A hot tub is a luxury item that comes with a hefty price tag, which is one reason why you should do your best to protect it from wear and damage over time. But if you’ve already spent a fortune on the hot tub itself, do you really need to use a hot tub cover?
You need to cover your hot tub, especially if it’s outdoors, to protect it from inclement weather, dirt, and bacteria; and to prevent children or pets from falling into the water. A hot tub cover is the best option, but you can also build a roof over your hot tub or use an umbrella as a temporary solution.
Let’s explore the various benefits of covering your hot tub, the cover options available, and how to easily place and remove a thick and heavy cover.
Do You Have to Cover Your Hot Tub?
You should certainly cover your hot tub if it’s outdoors and isn’t protected by a roof. Covering your outdoor hot tub with a traditional thick hot tub cover like this one (on Amazon) will protect it from the rain, snow, the sun’s UV rays, and other weather elements, prolonging its lifetime.
While there’s less need for a hot tub cover if your tub is indoors or under a roof, you should still consider getting one to prevent dirt from entering the water. Most experts recommend getting a thick, waterproof hot tub covering for an outdoor hot tub.
If you have a lower budget, you can invest in a thinner hot tub cover or a tarp, but these should only be used indoors or with hot tubs that are covered in some other way.
What Are the Benefits of a Hot Tub Cover?
The main benefit of a hot tub cover is to protect the tub from rough weather and the accumulation of dirt. Covers also help your tub heat up faster. However, you can also benefit from having a hot tub cover for your indoor tub.
Here are some reasons to get a hot tub cover:
Hot Tub Covers Protect the Tub From Weather Damage
If your hot tub is outdoors, you absolutely have to have a cover for it. A thick cover can protect your hot tub from getting damaged in the rain, and it will prevent the sun’s UV rays from affecting the tub’s interior.
A Cover Keeps Out Dirt
A hot tub cover will keep out leaves, debris, and dirt from falling into the water. If you have kids, you also won’t have to worry about toys and other items ending up in the water and clogging the hot tub’s filters. Having a cover therefore keeps your hot tub hygienic, and you won’t have to clean it before going for a dip.
It Prevents Water Loss
Even if your hot tub is UV protected, exposing it to the sun will result in a lot of water evaporation. You should consider getting a hot tub cover to save water and avoid having to refill the tub regularly.
A Cover Prevents Children and Pets From Drowning
Many hot tub covers are thick enough to prevent a toddler or pet from drowning if they mistakenly climb on top of it. Never leave your kids near an open hot tub without supervision, and cover the water after using it.
Hot Tub Cover Options to Consider
Hot tub covers vary depending on your tub and and its location. A hot tub cover is ideal if you have a low budget and want to cover the tub after use. You can also install a hot tub roof cover or use a hot tub umbrella.
Here are some options to cover your hot tub:
- Hot Tub Cover (on Amazon): This is ideal for covering your hot tub completely when it’s not in use. It will prevent dirt from damaging the hot tub and keep kids away.
- Hot Tub Roof: If you want a more permanent solution, you can build a roof over your hot tub or even a small room around it.
- Hot Tub Umbrella (on Amazon): An umbrella is a temporary cover to use when you’re using the hot tub in bad weather.
While getting a hot tub umbrella or installing a roof over your hot tub is optional, it’s important that you at least have a hot tub cover to protect the tub when it’s not in use. Just remember to clean it from time to time.
Why You May Want to Invest in a Hot Tub Cover Lifter
Many hot tub covers are made from thick vinyl, which is very heavy and hard to lift. While you can install a cover without a cover lifter, it will take a lot of effort. For that reason, you may want to consider a cover lifter (on Amazon).
A cover lifter allows you to remove and replace the cover with ease.
