5 Best Inflatable Hot Tub of 2024 (Reviews & Buying Guide)

If you’re planning to get an inflatable hot tub for your garden, then we have the buyer’s guide you need to the best inflatable hot tub on the market for your budget.

Our reviews not only include useful information on different jet types, hot tub sizes and seats, you’ll also get insights into the considerable benefits of this fun backyard feature.

Best Inflatable Hot Tub Ratings Chart

Benefits of Hot Tubs

Hot tubs offer some great benefits, including:

• Healthier skin – The warm water and massage action increase blood flow to your skin, helping to renew it, remove toxins and give it a healthy glow.
• Reduces muscle pain – Warmth and massage are effective, science-based treatments for muscular and soft-tissue pain, helping you recover faster while you relax and unwind in your yard.
  
  Having a tub will also save you money on booking massages from your massage therapist ever so often.
  
• Lessens migraines and headaches – Relaxation is key to treating migraines, tension and cluster headaches, helping your body to relax and removing tension from your neck and back muscles.
  
  It’s much more fun than taking medication too!
• Improves sleep – A good, relaxing dose of warmth and massage before you retire to bed is the perfect recipe for a good night’s rest, not only helping you to fall asleep faster but also helping you to get better quality rest.

Best Inflatable Hot Tub 2024 Reviews

Budgeting for Your Hot Tub

When it comes to getting the right hot tub for your yard, you want to start with creating a budget. There’s a wide range of hot tubs on the market. From basic inexpensive units that vary in quality to high-end tubs filled with all the latest features, so there is something for everyone.

Types of Hot Tubs

There are two main types of hot tub, each with their different advantages and disadvantages.

• Portable hot tubs – These are inflatable hot tubs and can usually accommodate 2-8 people. They can be made from latex or vinyl, but you do also find options in fiberglass, polyethylene or durable plastic.
  
  Inflatable or portable hot tubs are the more affordable option, with the benefit of being able to take your hot tub with if you move to a new house, move it around your yard whenever you like, and even store it over the months when you aren’t using it.
• In-ground hot tubs – Also known as custom hot tubs or spas, these are permanent constructions in your yard.
  
  They can be attached to in-ground pools for a hot-and-cold therapeutic experience, or installed as free-standing units on your deck or in your yard.
  
  They’re generally made to your specifications for 2 or more adults and constructed out of concrete, fiberglass or gunite, and you can also find more exotic options in stainless steel, copper or tile.
  
  If you live in a location with cold winters, you should learn how to winterize your in-ground hot tub to prevent it from getting damaged.

Benefits of Blow Up Jacuzzis

Inflatable hot tubs, also called blow up jacuzzies, are a great option for any backyard. Here’s why:

• They are much more affordable than in-ground versions.
• They are very easy to install and set up as no construction is needed.
• They’re comfortable to sit in thanks to their supportive structure.
• They are easy to maintain and store when not in use.
• They come with great additional features like different jet varieties, entertainment stations, built in cup holder and more.

Features to Consider When Buying an Inflatable Hot Tub

Hot tubs can have a wide range of features that make the experience more unique and enjoyable, although they do have an impact on the overall cost, so be sure to include must-have features in your budget.

Hot Tub Jet Types

For many people, the jets are what make a hot tub a hot tub, helping to massage away the stress and worry of the day.

There are several different jet types you’ll see in inflatable hot tubs.

• Rotational jets – These jets move in a circular motion, using a combination of water and air to provide a massaging experience.
• Moving jets – You can also get jets that move in an up-and-down motion, directing the jet of water and air in a line up and down your back.
• Directional jets – Jets can be set to point in any direction to provide a constant flow. These are the most common jets seen in hot tubs.

How Do Air jets Work?

Hot tub air jets work using a pump that pushes water at a high pressure through pumping lines and out through the jet. Water is taken into the pump, heated and pumped out by the jet, keeping the water filtered and warm.

A small hole in the intake controlled by an air controller allows a stream of air to be added to the water as it is pumped through the system, creating bubbles from the jet.

How Many Jets Does a Hot Tub Need?

When you’re shopping for the best inflatable hot tub, you’re going to see hot tubs with few jets, hot tubs with what seems like hundreds of jets, and everything in between.

