:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/katie_begley-94b6c4f8cf8247848b2e95dcfe3df351.jpg){kind=small}
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/katie_begley-94b6c4f8cf8247848b2e95dcfe3df351.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/PXL_20220323_174550845.PORTRAIT_2-b8d21a7d77344bd5b482019b84c448b4.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-bestway-saluspa-helsinki-airjet-inflatable-hot-tub-laurey-w-glenn-photo-01-56117a5945944d5aa393aecbace3890d.jpg)
The Spruce / Laurey W. Glenn
If you want to create a relaxing backyard oasis, consider adding an inflatable hot tub to your outdoor space. While costing much less than a traditional hot tub, an inflatable option is generally easier to set up, store, or even move when needed. Though, you still get to enjoy some of the same benefits, including relaxing jets, ambient LED lights, and seating for up to 6 adults.
With either style of hot tub, you'll also need to keep sanitation and safety top of mind. "Water safety is a big priority in our industry," stresses Rick Hagen, who handles National Sales for Outdoor Living Products at Pool Corp, and member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Along with general water safety, other factors can contribute to the well-being of your inflatable tub and its users, including your preferred method of sanitization, your region's climate, how frequently you use your tub, and even where you set it up. Hagen notes, "It all depends on how much you run it, and how you maintain it, just like a car."
We researched the top inflatable hot tubs, evaluating them on value, comfort, durability, and special features such as jets and lights.
Best Overall
Intex PureSpa Plus 6-Person Portable Inflatable Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/intex-28429e-purespa-plus-64-foot-diameter-4-person-portable-inflatable-hot-tub-spa-with-140-bubble-jets-and-built-in-heater-pump-blue-2749c41956ef4369888533656db1883c.jpg)
Amazon
Durable construction
Hard-water treatment built in
Comes with cover and carrying case
Large capacity
Jets are spaced out
Additional accessories cost extra
Our best overall pick, the Intex PureSpa Plus Inflatable Hot Tub comes is durably constructed and includes many great features and extras that make it stand out. It seats up to six adults comfortably and has two headrests for added comfort. There are 170 jets, and a heater that gets the water up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, the built-in LED lights are useful when you want a relaxing soak at night.
With a built-in hard-water treatment system, it is easy to monitor the water quality, keep your bathing suits in the best shape, and keep your skin from drying out. The kit comes with an integrated heater/blower/filter system that also treats hard water; two filter cartridges; a chlorine dispenser that floats in the filled hot tub; and a test strip. Plus, it also has a cover, carrying case, ground cloth, and inflation hose to make setup easy.
It's worth noting that customers have complained that the jets are a bit spaced out, considering the inflatable hot tub's large size and capacity. Also, while it comes with many features, other accessories, such as additional headrests, drink trays, and seats, must be purchased separately. However, given the durability, price, and features this tub offers, we think it's more than worthy of the top spot on this list.
Price at time of publish: $900
Dimensions: 85 x 85 x 28 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Number of Jets: 170 | Maximum Occupancy: 6 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Budget
Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub, 4-Person AirJet Spa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bestway-saluspa-miami-inflatable-hot-tub-4-person-airjet-spa-e3d08b66fe2840d3b61ea881a77fd6e0.jpg)
Amazon
Affordable
Digital control panel with timer
I-beam support on side walls
Smaller capacity
Considering the budget-friendly price tag, the Bestway SaluSpa Miami hot tub comes with a generous number of extra features. With 120 jets and a digital control panel that you can reach from inside the hot tub, you can adjust the settings while staying in luxurious comfort. It heats up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and includes a timer that you can set up to 72 hours before you plan to use it. This helps cut down on energy costs, an added bonus.
The hot tub—which seats up to four adults, ideal for smaller spaces—makes a decor statement, with its black exterior and white interior. The construction is extra durable and has an I-beam support for the side walls, so you don’t need to worry about the hot tub losing its shape even if you do have it set up when not in use.
Price a time of publish: $470
Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 26 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 177 gallons | Number of Jets: 120 | Maximum Occupancy: 4 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Splurge
Intex PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage Greystone Deluxe Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/intex-purespa-plus-bubble-massage-greystone-deluxe-hot-tub-6def844ea5e042af92da2ebf5cdee39a.jpg)
Amazon
170 jets
Large capacity
Wireless controls and smartphone compatibility
A lot of extras included
More expensive than other options
While it is pricey, the Intex PureSpa Plus hot tub is a top-of-the-line choice that's packed with features. It has whopping 170 jets, an adjustable LED light, and seats up to six adults, with room to spare. While the control panel can be removed for wireless control. you can also use your smartphone to adjust temperature, jets, and lights. This inflatable hot tub also provides real-time feedback, alerting you when you need to replace the filter and perform other maintenance.
