Inflatable hot tub accessories worth having

The essentials

• Insulating ground mat: cuts heat lost through the floor and protects the liner from grit.
• Spare filter cartridges: so you can swap and clean in rotation.
• Test strips or a test kit: the only way to know your water balance.
• Basic chemicals: sanitiser, pH up and down, and shock, as in what chemicals a hot tub needs.
• Sturdy steps: safer getting in and out, especially when wet.
• Repair kit: usually supplied; keep it where you can find it.

Worth it for cooler months

A thermal cover that wraps over the tub, and a floating thermal blanket under the lid, both help keep heat in. Wind shelter from a screen or gazebo helps too. See thermal cover vs inflatable lid and how to insulate an inflatable hot tub.

If you plan to use the tub through winter, also check the pump unit's frost protection in the manual and keep the cover firmly fastened.

Nice to have

What to skip or avoid

• Anything that covers or crowds the pump unit's vents.
• Mains powered gadgets near the water that are not designed for it.
• Loose tablets or chemical pucks that could rest on the liner.
• Glass drinkware in or around the tub.
• Cheap non spa cushions that break down in chlorine.

Note:Keep all mains electrical items well away from the water. Use only accessories designed for hot tubs, and follow the maker's instructions for anything that connects to the pump unit.

Brand accessories vs third party

Brand accessories such as Lay-Z-Spa filters, thermal covers and replacement lids are designed for specific models, so fit is rarely a problem. Third party options can be fine for general items like steps, drink holders and test strips. For anything that connects to the tub or pump, or replaces the lid, stick with the maker's parts or items listed as compatible.

Some tubs come with useful extras in the box, such as ChemConnect dispensers or LED lights. Our Lay-Z-Spa models compared and LED hot tub guides note what is included.

See tubs with built-in LED lights →

A starter shopping list

Everything else can wait until you know how you use the tub.

1. 1

   Ground mat sized for your tub.

2. 2

   Two sets of filters to rotate.

3. 3

   Test strips and starter chemicals.

4. 4

   Steps with a non slip tread.

5. 5

   A thermal cover if you will use the tub after summer.

Accessories that help with upkeep

A few small tools make routine care quicker. A hand skimmer net lifts leaves and insects before they sink. A tub vacuum, either manual or battery powered, picks up grit from the floor without draining. A soft sponge or scum absorber at the waterline catches oils between cleans. None of these replace water care, but they cut the time spent on it.

Storage matters too. A lidded box for chemicals keeps them dry, together and out of reach of children, and a hook or bag for test strips keeps them away from damp. Strips that get wet give wrong readings; see how to read test strips.

For the bigger jobs, a submersible pump speeds up draining and a wet and dry vacuum helps dry the floor before packing away. See how to store an inflatable hot tub.

Frequently asked questions

What accessories do I need for an inflatable hot tub? A ground mat, spare filters, a test kit, basic chemicals and safe steps cover the essentials.

Are Lay-Z-Spa accessories worth buying? For parts that fit the tub, such as filters, lids and thermal covers, brand items usually fit best.

Can I add lights to my inflatable hot tub? Use battery or low voltage lights made for water, or choose a tub with built-in LEDs.

Do I need steps for an inflatable hot tub? They make getting in and out safer, especially for children and older bathers.