CleverSpa vs Lay-Z-Spa compared

How the ranges differ

Lay-Z-Spa covers almost every niche: compact four seaters, six and seven seat round tubs, square tubs, HydroJet models with water jets and the SmartSpa models with insulated walls, app control and Freeze Shield. That breadth means you can usually find a Lay-Z-Spa at the size and feature level you want.

CleverSpa offers a shorter list, with four and six person models in round and square shapes and names such as Cotswolds and Waikiki. A smaller range is not a drawback in itself, but it gives you fewer steps between basic and premium. Check each model's listing for heater rating, wall build and cover type.

See Lay-Z-Spa models compared →

What to compare on any two models

Because model names change from season to season, it is more useful to compare the facts on each listing. This table shows what to look for and why it matters.

Pumps, covers and filters

Both brands use a pump unit that houses the heater, filter and air blower on most models. On Lay-Z-Spa, many pump units and filters are shared across the range, and spare pumps are widely sold. With any brand, check whether a replacement pump is sold separately, because the pump is usually the part that fails first.

Covers vary by model with both brands. An insulated cover with a good seal makes the biggest difference to heat loss, so check what is included. Filters are model specific; note the filter size or type from the manual and confirm that replacements are in stock before you buy.

Matching models at each size

At four seats, compare a compact Lay-Z-Spa of around 669 litres with a CleverSpa four person tub on litres, heater and cover. At six seats, the Lay-Z-Spa Milan and Honolulu hold 916 litres according to their listings; check the CleverSpa equivalent's water volume to judge heating time and legroom.

For square tubs, Lay-Z-Spa's Hawaii HydroJet Pro adds water jets. If a CleverSpa square model fits your corner better, compare whether it offers water jets or bubbles only. Our 2 to 4 person and 6 person guides line up the models we cover.

Electrics and safety

Both brands run from a standard 13 A socket. The pump plug on most inflatable tubs includes a protective device, but the socket itself should still be a weatherproof outdoor socket on a circuit protected by an RCD. Keep the plug and cable off wet ground.

Note:Do not use an extension lead unless the manual allows it. If you need a new outdoor socket or circuit, have a qualified electrician install it. Always supervise children in and around the tub.

Warranty and running costs

Warranty terms differ by brand, model and seller, and they often treat the liner and the pump differently. Read the terms on the listing or in the manual before you buy, and register the tub with the maker if that is required. Keep the receipt and photos of the setup, as makers may ask for them with a claim.

Running costs depend on water litres, heater kW, the cover and how often you use the tub, not the badge on the side. Work out the minimum energy to heat your chosen tub from cold with our heat-up calculator, then compare models of the same size on cover quality and insulation.

Frequently asked questions

Is CleverSpa made by the same company as Lay-Z-Spa? CleverSpa is a separate brand from Lay-Z-Spa, which is made by Bestway. Check each brand's own manuals and spares.

Do Lay-Z-Spa filters fit CleverSpa tubs? Do not assume they do. Use the filter named in your tub's manual.

Which brand is better for winter? Look for freeze protection and an insulated cover on the specific model. Lay-Z-Spa's SmartSpa models list Freeze Shield.

Which has more choice? Lay-Z-Spa has the larger range, including HydroJet and app controlled models.