So, what’s the right number? Here’s what to look for:

• Pump to jet ratio – This will determine how powerful the pressure will be out of the jets. A hot tub with a lot of jets but only one or two pumps will result in a fairly low pressure stream from the jets, while a hot tub with several pumps will be able to push more pressure through the jets.
• Running costs – More pumps does mean more electricity and more noise while the hot tub is running, so you want to aim for a hot tub that get the pressure right but isn’t too expensive to run or too noisy, since that takes a lot of pleasure out of the experience!
• Jet variety – The best inflatable hot tubs offer a variety of jets in order to deliver the best massage experience, so look for options that have directional, rotational and moving jets rather than simply focusing on the tub with the most jets.

The best hot tub experience is a really personal choice that depends on the kind of spa experience you want. A wet test at a showroom – a bit like test-driving your tub – is a great way to see the hot tub in action, test the pressure and experience how the different jets feel.

If you can’t manage a wet test, think about the kind of hot tubs you enjoyed on vacation, at different hotels or during spa treatments.

Inflatable Hot Tub Temperature Control

The most important word in the phrase “hot tub” is “hot”, but what temperature is best for your inflatable hot tub?

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, it’s recommended that you set your hot tub to 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum comfort, avoiding burns and getting all the benefits of that relaxing heat and massage.

Comfortable Seating

Relaxing in a hot tub is all about comfort, so look for comfort features to find the best inflatable hot tubs. Because they’re inflated, these hot tubs are very comfortable, offering supportive but flexible seating and headrests. 

You should be able to sit comfortably and slightly sink into the seating without falling off-balance or sinking. For most people, the seating in the best inflatable hot tubs is ideal due to the comfort and support they offer, which is much better than the hard, resistant seating in in-ground hot tubs.

Inflatable Hot Tub Fun Features

While some inflatable hot tubs are pretty basic, others go all-out in terms of fun features! These include:

• Party lighting – Put a glow on your water with colored LED lighting in any shade of the rainbow.
• Accessories – Some ranges offer accessories like drinks holders, steps, entertainment stations, waterproof docking stations and even decorative surrounds.

Inflatable Hot Tub Installation

Installing an in-ground hot tub can be a big, messy and expensive job – but you don’t have any of those issues with an inflatable hot tub! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a location – Decide where you want your inflatable spa. It should be flat, even ground and sized to fit your inflatable spa.
   
   Remember to leave 3 feet of space around the hot tub for the pump unit. You will need to have an electrical connection nearby that is strong enough to power the pump as well as a water supply.
2. Prepare the area – Remove all stones, rocks or sharp objects that can puncture the hot tub. If the unit comes with a ground mat, lay that down with the pipes facing downwards.
   
   Place the deflated hot tub on top and spread it out with the air valves facing towards the location of the pump.
3. Set up your pump – The pumps usually come preassembled for easy installation. Set it in the correct position and attach it to your power supply.
4. Inflate your hot tub and lid – Connect the inflation tube to the pump’s air outlet and run it as per the installation instructions to inflate the hot tub.
   
   Once your hot tub is fully inflated, stop the air flow, detach the air hose and close the hot tub air valve tightly. Repeat to inflate the lid.
5. Connect your pump – Following the manufacturer instructions, connect your pump to the hot tub at the correct valves, as well as connecting the pump’s intake valve to the water supply.
   
   Make sure the filter is clean and in place.
6. Fill your hot tub – Rinse out your hot tub and make sure your hot tub is clean of any sand, leaves or debris before you start filling it.
   
   Fill it to above the minimum recommended height and just below the maximum recommended height with your hose.
7. Heat the water – Following manufacturer instructions, activate the water filtering system and the water heater. Keep the lid on during this process to make it faster.
8. Make the water hygienic - Use recommended chemicals in your inflatable spa to kill bacteria and algae as well as achieve the right pH balance in your hot tub, and repeat according to manufacturer recommendations.
   
   This will keep your hot tub water clean, fresh-smelling and safe to use.

How To Winterize a Hot Tub

Are you wondering on how you can winterize your hot tub? If you are one of the many people who is planning to go on a vacation during the winter season and you have a hot tub, you are then probably thinking on how you can winterize it.

1. Draining the Water and Air Blower Off

The first thing that you need to do is to turn the power off of your hot tub so you can drain the water using a drain plug. You can attach it to your garden hose if needed but this will take a lot of time to drain the tub.

