Hot tubs are a great way to relax, enjoy and be at ease after a hard day’s work. There are many benefits of hot tubs other than relaxation and rejuvenation. A soak in a hot tub can help you sleep better, increase the blood circulation in your body, and help you to alleviate pains and aches in joints. As much fun as hot tubs are, you need to take proper care and maintenance of hot tubs so that you can get maximum use out of them.
One of the most important things that you need to take care of hot tubs is hot tub covers. These covers are essential for use of hot tubs as these have many advantages that help you to maintain as well as make the best possible use of the hot tubs. Hot tub covers are available in various shapes, sizes, and material choices. There are different types of hot tub covers as well, some buckle up, others simply cover the hot tub.
It can be a little confusing to see which hot tub cover is the best for your hot tub. In this write up, we are going to take a look at some of the popular hot tub covers, their pros, cons, features, specifications and much more. We’ve chosen the best hot tub covers after thorough research and we hope that by the end of this article, you will be able to choose a hot tub cover for your hot tub.
Comparison Chart of Best Hot Tub Covers
| Product Name | Dimensions | Weight | Material | Warranty | Editor Rating | Where to Buy? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BeyondNice Hot Tub Cover | 6 x 96 x 96 inches | 55 lbs | Vinyl | 5 Years | 4.5/5 | Check on Amazon |
| CoverMates Square Hot Tub Cover | 84W x 84D x 14H | 6.9 lbs | Commercial vinyl | 2 Years | 4.6/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Classic Accessories | 12 x 96 x 96 inches | 4.5 lbs | Polyester Fabric | 3 Years | 4.4/5 | Check on Amazon |
| The Cover Guy Deluxe Hot Tub Cover | 96 x 96 maximum | 150 lbs | Marine Grade Vinyl | 7 Years | 4.3/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Budge All-Seasons Square Hot Tub Cover | 86 x 14 x 86 inches | 2 lbs | 3 Layer SFS | 1 Year | 3.3/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Leaf Net - Hot Tub / Spa | 108 x 108 x 2.4 inches | 1.5 lbs | High-Strength Micro Mesh | NA | 3.8/5 | Check on Amazon |
| EmpirePatio Square Hot Tub Covers | 14 x 86 x 86 inches | NA | Three Layer Protective Material | 1 Year | 4.0/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Spa Cover Cap Thermal | 8 x 8 feet x 12 inches | 6.1 lbs | Woven Polyethylene | 1 Year | 3.9/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Sundance Optima Replacement Spa Cover | 89 x 89 inches with 8 inch | NA | Commercial Grade Vinyl | 1 Year | 3.9/5 | Check on Amazon |
| Budge English Garden Square Hot Tub Cover | 14 x 94 x 94 inches | 6 lbs | Spun Polyester | 2 Year | 4.1/5 | Check on Amazon |
Why Choose a Hot Tub Cover?
A hot tub can be difficult to take care of if you don’t have the right tools and equipment. A Hot tub cover is the most important piece of equipment that you can use to ensure your hot tub stays in a pristine condition ready for use when you want it to. Here are some reasons why you should choose a hot tub cover.
- Security: A hot tub cover locks onto your hot tub and helps to prevent any small animals or insects from getting into your hot tub. In winter months, the warmth of the hot tub can attract small critters and they can try to get into the hot tub, but once you have a hot tub cover installed, that won’t be possible.
- Insulation: Hot tub covers are the best way to provide insulation to your hot tub while the water is heating up. With a proper hot tub cover in place, the water will get heated up quickly and more efficiently.
- Protection from Elements: A hot tub cover protects your hot tub from external elements such as rain, wind, dust, snow, and more. External elements can contaminate the water of the tub and create an imbalance in the water’s composition making it unfit for use.
- Energy Conservation: You can put on a hot tub cover once you get out of the water from a hot tub so that it will stay warmer for a longer duration than usual.
- Easy to Use: Putting on a hot tub cover is really easy as these are available in various models and you can choose from simple lock-down covers to zip covers and covers that can roll over the tub for better insulation and protection.
