: What chemicals can I put in an inflatable hot tub as disinfectants?

A: Like a regular hot tub, an inflatable one needs its water quality to be monitored as well. You can use testing strips to check its pH and use additives like chlorine or bromine in moderate quantities to maintain safe water quality. Also, make sure the space is well-ventilated, as fresh air helps offset the potential negative effects of chemical reactions. 

Q: Can I use my inflatable hot tub indoors?

A: Yes, as long as you have the space for it inside. But, be sure to protect your carpet or wooden flooring from excess moisture by laying out towels or a tarp since every time someone steps out, lots of water comes with them. Also, make sure your flooring is sturdy enough to support the weight of your inflatable hot tub because those things can get heavy.

Q: How long will my inflatable hot tub last?

A: Most inflatable hot tubs last pretty long and have an average shelf life of about five years. As long as you take good care of it and keep it safe from punctures, your investment won’t be going anywhere any time soon. Remember to cover the tub whenever it’s not in use, and pay attention to the user manual about the outside temperature range it can withstand.

Q: Will my inflatable hot tub use lots of energy?

A: Yes, inflatable hot tubs do unfortunately require quite a bit of electricity. Between the heater and the air jets, one unit takes up about 1.5kWh of electricity, which isn’t very cost-effective at today’s energy prices. Connecting it to a hot water source, however, can help save lots of electricity since the heater doesn’t have to do as much.

Q: Can I put my inflatable hot tub in the basement?

A: Yes, you can put your inflatable hot tub in the basement, but doing this has some risks associated with it. For instance, you’ll likely get higher humidity levels and increased condensation, which calls for better ventilation and maybe even a dehumidifier. Plus, there’s also a risk of water damage in case the tub leaks, especially if there’s no safe way to drain out the water.

Q: Do I need a special electric supply?

A: No, inflatable hot tubs can be plugged into any regular household socket, which is why they usually have a normal two-pin household plug. You don’t need to pay an electrician to get a high–performance socket or any special wiring just to hook your inflatable hot tub up. Just make sure the electrical lead that’s attached to the tub is long enough, as using extension cords isn’t recommended.

Q: Is it cheaper to leave the hot tub on all the time?

A: Contrary to popular belief, it can often be cheaper to keep your hot tub running all the time — especially if you use it very frequently. That’s because repeatedly letting the water cool down and heating it again takes way more energy than simply heating it and maintaining it at your preferred temperature. Whenever your inflatable hot tub is not in use, cover it up for better insulation and you may notice a decrease in energy bills.

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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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