Hot Tubs For Small Spaces

Why Trust The Spruce

This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer who specializes in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she considered the overall cost of small bathtubs and installation, soaking depth and length, and special features such as built-in seats and jets. She also talked to Megan Schimming, an interior designer who has been designing custom spaces focused on sustainability and style for over 10 years.

Which Small Hot Tub Is Best For A Small Backyard

Picking the right small hot tub for your small backyard is essential to make sure you get the most out of it. Many hot tub owners enjoy their decision more when they do the proper research beforehand.

AJ Spa & Hot Tubs believes there are three main criteria to make choosing the right hot tub easy:

Hot tubs come in all types of shapes and sizes, and if your space is limited, picking a small hot tub to accommodate your space will ensure you get the most out of it.

Hot Tub Outdoor: Cozy Joyful Gazebo

A gazebo with transparent walls and ceiling fully covers a square hot tub which looks so tempting to have. It fits a 6-person hot tub and some stools which is enough to become an entertaining spot for everyone. Of course, this kind of hot tube dome will bring style of your backyard to a whole new level.

The rocky wall and base become the main focal point of this backyard which looks so outstanding. A square hot tub is installed which makes it a very enjoyable outdoor living space. Moreover, the steel sheet with some decor items give a more striking decorative touch.

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Hot Tub Therapy Options

The number of jets in the tub, in addition to the placement and type of hydrotherapy the jets deliver are important features to think about when purchasing a hot tub. Hot tub manufacturers use different techniques to imitate a variety of massage types from deep tissue to light caress.

Some use a combination of water and air, some use high-pressure and others use high-flow jets. If you want a full-body massage, look for a hot tub with lounge seats and leg or feet jets. Some spa models combine hydrotherapy and aromatherapy for a more relaxing experience.

Intex Purespa Plus Bubble Massage Greystone Deluxe Hot Tub

Amazon

• A lot of extras included

• You can spend less for some features

While it is pricey, the Intex PureSpa Plus hot tub is a top-of-the-line choice. It has 170 jets for ultimate comfort, an adjustable LED light, and seats up to six adults, with room to spare. The control panel can be removed for wireless control. You can also use your smartphone to adjust temperature, jets, and lights. The inflatable hot tub also provides real-time feedback about when you need to replace the filter and perform other maintenance.

The included thermal cover helps keep the heat inside the hot tub. Other extras include a ground cover carrying bag four filter cartridges two headrests a test strip and a combination heater, filter pump, hard-water treatment system, and saltwater system. How much does all of this cost? More than double some of the more affordable versions.

Price at time of publish: $920

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

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Bestway Saluspa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub 4

Courtesy of Amazon

• Cuts down on energy costs

• Digital control panel

• 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 tubwhich seats up to four adults, ideal for smaller spacesmakes 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 dont 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: $600

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

Wave Pacific 4 Person Square Inflatable Tub 95 Massaging Air Jets

For a small space, arguably a square hot tub is the best option as the circumference takes up less space, and its easier for fitting into tighter spaces.

This compact tub is perfect for a patio space or decked area. It benefits from a whopping 95 massaging air jets to help you unwind in pure luxury, and relaxation.

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What Is The Smallest Hot Tub Size

For most brands, youll find their smallest hot tub size:

• Seats 2-4 people
• Holds between 500-800L
• Has a diameter of less than 2m.

Some manufacturers do make smaller sizes. Lay-Z-Spa used to create a 1-2 seater called the Siena that can still be found second-hand, and of course, MSpa has the Nest, though it seems this size isnt too popular with most portable spa manufacturers.

Maintain Recommended Water Levels

Just like a swimming pool, we need to keep on top of the correct water levels to ensure there are no nasties that could make us ill. You should regularly test the water 2-4 times a week for best results. You will need to ensure the water levels are kept balanced for chlorine, bromine, pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness. Best practice levels will be identified on the care instructions that come with your hot tub.

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How Much Does A Good Hot Tub Cost

The cost of a hot tub can be anywhere from $3,000 for a budget-priced tub to over $16,000 for a top-of-the-line spa with custom upgrades. Generally, inflatable hot tubs are the cheapest above-ground hot tubs are more moderately priced and in-the-ground hot tubs are the most expensive.

Your budget will dictate which options are available to you, so first consider how much you have to spend on your new hot tub. Also, it’s a good idea to research how much a certain hot tub might cost to run and maintain .

