If you are like the average American, installing a hot tub in your home would require a complete bathroom renovation, which is not only very expensive but also impractical. In 2025, only about 7.3 million homes in the U.S have a hot tub: that's less than 5%.
However, if you are like the average American, you would very much like a hot tub! More than 70% of Americans revealed in a survey that a hot tub would greatly improve their lives in many different ways.
Fortunately, there is a more affordable alternative that could work for you - an inflatable hot tub. Inflatable hot tubs are becoming increasingly popular, not just among homeowners but also among people who rent or live in apartments.
Americans who bought inflatable hot tubs have shared overwhelmingly positive responses online, but there have been some uncertainties and concerns as well.
So, are inflatable tubs worth it in 2025? Or are they just another gimmick?
Pros and Cons of Inflatable Hot Tubs
Pros of Getting an Inflatable Hot Tub
The main advantage of an inflatable hot tub is that it is affordable. On average, an inflatable hot tub costs about $300 to $1,000, depending on the size and features. By comparison, a regular hot tub costs about $3,000 to $15,000; that is about 10-15 times more expensive.
An inflatable hot tub is a much more affordable way to enjoy the luxuries and benefits of hot tubs: one that is much more affordable.
However, just like many other things, inflatable hot tubs come with certain pros and cons. Let’s take a glance at those pros and cons to help you make your decision:
- Inflatable hot tubs are portable: you can easily deflate your inflatable hot tub and move it as needed. Almost 34% of Americans live in rental housing, so an inflatable hot tub is a much better option when it comes to space saving.
- They are also free and easy to install. Most inflatable hot tub models inflate and fill in a few hours, and they require no special expertise or tools. Installation costs for a new hot but can range from $2,000 to $25,000, which is enough money to buy a brand new inflatable hot tub.
- Inflatable hot tubs are easy to clean and maintain, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Relaxation: The warm water and jets help relieve stress, ease sore muscles, and promote better sleep.
- Less Space Needed: Inflatable hot tubs come in many different sizes, but they are usually smaller than regular hot tubs. This is great if you don’t have much space in your home.
Cons of Inflatable Hot Tubs
Of course, inflatable hot tubs also come with certain flaws:
- Less Durable: Even high-end models will wear out faster than regular hot tubs, especially with frequent use. However, with proper maintenance, an inflatable hot but should be able to last about 8 years.
- Limited Features: Inflatable hot tubs usually have limited features compared to those of regular hot tubs. For example, jets are typically air-powered rather than water-powered, resulting in lower pressure.
- Not Suitable for More People: While a smaller size of an inflatable hot tub can be beneficial when you don’t have much space, it can be limiting when you want to invite friends to bathe with you.
So, is an inflatable hot tub worth it or not?
For first-time buyers, the affordability of inflatable hot tubs is one of their biggest selling points. Most models range from $300 to $400, which is only about 10% of what a traditional hot tub might cost. That lower price tag makes them an accessible option for many American households.
While they might not deliver a full luxury spa experience, a well-made inflatable hot tub can still offer a relaxing and enjoyable soak, more than enough for most people’s needs.
Plus, their portability and compact size make them especially appealing to renters or anyone with limited space. You can set them up when you want to use them and pack them away if needed, which is a huge plus.
Of course, there are a few trade-offs. Inflatable hot tubs typically hold fewer people and don’t last as long as hard-shell models. But larger models can still fit up to six people comfortably, and with proper maintenance, they can last as long as eight years.
Considering the low cost, space efficiency, and ease of use, it’s no surprise that many first-time buyers find inflatable hot tubs to be a smart and worthwhile choice.
How Do Inflatable Hot Tubs Work?
In order to determine whether inflatable hot tubs are worth it or not, it is important to understand how they work. There are three main functions:
- Inflation - these tubs can be inflated or deflated, usually with a built-in air pump
- Heating - there is a central heating unit that heats up the water
- Water circulation - water circulates through built-in filters in order to stay fresh and clean
Do inflatable hot tubs have jets? Yes, inflatable hot tubs also have jets, which means you will be able to enjoy water bubbles, just like with the “real” hot tub. Most inflatable hot tubs contain a control panel, where you can set the temperature and jet mode.
But can you use inflatable hot tubs in the winter? Yes, you can use them in the winter, but if you are using them outside, avoid prolonged use when the temperatures are freezing. Or, at least place a heating pad between your inflatable hot tub and the ground.
How To Use Inflatable Hot Tubs
To use your inflatable hot tub, you first need to set it up. Setting up an inflatable hot tub is fairly easy. Simply follow these steps:
- Place your hot tub on a stable and flat surface.
- Inflate the tub.
- Pour the water into the tub until you reach the recommended levels.
- Plug it in and let it heat for 12-24 hours.
- Add chlorine and other required chemicals for hot tub
- Jump in!
When you aren’t using it, cover your inflatable hot tub. This will retain the heat and also prevent various debris and grime from contaminating the water. Keep the water fresh and clean by occasionally replacing it and by using recommended hot tub chemicals.
Keep your tub away from pets, especially from dogs and cats, as they can scratch the tub and cause it to deflate. Look for any signs of wear and tear, and try to handle your tub with utmost care. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the tub.
When you aren’t using it for prolonged periods, here is how you should store your hot tub away:
- Drain the water
- Deflate the tube
- Let it air dry for an hour or two
- Carefully fold it and place it back into its box
- Store it in a dry and dark place
Choose the Best Inflatable Hot Tubs for Your Home
1. CO-Z 4-Person Inflatable Hot Tub with 120 Bubble Jets
This inflatable hot tub heats up to 104°F and features 120 jets. It can provide you with a relaxing spa experience, and comfortably fit 2–4 adults. Made from durable PVC, this hot tub includes a user-friendly control panel, filter cartridges, and inflates in under 8 minutes:
CO-Z 6-Person Inflatable Hot Tub with 130 Bubble Jets
If you need something bigger, take a look at this inflatable hot tub. It fits up to 6 adults, heats over 200 gallons of water to 104°F, and features 130 high-powered jets. This tub also features easy setup, a removable cover, filter cartridges, and a 1-year warranty:
Conclusion
So, to conclude, are inflatable tubs worth it? Absolutely yes! While regular, built-in hot tubs have certain advantages, inflatable hot tubs have even more advantages, especially for people on a budget, renters, and those who don’t want to commit to a regular hot tub.
