The Best Hot Tub Covers to Keep Warmth In and Debris Out (2024)

Our Top Picks

The Cover Guy Deluxe cover is our best overall hot tub cover because it combines a classic, high-quality design with custom fit and functionality. This cover has a 2-inch slope from the center to the edge, so standing water from rain or snow slides right off.

Speaking of snow, the product can withstand up to 200 pounds in weight per linear square foot (depending on the size you choose). So, you can relax knowing that your hot tub cover will be fine in the event of significant precipitation, be it snow or rain.

Other features that make the Deluxe cover stand out from the crowd include a high-grade marine vinyl designed to stand up to sun and moisture exposure, extending the life of your hot tub cover. Inside, the cover is constructed with 1.5-pound closed-cell foam and energy-reflective materials. The result is a transfer of heat energy back to your hot tub, further making this option perfect for cold and moderate climates.

This cover has additional upgrade options, such as a weather-shield fabric cover, additional handles, or a fully insulated hinge for even more energy savings. However, all of the customization options come at a hefty price. In terms of fit, you can customize the shape and dimensions of this cover to fit your specific hot tub model, which we love.

It also comes with four child-safety locks, which is extremely important for families with small children. While this pick is certainly a splurge, we think its thoughtful design and 7-year warranty make it a reliable choice.

_{Dimensions: Custom to your hot tub | Weight: 40 pounds | Shape: Square, circle, cut corners, irregular | Material: 30-ounce marine-grade vinyl, CFC-free foam}

For anyone who doesn't plan to use their hot tub during the off-season, this affordable hot tub cover could be the solution to keep your tub clear when you use it regularly. Unfortunately, it doesn't regulate temperature like an inflatable or solid cover, but we loved how well it kept debris out of the water during our home testing. We found one person could easily remove and replace this cover themselves, for extra convenience.

This cover is also larger than other options on the market and it could easily fit most hot tubs of varying height. We even found that we had a bit of excess coverage for the hot tub we tested this on, which we appreciate for added protection. A drawstring on the edge of the cover also makes it easy to secure the cover in place.

After testing for six months, we think this is an awesome option for those with limited storage space who want something that takes up minimal space to store and is convenient and easy to install. It definitely works best in warmer climates without the need for much insulation. We found that although it's not as durable as other hard cover options, the quality remained the same after using it for months.

_{Dimensions: 73 x 73 x 43 inches | Weight: 3.05 pounds | Shape: Round | Material: 420D Oxford fabric (polyester) with a polyurethane lining}

A spa cover works by absorbing warmth from the sun and insulating the tub's current temperature. During testing, we loved the size of the blanket, the lightweight material that's easy to install with one person, and its insulation properties that kept our hot tub water warm. Additionally, this cover reduces chemical evaporation and maintains the water temperature. For homes with tubs that are exposed to direct sunlight, this spa blanket can keep your hot tub running efficiently.

The size of the blanket may feel a bit excessive (you can choose from a 7- or 8-foot option). However, it's meant to be cut to fit your tub perfectly, so you don't have to worry about purchasing the correct size. The material feels like a durable bubble wrap. We found it’s much lighter and easier to put on and remove compared to a thick, hard cover.

This blanket did not come with any instructions, so we had a bit of a learning curve, in making sure the bubbles were oriented correctly. Tip: Place the bubbles facing the water to heat your tub and facing the sky to cool it down. Keep in mind it does not latch to your tub, which risks it blowing away. It also does not have any safety features, so it does not protect against children climbing in and out.

A spa blanket does not keep debris out, so it would not be sufficient to protect your hot tub's water on its own, especially near many trees. We recommend using this cover during seasons when your tub gets a lot of use but still investing in a more heavy-duty cover like our best overall pick, The Cover Guy Deluxe Hot Tub Cover, if you experience rain, snow, or high winds.

_{Dimensions: 96 x 96 inches | Weight: 6.28 pounds | Shape: Square | Material: Not listed}

A soft cover is a great way to keep your hot tub clean when it's regularly in use. While it won't insulate your tub like hard or spa covers, it ensures that debris from trees and inclement weather doesn't disrupt your tub's chemical balance. During testing, we found this cover from Classic Accessories easy to put on top of a large round hot tub. It has two handles on either side of the cover, making it easy to pull it on and off.

It's also much lighter than a hardcover, so it doesn't take much effort to pull off when you want to take a dip. For example, our best overall pick is 40 pounds, while this one is only 5.3 pounds. Of course, such a lightweight cover won't be as sturdy, but this one has extra hardware to keep it secure and ensure it fits snugly. A bungee cord ensures that the cover stays secure between uses, but we wished it came with a buckle strap for high winds. Because of this, we would recommend this product for an inflatable hot tub, particularly because it has a drawstring that allows for a snug fit.

Through the six months of testing, we constantly had the choice between the cover that came with the hot tub and this cover. We consistently found ourselves reaching for this one instead, as it is lighter in weight, making it easier to cover and uncover the hot tub.

