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Is A Hot Tub Lounger Seat Worth Getting?

Hot tubs are synonymous with relaxation, and for many, adding a lounger to a hot tub is the ultimate upgrade. But if you're in the market for a hot tub or considering a lounger addition, you might be wondering if it's truly worth it. In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits, drawbacks, and key considerations to help you decide if a lounger is the right choice for you and your relaxation goals.

What is a Lounger in a Hot Tub?

A lounger in a hot tub is essentially a reclined seat that allows you to stretch out and relax in a semi-lying position, often with jets targeting various muscle groups along your back, legs, and sometimes even your feet. Unlike standard upright seats, loungers provide a full-body soak and massaging experience, and they're generally designed with contours to support the body in a relaxed position.

The Pros of Having a Lounger in Your Hot Tub

  1. Enhanced Relaxation and Comfort: Loungers are ideal for those who want to kick back fully, almost as if they’re lying on a recliner. The ergonomic design supports your back, legs, and sometimes even your neck, allowing you to let go of tension completely.
  2. Targeted Jet Therapy: Many loungers come with strategically placed massaging jets along the spine, legs, and even under the feet. This design is perfect for relieving sore muscles or targeting specific areas for hydrotherapy. For athletes or anyone with chronic pain, this can be a significant benefit.
  3. A Spa-Like Experience: Loungers offer an experience similar to a luxury spa, allowing users to lie back and immerse themselves in soothing, bubbling water. This spa feel can elevate a hot tub experience from simply pleasant to truly indulgent.
  4. Great for Solo Soakers: If you frequently use the hot tub alone or with just one other person, a lounger can provide a prime relaxation spot without affecting the seating arrangement. For individual use, it's an excellent option to maximize comfort and enjoyment.

The Cons of Having a Lounger in Your Hot Tub

  1. Reduced Seating Capacity: Loungers take up more room than traditional upright seats, which means a hot tub with a lounger will often have fewer seats overall. If you regularly have guests or plan to entertain, you might find that the space is limited with the lounger option.
  2. Floatation Issues: Some users find themselves floating up and out of the lounger, especially in tubs with powerful jets. This can make it challenging to stay comfortably reclined, especially for smaller or lighter individuals. If you're looking for complete stability, a lounger may require some adjustment.
  3. Not Ideal for All Body Types: Loungers are generally designed to fit the "average" body size, but not everyone finds them comfortable. Taller or shorter users may find that the contours don't quite align with their body shape, which can make the lounger less effective or even uncomfortable.
  4. Higher Cost: Adding a lounger can sometimes increase the cost of a hot tub. While the price difference may not always be significant, it's worth considering if you're balancing the budget with desired features.

Key Considerations Before You Decide

If you’re weighing whether a lounger is worth it, here are some important factors to think about:

  • Usage Habits: If you primarily use your hot tub for solo relaxation, a lounger can be a great investment. However, if you entertain frequently or want maximum seating capacity, you might find the space trade-off to be inconvenient.
  • Therapeutic Needs: For those who use hot tubs for therapeutic purposes, like muscle recovery or relief from chronic pain, loungers can offer focused hydrotherapy for legs and feet that standard seats can’t provide.
  • Size of the Hot Tub:  Loungers make the most sense in larger hot tubs where you still have enough space to accommodate additional seating. In a smaller tub, a lounger could dominate the space, making it feel cramped for group use.
  • Body Type and Comfort: Because loungers are contoured to fit the body, comfort can vary widely between individuals. If possible, test out the lounger to see how it feels for you before purchasing. Some showrooms or friends’ tubs might provide an opportunity for a trial experience.

Who Might Benefit Most from a Lounger?

  1. Solo Users or Couples: If your hot tub is for personal relaxation or shared with one other person, a lounger can be a fantastic way to enhance the experience without worrying about seating space.
  2. Therapy Seekers: Those using their hot tub primarily for health and wellness reasons, like muscle recovery, pain relief, or circulation improvement, can benefit from the targeted massage jets a lounger typically provides.
  3. Luxury and Comfort Lovers: If the goal is to create a spa-like oasis at home, a lounger offers an experience that feels both indulgent and luxurious, with added comfort and full-body immersion.

Conclusion: Is a Lounger Worth It?

Ultimately, whether a lounger is worth it in a hot tub depends on how you envision using your hot tub. For solo relaxation, focused hydrotherapy, and a spa-like feel, a lounger is absolutely worth considering. It can transform your hot tub experience into something truly immersive and therapeutic. However, if you need maximum seating or frequently entertain, you may find that the space trade-off doesn’t align with your needs.

In the end, a lounger adds a luxurious element to a hot tub but isn’t essential for everyone. Consider your personal comfort, usage style, and therapeutic needs, and if possible, test a lounger before committing. With these insights, you can make an informed decision that enhances your hot tub experience for years to come.


Cal Spas offers most of our most-popular sizes with an available lounge seat option, from the one-person Aloha PZ-614L or two-person Balboa PZ-516L, to the six-person Pacifica-X EC-751LX. If you decide a lounger seat is not for you, consider the Hawaiian Plus PPZ-643B or the Carmel PL-893B.
Check with your nearest Cal Spas dealer for more information.

Cal Spas is a well-known brand in the hot tub industry, recognized for producing high-quality, durable hot tubs, with a variety of models designed to suit different preferences and needs. Their products are often featured among the best-rated hot tubs, offering innovative features such as hydrotherapy jets, ergonomic seating, jet massage therapy and customizable options for a luxurious spa experience at home.
To maintain a Cal Spas hot tub in top condition, proper hot tub chemicals are essential for water care, including sanitizers, pH balancers, and shock treatments that keep the water clean and safe. Additionally, hot tub accessories such as covers, steps, and lighting enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the hot tub, ensuring users get the most out of their relaxation experience.
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