Plug-and-play vs inflatable hot tubs: which is best for your garden?

Imagine an evening under the stars, relaxing in soothing bubbles, with a glass of fizz in your hand. Sounds like bliss, doesn’t it?

Affordable inflatable hot tubs can make this dream a reality, and you can enjoy your own personal spa in your back garden without it costing an arm and a leg. But others feel that splashing out (ahem) on a permanent plug-and-play hot tub, complete with all the mod cons, is worth the investment if you plan on using it all year round.

But what is the best hot tub for your garden? Here we dive into the pros and cons of plug-and-play and inflatable hot tubs, with recommendations from Mumsnetters.

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What is an inflatable hot tub?

Inflatable hot tubs are popular for their affordability and their portability. Inflatable hot tubs are made from heavy-duty vinyl or PVC and can be inflated or deflated as required. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want a temporary hot tub solution or need a tub that can be easily stored away when not in use.

Pros of inflatable hot tubs

• They are affordable

Inflatable hot tubs are significantly cheaper than plug-and-play models and you can currently pick up a model from Mumsnet favourite Lay-Z-Spa for under £300. 

Inflatable options offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy the benefits of a hot tub without a substantial financial commitment. Just don’t forget to factor in the running costs.

• Portability

“We've got an inflatable one, we tend to put it up for a week or so then pack it away again for a while.” Mumsnet user and inflatable hot tub owner Knitwit101

One of the biggest advantages of inflatable hot tubs is their portability. They can be set up almost anywhere and moved around as needed. When not in use, they can be deflated and stored away, freeing up valuable garden space.

• Easy to setup

Setting up an inflatable hot tub is pretty straightforward and does not require any special tools or professional help. Most models come with an air pump that allows you to inflate the tub yourself in a matter of minutes.

Keeping the water clean and safe takes a bit of practice, but again this is something that you can do yourself, without having to call on someone to help. As Mumsnet user and hot tub fan HotTubber says “Chemicals wise once you get the hang of it it is incredibly easy. There are lots of videos on Youtube showing you how to manage the chemicals. Mostly it is the chlorine and you check the ph level and total alkalinity level before adding this. This should apply to both inflatable and hard shell. You don't need someone to do it, you just do it yourself.”

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• Versatility

Inflatable hot tubs can be used in various locations, indoors or outdoors, and their lightweight and compact design make them ideal for smaller spaces, such as patios. As HotTubber says: “I have had a lazy spa one for a couple of years. It was initially outside but we have since housed it inside a summer house. I have a medical condition that I am in pain with and this helps massively.”

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Cons of inflatable hot tubs

• Prone to punctures

Inflatable hot tubs are generally less durable than plug-and-play models. They are more prone to punctures and wear and tear, which can shorten their lifespan. 

But with a bit of TLC, a little puncture doesn’t have to spell the end of your hot tub fun, as Mumsnet user and DIY expert CleftChin says: “Get a little tube of boat glue - my cat once jumped up on the side, fell in, and in her panic put a claw through the wall - slow puncture perfectly fixed with the boat glue (stuff for patching dingies) when the patches that came with it didn't work.”

• Difficult to control water temperature

“The inflatable type one I went in got cold very quickly and 3 adults in there was way too cramped. You have to wait for the inflatable ones to get up to temp before you can go in. Our perm one is constantly at temp. Just need to turn bubbles on.” Hot tub expert and Mumsnet user inforapennyinforapoundnumber2

Maintaining a consistent temperature can be challenging with inflatable hot tubs. Their heating systems are typically less efficient, and they may lose heat more quickly, especially in colder weather. It’s worth investing in an inflatable lid and a floor protector to help keep the heat in.

• Lack of features

While many inflatable models offer basic features like bubble jets, they often lack the advanced features found in plug-and-play hot tubs. 