It comes with a thermal cover to help keep the heat inside the hot tub when not in use. Other extras include a ground cover; a carrying bag; four filter cartridges; two headrests; and a test strip. Plus, it includes a combination heater, filter pump, hard-water treatment system, and saltwater system. It's also built to last: the three-ply material is puncture-resistant, durable, and comfortable, according to the manufacturer. While this is one of the most expensive picks on this list, we think it's worth the splurge if you are looking for an inflatable hot tub that is loaded with features, and will provide relaxation for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $1,150
Dimensions: 75 x 75 x 28 inches | Shape: Square | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Number of Jets: 170 | Maximum Occupancy: 6 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Four-Person
Coleman SaluSpa Hawaii AirJet 4 Person Inflatable Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/coleman-saluspa-hawaii-airjet-4-person-inflatable-hot-tub-c0ce4e6ea21946358791bf9d6c42df0c.jpg)
Amazon
Square shape provides separate seating areas
Heats quickly
Includes a cover
Cushioned floor
Can't be used in temperatures lower than 39 degrees
The square shape of the Coleman SaluSpa hot tub is a popular choice for four people because each person gets their own section to lounge in. It has a large capacity (up to six people) and heats up quickly so you don't have to wait long to enjoy a hot soak. Plus, it comes with a cushioned floor for added comfort.
The sides are made with vertical beams, so the hot tub maintains its shape. It is also one of the more budget-friendly options for four people, considering it comes with a liner, filter, floating chemical dispenser, pump, air pad protector, patch cover, and two filter cartridges. The manufacturer stresses that this product can’t be used in temperatures lower than 39 degrees Fahrenheit. As long as your cool-season temps don't sink so low, this is a great option.
Price at time of publish: $900
Dimensions: 71 x 71 x 28 inches | Shape: Square | Water Capacity: 222 gallons | Number of Jets: 140 | Maximum Occupancy: 4 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Indoor
Co-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/co-z-inflatable-adult-bath-tub-72142f59ede64fe4b10a54e024a20c1c.jpg)
Amazon
Easy setup
Portable, can be packed and moved
Inexpensive
Smaller than traditional spa models
No built-in heater
Cumbersome to fill and drain
Installing an inflatable hot tub indoors may be less complex than adding a permanent spa or tub, and while most picks on this list can technically be used inside, we wanted to offer a choice that could simplify the process for you a bit. The Co-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, which comes in four colors, can be blown up in seconds with the included electric air pump. It’s smaller than the 2-, 4-, and 6- adult sizes which aren’t always feasible for indoor spaces, but still offers a comparable level of relaxation for indoor soaking. Speaking of comfort, there’s even a cup holder, so your favorite beverage will never be more than an arm’s length away. It’s also designed with built-in cushions and pads to ensure you get the most comfortable position possible while it’s in use.
It also has a built-in cover that helps you retain heat while it’s in use, and keeps water from splashing out—this is especially helpful since it lacks a built-in heater. Though, a word of warning; draining the tub can be cumbersome, especially depending on where you set it up. Also, you may need a hose that connects to your sink, if you are using this indoors. Still, if you’re on the fence about inflatable hot tubs, and want to get your feet wet (pun intended), it’s a light version of the more robust models that make up the rest of our categories. And yes, you can still use it outside if and when the mood strikes.
Price at time of publish: $70
Dimensions: 63 x 33 x 29.1 inches inches | Shape: Oval | Water Capacity: 26.4 gallons | Number of Jets: Not applicable | Maximum Occupancy: 1 | Maximum Temperature: 122 degrees Fahrenheit
Best for Winter
Bestway Aruba SaluSpa 3 Person Inflatable Round Outdoor Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bestway-aruba-saluspa-3-person-inflatable-round-outdoor-hot-tub-a9a981e00304447f8d1fb2dbc31b7283.jpg)
Amazon
Freeze Shield technology
Tropical pattern
Digital control panel
Smaller size
When the weather outside is frightful, the right inflatable hot tub can be so delightful. Not only is the SaluSpa Aruba AirJet Inflatable Hot Tub Spa designed with relaxation in mind, but it offers features like a timer that allows you to control your water temperature in advance, a smartly placed control panel that you can access from the warmth of the water, plus 110 jets.
Comfort and convenience aside, what makes it ideal for winter (aside from the tropical pattern that adds a pop of brightness no matter where you use it), is the Freeze Shield™ technology that prevents cold weather damage to the pump and liner by preventing water from freezing inside the components. For context, if your spa doesn’t have this technology, the brand doesn’t recommend using their tubs if the weather dips lower than 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also worth noting, our Best Budget pick, the SaluSpa Miami, also includes this technology, too.