If you have all the time in the world, then doing this method would be best. If not, then you can use a sump pump as this will make things easier. Once you are done draining the water, the next thing that you need to do is to remove the tub's air blower.

Most hot tubs have air blowers, and it is important that you get all the water out from it. You can do this by ensuring that the heater is turned off for you to avoid damaging it.

Once done, turn on the electric for the air blower to start running. You can leave it for 30 seconds and shut the electric again.+

2. Start Removing the Filters

The next thing that you need to do is to remove the filters in your hot tub inside the filter well. You can clean the filters using a filter cleaner to ensure that there is no dirt stored in them. You can soak them in a chemical cleaning filter for 24 hours.

Once you are done cleaning it, make sure that there is no water in it before putting it back in the hot tub.

3. Unscrewing the Fittings in Your Hot Tub

You need to open the hot tub's cabinet for you to be able to locate the pumps. If you find some unions that are attached to the PVC pipe to the tub's pumps, then it is best to loosen them up. The drain plugs should be removed as this will let the water drain from the pipes.

4. Blowing Out the Pipes

Using a shop-vac, you need to turn it into the blow settings to ensure that it will force the air out of the tube. Once done, you can start placing the shop-vac to the jets of your tub and make sure to work with every single jet that you have.

You can repeat this process a few times, just to ensure that the water is drained entirely.

5. Removing All the Remaining Water

After doing the things above, you will probably see some water in your hot tub. You need to thoroughly remove all the water using the sump pump, a sponge, or a shop-vac. You need to make sure that your tub is dried completely.

6. Cleaning the Cover and the Shell

Now that your hot tub is free of water, the next thing that you need to do is to clean the cover and the shell. You can use a hot tub cleaner to clean these things and make sure to rinse it thoroughly with water.

Of course, after cleaning it, make sure that it is thoroughly dry before you close the shell. The cover should also be cleaned by a hot tub cover cleaner on both inside and outside.

7. Securing the Cover of Your Hot Tub

Using the straps of the cover, secure it on the hot tub to lock it. You surely don’t want anything or anyone to get into the hot tub while you are away. You also need to protect the tub from severe winds blowing it off. So securing the hot tub is important.

Inflatable Hot Tub FAQs

Can Inflatable Hot Tubs Be Used in Winter?

If you have a good quality, well-insulated inflatable hot tub, it can be used throughout the year – even in winter. Before you buy a hot tub, check the rating on the label, as this will tell you the minimum outdoor temperature the hot tub can operate in and retain a comfortable heat.

Are the Inflatable Hot Tubs Any Good?

Yes! But it all depends on the quality of the product you are buying. Look at our reviews to see how the best inflatable hot tubs perform, and remember to look for an option that has the pump power, jets and features you want. 

Also, check the hot tub to see the minimum temperature it can operate in if you want to use it in winter.

What Can I Put Under My Inflatable Hot Tub?

Many inflatable hot tubs come with an insulated ground pad to put under the structure. If not, you can buy one separately or use insulated foam sheeting.

How to Clean an Inflatable Hot Tub?

Once you drain your hot tub, clean it with a gentle spa chemical detergent suited for inflatable hot tubs and a microfiber cloth. On a daily basis, you should remove any debris, add spa chemicals as instructed by your manufacturer, shower before using your hot tub and keep the hot tub covered while not in use.

How Often Should You Clean an Inflatable Hot Tub?

In addition to adding spa chemicals as needed, you should drain and clean your hot tub every month or two depending on how often it is used and if the water is looking dirty or smelling. 

How to Treat Water in an Inflatable Hot Tub

Because of the warmth of the water, it is easy for algae and bacteria to grow. Only use recommended spa chemicals to treat the water in your inflatable hot tub, or you may damage the lining.

Fully drain and clean the hot tub every 1-2 months if the water is dirty or smelling, and wipe the surface with a spa cleaner and microfiber cloth.

Now You Have All The Information You Need to Buy the Best Inflatable Hot Tub!

After reading our reviews, tips and advice, you’re ready to go out and get the best inflatable hot tub for your backyard! Remember to look for a variety of high-quality jets, a good pump to jet ratio, and fun features to make your hot tub your favorite thing about your backyard this summer.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and buy the best inflatable hot tub today!