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How to Choose The Best Hot Tub Accessories for Your Spa

  |   Buying & Research Guide, Benefits & Features   |   3 Comments

Many people enter into hot tub ownership to have a place to go and relax. Some intend to use it for therapy or to relieve a specific ache or condition. And others still use their spa primarily for social reasons like entertaining or creating more quality time. Whether enjoying your hot tub for any of these reasons with a spouse, family, friends or simply by yourself, the right accessories can enhance your experience. The best hot tub accessories can differentiate between the average soak and the absolute best tub experience you could imagine.

 

Here are the top categories to consider when deciding on the best hot tub accessories for your spa:

 

 

 

As you decide on which spa accessories to invest in, consider your lifestyle, your spa model, and what you want from your hot tub. Perhaps you’re looking to entertain guests, or you may want a place with the right mood for meditation or an ultra-comfortable place to unwind and de-stress. And everybody wants their spa to be safe and easily maintained.

 

To help determine which hot tub accessories best fit your lifestyle and meet your needs, we have developed this comprehensive list, categorized them, and provided descriptions of the benefits of each accessory.

 

Comfort & Usability

 

For many people, a hot tub is a place you go to relax after a long day. Comfort and usability is likely a critical factor in creating your ultimate hot tub experience.

 

The two most common considerations in this category are access and privacy. Are you looking for a quiet secluded experience but don’t have a private spot in the yard? No problem, there’s an accessory for that.

 

 

Privacy Screens

 

Privacy screens come in about as many types as you can imagine. Inexpensive and straightforward folding vinyl screens are an easy and portable way to block unwanted views. More permanent installations may incorporate privacy fencing or trellis materials. Or you may opt for something super fancy and functional like the Covana, an all-in-one automatic lifting hot tub cover and privacy shield that can be locked and raised and lowered by simply pushing a button.

 

Here are a few examples of privacy screens we like:

 

Automated Hot Tub Privacy Screen and Cover

Image by Covana

Image by The Wow Decor

 

Key takeaway:  Mother Nature can be harsh sometimes, and the various elements can take a toll on your spa. Most privacy shields also add a degree of protection from the elements. In addition to the peace of mind, you’ll get from a private spa experience, adding an enclosure, covering, or screen can keep your hot tub out of the elements and looking its best for years to come.

 

 

Spa Surrounds, Decking, and Built-in Seating

 

Do you need a place for people to get together and hang out? Or maybe you want to create a relaxed environment where you can sit back and enjoy a private at-home-spa experience?

 

You may be interested in incorporating a spa surround, enhanced decking, or built-in seating element around or near your hot tub.

 

Automated Hot Tub Privacy Screen and Cover

Image by Ernest Braun for California Redwood Association

Image by Fine Decks

Image by Nick Leith-Smith


Image by Archadeck

 

Key takeaway: One of the perks of designing a surround or enclosure is the added storage. When designing your ideal hot tub privacy design, remember to factor in the location of filters and other semi-annual maintenance needs.

 

 

Looking for more ideas for creating your perfect outdoor space? Check out our article, 63 Hot Tub Deck Ideas: Secrets of Pro Installers & Designers.

 

 

Spa Steps and In-ground Installation Kits

 

It seems simple, but one of the keys to enjoying your hot tub is getting in and out easily and safely. There are many creative ways to install your spa entirely or partially in the ground for easy access and many accessories like steps and handholds that will make entry and exit safe and simple.

 

Here are a few of our favorite spa steps and accessibility ideas.

 

Automated Hot Tub Privacy Screen and Cover

Image by Best Hot Tubs

Spa Steps Ideas

SpaVault Inground Hot tub Kit


SpaVault by Bullfrog Spas

 

 

Spa Cushions and Seats

 

spa-cushionLet’s face it; we’re not all the same size. If you find yourself toward the shorter end of the spectrum, you may struggle to find a comfortable spa seat that doesn’t make you feel like you’re swimming.

 

Modular spa cushions come in a variety of sizes and configurations. These accessories can add extra height for better alignment with the jets and comfort while soaking in the hot tub. They’re great for kids as well. There are a variety of styles and designs to choose from, and your hot tub dealer can help you decide which type of cushion best fits your needs.

 

Although most quality hot tubs come with very comfortable attached pillows, you may also want to opt for an additional set of hot tub pillows for extra cushioning and comfort.

 

Key takeaway: Boost your spa experience by keeping a few extra sinking spa cushions around for shorter individuals and kids.

 

 

 

For tips on the best way to maintain and care for your hot tub, check out our helpful infographic: How to Clean Your Hot Tub in 30 Minutes Per Month.

 

 

 

Safety

 

When it comes to hot tub ownership, safety is a big deal. No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen. Help protect your family, friends, and even yourself from injury by taking these precautions.