- Safety: Hot tub covers with locks also add to the safety of your hot tub. While the water is getting hot, putting on the hot tub cover ensures no one accidentally falls into the hot tub. Often, with seniors and children around, there is a risk of them falling into the hot tub, but with a hot tub cover, you can prevent such accidents.
Cons of Buying Hot Tub Cover
When you’re looking to buy a hot tub cover there are certain things you need to keep in mind as the negative aspects associated with hot tub covers. Some of those things are:
- Low Quality Hot Tub Covers: Not all hot tub covers are made of excellent material. Low quality hot tub covers can start to develop rips and tears in their material over time and this can totally negate the value of having a hot tub cover. Dirt and dust can get in and contaminate the water, making it unfit for use. If you’re buying a hot tub cover, make sure you buy a cover made from high quality materials.
- Hot Tub Covers With Non-Functional Designs: If you’re buying a hot tub and it has a design that doesn’t account for snowfall, rainfall, or extreme hot or cold temperature, it can be difficult to use this cover in these conditions as it will sag and tear under the weight of the snow, water, or weather.
- Hot Tub Covers Need Maintenance: When you start using your hot tub cover, it will be exposed to varying water temperatures, different types of weather, chemicals, and much more. These covers can tend to lose their shine and luster with time unless they’re taken care of properly. You need to regularly clean the covers and dry them out so that they can last longer and look good too.
- Fitting on the Hot Tub: A cover should fit properly on the hot tub for perfect insulation and prevention from insects or critters. You need to buy a cover that exactly fits your hot tub otherwise, it can leave gaps that will allow heat to escape and insects to get into the water.
- You might need to buy a cover remover: Simply buying a hot tub cover is not enough. These things can get heavy and difficult to remove as they can often soak in water. You will need to buy an additional device called the hot tub cover remover that can remove the hot tub cover easily. This is an additional expense if your hot tub cover doesn’t already include this mechanism.
- Locking Straps Are A Must: If you’ve put on the cover on your hot tub you need to lock it down properly every time otherwise the cover can blow away in fast winds. Improper locks mean that children or small animals can easily get into the tub.
Different Types of Hot Tub Covers
There are as many hot tub covers available as there are hot tubs in the market. You need to really dig deep down to find the kind of cover that will be best for your hot tub. Here are some types of hot tub covers that you can choose from.
- Soft Covers: These are some of the most common types of covers available in the market. They are also very easy to use. You can simply roll the cover over the hot tub. As these are made from softer materials like vinyl, plastic, or foam, these are best suitable for hot tubs that are located in the house under a proper cover from the elements.
- Solar Covers: These are the new types of covers in the market that not only cover your hot tub but also keep the water hot as long as the sun is out. This type of cover can help you in greatly reducing your power bills as you won’t need to keep the power on to heat up the water all the time.
- Hard Shell Covers: These covers come with a hard shell that latches onto the hot tub with buckles or locks. These are harder to move as these are also very heavy. You might need to use a hot tub cover remover with these covers to properly remove and put them back on the tub.
- Seasonal Covers: These are heavy-duty covers that are ideal for use during the whole season. These covers completely cover up the hot tub instead of just the top of the tub so that the tub’s sides are also protected from snow, rain, and heat. These hot tub covers are ideal for adding to the life of your hot tub.
How We Choose Hot Tub Covers for This Write-up
Choosing the best ten hot tub covers from the range available in the market is not an easy task. That’s why we kept in mind certain factors that we used to pick these hot tub covers. Here are some of the factors we followed.
- The Material of the Hot Tub Cover: Better material can provide better performance from the hot tub cover in terms of insulation and durability. We took into account the type of material the hot tub cover has and gave a higher ranking to hot tub covers with better quality material.
- Warranty: A higher warranty period is always a good thing when it comes to hot tub covers. We chose hot tub covers that offered the best warranty to cover every kind of damage or malfunction with the cover and gave those products a higher ranking.
- Ease of Installation: Some covers are a lot of hassle to put on the hot tub. We looked through the available range of hot tub covers, read the reviews, and chose the hot tub covers that were easy to install on the hot tub and also easy to remove.
- User Reviews: User reviews are a great indication of how the hot tub cover performs in the real world. We read through countless user reviews to zero in on the products that worked best for actual users in real-world conditions.
Different Types of Hot Tub Covers
There are as many hot tub covers available as there are hot tubs in the market. You need to really dig deep down to find the kind of cover that will be best for your hot tub. Here are some types of hot tub covers that you can choose from.
- Soft Covers: These are some of the most common types of covers available in the market. They are also very easy to use. You can simply roll the cover over the hot tub. As these are made from softer materials like vinyl, plastic, or foam, these are best suitable for hot tubs that are located in the house under a proper cover from the elements.
- Solar Covers: These are the new types of covers in the market that not only cover your hot tub but also keep the water hot as long as the sun is out. This type of cover can help you in greatly reducing your power bills as you won’t need to keep the power on to heat up the water all the time.
- Hard Shell Covers: These covers come with a hard shell that latches onto the hot tub with buckles or locks. These are harder to move as these are also very heavy. You might need to use a hot tub cover remover with these covers to properly remove and put them back on the tub.
- Seasonal Covers: These are heavy-duty covers that are ideal for use during the whole season. These covers completely cover up the hot tub instead of just the top of the tub so that the tub’s sides are also protected from snow, rain, and heat. These hot tub covers are ideal for adding to the life of your hot tub.
How We Choose Hot Tub Covers for This Write-up
Choosing the best ten hot tub covers from the range available in the market is not an easy task. That’s why we kept in mind certain factors that we used to pick these hot tub covers. Here are some of the factors we followed.
- The Material of the Hot Tub Cover: Better material can provide better performance from the hot tub cover in terms of insulation and durability. We took into account the type of material the hot tub cover has and gave a higher ranking to hot tub covers with better quality material.
- Warranty: A higher warranty period is always a good thing when it comes to hot tub covers. We chose hot tub covers that offered the best warranty to cover every kind of damage or malfunction with the cover and gave those products a higher ranking.
- Ease of Installation: Some covers are a lot of hassle to put on the hot tub. We looked through the available range of hot tub covers, read the reviews, and chose the hot tub covers that were easy to install on the hot tub and also easy to remove.
- User Reviews: User reviews are a great indication of how the hot tub cover performs in the real world. We read through countless user reviews to zero in on the products that worked best for actual users in real-world conditions.
Best Hot Tub Cover Reviews
1. BeyondNice Hot Tub Cover and Spa Cover, 6-inch
BeyondNice offers a complete range of customizable insulating covers that are made from the best materials available in the market. You can choose the cover you like, and the company’s representatives will connect with you to get the specifications of your hot tub as well as the type of cover you’d like. This cover is six inches thick and offers maximum insulation from the elements, helping lower your electricity bills. It also means your hot tub will get warm quicker than before. Let’s have a look at the features and specifications of this hot tub cover.
Pros
- The cover can be customized to exact specifications of your hot tub
- The cover comes with a 5-year warranty
- Made from non-corrosive Galvalum metal c-channels for additional durability
- Comes with polyethylene vapor barrier to keep moisture out
- Made from mildew-resistant military-grade vinyl
- Six-inch skirt offers weather and UV protection
Cons
- The hot tub cover might develop holes if kept on the ground
- The stitching around corners and edges might come apart with extensive usage
- The handles of the cover are on the end and not on the sides for flipping
- Customized covers can be a hit or miss in case of lapse in communication between the customer and manufacturer
- The tie-down straps are made from flimsy material
Editor’s Verdict
When you need a quality cover made to meet the exact specifications of your hot tub, you can rely on BeyondNice. The firm offers hot tub covers in a wide range of sizes, the maximum being 96” x 96”. These covers are made from the best materials available in the market. You can get the covers customized as per your exact requirements by discussing with the company’s representatives, and you will get the cover delivered at your address in 10-15 business days. The covers are backed by a 5-year warranty, so you can rest assured you will get a solution if something goes wrong with the cover.
2. CoverMates – Square Hot Tub Cover
This Square Hot Tub Cover from CoverMates is the perfect hot tub cover for large hot tubs. The hot tub cover is made from high-quality commercial vinyl that comes with 12-gauge thickness. The cover also has an elastic hem that adds to the overall area under the cover and helps to provide additional stability to the cover. The polyester lining of this hot tub cover also acts as a deterrent to small insects and critters that are otherwise attracted to felt lining. Here’s a quick look at the features and specifications of this hot tub cover.