Hot tub manufacturers rarely list the prices of hot tubs online because there are several factors that affect the price of each sale, including geography, dealer promotions and even the time of year. Of course, this also allows retailers to negotiate a higher price with people who dont have good bartering skills.

Many hot tub companies will categorize their selections into price ranges: budget, entry-level, mid-level, premium and luxury. However, some won’t provide price guidelines unless you enquire. Bear in mind that the final price of your hot tub might differ significantly from the price of the tub itself, after you’ve included any upgrades or extras, installation and operating costs.

Yukon 16 Jet 2 Person Spa Small Hot Tub

This spacious, yet compact 2 seater narrow hot tub features a full sized spa that can be enjoyed alone, or as a pair. The neatness of this spa means it wont obstruct too much of your garden space, helping you to maximise the space that you do have.

The best part? It features multi-coloured LED lights and a built in studio system so you can truly relax in style whenever you fancy an escape from reality.

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Best Affordable Hot Tub: Aquarest Spas Select 400

A well-rated model that wont break the bank is the AquaRest Spas Select 400 Plug-and-Play Hot Tub. It has upgraded features like hydrotherapy jets, multicolored LED lights and a waterfall youd expect from a pricier model. But dont worry, its one of the best affordable hot tubs and one of the easiest four-person hot tubs to set up on your own.

While many plug-and-plays arent known for their construction, this four-person model features an energy-efficient pump, full foam insulation and a durable polyethylene shell. It also comes in three versatile colors. The easy-to-clean frame that cuts down on the need for hot tub cleaning supplies.

Are Inflatable Hot Tubs Any Good

In terms of size, inflatable models are arguably the best hot tubs for small spaces. You can even store it away when youre not using it. But the problem with inflatable hot tubs is that theyre generally not the best when it comes to factors such as build quality and user experience.

Theres a reason you can often pick up inflatable hot tubs for only a few hundred pounds from a supermarket shelf theyre a common summer impulse buy that isnt designed to create the best user experience possible.

Your inflatable hot tub likely wont have a seat. At best it will feel more like sitting in a warm paddling pool than a high-quality hot tub. This type of tub also often has poor insulation leading to any heat present escaping much quicker. Additionally, due to the relatively poor insulation, the heater needs to work significantly harder, leading to overinflated running costs for an underinflated experience.

Contrastingly, while not as handy for smaller spaces, a hard shell hot tub is built to provide the user with comfort, peace, and relaxation at all times. Not only that but your hardshell hot tub can also be used all year round even when its raining.

If youre short on space and simply want a tub that may last through the peak of the Summer, you may want to consider an inflatable model. However, if youre looking for something more substantial, something designed around your experience something more immersive, a hard shell hot tub is likely perfect for you.

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Saluspa Milan Airjet Plus The Most Convenient Temperature Control

The most convenient temperature control

If youre a true fan of advanced technologies and smart home advantages, the SaluSpa Milan Airjet Plus is for you. This hot tub has the most convenient temperaturecontrol because you can do it directly from your smartphone. The spa has a Wi-Fi card with which you need to connect it to your home Internet. Then install the Bestway Smart Hub app on your smartphone and synchronize it with the hot tub. Then you can start the heater anywhere from your smartphone and by the time you get home, the hot tub is fully ready to use!

Youll be able to change the temperature, set a heat timer for up to 72 hours, and turn the bubbles on/off. They are created by 80 air jets that are located in the center and sides of the bottom. Bubbles are evenly distributed on the hot tub providing a full body massage with water. Combined with a maximum temperature of 104°F, you will be able to relax perfectly.

Despite its compact size, this hot tub is the leader in capacity. It can hold 4-6 people at a time. It is 50% more than the SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet with almost the same size hot tubs.

Also, along with this hot tub comes a pump that inflates it, heats it, runs filtration, and controls the massage system. Additional ease of use is provided by simple care you just need to wipe the hot tub surface with a dry cloth at regular intervals.

Pros

Cons

Ohana Spas Balance 6 Person 25 Jet Hot Tub With Ozonator

If you want comfort and ease, then this tub is for you. You can purchase this knowing you wont have trouble during installation and maintenance. According to ohana spas reviews, this is the perfect tub for bonding with family and friends.

It is spacious enough and can accommodate up to 7 people and is designed with contoured open seating for more comfort. It also features 25 stainless jets that target muscles and will revitalize your mind, body, and soul. Better yet, it comes with LED underwater lighting for ambiance and safety.

Controlling this unit has been made possible by the digital control that includes smart-temp. It has 3 programmable energy modes standards, energy, and sleep for better customization. Overall, you should get this if you want an easy-to-install basic tub that has the same features as more expensive tubs at an affordable price.

However, it only has a plastic exterior and 1 pump. Its durability and massage strength will not be the same as the expensive ones.

Highlighted Features

• Spacious and contoured seating fit for 7 adults
• 25 powerful stainless-steel jets
• Energy efficient 1 x 2 BHP 2-speed pump
• Super Shell exterior is made of durable plastic
• Water capacity: 250 gallons

Cons of the Hot Tub

• Plastic exterior may not be durable
• No steps included

Read more: The Ultimate Ohana Spas Hot Tubs Reviews

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Hot Tub Outdoor: 25+ Mesmerizing Ideas For Small Spaces

Its safe to say that every homeowner will agree that adding a hot tub to their exterior area sounds like a very tempting idea. The benefits that you will get from having a hot tub always makes it as one of the most popular water features that you can include on your home improvement plan.

The backyard is definitely a good spot to consider when you are planning to install a hot tub. It will instantly turns your backyard into a very entertaining outdoor living space. You can feel the relaxing sensation of hydrotherapy while enjoying the fresh outdoor air and beautiful outdoor view.

However, you may not really be able to use the hot tub in all weather conditions when you install it in your exterior area. The rainy, snowy, and extreme sunny day sound like not really good times to use it. That is why some homeowners add other features like pergola and gazebo to allow them to use the hot tub as they wish.

Moreover, you can also decorate your hot tub with some landscaping and decor items to make it look more attractive. As the part of your home decor, it also has to give the beautiful decorative touch to the overall look of your beloved home.

Saluspa Stlucia Airjet The Fastest Heating

The SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet hot tub has the highest heating rate. At air temperatures close to 32°F, it heats 160 gallons of water to 104°F in 24 hours. At an air temperature of 74°F, the process takes only 12 hours. It is 1.5-2 times faster than other models. What is more, the hot tub comes with a cover that effectively keeps the water temperature when you are not using the spa.

The SaluSpa St.Lucia AirJet hot tub has an effective FreezeShield system like the SaluSpa Vancouver AirJet Plus. It provides automatic heating of the filter and liner when the air temperature reaches 32°F. It means that you can enjoy a massage in your hot tub, even in freezing winter temperatures! Also, the ChemConnect system also disperses excess chlorine in the water, so you dont have to worry about the water condition in the hot tub.

The advanced Air Jet system and 110 jets deliver warm, bubbling water for maximum relaxation. You can easily control them, change the heating temperature, and set the timer from the convenient control panel. What is more, you can change the angle of the panel so that you can easily reach it and make the necessary settings in a couple of clicks.

Also, you shouldnt worry about the durability of your hot tub because the exterior of this model is made of 3 layers of puncture-resistant material. That means it wont get ruined by repeatedly deflating and inflating the hot tub.

Pros

Cons

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Intex Purespa Plus Bubble Massage Set

• Comes with cover and carrying case

• Additional accessories cost extra

This inflatable hot tub comes with some great extras and durable construction that makes it our top pick. 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. For nighttime use, just turn on the built-in LED lights.

It also has a built-in hard-water treatment system. This makes it easy to monitor the water quality, keep your bathing suits in the best shape, and keep your skin from drying out. By treating the water, it also helps the spa last longer.

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. It also has a cover, carrying case, ground cloth, and inflation hose to make setup easy.

While the jets are comfortable, they are a bit spaced out, considering the inflatable hot tub’s large size and capacity, and some adults may want additional features. You can purchase accessories such as additional headrests, drink trays, and seats separately.

Price at time of publish: $849

Dimensions: 77 x 77 x 28 inches | Shape: Round | Water Capacity: 210 gallons | Number of Jets: 140 | Maximum Occupancy: 6 | Maximum Temperature: 104 degrees Fahrenheit

Inflatable Hot Tub Mspa

This 2 person hot tub is a neat size for the most intimate of spaces, whilst it provides ample room for two to share. Slightly rectangular, the shape makes it perfect for fitting into more obscure areas.

Fitted with 104 air jets, with plenty of space to relax, rejuvenate and unwind.

This inflatable jacuzzi is affordably priced at currently £599.99 in the sale, a great choice for couples, small families and even those who wish to enjoy the space on their own.

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