 

In addition to the safety accessories below, keep in mind infants and young children, especially if they are not your own, should never be permitted to enter a hot tub or the area around a hot tub. When age-appropriate children are in the hot tub, the temperature should be reduced to 100 degrees, and they should not be in the hot tub longer than 20 minutes.

 

Here are a few recommended safety accessories you may want to consider for your spa.

 

Spa Covers and Locks

 

Bullfrog Spas hot tub coverA locking spa cover or cover with locking clips is simply a must. In addition to helping you keep your spa clean and energy-efficient, your hot tub cover is your first line of defense. Make sure that your spa cover latches firmly and locks. This will keep small children from accidentally entering the spa.

 

A locking spa cover will also keep uninvited larger children, teens, adults, and even animals (yes, sometimes bears like a soak) out of your spa when you may not be home.

 

Cover Lift

 

One of the most convenient accessories, which we highly recommend, is a hot tub cover lifter or lift assist.

 

These devices make lifting your cover off the spa simple, even for one person. They also hold your cover out of the way while you soak. When positioned correctly, your cover resting up out of the way on the cover lift can even act as a privacy shield.

 

Signage

 

It’s always best to create clear guidelines for using the hot tub with your friends and family. Some signage around the spa can help make the rules more apparent if you’re not always around.

 

You may want to create signs reminding people about the safety hazards inherent with water and chemicals and reminders to avoid drinking alcohol before or while soaking in a hot tub, which can increase your risk of passing out and drowning.

 

Signs may also include a warning to avoid using your hot tub or swimming pool during a thunder and lightning storm or other extreme weather situation.

 

Even though such safety signage isn’t generally required for private hot tubs at your residence, it’s never a bad idea. It can even help you remember to be on your best behavior.

 

Gates and Fencing

 

Install gates and locks around your hot tub area to keep children from entering when an adult is not present. When the spa is not in use, remember to keep the hot tub covered and locked to prevent children or pets from falling in. In some municipalities, locking gates is required by law. You can learn more about safety guidelines by checking out these articles by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

 

 

Handrails, Non-slip Surfaces, and Lighting

Help prevent falls and other severe injuries by installing handrails and anti-skid treads to steps and other areas on the deck.

 

As you survey your hot tub and its surrounding area, keep a lookout for any dark space where someone might trip or fall. If there are any dark or less visible corners, install exterior lighting to illuminate those places and ensure people don’t miss a step and injure themselves.

 

As mentioned, hot tub covers serve as a critical safety feature. You’ll want to look for a cover with a high foam density and thickness to ensure security and protection from Mother Nature. You should also choose a cover with the correct measurements, so it fits your hot tub and doesn’t leave gaps which can turn dangerous and waste energy. And, of course, always take a moment to ensure your cover locks properly.

 

Key takeaway: Be aware of the areas around your hot tub where accidents may occur. Add railings, signs, exterior lights, and a durable locking cover to keep the hot tub ownership experience free of incident.

 

 

Fun & Entertainment

 

Your hot tub is relaxing and therapeutic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun. There are a variety of hot tub accessories that can help you get the party started.

 

 

Sound Systems

 

m series speaker audioThe right music added to your relaxing hydromassage can help you unwind at the end of the day. Integrated audio systems are an excellent way to enhance your hot tub experience. Bullfrog Spas offers an Elite Audio System, designed to optimize your relaxation by surrounding you with rich sound and giving you control over your music while relaxing in the spa.

 

Floating water-proof speakers are another way to enjoy a smooth spa sound experience. Cue up your favorite playlist on your smartphone, tablet, or digital music device, connect to the speakers via Bluetooth, sit back and relax.

 

Key takeaway: When choosing the best wireless or Bluetooth speakers for your hot tub, take a moment to consider the pros and cons along with the setup. Learn more by checking out this Wireless Speaker Buying Guide.

 

 

Toys & Games

 

For those who have children, providing games and hot tub toys work to break the ice (or stop the fighting). For entertaining your adult friends during backyard get-togethers, a simple deck of water-proof playing cards is a must for a little hot tub poker or any favorite card game.

 

Pool Ping Pong

Image by Wahu.com

Most of your favorite pool toys and accessories like floating noodles, pool ping pong, floating beverage boats, and even pool basketball hoops will also work in the hot tub.

 

Some favorites hot tub games include Sink the Battleship and Keep Away. Sink the Battleship is simple but always fun. Grab two cups, one for each team, and take turns pouring water from your hand into the opponent’s empty cup. Whichever cup sinks first is out of the game.

 

With Keep Away, split up into two teams and grab any objects that float, like rubber duckies or ping pong balls. The game’s goal is to have your object touch someone on the other team before their object touches anyone on your team. The only catch? You can’t use your hands.

 

Key takeaway: If you want more hot tub game ideas, there are dozens of fun, family-friendly activities parents and kids can enjoy. In addition, waterproof cards and board games are perfect for entertaining in the hot tub.

 

 

Hot Tub Exercise Accessories

 

Pool and Hot Tub Workouts

Image by Shape.com

Many of your favorite strength and flexibility exercises can also be done in the hot tub. Exercising in the spa can help minimize the impact on joints and benefit from less muscle stiffness. One of the most accessible fitness accessories to use in the spa is a set of standard resistance bands. Nearly all the resistance exercises you might do out of the water can be accomplished in your spa.

 

Several hot tub toys mentioned above can also help you get in shape and enhance a low-impact exercise program. Grab some pool noodles and press them under the water in various motions to work for different muscle groups without the additional stress on joints.

 

Before starting any new exercise program, consult with your doctor or health professional.

 

Key takeaway: Incorporate various exercise accessories in your hot tub or repurpose some of your hot tub toys. Your hydrotherapy experience can become a viable exercise program.

 

 

Therapy

One of the most enjoyable aspects of hydrotherapy is incorporating relaxing scents, sights, and sounds.

 

Spa Scents

 

hot tubs scentsThere are a variety of fragrances available by way of specialized spa salts. With many appealing scents to choose from, these sweet-smelling substances create the ideal hot tub experience without messing up your pH levels and alkalinity or harming your hot tub equipment.

 

Skin softening water conditioners are another excellent addition to help keep your skin moisturized and soft while soaking in your hot tub. Before using these, check your pH levels and alkalinity to confirm your water is prepped correctly.

 

Key takeaway: In addition to aroma salts, drop a few drops of your favorite essential oil into the water to help you relax.

 

 

Maintenance & Water Care

 

While you’re relishing in the comfort of your hot tub, remember to stay on top of maintenance, including water care. Many people put off maintaining their hot tub due to time constraints and procrastination. However, with the proper care and upkeep, you can keep your hot tub and accessories free of dirt, debris, and anything else that can damage them.

 

There are several accessories available to help you maintain your hot tub. A hot tub chemical floater, usually used in conjunction with bromine sanitation regimens, is one of the simplest ways to ensure correct sanitizer levels.

 

Another simple accessory to help you maintain your spa is a hot tub scrub brush. Wash your hot tub walls and floor with a hot tub brush that is slightly curved to go around walls and get those corners.

 

While you’re keeping your filters and jets clean, you need to also stay on top of your water chemistry. When it comes to hot tub chemistry, there are a lot of aftermarket and OEM options on the market—chlorine, bromine, saltwater systems, UV light sanitizers, and other alternative water systems.

 

As you do your research, take some time to weigh the pros and cons of each option. The more you know going in, the better you can anticipate how much work will go into your hot tub water care. For example, saltwater systems are a hot topic right now, and some people lean toward getting away from using chemicals. However, keep in mind these are not necessarily without some maintenance and upkeep.

 

Several apps help you stay on top of your hot tub maintenance. Check out this list from Swim University on apps for pool and hot tub care.

 

Key takeaway: Keeping your hot tub clean and clear of debris is important, but testing your water is equally important. Maintaining proper pH and alkalinity levels is critical to keeping your water clear and avoiding skin irritation.

 

 

Bullfrog Spas Online Shop

 

Maintain your spa and enjoy a peaceful body, peaceful mind, and peaceful home with genuine Bullfrog Spas products. Shop helpful hot tub accessories, original replacement parts for your Bullfrog Spa, easy-to-use hot tub water care chemicals, etc.

 

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AUTHOR - Bullfrog Spas

Bullfrog Spas is a premier brand of personalized premium hot tubs. With proprietary hydromassage technology and an eye for contemporary design, Bullfrog Spas is revolutionizing the concept of the portable hot tub and providing a relaxation experience unlike any other. Discover the award winning spa of the future today.

3 Comments
  • LIZZ BROWN | Sep 24, 2017 at 6:55 pm

    I RECENTLY PURCHASED A BULLFROG SPA FROM LEISURE SPA/POOLS IN COLUMBUS GA AND IT WAS THE WORST THING I’VE DONE IN A LONG TIME WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY THAT COMPANY IS HORRIBLE WILL NOT RECOMMEND ANYONE TO PURCHASE A SPA FROM THEM.

    • Bullfrog Spas | Oct 2, 2017 at 8:52 am

      Thanks for the feedback and bringing this to our attention. It’s important that our customers have a great experience when purchasing our product. This includes the experience you have with the dealerships that sell our brand. We’re using this as an opportunity for training and can assure you we will discuss this with this business. If you would like to provide the specifics of this situation (if you have not done so already) please email them to info@bullfrogspas.com.

    • Laura Cottington | Nov 11, 2019 at 7:14 pm

      Sorry you had that experience, but we have had the absolute opposite. We bought ours in 2013 and it is still amazing. Never had a problem and it is built to last. We live in Minnesota with below freezing temps in the winter and we use it all year long. Most durable spa with good reviews online which is why we purchased.

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