History of Inflatable Hot Tubs: How Portable Spas Became Popular

From a basic inflatable pool to a smart, heated spa people use year-round, the evolution happened faster than most realize.

Inflatable hot tubs began as simple, portable soaking pools in the late 20th century, created for people who wanted relaxation without the cost or commitment of permanent spas.

Over time, stronger materials, built-in heaters, air-jet systems, and digital controls turned them into a mainstream home wellness option used in backyards, patios, and even indoors.

History of Inflatable Hot Tubs: From Ancient Spas to Portable Comfort

Ever wondered who made the first inflatable hot tub and when? Find out surprising journey from ancient soaking traditions to today’s portable spas.

Figure: Modern inflatable hot tubs use bubbling jets for hydrotherapy – a portable twist on a wellness tradition dating back millennia.

Inflatable hot tubs are a relatively recent innovation, but they build on thousands of years of spa history. Humans have long sought relaxation in hot water – from ancient Greek and Roman baths to Japanese onsens.

For example, 4th-century B.C. Greeks in Ikaria and Japan’s first onsen (737 A.D.) show early public hot baths. By the 19th and 20th centuries, home spa culture grew. In the 1940s the U.S. embraced Japanese-style soaking tubs, and the Jacuzzi family pioneered hydrotherapy baths.

The Jacuzzi brothers (Candido and Roy) introduced in-home whirlpool tubs: Candido Jacuzzi patented a portable whirlpool pump in 1967, and in 1968 Roy Jacuzzi launched the first self‑contained “Roman” whirlpool bath.

Ancient Roots and Hydrotherapy Innovations

• Ancient baths: Greeks and Romans built calderas and public baths for communal soaking. These early tubs were heated by hot rocks or natural springs (Therma in Ikaria dates to 4th century B.C.).
• Japanese ofuro: From 737 A.D., Japanese inns (ryokan) offered ofuro – wooden soaking tubs heated by onsen water.
• Modern jets: By the mid-20th century, powered hot tubs appeared. Hydrotherapy pumps (Jacuzzi) were added to bathtubs for massage jets. Roy Jacuzzi’s 1968 “Roman” tub integrated pump, jets, and plumbing in one unit. These were stationary tubs made of fiberglass or acrylic.

Portable Spa Era: Inflatable Hot Tubs Arrive

Unlike built-in spas, inflatable hot tubs pack down when not in use. This concept only took off in the 2000s. In 2007 Bestway’s Lay‑Z‑Spa (sold as Coleman SaluSpa in the US) launched the first luxury inflatable hot tub. It was conceived in the UK and manufactured by Bestway.

This innovation offered Jacuzzi‑style relaxation without permanent installation. Within a decade, portable spas became global: easy-to-store tubs with built-in pumps let people enjoy hot‑tubbing anywhere.

• First inflatable spa (2007): Bestway’s Lay-Z-Spa (SaluSpa in America) hit shelves, sparking the inflatable spa category.
• Patents and design: Earlier patents (1980s) covered inflatable tub kits, but only the 2000s saw consumer models with integrated heaters and pumps. Today’s inflatables use durable vinyl, drop‑stitch floors, and many have bubble jets for massage.
• Affordable & portable: Inflatable tubs cost $300–$800 (vs. $3,000+ for permanent spas) and run on 110 V power. Setup takes just a few hours. This affordability and ease made them popular: one study notes inflatables are generally more budget-friendly and ready to use in any backyard or deck.

Modern Trends and Brands

By the 2010s–2020s, many companies joined in. Popular brands include Bestway’s Lay-Z-Spa/Coleman SaluSpa, Intex (PureSpa), MSpa, and others. Key features evolved:

• Easy setup: Most models fully inflate in 2–4 hours and heat water to ~104°F on a normal outlet
• Energy efficiency: New insulation (e.g., Bestway’s EnergySense) and auto-freeze features let inflatables be used year-round.
• Variety: Sizes range from 2-person to 6-person. Some tubs now offer adjustable jets and controls like expensive spas.
• Safety updates: Standards have been created for portable spas. Despite their budget nature, quality materials (puncture-resistant walls, RCD plugs) and safety guidelines help reduce risks.

Today, inflatable hot tubs answer voice‑search queries like “When were inflatable hot tubs invented?” (mid-2000s) and “Who made the first inflatable hot tub?” (Bestway’s Lay-Z-Spa). They provide an affordable, on-the-go spa experience, continuing a hot tub tradition that began in ancient times

Early Innovations in Inflatable Hot Tubs

Where the Idea Came From

The concept appeared in the late 1900s when inflatable technology became strong enough to hold heated water safely. Early designs borrowed ideas from camping pools and portable baths, adding basic heaters and air pumps.

