With how quickly our lives can become hectic, we could all use a designated space to just relax. Inflatable hot tubs are a great way for you to unwind and forget your daily responsibilities. Outdoor inflatable hot tubs can turn your patio space into your very own spa or offer an entertainment spot for friends and family to come together. If you're an athlete, hot tubs can take your recovery to the next level and give you something to do on your rest day. They are also very portable, so if you have a big meet, race, or camping trip planned, you can take them with you on the road.
There are so many different inflatable hot tub brands and features that choosing the right one can seem daunting. First, which size and design suit your space the best? Will you want to accommodate up to six people at once with ambient LED lights? Or will it mainly just be you trying to unwind after a long day? Which features are important to you?
Fortunately, we've compiled a list of the best hot tubs of 2022 to help you make the most optimal choice for your relaxation or entertainment needs.
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The Best Inflatable Hot Tubs - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Inflatable Hot Tub: Intex 28481E Simple Spa
- Best Inflatable Hot Tub for Cold Weather: Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub
- Best Six-Person Inflatable Hot Tub: Serenelife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub
- Best Budget Inflatable Hot Tub: Bestway Saluspa Miami 4 Person Airjet Spa
- Best Small Inflatable Hot Tub: Edostory Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
- Best Two-Person Inflatable Hot Tub: Bestway Saluspa St. Lucia Airjet Hot Tub
- Best Four-Person Inflatable Hot Tub: Intex Purespa Jet and Bubble Deluxe
- Best Inflatable Hot Tub with Jets: Intex 28431E Purespa Plus
- Best Luxury Inflatable Hot Tub: Kanizz Private Massage Jet Bubble Hot Tub
Best Overall - Intex 28481E Simple Spa
SPECS
- Dimensions: 77"L x 77"W x 26"H
- Weight: 89.8 lbs.
- Material: Vinyl
- Water capacity: 210 gallons
- Seating: 1-4
- Jets: 100
We love the Intex 28481E Simple Spa as the best overall because it offers dynamic features for a great value. The interior is surrounded by 100 powerful bubble jets which provide a soothing spa experience for up to 4 people. If you need to turn off the jets or raise the temperature up to 104 degrees F, the control panel can be easily accessed from inside the spa.
The built-in inflation system makes setup very easy since you don't need any extra tools. However, you do need to buy the chemicals to add to the water. Also included is an insulated ground cloth that helps keep the heat in your hot tub and an insulated cover as an added safety feature. A strong exterior mesh hull lines the outside of the vinyl offering more protection and durability. It operates using 110 volts, so using an extension cord is not recommended. This is a great all-in-one option with customizable features at a fantastic price point.
What We Like
- Easy to set up, no additional tools needed
- Adjustable heat and jet settings
- Carry bag included
- Mesh covering makes it more durable
- Great value for features
What We Don't Like
- Cannot be placed in direct sunlight
- Only 1 color option
- Chemicals not included
Best Inflatable Hot Tub for Cold Weather - Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub
SPECS
- Dimensions: 77"L x 77"W x 28"H
- Weight: 73.26 lbs.
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Water capacity: 242 gallons
- Seating: 1-4
- Jets: 114
Not all inflatable hot tubs can handle more frigid temperatures. This is why we chose the Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub as the best for cold weather. Since it operates using 120 volts, it doesn't take as long as other inflatable hot tub brands to get to temp. It's made with Tritech, which is a puncture-resistant PVC material made to outlast cooler climates. It is also UV-resistant, so if your space gets some sun it won't get damaged.
The control panel lets you choose the water temperature and the pressure of the jets. It also has a lock and unlock safety feature, as well as a power-saving timer that can automate the temperature up to 72 hours prior to use, saving money and energy. Unlike other inflatable hot tub brands, the floor is padded and it comes equipped with two cup holders. It seats up to four people, although there are claims that it seats up to six if you don't mind being snug.
