Who really knows what the summer will bring?
In recent years London and the South East has sweltered under heatwaves with highs as extreme as 40 degrees celsius. Other seasons have been a washout. The only thing that’s certain is that summers in the UK are never a sure thing.
That’s why when the sun shines, as it has been doing so very well lately, it’s prudent to make the most of things. We’re talking picnics in the park, exploring the best our city has to offer, and making the most of our outdoor space.
Yes, gardens are be back in the spotlight this summer with BBQs and parties in backyards across the land. But this summer, perhaps it’s time to truly make it the envy of all your neighbours.
If you spent the last year getting your outdoor oasis in order, it’s time to add some bells and whistles this time around.
How, you ask? Two words: hot tub.
Because if you’ve the space and the money, what could be better than relaxing in warm bubbly water, especially on these beautifully long summer nights?
How do you install a hot tub?
While there are plenty of online guides to installing an outdoor tub yourself, it is a complex system so it’s best to call in the professionals. Decking may need to be reinforced, while concrete surfaces will need to be level and thick enough to handle the weight of the unit when it’s full of water and people. A sturdy platform is important; it should never sit directly on grass or naked soil.
How do you clean a hot tub?
Hot tub specialists Outdoor Living has a helpful online guide to keeping your tub looking its sparking best. Routine cleaning is key, as is using the right products (no bleach!) to keep it ship shape. It’s also good practice to check pH levels and chlorine or bromine sanitiser on a weekly basis.
How do you choose a hot tub?
As designs go, there are a few to choose from. Portable ones, which include inflatable, or ones that are custom built or in-ground. Needless to say, the former are less of a financial commitment, but if you’ve got the cash to splash out on a proper jacuzzi, the end result can look straight out of a luxury resort.
Once you’ve found your favourite, it’s time to break out the measuring tape. Outline the size on the ground with chalk with extra room to accommodate steps, equipment and a cover lifter.
An outdoor tub is a big investment, so it’s wise to research as much as possible before taking the plunge.
If you’re in need of inspiration, we’ve rounded up the best models below.
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Lay-Z-Spa Helsinki 7 Person AirJet Hot Tub
Dimensions: H180 x W180 x H66cm
At first glance, this seven-seater tub may look like it’s been crafted from wood, but it’s actually made from premium Drop Stitch material. You can use it any time of year thanks to Freeze Shield and it also features a 180 AirJet Massage System for therapeutic bubbles and water pummelling sore muscles, a fast 40 heating system and timer so there’s no standing around in your bathing suit waiting for it to warm up. The best bit? It inflates in less than five minutes! Weighs 38.7kg and requires a 13A socket.
Buy now £600.00, Argos
Lay-Z-Spa Cancun 2-4 Person Hot Tub
Dimensions: D180 x W180 x H66cm
You’ll need to head over to your nearest Argos store to pick this up, but if you’re looking for a relatively cheap way to enjoy your garden this summer, it’s worth the effort. A paddling pool on steroids, this design is smaller than the last, making it perfect for smaller spaces or gardens that you don’t want to overwhelm with a huge tub. There’s space for four adults, and it features many of the perks of its big brother: Freeze Shield, AirJet massage system and fast inflate time. No lights, but with a saving of nearly £500 it’s one feature we’re willing to skip.
Buy now £336.00, Argos
CleverSpa Mia 4 person Hot tub
Dimensions: D180 x W180 x H65cm
This tub partners with an app so you can set the timer and temperature on when you’re out and about. If you’ve already got rattan garden furniture, this will fit in seamlessly thanks to the outer pattern on the tub. The four person, 10 jet tub comes with an insulating top cover with double locking safety clips for extra peace of mind. Available for in-store pick up as well as home delivery.
Buy now £250.00, B&Q
Canadian Spa Okanagan 10-Jet 4-Person Hot Tub
Dimension: 160 x 160 x 73cm
Full submerge yourselves in this special tub which offers seating for four of your favourite people. It’s fitted with an Ozone Water Care System which helps form luxurious bubbles that feel silky on the skin. There’s also a hardtop thermal locking cover, perfect if you’re planning on dipping in and out of it all day. Use the Balboa digital control panel to get the 10 jets firing properly, and turn on the LED lights at dusk to keep the party simmering along.
Buy now £2944.99, Robert Dyas
CleverSpa Cotswolds 4 Person Round Hot Tub
Dimensions: 65 x 180cm
You’ll need to head over to your nearest Homebase to pick this up, but if you’re looking for a relatively cheap way to enjoy your garden this summer, it’s worth the effort. A paddling pool on steroids, this design is smaller than the last, making it perfect for smaller spaces or gardens that you don’t want to overwhelm with a huge tub.
There’s space for four adults, and it features many of the perks of its peers: FreezeGuard, 110 massaging air jets, and fast inflate time - we’re talking just. No lights, but at this price it’s one feature we’re happy to skip.
Buy now £280.00, Homebase
MSpa Tekapo Inflatable Hot Tub Square Spa 4 Person
Dimensions: 1.58m x 1.58m x 68cm.
A quick heating system means you can slide into this hot tub year around, with the water topping out at a toasty 36 degrees. So, post-Christmas lunch soak anyone?
That said a soak is arguably more appealing when the sun is out, cocktails in hand and music tinkling in the background. Boasting 110 relaxing air jets, it comes with a built-in pump and heating system, which means you can shift it around as and when you like. You might need a hand; it weighs 21kg.
Buy now £269.99, ManoMano