Pros
- High-quality construction
- Durable commercial vinyl material
- Large size, ideal for most tubs
- Prevents dust, pollen, and dirt from getting in the water
- The cover is easy to put on the hot tub
Cons
- The outer green layer can flake easily
- The cover is not completely waterproof
- The cover doesn’t perform too well under harsh temperature conditions
Editor’s Verdict
This is the ideal hot tub cover if you’re looking for something durable, reliable, and a perfect fit. This hot tub cover is made from high-quality commercial vinyl that doesn’t wear or tear easily. The tub cover is easy to put on the tub, and it comes with an elastic hem that provides additional stability. If you’re looking for a tub cover that will last you for years, this is the one you should pick.
3. Classic Accessories 55-586-011501-00 Veranda Square Hot Tub Cover, Large
The Square Hot Tub Cover by Classic Accessories is the ideal cover for your hot tub as it can prevent any debris, dust, or dirt from getting into the hot tub. The cover is easy to use, and you can install it without any problem. It is an all-weather cover and is backed by a 3-year warranty. Classic Accessories covers are made from durable quality material, just like this cover, which is made from polyester fabric. For better performance, the cover also comes coated with special water-repellent undercoating.
Pros
- The cover is large in size and fits most hot tubs
- The water-repellent fabric is perfect for protecting the tub during the rainy season
- The cover comes with padded handles for easy removal
- It is easy to adjust the cover with an elastic hem cord
- It works with more spa cover lifts as well
Cons
- The cover is prone to tearing near the corners
- The cover is not waterproof
- The cover gets dirty easily
- The middle portion of the tub might collect water during rains
Editor’s Verdict
If you’re looking for a hot tub cover that will fit your hot tub and offer a durable experience as well, then this is the cover for you. This cover is made from polyester fabric that is ideal for all kinds of weather. The cover is easy to install over the insulated cover, and it protects both the insulated cover and your hot tub from damage caused by weather. You can use the elastic hem cord to secure this hot tub cover. The included 3-year warranty makes this hot tub cover a total steal.
4. The Cover Guy Deluxe Hot Tub Cover, Custom Made Replacement 5″ Taper
The Cover Guy is one of the most reputed brands offering custom-made covers for hot tubs. You can choose from a variety of colors, and the team from The Cover Guy will get in touch with you to gather the dimensions of your tub and create a custom-sized cover using the best materials available. The high-quality construction of these hot tub covers ensures energy savings. These covers are designed to repel water, snow, and ice while retaining heat, so the water is toasty warm when you need it. Let’s take a quick look at the specifications of this hot tub cover.
Pros
- Custom-made covers for the best fit
- Comes with a coating for zero water absorption
- Includes a 7-year warranty
- Covers can be custom-made for sizes up to 96″ x 96″
- Tear-free handles add to security
- Reinforced folding hinge adds to the cover’s safety quotient
Cons
- The skirt design doesn’t fit tubs properly
- The cover doesn’t provide an adequate seal
- The cover material can start developing cracks over time
Editor’s Verdict
If you’re looking for a custom-made cover in your choice of color, then The Cover Guy is your best bet. The team at The Cover Guy creates custom hot tub covers designed to fit your tub as per the measurements you provide. The covers are made from high-quality materials, making them durable in all weather conditions. The stellar 7-year warranty reflects the company’s confidence in its products. So what are you waiting for? Get your custom cover today!
5. Budge All-Seasons Square Hot Tub Cover, Medium (Tan)
The Budge All-Seasons Square Hot Tub Cover is the ideal cover for medium-sized hot tubs. This cover is highly durable as it is made from three layers of tech spun-bond polypropylene. You can easily use this hot tub cover in all weather conditions, and it will prevent your hot tub water from being polluted by debris, dirt, rain, or insects. The cover is also excellent at keeping the water in the spa warm by trapping the heat inside. The spa cover has a full elastic hem that adds to its stability in adverse weather conditions. Here’s a look at some more features and specifications of this hot tub cover.
