Can you think of anything more soothing and relaxing than winding down in a hot tub after a long day of work? Spa pools and hot tubs are luxury items that are worth every penny. Most inflatable hot tubs are perfect for social gatherings as well as a calming retreat.
If you are looking to turn your garden into your little piece of paradise, then an inflatable hot tub will be your new favourite place. If you have already got a fire pit and BBQ, you will have the most popular backyard in the neighbourhood.
There are many hydrotherapy benefits from having a personal spa pool, such as releasing muscle tension, easing anxiety and stress, which will lead to a better night's sleep and can also help any joint inflammation.
Lay-Z-Spa is one of the best companies in the business when it comes to inflatable hot tubs - and for a good reason. With years of experience, the company knows how to provide the best experience possible. All their hot tubs are made of high-quality material and come in various designs and sizes to suit all budgets and tastes.
If you want to hop onto this season’s hottest trend, then we have put together a list of the best hot tubs that you can still buy online. However, you'd better get on it quick!
How expensive is it to run a hot tub?
This all depends on how much you intend to use your hot tub and which model you choose. Overall, hot tubs can be quite expensive to run; however, some models have high-tech energy-saving systems which can maintain the temperature. The running price of a hot tub is also dependant on how high your temperature is set and how warm it is outside.
Can inflatable hot tubs be used in winter?
While the British climate may not be the best for hot tub season year-round, most contemporary inflatable hot tubs are made with a heat maintenance system that will keep the water warm even during the winter months. Therefore, unless it’s raining – you can go into the hot tub for most of the year.
How to clean an inflatable hot tub?
To clean the water in the hot tub, you will need to add a sanitiser like chlorine, which will come in tablet form or in granules. The chlorine should be added straight away to eliminate all the bugs we carry into the water before they have the chance to multiply. Depending on how much you use the hot tub, you should sanitise it every day or every few days.
Check your instructions on the model you have purchased to determine which sanitiser your hot tub will need and follow the suggested quantities.
You can remove the filter weekly to clean it by using filter cleaner. However, some models will require daily cleaning. Inflatable hot tub filters can become clogged more frequently than permanent hot tubs, so it’s best to be consistent and clean it often. Every few weeks, you should drain your hot tub to clean it with liquid soap and water. Check your model’s instructions to find out the best formula to use.
Ultimately, the best way to keep your hot tub clean and functioning is by doing frequent and thorough maintenance. If you do a quick job of cleaning, it will result in degradation and unclean water. Definitely not what you want for a relaxing evening in the hot tub!
Here is our pick of the best Lay-Z-Spa hot tubs:
Lay-Z-Spa Miami
Editor's pick
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The Lay-Z-Spa Miami is one of the brand's bestsellers. Measuring 180cm x 66cm, it is a good size and will not overtake your entire patio or a small garden. The simple black design is classic and will blend into your garden without being too noticeable. Some great features include the rapid five-minute inflating, fast heating, Freeze Shieldu2122 for year-round use, and robust, sturdy DuraPlusu2122 material.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180cm x 66cm
Capacity: Two to four adults
Jet count: 120 AirJets
Review: "Wow! The tub is amazing. The communication from the seller has been absolutely brilliant! It is so warm, so easy to assemble and super sturdy. I can’t recommend it enough! Such a luxury item."
Lay-Z-Spa Paris Hot Tub
Runner-up
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This inflatable hot tub comes with a range of multi-coloured LED lights to create an ambient atmosphere. In addition, the energising AirJet massage system will help you relax after a long day u2013 just crank up the heat to 40u00b0C and lay back.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 196 cm x 66 cm
Capacity: 4-6 people
Jet count: 87 AirJets
Review: "The best thing I've bought in a long time. Lights work well; it was a struggle to get them to lay flat, but apart from that fab. Me, husband and kids have been in every day since buying it, whatever the weather - we have a gazebo. Buy it; you won't regret it!"
Lay-Z-Spa St Moritz Hot Tub
Best appearance
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If you are looking for a garden centrepiece as well as a hot tub, then this elegantly designed Lay-Z-Spa has a realistic rattan pattern that will fit right in with your garden decor. This hot tub can fit up to seven people, so it is perfect for family gatherings or parties. Let the therapeutic bubbles from the AirJet system relax you while giving you a well-needed massage. Additionally, the expert Freeze Shield technology will keep the warm water in, making it suitable for cold nights, too. Finally, the hot tub is straightforward to set up u2013 it requires no tools or difficult manual instructions.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 216cm x 71 cm
Capacity: Seven people
Jet count: 150
Review: "This tub is wonderful value for money. I love the appearance. Such an improvement on earlier models as it has a rattan pattern. It maintains its temperature and is lovely and deep. The material is very strong and robust. It is easy to maintain. We bought a spa kit and extra filter (also great value). When you think of how much a spa tub would be to hire for a weekend, this is truly amazing value. It can be packed back up into its box for storage and transport, so it doesn't take up much space at all when not in use."