While there’s no single confirmed inventor, companies like Jacuzzi helped popularize portable hydrotherapy ideas decades earlier with compact whirlpool designs, influencing later inflatable models.

Early Problems and Fixes

The first inflatable hot tubs had real limitations:

• Heat escaped quickly
• Walls flexed under pressure
• Punctures were common

Manufacturers responded by:

• Adding reinforced PVC layers
• Improving air-chamber structure
• Integrating internal heaters instead of external ones

These fixes laid the foundation for reliable inflatable spas.

Checkout 2 person inflatable hot tub.

Evolution of Materials and Technology

Stronger, Longer-Lasting Materials

Early models often lasted a single season. That changed with multi-layer construction and laminated PVC, which reduced leaks and air loss.

Today’s inflatable hot tubs are built to handle:

• Daily inflation pressure
• Outdoor UV exposure
• Repeated heating cycles

This shift is one of the biggest reasons inflatable tubs moved from novelty to everyday use.

Smarter Heating and Controls

Heating used to be slow and inconsistent. Modern tubs now include:

• Built-in electric heaters
• Automatic temperature regulation
• Digital panels with memory settings

Some newer models even connect to mobile apps, letting users manage heat and jets remotely.

Design Milestones That Changed Everything

Features That Set Them Apart

Several upgrades transformed the experience:

• Air-jet massage systems
• Cushioned floors for comfort
• Integrated filtration units
• Improved insulation around the walls and base

These changes made inflatable tubs feel closer to traditional spas without the permanent footprint.

For a deeper breakdown of modern designs, many owners now reference guides like the ultimate guide to inflatable hot tubs when comparing features.

User Comfort Improvements

Better ergonomics mattered. Rounded interiors, quieter pumps, and stable seating increased soak time and overall satisfaction. Insulation improvements also lowered energy use, making long-term ownership more practical.

Market Growth and Popularity Trends

From Niche to Mainstream

Inflatable hot tubs started as a niche product for campers and renters. Over time, several trends pushed them forward:

• Rising interest in home wellness
• Limited outdoor space in urban areas
• Growing acceptance of portable solutions

Online reviews and social sharing accelerated adoption, especially during periods when people focused more on home relaxation.

Check out Everything You Need to Know About Inflatable Hot Tubs with Jets.

Why Demand Keeps Growing

Inflatable hot tubs now appeal to:

• First-time spa buyers
• Budget-conscious families
• Seasonal users
• People who want flexibility without commitment

They also became a popular alternative for anyone hesitant about long-term installation or maintenance.

Future Innovations to Watch

What’s Coming Next

Manufacturers are already working on:

• Smart home integration
• Energy-efficient heating
• Improved insulation for winter use
• Eco-friendlier materials

Solar-assisted heating and quieter pump systems are also gaining attention as energy costs rise.

Long-Term Outlook

As homes get smaller and lifestyles become more flexible, inflatable hot tubs are expected to remain a strong category rather than a trend. Their role in affordable wellness keeps expanding.

If you’re exploring options today, browsing trusted resources like inflatable hot tub reviews can help you understand how far these designs have come.

FAQs

Who invented the inflatable hot tub?
There’s no single confirmed inventor. The concept evolved as inflatable materials improved, inspired by earlier portable spa designs.

What are the downsides of inflatable hot tubs?
They’re less durable than hard-shell spas, lose heat faster, and usually last fewer years with heavy use.

How long does an inflatable hot tub last?
With proper care, most last about 3 to 5 years before materials begin to weaken.

How can you tell how old a hot tub is?
Check the pump label or model number. Condition often tells more than age alone.

Are inflatable hot tubs illegal in some states?
No statewide bans exist, but local electrical or safety codes may apply.

Do inflatable hot tubs use a lot of electricity?
They usually use more energy than insulated acrylic tubs but less than many expect when properly covered.

Can you use an inflatable hot tub in winter?
Yes, but freezing temperatures increase risk. Insulation and winter care matter.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration. Remember to visit Hot Tub Patio for the latest products and recommendations to enhance your outdoor living experience.

Explore our comprehensive guide on inflatable hot tubs for detailed information on selecting the best models, maintenance tips, and accessory recommendations to make the most of your experience.