What We Like
- Padded floor
- Power saving mode
- Handles to assist in moving it
- 2 cup holders
- Inflatable cover clips in
What We Don't Like
- More than 4 adults will be a tight fit
- Only 1 color option
BUY: Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable
Best Six-Person Inflatable Hot Tub - Serenelife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub
SPECS
- Dimensions: 73"L x 73"W x 25"H
- Weight: 63.9 lbs.
- Material: Plastic
- Water capacity: 240 gallons
- Seating: 1-6
- Jets: 130
If you're looking to entertain, the Serenelife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub is a great option. Its square, roomy shape leaves plenty of space for family and friends which makes it our pick for the best six person inflatable hot tub. Need ambiance? The built-in LED lighting system comes with two modes and seven different color options. The most common maximum temperature for an inflatable hot tub is 104 degrees F, however this one will reach up to 107 degrees F.
It's made with high-quality laminated and durable PVC-construction material, so you can expect it to withstand years of repeated use. It also comes with a cover and an insulated ground pad. You don't need any additional tools for setup, but you will need to purchase the chemicals for the water separately.
What We Like
- LED lighting
- Remote control
- Heats up to 107 degrees F
- Durable material
What We Don't Like
- Chemicals not included
- No cup holders
- 1 color option
BUY: Serenelife Outdoor Portable Hot Tub
Best Budget Inflatable Hot Tub - Bestway Saluspa Miami 4-Person Airjet Spa
SPECS
- Dimensions: 71" W x 26" H
- Weight: 53.9 lbs.
- Material: Plastic
- Water capacity: 177 gallons
- Seating: 1-4
- Jets: 120
The Bestway Saluspa Miami 4-Person Airjet Spa is one to consider if you are on a tighter budget or looking for a more inexpensive option. Despite the lower cost, it's still made with quality, puncture-resistant materials. The inner walls are reinforced with beams so it is also structurally sound. Unlike other inflatable hot tubs, the inner components and the liner are protected by an automatic heating function keeping them above freezing temperatures. However, it is not recommended to use this product if it is less than 39 degrees F.
Even though there are no LED lighting capabilities, it has two cup holders and 72-hour temperature automation. Its 120 jets are powered using 120 volts, so you don't lose any power or wattage at a lower price point. Another attribute that we really like is that it comes equipped with a 9-foot cord, which gives you more placement options.
What We Like
- 72 hour temperature automation
- 9' cord
- 2 cup holders
- Freeze Shield function
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for use under 39 degrees F
- No LED lighting capabilities
BUY: Bestway Saluspa Miami 4-Person Airjet
Best Small Inflatable Hot Tub - Edostory Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
SPECS
- Dimensions: 75" L x 47"W x 25"H
- Weight: 57 lbs.
- Material: Laminated PVC
- Water capacity: 145 gallons
- Seating: 1-2
- Jets: 90
As far as small inflatable hot tubs go, the Edostory Inflatable Hot Tub Spa fits one to two adults comfortably. We like to think of this hot tub as fun-sized since it includes a side table for beverages and anything else you may need. It only holds up to 145 gallons of water so it doesn't take long for all 110 volts to heat it up to 104 degrees F.
The tub is made with laminated PVC and lined with I-beams, meaning that it won't lose shape or stability. Unfortunately, it does not come with a ground cover so you have to be mindful about where you put it to avoid damage. Weighing in at just 57 pounds, you can easily move it using the built-in handles on each side.
What We Like
- Heats more quickly
- Side table for phones/drinks
- Control panel
- Nylon buckles to secure cover
What We Don't Like
- Only 90 jets
- Ground cover not included
- 1 color option
BUY: Edostory Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
Best Two-Person Inflatable Hot Tub - Bestway SaluSpa St. Lucia AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
SPECS
- Dimensions: 67"L x 67"W x 26"H
- Weight: 67.9 lbs.