Lay-Z-Spa Hawaii Hot Tub
Best for social gatherings
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Hop into paradise with this six-man instant hot tub. This model can reach up to 40u00b0C and plan your hot tub session in advance with an efficient power saving timer. Additionally, this model comes with an AirJet feature, so get a full body massage anytime you want.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180 x 71 x 37.7 cm
Capacity: 4-6 people
Jet count: 120 AirJets
Review: "Bargain for the price and bigger than expected only problem is it takes nearly 24 hours before you can use it properly after that it’s so easy"
Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki 7 Person AirJet Hot Tub
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Inspired by the hot tubs from the Alps, this big seven seated model is ideal for families. It is equipped with Freeze Shieldu2122 so that you can hop into your mini alpine retreat all year-round. This tub provides a lovely massage with an integrated 180 AirJet system and water that can heat up to 40u00b0C and is easily set up in five minutes.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180cm x 66cm
Capacity: Five to seven adults
Jet count: 180 AirJets
Review: "We ordered this hot tub for New Year’s Eve. Wanted it to have a fun family experience in lockdown. What a great hot tub. Three weeks later and we have been in it every evening. Customer service from Argos and Lay-Z-Spa was second to none. Had to mention this as it added to how much we have enjoyed buying this."
Lay-Z-Spa Bali
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This smaller sized Lay-Z-Spa hot tub is suitable for two to four people. The 120 AirJet massage system delivers a soothing hot tub experience and is made from premium DuraPlus material, puncture-resistant and robust. In addition, the Lay-Z-Spa Bali comes with a cover and a built-in seven colour changing LED lighting system.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180cm x 66cm
Capacity: Two to four adults
Jet count: 120 AirJets
Review: "We have had this about a month now, and we use it near enough every night. We absolutely love it great quality and so easy to set up."
Lay-Z-Spa Cancun
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This stylish Lay-Z-Spa has a 120 AirJet system and can reach up to 40u00b0C. Additionally, it is easy to set up without any complicated instructions or tools. Featuring a cushioned floor and DuraPlus material, an insulated leatheroid cover and a ground fault detection system. Also, it has an option to schedule your hot tub session, so you can look forward to your spa treat all day.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180cm x 66cm
Capacity: Two to four adults
Jet count: 120 AirJets
Review: "Been using this for 2 weeks and absolutely love it. Easy to set up. Takes a few days to get into a routine of doing the chemicals but well worth it. Still having cold nights but it’s holding the temperature well. Looks good and really recommend it."
On the lookout for an alternative brand? Here are some of our favourites:
CosySpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa
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This affordable hot tub comes in different sizes so that you can choose one according to your needs. Choose from a four or six-person hot tub, as well as accessory packs too. Not to mention it can be easily set up within five minutes. The tub comes equipped with 130 air jets, 42u00b0C water and a ground cover and a lockable top cover to stop anything that shouldn't be there from getting in.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 210cm x 65cm (six person); 165cm x 65cm (four person)
Capacity: Two to six adults
Jet count: 130 (six person) or 110 (four person)
Review: "Love our hot tub, the perfect way to relax with the comfort headrests, drink in the holder and bubble jets on! It’s enjoyed by all the family, we couldn’t imagine the household without it now. It was delivered on time & easy to set up, definitely recommend this hot tub."
Canadian Spa Grand Rapids Plug and Play Hot Tub
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Much like the other modest-sized models like the Miami, Bali, and Cancun Lay-Z-Spas, this is hot tub can fit four people comfortably. For efficiency, it has a thermal blanket and insulating skirt to help keep in the heat.
Key specifications:
Inflated size: 180cm x 74cm
Capacity: Two to four adults
Jet count: 125 air jets
Review: "So pleased with this. It looks premium and the higher height is lovely as it keeps your shoulders warm. Easy to install and set up. Fits 4 of us in fine - 2 adults and 2 kids. The jets are fab. Literally could not be happier."
Inflatable hot tub add-ons
Bestway Floor Protector
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This ground protector is great when using an inflatable hot tub as it prevents damage to the pool liner and your grass. It comes in two sizes, 50 x 50cm and 78cm x 78m. One pack of nine tiles will fit hot tubs up to 1.5 metres.
FLAMEER Hot Tub Suction Seat
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Surprisingly, there are no seats with many inflatable hot tubs, so you will sitting on the floor. However, if you want to make it a little more comfortable, we recommend getting some hot tub seats. This four-pack comes with suction cups to prevent it from moving around and is made of heavy-duty PVC material. You can also purchase the seats individually.
Inflatable hot tub chemical starter kit
Clearwater CH0018 Lay-Z-Spa Chemical Starter Kit
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If you are looking for the ultimate starter kit then this pack has everything you need for maintaining hygienic and clean water. The set includes; 500g chlorine, 700 g pH minus 500 g pH plus, 500 ml foam remover, 25 test strips and a dosing guide.
How long do inflatable hot tubs last?
A hot tub's life expectancy depends on how well you take care of and maintain it. Some people report problems after only a few months of usage, while others have stated they have had up to five years of use out of their inflatable hot tub. The average time a hot tub lasts is around two to three years of use.
Inflatable hot tub maintenance:
After selecting your dream inflatable hot tub, be sure to read through the manufacturer's instructions so you know how to best take care of it so it will last a long time.
You will need first to clean the tub itself and the filter, plus testing the pH and alkalinity of the water.
pH and alkalinity: If your inflatable hot tub doesn't come with a test kit, you'll need to purchase one to test the pH and alkalinity of the hot tub water at least once a week. The recommended amount of pH levels should be around 7.4 to 7.6 pH. If it is too acidic or has too much alkaline, you could damage the material of the inflatable hot tub and irritate your skin.