The idea of relaxing in steamy hot water is always alluring and a hot tub will give you the opportunity to do so. Hot tubs are now very common and unlike swimming pools that can only be used during warm summer months, hot tubs can actually be used all year round. But installing a hot tub is a big investment even though there are many more affordable options these days to choose from. Take for example the single person hot tub.
Not everyone has a large backyard and even if you do, you dont want to cover most of it with a hot tub. A single person tub can be the answer to your space constraints.
Featuring a rectangular shape, this hot tub is made of rubber. It has an ergonomic design so you can get in and out easily, as well as double armrests. Though it includes no filter, the drainage can be connected to an external drainage pipe.
This hot tub may not look the nicest, but it will get the job done. As you can fully cover yourself once in, the heat will be retained for longer. We recommend it if you have a large bathroom and don’t want to place your tub outside. You could use it for soothing muscle pain, or simply for unwinding after a long week.
This hot tub includes a bathtub, drainage pipe, and padded cushion for added comfort. Made of PVC vinyl, it can inflate within 3 minutes with an electric pump. Plus, a side coaster is included to hold your drink.
The inflatable aspect of this hot tub is great for young children. Due to its small size, you’ll be able to keep an eye on them at all times and also teach them some basic swimming moves. You could use it as a way to cool down during summer, too. The simple blue and aqua pattern will go with any garden.
Once again made of PVC vinyl, this hot tub comes with four color options – black/white, brown, black, and dark blue. It features a side drink tray with space for two drinks. A cover, cover lift, and filter are included.
Though inflatable, this hot tub has a stylish design. It’s a great option for summer parties and BBQs due to the drinks tray, which will save you from having to get out of the water when comfortable. We think either the black/white or just the black finish would look best on a modern patio. Both will match most patio colors, too.
Including an Ozonator for sterilization, this hot tub is available in pearl gray or pearl white. Conveniently freeze-resistant, it comes with a filter and a cover. Within, two lounge seats will guarantee a good lounging session. Steps are also included.
Innovative and sophisticated, this hot tub is small but mighty. It would look great on a contemporary patio tucked under a verandah, or in a back garden if you want more privacy. As the two padded headrests are at opposite ends to each other, you and a friend or partner can have a conversation without any awkward head craning.
This hot tub features a solid pine wood exterior. It includes a cover, though no steps or filter. The best thing about this tub is that it includes a charcoal stove, so you can keep an eye on dinner whilst you relax.
Featuring heaps of rustic charm, this hot tub would be the perfect addition to a mountain lodge. The natural wood grain finish will fit in seamlessly with a log cabin vibe, as will the two-tone brown color scheme. We recommend surrounding your tub with plenty of greenery for a woodland look even if you aren’t in the countryside.
You can pick from a graystone, brownstone, or keystone finish with this single person hot tub. It includes 20 stainless steel jets, an LED backlit waterfall with nine color settings, and two cup holders. A cover and filter are both included.
Striking and modern, this hot tub has all you need. As it has a stone-like appearance, we recommend placing it in the middle of a tranquil stone garden surrounded by a few colorful plants for a calm and peaceful vibe. The graystone and keystone finishes are the most versatile options, though brownstone would suit a warm neutral patio.
A single person hot tub measures 55-60 inches on average. However, some smaller hot tubs will fit two people minimum, which means you may find yourself with more space than you need. To accommodate the extra person, these hot tubs are larger, usually around 75-80 inches. Unless storage is an issue for you, this isn't a problem -- it means you can enjoy your hot tub with a friend or stretch out by yourself. Jessica Davis states that if you are claustrophobic or hate being confined, you should purchase a hot tub for two, even if it is just for yourself. The extra room will feel luxurious even if your hot tub is a summer-ready inflatable.
Single person hot tubs are typically made of easy-to-clean materials like plastic. This is both so you don't have to spend a lot of time cleaning and because plastic is water-resistant so splashing about won't cause any damage. Plastic hot tubs are also generally cheaper due to being less expensive to make, so they are a good option if you are on a budget. Some hot tubs even have the option to be folded or are inflatable so you can get out and put your tub away without fuss. Whilst most small hot tubs have a basic finish, you could look for one with a different theme -- for example, a rustic exterior that will fit in with a mountain lodge or cottage theme.