Pros
- Made from highly durable material
- The construction material is waterproof and UV-proof
- Comes with ultrasonic seams for higher durability
- Includes straps for better security in adverse weather conditions
- The cover looks great in a stylish tan color
Cons
- The hot tub cover is prone to mold
- The material can crack under constant exposure to the sun
- The cover is not waterproof
- The cover might rip if pulled with force
Editor’s Verdict
The Budge All-Seasons Square Hot Tub Cover has durable construction that can withstand most weather conditions. The cover is made from three-layer SFS material, adding to its strength and durability. This is the perfect cover for protecting your hard cover and your tub’s water from contaminants. If you’re looking for a durable and functional hot tub cover, pick this cover today!
6. Leaf Net – Hot Tub / Spa
If you live in a location with moderate weather and want a hot tub covering product that is light and easy, then the Leaf Net from EZ Leaf Cover is the ideal product for you. This cover is easy to use; simply place it over your hot tub to prevent leaves or dirt from getting into the water. Not only does it keep the water in your tub clean, but it also reduces the time spent on maintenance. When not in use, the Leaf Net folds up easily and can be stored in the provided bag. Here’s a look at its features and specifications:
Pros
- Made from highly durable micro PVC material
- Weather-resistant mesh
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Can be folded and stored in a bag when not in use
- Performs well under adverse wind conditions
Cons
- Needs to be weighed down with heavy objects in high winds
- The net can sink and touch the water
- Mesh may disintegrate with prolonged exposure to the sun
Editor’s Verdict
If you’re looking for a lightweight hot tub cover, this is an excellent choice. The Leaf Net is easy to use, folding into a large circular shape that fits tubs of virtually any size. While it effectively keeps leaves and dirt out, it may need additional weighting in high winds. The durable material shows good longevity under various weather conditions, although constant sun exposure may affect its integrity. For detailed folding instructions, refer to the manufacturer’s website.
7. EmpirePatio Square Hot Tub Covers Cap 86 in Wide – Nutmeg
The EmpirePatio Square Hot Tub Cover is a versatile option for hot tubs that are 86” wide. Constructed with durable three-layer material, this cover offers excellent protection from the elements while maintaining the heat during water heating. Its vented design prevents the growth of mold, and the cover includes a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind. Here’s an overview of its features:
Pros
- The hot tub cover is 100% waterproof
- Ideal for hot tubs measuring 86”x86”
- Keeps heat in while keeping insects out
- Made from highly durable three-layer material
- UV ray proof
Cons
- Not very effective at keeping rainwater out of the hot tub
- Color fades quickly under sunlight
- Inner material prone to flaking over time
Editor’s Verdict
If you’re seeking an affordable and durable cover, this option from EmpirePatio is worth considering. Designed for hot tubs measuring 86”x86”, it features durable, waterproof, and UV-proof materials. The extended sides help minimize heat loss while preventing dust and debris from contaminating the water. While it has some drawbacks, such as color fading and potential flaking, its affordability and utility make it a great choice for buyers on a budget. Get yours today!
8. Spa Cover Cap Thermal Spa Cover Protector – 8 X 8 Feet X 12 Inches
The Spa Cover Cap Thermal Spa Cover Protector is a practical choice for users looking to protect their thermal covers from harsh weather, especially in snowy regions. This cover stretches over existing thermal covers to enhance their insulating properties and provide added protection. Its durable woven polyethylene construction and reflective silver color make it ideal for maintaining your hot tub in adverse weather conditions.
Pros
- Offers protection from rain, dust, debris, snow, and more
- Made from durable woven polyethylene material
- Silver color helps melt snow efficiently
- 12-inch overlap retains heat and keeps insects out
- Lightweight and easy to install
Cons
- Elastic band prone to breakage
- Heat might escape in high wind conditions
- Slightly smaller in size than advertised
Editor’s Verdict
This cover is ideal for users in snowy regions as it protects the hot tub and enhances the melting of snow with its reflective silver surface. Easy to install and highly durable, it offers excellent protection against the elements. While the elastic band and fit could be improved, its functionality and affordability make it a great addition to your hot tub care routine. If you need a reliable spa cover
9. Sundance Optima Replacement Spa Cover Lift and Hot Tub Cover – Charcoal
The Sundance Optima Replacement Spa Cover is designed to fit large hot tubs, offering added security and ease of use. It features 1-pound foam inserts for excellent insulation, a childproof locking system to prevent accidents, and a skirt length of 5 inches to reduce heat loss and keep insects out. The cover is easy to install and move with side straps, though it is not compatible with cover lifts that are installed into the cover.