However, we wished it covered the full height of our hot tub rather than just the top edge. Therefore, we don't recommend this option for areas with high winds, but rain and debris are no big deal for this cover. Also, when snow piles up, it can weigh a soft cover down, so keep this option in mild-weather areas.

_{Dimensions: 86 x 86 x 12 inches | Weight: 5.27 pounds | Shape: Round | Material: Gardelle polyester and waterproof backing}

If you want a square soft cover that's easy to maneuver but still offers protection from inclement weather, this option from Ultcover is perfect. This polyester canvas cover has double-stitched seams and a water-repellent coating with UV protection to protect against rain and avoid fading in the sun.

However, don't expect this to withstand as much snow as a hard cover alternative. Therefore, this choice is ideal for regions that are cold, sunny, and rainy. If you anticipate more than a flurry of snow, go for a more robust option.

An adjustable strap makes it easy to change this cover's skirt depth, while the elastic hem cord ensures that the cover stays in place once fitted properly, which is especially important in strong winds. This cover comes in six sizes and two colors, so it's easy to find one that fits your hot tub perfectly. We do wish, however, that it came in a round size as well.

This cover also has air vents, which help prevent condensation buildup under the cover. The interior lining also has a waterproof taped seam that helps keep heat inside your tub.

For further insulation in cold climates, you can add this soft cover as a second layer of protection when combined with a traditional hard cover. You could even throw this cover on the tub between uses if you need to run indoors to make lunch or use the restroom, but we wouldn't recommend it as your main line of defense during intense snow storms, where snow can pile up and weigh down soft covers.

_{Dimensions: 90 x 90 x 20 inches | Weight: 11 pounds | Shape: Square | Material: 600D polyester canvas fabric}

For safety, it features four lockable child safety straps that keep it securely in place, promoting better heat retention and preventing movement during strong winds. While it may be expensive, the energy-efficient design and 7-year warranty make the upfront cost worthwhile for snowy climates.

_{Dimensions: Varies | Weight: 45 pounds | Shape: Square, circle, cut corners, irregular | Material: Marine-grade vinyl, CFC-free foam}

Typically, hot tub covers, especially hard covers, are heavy and bulky. Therefore, a hot tub cover lifter could be essential for installing and removing your cover with ease. The Cover Rock-It uses under-mounted plates to leverage its lifter arms and gently lift your hot tub cover. After it's installed, one person can generally remove or replace it, making it much easier to maintain your hot tub's temperature than constantly putting on and taking off a cumbersome cover.

A contraption like this also limits the space you need to store your cover when it's not in use. Hard covers don't fold as neatly as soft or spa covers, which can easily be tucked away on a shelf or drawer. They often require a good amount of space in your garage or basem*nt, but a lift eliminates the need for that storage space. Now, the cover always lives with the hot tub, whether it's covered or not.

When the cover is removed, it folds to the side of the hot tub, where it's out of the way. Just note that you need at least 18 inches of clearance for the cover to fold next to the tub, so keep this in mind when considering your hot tub's location.

Although we recommend the Cover Rock-It from Cover Valet, note that this lifter is only compatible with square and rectangular hot tub shapes up to 100 inches; it's still a great investment, however. With this in place, you don't always need someone nearby to help lift your hot tub cover before each use.

_{Dimensions: Fits hot tubs up to 100 inches | Weight: Not listed | Shape: Not applicable | Material: Zinc-plated and powder-coated aluminum}

Final Verdict

Our pick for the best hot tub cover, The Cover Guy's Deluxe Hot Tub Cover, is made with high-density, heat-retaining foam and can be ordered to fit your hot tub. If you're hoping to find a cover that can easily be removed during regular use, check out the Classic Accessories Veranda Water-Resistant Hot Tub Cover, our best round soft cover, which is lightweight and easy to install.

FAQ

• How do you install a hot tub cover?

  Installing a hot tub cover is quick and easy for most setups; it’s often easier to do with two people.

  Set the folded cover on one half of the hot tub, being sure it’s evenly positioned and covers the tub from edge to edge. Then, lift the top half and set it down on the other side of the hot tub. Secure the cover using the tie-down straps and clips.

• How do you clean a hot tub cover?

  It’s important to clean your hot tub cover to prevent the UV-resistant vinyl from deteriorating and mold from growing. To clean a hot tub cover, do the following:

  • Remove the cover from your hot tub and place it on a flat, level area of the ground—underside up.
  • Use a hose with light to medium water pressure to rinse any residual hot tub chemicals from the cover. Check for any tears or rips on the cover. Wipe dry or allow to air dry.
  • Flip the cover over and rinse the top with the hose. Check for tears or cracks in the vinyl.
  • Use a mild cleaning solution, such as vinegar and water, or a formula recommended by the manufacturer, to clean the hot tub cover of dirt and grime. A soft cloth or gentle brush can provide agitation, but be sure not to scrub too hard. Rinse the cover and wipe dry or allow it to air dry.
  • Replace the cover on your hot tub.

The 7 Best Hot Tubs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed