Owning a hot tub requires regular maintenance and attention to water cleanliness to ensure you have a relaxing experience each time you use it. Covers are a great way to both protect your investment and insulate your water from heat loss, chemical degradation, and dirt and debris. Many tubs come with a cover, but if you don’t have one, or need to replace one, then choosing the best hot tub cover for your model is well worth the effort required.
This article highlights the reasons why this is a necessary product to have and highlights some of the best hot tub cover reviews you may want to consider. Read on below to understand the purpose of these options and what to look for before making a purchase.
5 Best Hot Tub Cover Comparisons
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Hot Tub Works Custom and Commercial Spa Covers |
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The Cover Guy Deluxe Hot Tub Cover |
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BeyondNice Basic Hot Tub Cover, Custom Made |
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ULTCOVER Waterproof Polyester Square Hot Tub Cover |
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MySpaCover Hot Tub Cover and Spa Cover Replacement |
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Purpose of a Hot Tub Cover
If you have, or are looking to buy a hot tub, you definitely need to get your tub a cover. This isn’t an item you want to skimp on if your tub didn’t come already equipped with one, and you most certainly want to purchase a replacement lid for any covers that may have reached the end of their life. Why you ask?
Well, let’s take a look at some of the reasons you should always use a cover for your tub:
Evaporation
Water naturally evaporates, and the more you agitate it, the more water vapor you are going to lose over time. When you keep your tub uncovered, don't be surprised to find yourself constantly topping it off - costing you in water, and energy to reheat the fresh addition. A cover keeps this evaporation from happening when the tub is not in use.
Heat Loss
The biggest energy draw of your tub is the heating process that takes place. This is a process that can take a few days to complete when you first add new water, and allowing your cover to stay off releases the heat of the tub back into the cooler, surrounding air- forcing your tub to work non-stop to keep the water heated. A cover helps insulate against cold and keeps heat where it belongs!
Chemical Loss
When water and heat evaporates, so do the chemicals mixed into the water that helps keep it clean and sanitary. This results in you having to add additional chemicals to keep your spa working as it should, which can add up quickly!
Safety
If you have pets and/or children, a good cover is a must for safety purposes. Most spas do not have sets to lead out of the water, and have a more uniform depth through the middle and around the edges which may be well over the height of a small child and most animals. Covers, especially those that latch or lock, are important to avoid tragic accidents.
Cleanliness and Filter Life
No matter where you place your tub, there will always be dirt or debris available to fall into the water. Worst case scenarios include materials that are too large for the filter to handle, which can burn out a pump quickly when water is unable to move as it should through the system. Be sure to keep your tub clean and avoid any surprises in your water with the consistent use of a cover.
How to Care for a Hot Tub Cover
The better you care for your cover, the longer it will last. Be sure to clear any debris off the top of your cover prior to removal, avoiding anything that may have a sharp edge. At least once a month, you may want to do a deep clean of both the outer and inner surface to keep any mold or mildew from accumulating in the cracks, crevices, and stitching.
The heat from a spa creates a great environment for bacterial growth, so this is important for more than just the life of the product. It also is easy to do! Simply spray down with a marine vinyl cleaner, distilled white vinegar, or diluted bleach and water. You may also want to apply a vinyl protectant each time to help avoid any unwanted growth, protect from UV sun damage, and keep it from fading.
Terms to Know
The following terms are related to understanding of the quality of a cover, and are important to understand so you know what you are buying.
Foam Densities and Thickness
Ranging from 1 to 2 lb densities, both these terms are related to how durable, and insulating, the cover is. The density of the foam, and the thickness of the foam, relates directly to how well it will keep heat in, keep cold out, and support any loads placed above it.
Marine Grade Vinyl
Your tub cover material needs to be resistant to constant contact with moisture. Marine grade vinyl is weighed by the square yard, with thicker, stronger vinyl having more weight. Typically the vinyl falls between 26 to 34 ounces. Also look for UV and mildew treated resistance.
C-Channel
The C-channel is a galvanized steel bar that runs through the width of the cover to reinforce it. It also provides protection to the foam.
Vapor Barrier Protection
A vapor barrier layer defines a plastic wrapping around the foam core to keep moisture from seeping into the foam. It is typically sealed with heat, and can break down over time- which is generally an indication that you need a new cover.
Safety Locks
Most covers adhere in some manner to the sides of the tub to keep it firmly in place. These may be simple brackets or include locking mechanisms. Be sure to purchase a cover with a durable option for your specific needs.
R-Value
The R-value is a number provided by the Federal Trade Commision to explain the heat resistance of a foam. However, a hot tub cover foam is not regulated, meaning the R-value is not necessary. That doesn’t mean a company won’t try and use it as a selling point to try and make a product look good. Just remember, the density and thickness of the foam is a better indicator of insulating properties than an unregulated R-value.
How to Measure for a Cover
Don’t assume simplicity when measuring for a cover. If you already have a cover and are looking to replace it, then you can measure the existing cover- in place!
But if you need to measure the tub for a cover, you need to take into account a few details. If you have a framing square you might want to put this to good use. Otherwise use two rulers (explained below).
Length
Measure across the longest part of the tub, lip to lip of the tub itself, not the cabinet edge. Be sure to do this in two spots to ensure you hit the longest spot, especially if you have an odd shape. Add 1 inch to this measurement to provide give.
Width
Measure across the shortest edge, again providing two spots to ensure an accurate reading and choose the shorter measurement. If the tub is octogonal, measure one panel- point to point.
Corner Radius
Place the framing square (or rulers) against a corner of your hot tub and record the points where the hot tub touches the ruler. Be sure to round this measurement down for a better fit.
Skirt Length
Measure from the top of the spa to the bottom of the cabinet. If there is a lip or ledge, measure from there.
Fold Direction
If the cover folds, be sure to note where the cover fold away from so you can fold away from tub controls.
Top 5 Rated Hot Tub Cover Reviews
If you are looking for a great place to buy a cover that offers a quality item at a great price, our best hot tub cover reviews below are a great place to start. Whether you prefer a hard or soft hot tub cover, these products have you covered (no pun intended). If you are looking for a great hot tub to use these covers with, check our list here.
Hot Tub Works Custom and Commercial Spa Covers
- Vinyl Weight: 30 oz
- Reinforced Bracing: Yes
- Foam Density: 1-2 lb
- Security Straps: Yes
- Warranty: 1-5 years depending on the model
Not only does the Hot Tub Works company carry a ton of brand name spa covers, it also will customize any size or shape you need! These covers are top notch and can reflect exactly what you need for your tub. With specialized designs and 4 inch tapers to ensure no water will pool, these products are sure to last.
Steel bracing, reinforced handles, and your choice of reinforced security straps make this a durable choice. They also can be designed with cut-outs for speakers, waterfalls, handles, and control panels.
Pros
- Customized size and shape
- Company offers huge range for any tub
- Thick, tapered foam tops for long lasting durability
Cons
- Locking straps not offered
Pro Tip
If you have an odd shaped tub, or an oversized option, this is the cover for you. Check out their range of styles and models to fit anything you need!
The Cover Guy Deluxe Hot Tub Cover
- Vinyl Weight: 30 oz
- Reinforced Bracing: Depends on model
- Foam Density: 1.5- 2 lbs
- Security Straps: Yes
- Warranty: Sales are final, but damaged and defective products are covered
With the ability to choose from just about any shape, color, and quality material, The Cover Guy cover reviews praise the ease of their step by step tutorial and excellent customer support. They also provide customization for odd shaped tubs as well as oversized models. Almost all brand name shapes and sizes are included in their inventory of preset measurements as well, making choosing your cover that much easier.
Their Deluxe cover is a mid range cover that is very popular due to its detailed customization that you can choose from and the durability of the workmanship. It is considered a high end, yet affordable choice. Before finalizing your order, the company always double checks to ensure a quality fit!
Pros
- Great amount of choices to pick from
- Durable, quality items
- Awesome customization and customer service
Cons
- Not good for extreme cold
Pro Tip
Whether you have a preset size that is needed, or need a customized option, The Cover Guy has you covered!
BeyondNice Basic Hot Tub Cover, Custom Made
- Vinyl Weight: 26 oz
- Reinforced Bracing: Yes
- Foam Density: 1 lb (higher available)
- Security Straps: Yes
- Warranty: 5 year
BeyondNice offers deluxe custom made covers with their square tub design being one of their best sellers due to the thermal insulating properties that are guaranteed under warranty for 5 years. The design your own wizard ensures you are getting exactly what you need and want with every order.
Having been in business for over 3 decades, the company has a dependable name that is revisited by consumers time and again. This 4 inch thick model tapers to a 2 inch thick edge to provide water runoff and is a standard 1 lb density. It also comes complete with 4 locking straps.
Pros
- Long lasting, 5 year warranty
- Long lasting heat seals
- Great customization wizard
Cons
- Moisture control could be better
Pro Tip
This is a great mid-grade option that has a long reputation for quality. The simple design and easy to customize option is perfect for when you need a new cover.
ULTCOVER Waterproof Polyester Square Hot Tub Cover
- Vinyl Weight: Vinyl lined, 600 weight polesther
- Reinforced Bracing: No
- Foam Density: No foam layer
- Security Straps: Yes
- Warranty: 1-5 years depending on the model
The ULTCOVER polyester cover is a simple design that fits snug over your hot tub to avoid heat loss and evaporation, and is a great solution for when you need a lightweight, simple option. Made with a top-quality 600 weight polyester with a vinyl backing, this choice is UV resistant and waterproof.
Air vents and heavy duty elastic cords keeps the cover in place even in high winds and bad weather. An elastic hem cord ensures a snug, fitted fit, and the cover works well as a stand alone product, or even as an additional protective choice to place over an existing cover in poor weather conditions.
Pros
- Surprisingly durable
- Strong elastic strap for secure fit
- Stays put in even high winds
Cons
- Does not allow rain to run-off
- Not designed for insulation, just protection
Pro Tip
When you need a quick, lightweight cover this is a great choice. When you live where adverse weather is a regular occurrence, this is an option that works well for added protection.
MySpaCover Hot Tub Cover and Spa Cover Replacement
- Vinyl Weight: 30 oz
- Reinforced Bracing: Yes
- Foam Density: 1 lb
- Security Straps: Yes
- Warranty: 5 year
The MySpaCover cover is the perfect replacement choice and comes in any size up to 96 inches. Available in 10 colors, the company confirms all sizes and choices made by the customer before finalizing the sale. Durable marine grade vinyl is used to provide full weather protection, and a full 5 inch taper keeps water from pooling and allows for easy run-off.
Created for energy efficiency, the covers use EPS insulating foam. The company claims the cover will more than pay for itself over the course of the warranty, providing you peace of mind.
Pros
- Very thick and durable
- Good, secure fit
- Follow up service for confirmation is top notch
Cons
- Poor shipping services have occured
Pro Tip
This particular cover is designed for efficiency, and allows for protection against the elements, as well as heat and chemical loss.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking to purchase your first cover, or a replacement cover for an existing tub, these options are all great choices for protection and insulation. Keep debris out of your water, and heat and chemicals in- no matter what the weather. These choices provide all you need to customize and find exactly what you need for your size spa.
If you have any questions or comments, please let us know below. And, as always, please share.