Pros
- Made from durable commercial-grade vinyl
- Excellent insulation with 1-pound foam inserts
- Bromine and chlorine-resistant underside material
- Easy to move with provided straps
- Childproof locking system
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Not an original Sundance cover, but a replacement
- Lightweight, feels somewhat flimsy
Editor’s Verdict
If you own a large hot tub and need a reliable cover, the Sundance Optima Replacement Spa Cover offers a great solution. It’s made of durable material with excellent insulation, ensuring your hot tub stays protected. Its stylish charcoal color suits any decor. While it may feel lightweight, it provides good coverage for your hot tub needs.
10. Budge English Garden Square Hot Tub Cover, Large (Tan Tweed)
The Budge English Garden Square Hot Tub Cover is designed for large hot tubs, offering excellent protection from the elements. Made from durable spun polyester, the cover provides all-weather protection and is easy to install and remove. With vents to prevent mold growth, this cover also offers a good fit and stylish look for modern decor.
Pros
- Good fit for large hot tubs
- Durable spun polyester construction
- Provides all-weather protection
- Easy to install and remove
- Vented to prevent mold growth
- Stylish for modern decor
Cons
- Not entirely waterproof, some moisture can get in
- Can get stuck to the hardcover placed over the tub
- Elastic band may not hold the cover in place during high winds
Editor’s Verdict
The Budge English Garden Square Hot Tub Cover is a stylish and durable option for large hot tubs. While the material is relatively waterproof, it’s not entirely resistant to moisture. However, its weather protection and ease of use make it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and attractive hot tub cover.
FAQ’s
Customers often have questions regarding hot tub covers. Whether it’s about features or proper usage, we have answers to frequently asked questions below.
Q1: How does a hot tub cover help in keeping the water in my hot tub warm?
Hot tub covers act as an insulating surface above the water, trapping heat to maintain an optimum temperature. They also block cold air, allowing the water to heat up more quickly.
Q2: What use are the straps and buckles around the hot tub cover?
The straps and buckles secure the hot tub cover, especially in high winds or storms, preventing it from being dislodged or damaged.
Q3: I have small kids in the house. I don’t want them entering the hot tub without supervision. Is there a hot tub cover I can use to prevent this?
Yes. Choose a hot tub cover with a double lock and key mechanism. This ensures the cover stays secured, and children cannot access the hot tub without supervision.
Q4: I got my tub made to custom specifications. Now I can’t find the right-sized cover for it. What should I do?
Many manufacturers offer custom cover solutions. Provide them with the exact dimensions, and they can create a cover tailored to your hot tub’s size.
Q5: How should I maintain the hot tub cover in the offseason?
When storing your hot tub cover, ensure it’s dry before wrapping it. Store it in a dark, moisture-free location to avoid damage during the offseason.
Q6: Can I mount a cover lifter with the hot tub covers?
Check with the manufacturer to confirm compatibility with hot tub cover lifters before purchasing or mounting one.
Conclusion
Buying a hot tub cover requires careful research and consideration. Given its cost, it’s essential to select a cover that fits well, is durable, and meets your specific needs. A properly chosen cover not only protects your hot tub but also improves its heating efficiency, retaining heat effectively and reducing energy consumption.
Hot tub covers provide numerous benefits, including protecting the water from pollutants and maintaining optimal water temperatures. With a variety of options available, you can select a cover that aligns with your budget and requirements.
This guide has reviewed various hot tub covers, their features, and benefits, helping you make an informed decision. For more information about hot tubs and accessories, explore this website. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below, and our team will respond promptly. Enjoy shopping for your new hot tub cover!