Hot Tubs

Create a Relaxing Garden Space

A hot tub can turn a garden or patio into a more enjoyable place to spend time. It gives you somewhere warm to sit, chat, relax and enjoy the outdoors, even when the evening feels cooler.

For couples, a smaller hot tub can offer a cosy space for quiet evenings. For families or people who entertain, a larger hot tub can become part of a wider garden setup with seating, lighting, shelter and outdoor storage.

In the UK, it is worth thinking about weather, heating time, insulation and running costs before buying. A hot tub should feel like a treat, not something that becomes awkward or expensive to manage.

How to Choose a Hot Tub

Start by thinking about how many people will use it most often. A two to four person hot tub may suit smaller gardens and occasional use, while larger hot tubs are better for families, guests and regular entertaining.

Key decision factors include capacity, external size, water volume, heating system, insulation, running costs, jet type, filter system, cover quality, setup space, power requirements, maintenance needs and how easy it is to drain, clean and store.

You should also check the filled weight. A hot tub full of water and people can be very heavy, so it needs a flat, strong and suitable base.

Inflatable Hot Tubs vs Hard Shell Hot Tubs

Inflatable hot tubs are popular because they are easier to set up, easier to move and usually more practical for occasional use. They can be a good choice for first-time buyers, smaller gardens and people who want a flexible option that can be packed away.

Hard shell hot tubs usually feel more permanent and may offer stronger seating, better insulation and more built-in features, depending on the model. They can be better for regular use, but they need more space, more planning and a more permanent setup.

The trade-off is flexibility versus long-term comfort. An inflatable hot tub is easier to start with, while a hard shell spa may suit people who know they will use it often.

Small Hot Tubs vs Large Hot Tubs

Small hot tubs are easier to position, easier to heat and better suited to compact gardens, patios and couples. They take up less space and can be more manageable for everyday use.

Large hot tubs give you more seating and a more social feel. They are useful for families, garden parties and entertaining, but they need more water, more heating time, more maintenance and more space around them.

The right choice depends on your normal use. Buying bigger than you need may increase running effort, while buying too small can feel cramped if guests will use it regularly.

Hot Tubs for UK Gardens and Patios

UK gardens can be brilliant for hot tubs, but the setup needs planning. Choose a level area with safe access, enough privacy, suitable drainage and room to move around the tub.

A patio, reinforced decking area or prepared base may work well, depending on the product and the structure underneath. Standard decking may not always be suitable for the filled weight, so check carefully before installing.

Think about where the power supply will be, where water will drain, how you will access the filter, and whether the cover can be removed easily. Good placement makes the hot tub far easier to live with.

Heating, Insulation and Running Costs

Heating is one of the biggest things to consider when buying a hot tub. Larger tubs and poorly insulated models can take longer to heat and may use more energy, especially in colder UK weather.

A good cover helps retain heat when the hot tub is not in use. Some models may also include insulated bases, thermal covers or energy-saving features, depending on the product.

Before buying, check the heating guidance, expected setup requirements and any advice on efficient use. Simple habits such as keeping the cover on, sheltering the tub from wind and maintaining the water properly can all help make ownership more practical.

Jets, Bubbles and Comfort Features

Hot tubs can vary a lot in how they feel. Some focus on bubbles and gentle movement, while others include massage-style jets, shaped seating, headrests, lights or control panels.

Bubble systems can create a relaxing spa-like feel, while directional jets may offer more targeted water movement, depending on the model. Comfort features such as padded floors, supportive seats and easy controls can make a big difference if you plan to use the hot tub often.

Choose features around how you will actually use it. If you want occasional fun, a simple model may be enough. If you want regular evening relaxation, comfort and insulation may matter more than extra gadgets.

Water Care and Maintenance

Hot tubs need regular water care. Filters, cleaning, sanitiser, pH testing and water changes are all part of keeping the water pleasant and safe to use.

Before buying, check what maintenance products are needed and whether replacement filters are easy to source. A hot tub that is simple to clean and manage is much more likely to be used regularly.

Always follow the manufacturer’s water treatment guidance. Do not guess chemical levels, and avoid using products that are not suitable for your hot tub.

Useful Hot Tub Accessories

The right accessories can make hot tub ownership easier. Useful items may include covers, filter cartridges, cleaning kits, test strips, floating chemical dispensers, ground mats, steps, drinks holders, storage boxes and thermal covers.

A gazebo, privacy screen or shelter can also make the hot tub area more comfortable, provided it is used safely and there is enough ventilation and access.