- Material: Duraplus 3x Ply Material
- Water capacity: 160 gallons
- Seating: 1-3
- Jets: 110
The Bestway SaluSpa St. Lucia AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub Spa fits up to three people pretty snugly, which is why we think this is the best two-person inflatable hot tub. It's outfitted with 110 jets, which is plenty to meet your relaxation needs. It runs on 120 volts and holds only 160 gallons of water, so you can feel the warmth quickly.
Need to put your inflatable hot tub in a sunny spot? It's made of a custom UV-resistant material called Duraplus, which adds three layers of protection. It comes equipped with a Chemconnect Dispenser that evenly distributes a stable level of chlorine every so often. That way, keeping the water clean and healthy is more low maintenance for you.
What We Like
- UV-resistant material
- Chlorine dispenser
- Heat program capabilities (up to 40 days in advance)
- 2 cup holders
What We Don't Like
- No LED lights
- Chemicals not included
BUY: Bestway SaluSpa St. Lucia AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
Best Four-Person Inflatable Hot Tub - Intex Purespa Jet and Bubble Deluxe
SPECS
- Dimensions: 30"L x 21"W x 40"H
- Weight: 163 lbs.
- Material: Laminated PVC
- Water capacity: 210 gallons
- Seating: 1-4
- Jets: 120
The octagon shape of the Intex Purespa Jet and Bubble Deluxe makes it a very comfortable setup for four people. Unlike other inflatable hot tub brands, you can control the settings from an app on your phone. The control panel is also wireless and doesn't need to be charged with the included wireless charger until after 48 hours of use. This is a nice feature to have since it is a bigger tub and only runs off 120 volts, so it may need longer to get up to temperature.
It comes with two headrests that you can utilize while you're enjoying all 120 jets. One thing to note is that this hot tub requires that you use salt water, and some reviews indicate if you don't you will receive an error code. If you don't mind salt water then you definitely won't mind the built-in Saltwater Sanitation and Hard Water Treatment system.
What We Like
- 2 headrests
- Wireless control panel
- Phone pairing capabilities
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- Takes longer to heat
- Doesn't ship to California
BUY: Intex Purespa Jet and Bubble Deluxe
Best Inflatable Hot Tub with Jets - Intex 28431E Purspa Plus
SPECS
- Dimensions: 85"L x 85"W x 28"H
- Weight: 110.29 lbs.
- Material: Vinyl
- Water capacity: 290 gallons
- Seating: 1-6
- Jets: 170
The Intex 28431E Purspa Plus has 170 powerful jets, which is why we think this is the best inflatable hot tub with jets. It can fit up to six adults comfortably and if you're needing some extra ambiance, it has a multi-colored LED light. Only two headrests are included, though, so you may end up having to share them.
There is an electronic hard water treatment system that actively reduces calcium build-up and increases efficiency. It also comes with a floating chlorine dispenser and chlorine test strip, so you can monitor the quality of the water.
What We Like
- 170 jets
- 2 headrests
- Floating chlorine dispenser
- Multicolored LED light
What We Don't Like
- No cup holders
- Power saving mode not available
Best Luxury Inflatable Hot Tub - Kanizz Private Massage Jet Bubble Hot Tub
SPECS
- Dimensions: 82" x 82" x 26"
- Weight: 55.5 lbs.
- Material: Laminated PVC with foil
- Water capacity: 264 gallons
- Seating: 1-6
- Jets: 130
This inflatable hot tub fits up to six people with plenty of room to spare. It can be used indoors or outdoors and it comes with a 10.8-foot cord. The outside is made with durable laminated PVC and it is also lined with foil for extra insulation to keep it working efficiently. With a hard water treatment system built in for a soothing experience, it's hard not to feel luxurious.
All 264 gallons of water are easy to maintain, thanks to the filter cartridges that can be replaced following a few simple steps. It comes with a ground cloth and insulated cover to help maintain the temperature when you're not using it. Another great add-on to the cover is the capability to lock it if you need to.