Price at time of publish: $454
Dimensions: 67 x67 x 26 inches inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 160 gallons | Number of Jets: 110 | Maximum Occupancy: 3 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Six-Person
INTEX PureSpa Bubble Massage Deluxe Inflatable Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/intex1-f843579b8078455da8b8120b38410065.jpg)
Amazon
Large capacity
Plenty of seating
Included cover
Hard water treatment system
Fewer jets
It can be hard to design a six-person hot tub that provides enough space, but the Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Deluxe does just that. It is octagon-shaped, so there are plenty of designated seating areas for relaxation. It also includes a puncture-resistant, energy-efficient cover (according to the manufacturer) and is made of durable materials including a three-ply liner and Fiber-Tech construction.
Because it is larger, this hot tub is one of the more expensive on our list. It also doesn’t have as many jets as you may expect, just 140 for a 290-gallon capacity. The pump does have a built-in hard water treatment system to reduce calcium deposits and make your hot tub last longer.
Price at time of publish: $780
Dimensions: 86 x 86 x 28 inches | Shape: Octagon | Water Capacity: 290 gallons | Number of Jets: 140 | Maximum Occupancy: 6 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Best Two-Person
Aleko 2-Person 130 Jet Inflatable Hot Tub
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/aleko-2-person-130-jet-inflatable-hot-tub-0ac0f2dd59f24d989f8e72ce2b037c04.jpg)
Amazon
A lot of jets
Small footprint
Fast set up and heating
Included drink tray
No hard water system
If you have a compact patio or outdoor space, a two-person hot tub may be just the thing. Measuring 75 x 47 x 26 inches, the Aleko 2-Person inflatable hot tub has plenty of jets—100-130 depending on the size— which is more than some four-person options. It also comes with a space-saving drink tray attachment, to keep your drinks handy. For optimal use, Aleko recommends covering the inflatable hot tub, as it heats, with the included thermal cover.
This hot tub holds 145 gallons of water, which is a smaller capacity than larger products, but still plenty for two people. It includes a digital control panel and a filter pump. Note that this hot tub does not have a built-in hard water treatment system or saltwater compatibility, however, we think for the size, price, and features, this is an excellent option for two people.
Price at time of publish: $429
Dimensions: 75 x 47 x 26 inches | Shape: Oval | Water Capacity: 145 gallons | Number of Jets: 130 | Maximum Occupancy: 2 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit
Our top pick is the Intex PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage 6-Person Hot Tub. It has ideal comfort features, such as headrests and plenty of jets. It also includes a hard-water treatment system to make upkeep much easier. For a budget-friendly choice, consider the Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub. It has almost as many jets and seats up to four adults.
What to Look For in an Inflatable Hot Tub
Size
One of the critical factors to consider when buying an inflatable hot tub is how many people the tub suits. Some hot tubs accommodate just two people, while others comfortably fit four or more. Although a larger hot tub means increased capacity, keep in mind that it also requires more water to fill, more electricity to heat, and a larger footprint in your patio or backyard. Plus, don't forget that the larger your tub and the more water it holds, the heavier it gets. "I have seen and heard of the horror stories of people putting something on the patio and going back out there, and it’s three stories down," cautions Rick Hagen, National Sales for Outdoor Living Products at Pool Corp, and member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. He emphasizes that it's crucial to ensure, just as you would with a regular tub, that your surface is structurally sound for the weight of your tub and the water it contains.
For context, you'll find the two largest tubs on this list to be our best splurge pick, the Intex PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage Greystone Deluxe Hot Tub, and our best six-person pick, the Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Deluxe Inflatable Hot Tub with each boasting a capacity of 290 gallons of water, and room for six people. On the other hand, the Co-Z Inflatable Adult Bath Tub, our best indoor pick, is indeed the smallest, at 26.4 gallons, providing room for one adult. The second smallest is our best two-person pick, the Aleko 2-Person 130 Jet Inflatable Hot Tub, at 145 gallons.
Jets
A hot tub does more than provide warm water immersion—it also offers bubble jets to massage your muscles. If this feature is essential to you, compare the number of jets when shopping for an inflatable hot tub. On average, most models have 80 to 140 jets. Every jetted tub we've featured here comes with at least 100 jets (our best indoor pick is the one exception), while the highest amount of jets can be found on our best splurge pick, the Intex PureSpa Plus Bubble Massage Greystone Deluxe Hot Tub, at 170 jets.
Safety
Hagen stresses that sanitization and safety should always be a top priority for hot tub users. Typically, manufacturers will provide guidance on how to balance and maintain the water in your inflatable hot tub and on taking care of the tub itself. You should also be prepared to, at minimum, regularly test and sanitize your water, drain and clean your tub as necessary, and ensure its properly covered or stored in between uses. This is in addition to practicing general water safety guidelines, especially if there are kids in your household or neighborhood.
