In spite of the fact that we are experiencing continuous heatwaves, hot tubs remain as popular as ever. Is it any surprise that so many of us still prefer to spend the majority of our days at home, where we can take advantage of that all-important downtime to relax and unwind?

Contrary to popular belief, hot tubs are actually used all year long, regardless of whether the sun is shining or snow has begun to fall. They're a great way to socialize or simply to relax and soak away your worries, and with more options on the market than ever before, there's one to suit every taste and lifestyle.

Having said that, if you are unsure about which type of hot tub to purchase, it can be intimidating to make such a significant financial commitment. But don't worry, we've put together a guide to assist you in determining which hot tub type is best suited to your requirements.

Here are the top-rated inflatable hot tubs available right now.
Find out how to clean and maintain an inflatable hot tub in this article.
Is a fence around my hot tub necessary? Safety regulations are explained in detail.
Before we get into the specifics of the different types, it's important to note that many states and other jurisdictions require you to child-proof your hot tub with a fence or safety barrier. Check the regulations in your specific area and factor this into the amount of space you will require.

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Inflatable/portable vehicles
Because of its portability, this type of hot tub can be inflated and deflated as needed and moved around. Because of their portability and lightweight design, they are an excellent choice for travelers, and they offer the best value for money among the products on our list. They typically have a capacity of 4-6 people and are equipped with jets to create the bubbles. In addition, some models have built-in LED lights for nighttime entertaining opportunities!

Having said that, inflatable hot tubs are not as durable as other types of hot tubs, and some don't provide as much comfort as others due to the lack of molded seats. They also don't have the same aesthetic appeal as permanent tubs — think of a rubber ring instead of a wooden one.

It is the best type to start with if you are new to the hot-tub market and aren't sure where you want to place your hot tub or how much use you will receive from it.

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Acrylic/Wooden Combination
Typically, when you think of a hot tub, you think of acrylic or wood. However, there are other options available. This type of fixture is a permanent fixture with a hard exterior, and they are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.

This type of tub, which is heated by an internal heating system, can provide a great deal more customization, including multiple massage settings and lighting options. Some of the most recent models can even be controlled by your smartphone via Wi-Fi, or by voice control if you don't want to take the chance of dropping your phone in the water. A waterfall and Bluetooth audio are available as additional features if that isn't enough for you.

However, depending on the material and style you choose, these can make a statement in your backyard. Choosing wood as a flooring material is a good choice if you want something that looks natural and is environmentally friendly.

Keep in mind that you will need a hard, level surface to permanently install your hot tub, and that you will need to maintain it even when it is not in use to keep it in good condition. These hot tubs can also be quite expensive, depending on their size and features, so be prepared to shell out a significant sum of money.

Spa with a wood-burning fire
A wood-fired hot tub is similar to the previously mentioned wooden hot tub option, except that it is heated by a log-fired stove rather than electricity. It's ideal if you want something more traditional or if you don't have access to an electrical outlet outside. These have a rustic appearance and can be a great conversation starter for guests.

These, on the other hand, will not bubble unless you purchase one that has been equipped with additional bubble jets that are partially powered by electricity. You will also need to store the wood to keep it warm, and you will need to be prepared to go outside every now and then to add more wood to the stove. The fact that it uses a heating source means that it takes longer to prepare for use and that it is more difficult to maintain a precise temperature.