What We Like
- Cover can be locked
- 10.8' cord
- Hard water treatment system
- Foil adds extra insulation
What We Don't Like
- LED lighting not available
- No headrests
- 1 color option
BUY: Kanizz Private Massage Jet Bubble Hot Tub
What to Look for in an Inflatable Hot Tub
Dimensions
What size inflatable hot tub you should get really depends on the size of your desired location. You'll want to look for one that fits your space so you have enough room to get in and out of it comfortably from any side. That way, if there is ever an air leak you'll be able to patch it up without having to drain it completely. There also needs to be enough space for the pump on the outside to comfortably operate and it also needs to be relatively near a power source, which depends on the length of the cord.
Weight
The weight of an inflatable hot tub can be anywhere from around 50 lbs. to over 100 lbs. Of course, if it is a larger inflatable hot tub it will be heavier, so if you're planning on taking it on the road you're going to want one that is more lightweight and portable. Also consider the location you plan to put it—a wooden deck, for example, may have weight limitations.
Material
If you want your inflatable hot tub to last longer, look for materials like vinyl and PVC because they are very sturdy. Any inflatable hot tubs that mention triple-ply materials are going to be puncture resistant. Also, look for descriptions that state the material is UV resistant if you need to keep it in a sunny spot.
Water Capacity
This is measured in gallons at the point where the tub is 80 percent full. If there are more gallons of water, it will take longer to heat up and may need to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. If you have time and don't mind waiting, a larger water capacity will work for you. If you're looking for something to heat more quickly or on a whim, definitely choose a smaller water capacity.
Seating
Generally, inflatable hot tubs do not have seats since they are shallow enough for you to sit on the floor, though some are equipped with padded flooring for extra cushion if you so desire. Choosing how many seats you need depends on your intended use and how much space you'd like. For example, using it for two adults and two kids may feel very different from four adults at once.
Jets
Inflatable hot tubs have air jets that push air through tiny holes. These usually have anywhere between 100-200 jets. On the higher side, 200 jets are going to be more satisfying than closer to 100 jets. However, that may lower the temperature more rapidly and consume more energy. No matter which number suits your preference, you'll still receive the light massaging effect that's intended.
FAQs About Hot Tubs
Which hot tubs are easiest to maintain?
Most inflatable hot tubs are designed to be low maintenance. The built-in inflation system prevents deflation, so you don't have to worry about it. Most come with a cover, so if you are vigilant about keeping it on when the tub isn't in use, it'll keep debris from coming in, making it easier to keep clean. However, the pH level does need to be checked regularly using a test strip, chemicals need to be added, and filters need to be changed to maintain safe water quality.
How much should I spend on a hot tub?
Inflatable hot tubs are a great affordable option if you're limited on space or budget. They're also a nice way to try one out before investing in a traditional hot tub. Which one you choose really depends on where and how you want to use it. If you're limited on space and want something for just yourself to relax in, one of the smaller more budget-friendly inflatable hot tub brands works great and can be purchased for under $500. If you're looking at outdoor hot tubs to entertain a group of people, it may be worth it to spend a little more on features such as LED lights and drink holders.
What is the difference between a hot tub and a Jacuzzi?
A hot tub is a tub filled with hot water that people use to relax. A Jacuzzi is a trademarked brand name that makes hot tubs and other commercial spa equipment.
How much electricity does an inflatable hot tub use?
That depends. Even though inflatable hot tubs are less powerful than traditional hot tubs, they do use slightly more electricity. Since they are less insulated, cooler temperatures can affect the amount of energy and time needed to heat the water. Size also matters, along with the number of people using the hot tub and how often. Keeping the cover on when you are not using it and purchasing a well-insulated hot tub can help cut down energy costs.
Should I leave my hot tub on all the time?
Yes, if you plan on using your hot tub on a regular basis. It's best to keep it around 10 degrees lower than the temperature you would normally use. That way, the water stays warm and uses less energy when you want to raise it to your desired temperature. If you plan on not using it for three or more weeks, it's recommended to keep the cover on and unplug it or drain it and store it for later use.
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