The hot tub, also called by the much fancier name – spa, is more than just your giant bathtub where you can unwind with a glass of wine or your partner, or best of all – both. In fact, hot tubs are a form of hydrotherapy which can have amazing benefits for your health. Using hydrotherapy regularly can help you relax, improve your sleep, alleviate muscle and joint paint, and improve blood circulation. Whether you’re planning to get a spa for pure indulgence or for a certain health reason, here are some steps that can help you decide which one to get.

Set Your Budget

Let’s be honest, getting a hot tub is a major purchase. On average, hot tubs can range between $6000 – $30 000, depending on size and additional features. Extra features like entertainment systems and lighting are sure nice to have, but they can also significantly increase the price of the spa. Therefore, before considering deluxe models, you should know how much you can spend. Before you take your wallet out, browse all your available options. A good way to do so is to take a look at the wide range of hot tubs online and decide which features are essential for you and which are not. Even the most basic models still offer you the great benefits of hydrotherapy, if that’s what you’re looking for. But if you want a spa experience focused on entertainment, modify your budget to include the various bells and whistles that can make your spa exactly how you want it to be.

Decide on the Material

There are two types of materials you can choose from: all natural wood, or sturdy fibreglass and polypropylene. If you opt for the classic beauty a wooden spa can have, be ready for some high maintenance. Wood is a material that can shrink or expand when exposed for long periods to moisture. Also, some badly made wooden spas can experience leakage. On the other hand, polypropylene and fibreglass hot tubs consist of several layers which prevent leakages. Furthermore, these hot tubs require less cleaning and maintenance. The choice of material should eventually come down to your personal taste.

How Much Room Do You Need?

In the case of hot tubs – size really matters. Do you envision yourself in a cosy, little tub for two, or in a large-sized model with plenty of room for more people? Choosing a large-capacity model is a major consideration. A tub for 6 or 8 people requires plenty of maintenance and more power to run. But if you’re planning to grow your family or want to share your spa with friends, consider a model that can accommodate at least four people. But most importantly, consider whether you actually have enough space to fit a large-sized tub.