• Lack of aesthetic appeal

Inflatable hot tubs may not have the same aesthetic appeal as their plug-and-play counterparts. They often look less like a permanent fixture and more like a temporary setup, which may not suit everyone’s taste. Particularly if you are overlooked by neighbours, as Mumsnet user and hot tub detractor IsAnybody says: “Our neighbors sit in their [...] nightly in the summer. The noise of it running drives me nuts. Also odd hanging my washing out as to me it looks like they are just having evening garden baths together.”

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What is a plug-and-play hot tub?

Plug-and-play hot tubs are designed for convenience and ease of use. They can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet without the need for specialized wiring or professional installation. This makes them a popular choice for those looking for a permanent hot tub solution without the hassle of a complex setup.

Pros of plug-and-play hot tubs

• Easy to install

Plug-and-play hot tubs are incredibly easy to set up. All you need is a flat surface and access to a standard electrical outlet. There’s no need for professional installation or complex electrical work. But you do need to consider the logistics of getting your dream hot tub into your garden in the first place, as Musnetter MsTSwift discovered: “We couldn’t get one in without hiring a crane so gave up on idea we were really disappointed which made us realise how much we wanted one. Then found roto spa whose tubs roll through a doorway... sorted”. Quick thinking, MrsT.

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• Durability

Plug-and-play hot tubs are built to last, often constructed with high-quality materials like acrylic or rotomolded plastic. This makes them more durable and resistant to wear and tear compared to inflatable hot tubs (unless you have some boat glue handy, of course).

• More features

As you would expect for a hot tub with a premium price tag, plug-and-play models often come with a range of features such as powerful jets, built-in lighting, and advanced filtration systems. These features enhance the overall hot tub experience, providing better relaxation and hydrotherapy benefits, as confirmed by inforapennyinforapoundnumber2: “The inflatable/non-perm ones can only have either the heat on or the bubbles going at any one time. As far as I am aware you cannot have both. A perm one has both going together.”

• Better temperature control

As mentioned previously, plug-and-play hot tubs generally maintain their temperature better than inflatable models. They often have more efficient heating systems, allowing for a more consistent and comfortable soak with hot tub guru inforapennyinforapoundnumber2 adding: “You have to wait for the inflatable ones to get up to temp before you can go in. Our perm one is constantly at temp. Just need to turn bubbles on.”

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Cons of plug-and-play hot tubs

• They are expensive 

Plug-and-play models are typically more expensive than inflatable hot tubs, with the cost of the tub alone running into thousands of pounds. Plug-and-play fans would argue that this initial investment pays off in durability and performance. But before you take the plunge, you should also think about ongoing running costs, including the impact on your electricity bill. Worldgonecrazy says: “I love ours.. It’s a permanent one, so cost several thousand. Chemicals and looking after it costs about another £30 a month, and it works out about £10 a day in electricity so we tend to use just at weekends. An additional cost was installation of an outdoor shower with hot water so we could rinse down before and after use to avoid traipsing through the house.”

• Heavy and difficult to move

Plug-and-play hot tubs are heavier and less portable than inflatable models. Once set up, they can’t be moved easily, which could be a drawback if you plan to relocate or want to reposition the tub frequently. So think very carefully when picking the perfect spot for your tub, particularly if you have a nosy neighbour (looking at you, IsAnybody).

In conclusion, the decision whether to plump for a plug-and-play or an inflatable hot tub ultimately comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Plug-and-play models offer durability, advanced features, and better temperature control, making them a great choice for those looking for a more permanent and luxurious hot tub experience. On the other hand, inflatable hot tubs are much more budget-friendly and are easy to install and move, making them ideal for those seeking a more temporary and flexible solution.

If you like the idea of summer evenings under the stars, relaxing bubbles soothing away your stress and aches, check out our guide to the best hot tubs, featuring plug-and-play and inflatable models as tried, tested and recommended by real Mumsnetters.

About the author

Laura Cooke is a Content Editor at Mumsnet, with a special focus on child’s play, outdoor play and toddler play content.

Laura started writing Swears By articles for Mumsnet in 2021, writing buyers guides and product reviews to help Mumsnetters make informed choices when it comes to parting with their pennies.

Laura is also a freelance journalist and has written articles for publications including the Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful magazine.