Other Features
Additional features can improve your hot tub's energy efficiency, convenience, and ambiance. For example, some inflatable hot tubs come with an insulated cover and ground cloth to reduce energy loss. If you live in a cool climate and plan to use your hot tub outdoors, these add-ons can effectively maintain comfortable water temperatures.
Other inflatable hot tub options include a digital control panel or smartphone controls to adjust temperature settings or operate the jets. Lights are also available on some portable hot tubs, adding a fun or relaxing ambiance—if that's one of your priorities, be sure to check out our best overall recommendation, the Intex PureSpa Plus Inflatable Hot Tub.
-
What can you put under your inflatable hot tub?
While your inflatable hot tub can sit directly on grass or concrete—assuming you’ve cleared all objects that pose a puncture risk such as sharp rocks, twigs, and broken glass—consider an additional layer of protection and insulation.
The most basic solution is to use a heavy-duty tarp, folded, or cut to fit the footprint of your tub. Keep in mind that the tarp becomes slippery when wet. You also can purchase foam or rubber tiles online or from the home improvement store to create a smooth foundation. A more solid and long-term solution, which also provides insulation, is a hot tub pad. You can fill these interlocking tiles with gravel to keep them in place and raise your hot tub off the ground.
-
Can you use an inflatable hot tub indoors?
If you have the space and the electrical requirements, you can place an inflatable hot tub indoors or outdoors. If you’re thinking of using your hot tub inside, then pay special attention to the intended room's flooring. If it’s carpet or wood, consider laying down a plastic barrier, or have plenty of towels on hand to protect your floor from moisture when getting in or out of the tub.
Also, a full hot tub is very heavy, so be sure your floor can support the weight. A room on the ground floor is usually a better choice—and also avoids the risk of water damage to your ceiling in the event of a leak.
-
How long do inflatable hot tubs last?
The general rule is roughly 5 years, although many factors can affect the ultimate lifespan of your tub, including weather conditions, frequency of usage, sun exposure, how often you inflate and deflate, and regular wear and tear. If you're looking for a tub that you can count on for more than 5 years, you may want to consider a regular hot tub, but if you're anticipating lighter usage and are okay with revisiting your purchase after 5 years' time, then inflatable may still be a great choice for you.
-
Can you use an inflatable hot tub in the winter?
Yes, you can—with one caveat! Just be sure to doublecheck manufacturer guidelines to ensure that your equipment is made to withstand the colder temperatures. For example, the Bestway brand offers Freeze Shield™ technology that protects your tub and equipment when the temperatures dip below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can find this in both our best for winter pick, the Bestway Aruba SaluSpa 3 Person Inflatable Round Outdoor Hot Tub and our best budget pick, the Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Melynn has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To make this list of the best inflatable hot tubs, she looked at size, cost, and special features such as jets and accessories. Dena Ogden, commerce writer for The Spruce, also contributed to this article with additional research and updated picks. Ogden also spoke with Rick Hagen, who handles National Sales for Outdoor Living Products at Pool Corp, and a member of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-6-best-hot-tubs-4164002-recirc-75870f15c208454683d1ca69675debc1.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-9-best-kiddie-pools-2021-4163975-final-01-87837c82df6d49b5ae3299429bf143c7.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spruce-best-hard-water-stain-removers-tout-67b546ac39244ec294c04c623aad4df2.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/spruce-hot-tub-accessories-tout-ddfe31dd8ee74e9b8c49c33a9c4dc6a3.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/_hero_horiz_2SP4163972-1-KellyHodgkins-66ebbde75ade4465b148a45da0180a71.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-8-best-foot-spas-recirc-badge-59f9f780ffc4421c9cd8067c7f92f596.jpg){kind=icon}
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-v2-8-best-pool-floats-5113777-451c860500994bfea53a0931d10fdde6.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Dishwashers-of-2023-tout-c0ea50c717104d86a4887b255655241e.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-pool-toys-4588746-1d9d98165a85473097e8d4a92502244a.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-HOME-7-best-bounce-houses-3129288-recirc-002b9e6b09f94726af7aba0af9021b36.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-Home-best-water-heaters-4172821-FINAL-cee5990bbbfe43d59032092db2bdc0b3.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SPR-VanityArt-freestanding-soaking-tub-acrylic-59x30-WILDE-b0fc78bd34754326b3e0a4fcb4157f11.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Air-mattress-group-shot-tamara-staples-7250-Edit-2.jpg-683491e6f7c64988a1b6d2454380ffed.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Essick-AirCare-MA0800-Evaporative-Humidifier-1-03344bebc9744d37953891a461bc984b.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/7-Best-Hot-Tub-Covers-4682658-4518e32d06024170a701eef12fbd3b3c.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Chest-Freezers-4150012-0ad6c526fa3941b8b6bcc85ada631599.jpg)