Above all else, you want your hot tub to be comfortable; otherwise, you might not use it at all. There are many contributing design factors that can make a hot tub more or less comfortable for bathers.

First, check to see if the hot tub seats are ergonomically designed to fit your body’s natural curves. You need to make sure you fit comfortably into the seats in order to get the best possible soaking and massage experience. If the hot tub has lounger seats that place you in a reclined position while your feet remain on the floor check to see if they non float loungers.

If the lounger isn’t deep enough or you can’t properly position your body in the seat, you may float out of it. Don’t be afraid to climb in and test out the seats. Even better, ask to do a ‘wet test,’ in which you sit in a fully operational version of the hot tub. If a seat is not comfortable when it’s dry, odds are it won’t be any more comfortable when it is wet. You should also take a close look at other design features of the hot tub. For example, is there multi-level seating so all body types are able to sit in it? Does the hot tub have a large enough foot well to accommodate multiple bathers? Are there safety steps to enter the hot tub, or are you forced to step on a seat when climbing in?

Also inquire whether the hot tub can be sold with or without a cabinet. In other words does the cabinet support the hot tub or does it have a self-supporting cradle, that allows the customer to install the hot tub without a cabinet. This style of installation is very common in high end projects either inside or outside as it allows the designer the ability to finish the hot tub the way they want to ie, in ground, in a floor etc.

Even minor features should be studied. For instance, if the hot tub comes with pillows, ensure they are comfortable and easy to remove and clean. Check to see if there is a place to put an ice bucket or place drinks. No detail is too insignificant.