Lighting, outdoor seating and towel storage can help turn the area around the tub into a proper garden relaxation zone.

Using Hot Tubs Safely

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup, filling, heating, chemicals, filters, drainage and electrical use. Hot tubs use water and electricity together, so safe installation matters.

Place the hot tub on a stable, level base and keep electrical connections away from water where required. If the hot tub needs a dedicated electrical supply, use a qualified electrician.

Children should always be supervised around hot tubs. Keep the cover secured when not in use, avoid overcrowding and do not use the hot tub if the water looks dirty, smells wrong or has not been maintained properly.

Avoid using glass near the hot tub, as broken glass is difficult and dangerous to remove from water. Use suitable outdoor drinkware instead.

Hot Tubs for Relaxing and Entertaining

A hot tub works well as part of a wider garden entertaining setup. Pair it with comfortable seating, outdoor lighting, a towel area, storage and a clear path back to the house.

For parties, think carefully about access, supervision, water cleanliness and how many people can use the tub at once. A hot tub should be enjoyable, not overcrowded or difficult to manage.

For quieter evenings, a smaller hot tub with a good cover, simple controls and comfortable seating can be enough to make the garden feel like a private retreat.

Cleaning and Storing Hot Tubs

Cleaning routines vary by product, but most hot tubs need filter care, surface cleaning and occasional draining. Follow the product guidance and keep a simple maintenance routine so the water stays easier to manage.

Inflatable hot tubs should be fully dry before long-term storage. Packing them away damp can lead to smells, mildew and material problems.

Store covers, filters, pumps and accessories safely when not in use. If the hot tub stays outside, check the guidance for winter care, freezing temperatures and long-term weather exposure.

Shop Hot Tubs Online

Browse our hot tubs range to find practical garden spas for relaxation, family use, summer evenings and outdoor entertaining. Compare inflatable hot tubs, hard shell hot tubs, compact spas, larger models and useful accessories to choose a hot tub that suits your garden and lifestyle.

Hot Tubs FAQs

What size hot tub should I buy?

Choose a hot tub based on how many people will use it most often and how much garden space you have. Smaller tubs suit couples and compact patios, while larger tubs are better for families and entertaining.

Are inflatable hot tubs worth it?

Inflatable hot tubs are worth considering if you want a flexible and more affordable way to enjoy a hot tub at home. They are usually easier to set up and store than hard shell models.

Are hard shell hot tubs better than inflatable hot tubs?

Hard shell hot tubs may offer more structure, insulation and built-in features, depending on the model. Inflatable hot tubs are usually more flexible and easier to move. The better choice depends on budget, space and how often you will use it.

Can I put a hot tub on decking?

Only put a hot tub on decking if the structure is suitable for the full filled weight, including water and people. If you are unsure, get professional advice before installation.

How much space do I need for a hot tub?

You need enough space for the hot tub itself, plus room to enter, exit, remove the cover, access the pump or filter and move safely around it. Check the external dimensions before buying.

Do hot tubs use a lot of electricity?

Electricity use depends on tub size, insulation, water temperature, outdoor temperature, cover quality and how often it is used. Keeping the cover on and maintaining the water properly can help reduce wasted heat.

How long does a hot tub take to heat up?

Heating time varies by model, water volume, starting water temperature and outdoor conditions. Check the product guidance for expected heating performance before buying.

How do I keep hot tub water clean?

Use the correct filters, sanitiser, test strips and cleaning routine recommended by the manufacturer. Check water regularly and do not use the hot tub if the water is dirty or unbalanced.

Can children use hot tubs?

Children should only use hot tubs under close adult supervision and according to the product guidance. Keep the cover secured when not in use and make sure the water temperature and use time are suitable.

Can hot tubs be used in winter?

Some hot tubs can be used in colder weather, but suitability varies by model. Check the product guidance for winter use, freezing temperatures, insulation and storage advice.

Do I need a cover for a hot tub?

Yes, a cover is very useful. It helps retain heat, keeps debris out of the water and helps prevent unsupervised access when the hot tub is not in use.

How do I drain a hot tub?

Drain the hot tub according to the product instructions and local guidance. Make sure water drains safely away from buildings, electrics, neighbouring property and areas that could become slippery.

What accessories are useful for a hot tub?

Useful accessories include filters, test strips, cleaning kits, covers, steps, ground mats, towel storage, outdoor lighting, thermal covers and suitable drinkware.

How should I store an inflatable hot tub?

Clean it, drain it, let it dry fully, deflate it carefully and store it according to the product instructions. Keep it away from damp, sharp objects, direct heat and freezing conditions where required

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