How to pack away and store an inflatable hot tub

Drain and clean

Take care where the water goes: do not drain chemically treated water into surface water drains or streams.

1. 1

   With the water still in, run a line cleaner through the pump and pipes as the label directs.

2. 2

   Switch off and unplug the pump.

3. 3

   Drain through the drain valve with a hose; see how to drain an inflatable hot tub.

4. 4

   Wipe the liner, seams and waterline with a cleaner suitable for hot tubs.

5. 5

   Rinse well and drain the rinse water, then sponge out the last of it.

6. 6

   Remove and clean the filter, or throw away a worn one.

Note:Unplug the pump before draining or disconnecting. Wear gloves when handling cleaners and follow the chemical maker's instructions.

Dry thoroughly

Drying is the step that matters most. With the tub still inflated, open the cover and let the inside air dry on a dry, breezy day, wiping off any water with towels. Prop it so the floor can dry underneath. Dry the ground sheet, mat and cover separately.

If the weather is damp, finish drying in a garage or shed. Any moisture trapped in folds can cause mould and smells by spring.

Deflate and fold

Do not fold the tub tightly in cold weather, when the material is stiffer and more likely to crack. Fold it on a mild day if you can.

1. 1

   Open the inflation valves as the manual describes, and press gently to release air.

2. 2

   Use the pump's deflate mode or a vacuum on blow out, if the manual allows, to remove the last air.

3. 3

   Fold the tub loosely in large folds, avoiding sharp creases, especially across seams.

4. 4

   Sprinkle a little talc on the liner if the manual suggests it, to stop surfaces sticking.

5. 5

   Place it in its original box or a sturdy storage bag.

Caring for the pump

Drain the pump fully as the manual describes, tilting it so water runs out of the connectors. Let it dry, then cap or cover the connectors to keep out dust and insects. Some makers suggest running a descaler through the pump before storage in hard water areas; follow the manual if so.

Store the pump upright, indoors and frost free. Water left inside can freeze and crack the housing or heater.

Where to store it

A dry garage, utility room or loft is best. A shed works if it is dry and you protect the box from mice, which like to nest in folded vinyl. Keep the box off a concrete floor on a pallet or shelf, away from heaters and direct sun.

Setting up again in spring

Unfold the tub on a mild day so the material is flexible, check the liner and seams for damage, and inflate it before the full setup to look for leaks with soapy water. Fit a new filter, check the pump connectors and seals, and follow how to set up an inflatable hot tub. If the old tub has had its day, our best inflatable hot tubs guide compares current models.

Timing the pack away

Plan the pack away for a dry spell before the first hard frosts, so the tub can dry outdoors and the pump is never at risk of freezing with water inside. Allow most of a day: a few hours to drain, an hour to clean and a good few hours for drying. If rain arrives part way through, leave the tub inflated under cover until it is dry rather than folding it damp.

Frequently asked questions

Where should I store an inflatable hot tub? Indoors, dry and frost free, such as a garage or dry shed, off the floor.

How do I deflate a Lay-Z-Spa? Open the valves as the manual describes and use the pump's deflate setting if your model has one.

Can I store the tub in the garden under a cover? It is not ideal. Frost, damp and sun shorten its life; indoor storage is better.

Do I need to drain the pump? Yes. Water left in the pump can freeze and crack it.