If you live by yourself, you won't want all the hassle of a high-maintenance hot tub. As stated above, plastic is considered a low-maintenance material due to it being water-resistant and easy to keep clean. However, James Huniford recommends a hot tub made of sturdier materials if you plan to use it all year round. A hot tub with an outer material like pinewood will create a rustic look. Pinewood is best for long-term use as it is also relatively resistant to moisture, meaning you won't have to worry about your hot tub gaining a damp smell over time. It does scratch easily, though, so stick to plastic if you want your tub to remain pristine.
Per Amy Lau, you may not think that single person hot tubs can have a ton of additional features. However, small features can make a big difference. For example, if your tub is foldable, you can put it away in your shed during colder months even if you only have a small outdoor storage area. Other extra features that will make your single person hot tub chill session even better are the number of jets and whether there are any massage functions. Moreover, as included in some hot tubs, an ozone generator will help your hot tub to reach the sterilization levels required and keep things hygienic.
This is a long-term investment that will last you for many years, so you'd better spend some time understanding exactly what you need before rushing into purchasing a stunning hot tub that doesn't really match your available space or budget (no, we're not just talking about the obvious price tag!).
Where are you going to place it?
How many people do you want to fit in your hot tub?
What is your budget?
One of the first differences that you'll encounter when choosing hot tubs is that they can be made of various materials. This isn't just an aesthetic matter: some can be better suited for hydrotherapy, some might be better or worse at retaining heat, and, either way, the material will influence the cost of your hot tub.
Here's what you can choose from:
Are you ready to get into the nitty-gritty? When comparing and choosing hot tubs, you'll probably bump into these terms, so make sure you know which one would work best for you:
Standard filtration: this involves using the large jet pump to filter the water; it's usually the most affordable option, but could result in higher electricity bills since the jets have to run frequently for both heating and filtration;
Circular pump: this involves a smaller pump that runs 24/7 and circulates water through the main filters (hence the name); even though it's more expensive and always running, it actually uses less energy than standard filtration systems, so it will translate into cheaper maintenance costs;
No-bypass: this option is for those who want the best of the best! While traditional filtration allows only a small amount of water to go through the filter before going back into the hot tub through the jet, this system filters 100% of the water; that's why no-bypass filtration is the cleanest option.
When thinking of the number of jets, keep in mind that more doesn't automatically mean more powerful! You should consider the number of jets in your future hot tub in relation to that of its pumps:
As well as the number of jets, you might want to look for a specific type:
Rotatory: very common, they are great at loosening your muscles in a rhythmical way and focusing on a more targeted massage;
Directional: these jets provide a consistent flow and are more customizable, as you can adjust their direction to better hit that sore spot on your body;
Moving: a higher-end but more deluxe option, these jets move up and down and are particularly impeccable at massaging your back.
Keep in mind that a hot tub can include a combination of two or three types of jets. To achieve a specific result, look at where they're placed and what part of your body they will reach.
Yes, your hot tubs do need covers! Not only are they essential to protect the water from leaves, animals and debris, but they help keep it warm, lowering your energy bills.
Now that we've gone over all the basic and technical things that you should consider when choosing a hot tub, it's time to spoil yourself! Depending on your preference, needs and budget, one---or more---of these features could improve your hot tub experience even further:
LED lighting: are you mainly buying a hot tub to use it once the sun's gone down? LED lighting makes them even safer and more glamorous to enjoy in the dark;
Sound-system: ready to party with your friends in your brand-new hot tub? Looking forward to enjoying your favorite tunes while you destress on your own? Either way, connecting your smartphone or MP3 player to an integrated sound-system will upgrade your soaking time and avoid ruining it by accidentally dropping your phone into the water;
Waterfall: if you want your experience to be as soothing as possible, why not look for hot tubs that include a cascading option?
Ozonator: by converting oxygen into ozone and killing contaminants and bacteria, ozonators help keep the water clean using less chemical-based options such as chlorine;
Steps: if someone in your household is elderly, not too agile or you simply want to access your hot tub as effortlessly as possible, you should look for a model that includes steps.
We know: you can almost hear the bubbling sound of your new hot tub! To be a hundred percent sure that you find the right one for you, though, let's quickly recap the most important things to consider when choosing a hot tub:
