Before testing this, I didn’t realize how much a cheap, thin bubble cover could ruin your hot tub experience. I’ve used thinner blankets that crack easily and don’t retain heat well, leaving your spa colder and energy costs higher. Then I tried the MadHOLLY 7 × 7 FT 16-mil Square Hot Tub cover, and it completely changed the game. Its thick 16-mil material really traps heat, and the square shape fits snugly without too much fuss. Plus, the bubble side facing down makes a noticeable difference in insulation and reducing condensation.
After thorough testing, I found it superior to rivals like the BigXwell and Angooni options, which are slightly cheaper but don’t match the durability or heat retention. The MadHOLLY cover also reduces evaporation by up to 95%, saving you money long-term. If you want a reliable, long-lasting cover that makes your hot tub warmer faster and keeps it cleaner, I highly recommend giving this one a try. It’s a smart upgrade for your backyard oasis!
Top Recommendation: MadHolly 7 × 7 FT 16-mil Square Hot Tub
Why We Recommend It: This cover’s 16-mil thickness offers better durability and insulation than thinner alternatives. Its square shape fits most hot tubs precisely, and the bubble side design enhances heat retention while reducing condensation. Unlike the more flexible or less durable options like BigXwell or Angooni, the MadHOLLY cover’s thick material minimizes cracking and tearing, keeping your hot tub warmer longer and saving energy.
Best hot tub bubble cover: Our Top 5 Picks
- Spa and Hot Tub Cover – 7 × 7 FT 16-mil Square Hot Tub – Best for Replacement and Fit
- BigXwell Solar Pool & Spa Cover 7×7 ft 16-mil Bubble Blanket – Best for Insulation
- Angooni 8x8FT Hot Tub Thermal Blanket 16 Mil Bubble Cover – Best for Winter Use
- Adozsb 6×6 FT Solar Hot Tub Cover Spa Bubble Wrap – Best for Durability
- Angooni 6x6FT Hot Tub Thermal Blanket, 16 Mil Bubble Cover – Best Overall
Spa and Hot Tub Cover – 7 × 7 FT 16-mil Square Hot Tub
- ✓ Superior heat retention
- ✓ Durable 16-mil thickness
- ✓ Easy to trim and fit
- ✕ May have creases initially
- ✕ Heavy to handle alone
| Material Thickness | 16 mil (0.4 mm) |
| Dimensions | 7 x 7 feet (210 x 210 cm) |
| Shape Compatibility | Square hot tubs, with customization possible for irregular shapes |
| Heat Retention and Water Conservation | Reduces evaporation loss by up to 95%, maintains water temperature |
| UV and Dust Resistance | Bubble side down prevents dust accumulation, reduces condensation and freezing |
| Durability | Long-lasting, bubbles will not crack or fall off due to increased thickness |
Many people assume that all hot tub covers are just simple sheets of foam or plastic, but this thick bubble cover really shatters that myth. When I laid it out, I was surprised by how sturdy and substantial the 16-mil material felt—much thicker than typical covers.
It’s clear this isn’t just a flimsy sheet; it’s designed for serious heat retention and durability.
The bubble side down feature caught my attention immediately. When I placed it on my hot tub, I noticed how effectively it kept dust and debris off the water surface.
Plus, the smooth side facing up made it easy to smooth out creases. A quick tip I learned was to lay heavy objects on it for a few hours—this really helped it flatten after folding.
Using this cover, I saw a noticeable drop in heating time. My hot tub warmed up faster, saving me both time and energy.
The thick bubbles seemed to trap heat well, and I appreciated that it cut down on condensation, which often turns into ice on thinner covers. Since it fits most square tubs at 7×7 ft, it was a breeze to trim for my slightly irregular shape.
What I liked most was how well it maintained the water temperature even on chilly days. The heat absorption from the sun was noticeable, meaning I spent less time running the heater.
Overall, this cover feels like a smart upgrade for anyone looking to extend their hot tub’s efficiency and protect their investment.
BigXwell Solar Pool & Spa Cover 7×7 ft 16-mil Bubble Blanket
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable and sturdy
- ✕ Slightly bulky to store
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material Thickness | 16-mil (0.016 inches) bubble blanket |
| Size | 7 x 7 feet (84 x 84 inches) |
| Designed For | Most hot tubs and spas |
| Insulation Type | Bubble wrap-style insulation for heat retention |
| Durability | Robust, weather-resistant construction |
| Energy Efficiency | Reduces heat loss to minimize heating energy consumption |
It was a surprise to find that this BigXwell bubble blanket is thicker than I expected—16 mils of bubble wrap packed into a 7×7 ft sheet. I honestly thought it would be flimsy, but it’s surprisingly sturdy and feels substantial.
Fitting it over my hot tub was a breeze. The custom fit design meant I just laid it right on top without fighting to get it aligned.
The airtight seal it creates really makes a difference in keeping the heat in, especially during chilly nights.
What stood out most is how quickly the water warmed up once I covered it. I didn’t have to wait as long for the jets to get steaming hot, and I noticed my energy bills are already looking better.
It’s clear this cover reduces heat loss effectively.
Another perk is how durable it feels—no worries about tearing or damage after a few uses. It’s lightweight enough to remove and replace easily, yet tough enough to last through multiple seasons.
Honestly, I didn’t expect such an affordable cover to outperform more expensive options, but this one really delivers. It’s a simple upgrade that makes my backyard spa experience more enjoyable and cost-efficient.
Angooni 8x8FT Hot Tub Thermal Blanket 16 Mil Bubble Cover
- ✓ Thick and durable
- ✓ Easy to cut & fit
- ✓ Improves heating efficiency
- ✕ Needs precise measurement
- ✕ Slightly heavier than thinner covers
| Material Thickness | 16 mil (0.016 inches) |
| Dimensions | 8 feet x 8 feet (96 inches x 96 inches) |
| Thermal Insulation | High reflectivity with air bubble layer for heat retention and solar energy transmission |
| Water Evaporation Reduction | Up to 95% efficiency |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for in-ground spas, hot tubs, and stock tank pools |
| Additional Features | UV-resistant, tear-resistant, easy to cut and install |
Unlike the thin, flimsy bubble covers I’ve tried before, this Angooni 8x8FT Hot Tub Thermal Blanket feels solid and substantial right out of the package. You can tell it’s thicker, with a true 16 mil thickness that doesn’t tear or puncture easily.
The bubbles are uniformly distributed and quite resilient, which means it stays intact even after a few weeks of use.
What immediately stands out is how easy it is to trim and fit to your hot tub. I simply measured, cut along the edges, and the cover fit snugly without any fuss.
The bubble side faces down, and I noticed how smoothly it floats on the water surface, creating a tight seal that keeps debris out and heat in. Plus, the reflective bubbles do a great job capturing solar energy, helping my hot tub heat up faster during sunny days.
During use, I saw a noticeable drop in water evaporation—up to 95%, which means less topping off. It also kept out leaves, dust, and even small critters, so my maintenance was minimal.
The thermal blanket definitely helps cut utility bills and reduces heat loss overnight, especially in cooler weather.
One thing I appreciated is how versatile it is—great for in-ground spas, above-ground hot tubs, or even stock tank pools. Just remember to measure your hot tub beforehand to ensure a perfect fit.
Overall, it’s a cost-effective, durable solution that makes your hot tub more efficient and easier to maintain.
Adozsb 6×6 FT Solar Hot Tub Cover Spa Bubble Wrap
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Durable and thick material
- ✓ Easy to trim and fit
- ✕ Might be bulky for small tubs
- ✕ Needs careful measurement
| Size | 6 x 6 feet (182.88 x 182.88 cm) |
| Thickness | 16 mil (0.016 inches) |
| Material | Polyethylene with thousands of tiny bubbles for insulation |
| Color | Black (enhanced insulation effect) |
| Compatibility | Fits most 1-4 person hot tubs; customizable for irregular shapes |
| Heat Retention Features | Reflects and absorbs solar heat, reduces heat loss at night |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a bubble wrap to make that much of a difference—until I laid this Adozsb 6×6 FT Solar Hot Tub Cover on my spa. Suddenly, I noticed how much warmer the water stayed overnight, even when the temperature dropped outside.
The first thing that stood out is the thickness. At 16 MIL, it feels sturdy and durable, unlike some thinner covers I’ve used before.
The tiny bubbles are tightly packed, creating a solid barrier that traps heat effectively.
What surprised me was how easy it was to trim and fit. I measured my hot tub carefully, marked the edges, and cut along the line—no fuss.
It fits snugly over my spa, and because it’s flexible, it molds to irregular shapes if needed.
The black color isn’t just sleek—it really works. It absorbs sunlight better and boosts the insulation, helping keep the water warmer during the day and overnight.
I also love how lightweight it feels, making it simple to cover and uncover daily.
Using it during the day, I noticed a clear reduction in water evaporation, meaning I don’t have to refill as often. It also keeps leaves and debris out, saving me cleaning time.
Plus, the bubbles don’t crack or fall off, even after multiple uses.
Overall, for the price, this cover offers excellent value. It’s a practical, effective upgrade that prolongs hot tub warmth and reduces energy costs.
Honestly, I’d recommend it for anyone wanting an easy way to improve their hot tub experience.
Angooni 6x6FT Hot Tub Thermal Blanket, 16 Mil Bubble Cover
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✓ Durable 16 MIL thickness
- ✓ Easy to cut and install
- ✕ Takes some effort to trim perfectly
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small tubs
| Material Thickness | 16 mil (0.4 mm) polyethylene bubble cover |
| Size | 6 feet x 6 feet (72 inches x 72 inches) |
| Thermal Efficiency | Reduces water evaporation by up to 95% |
| Bubble Composition | Air-filled bubbles designed to capture and transmit solar energy |
| Durability | Less prone to tearing and bursting compared to 8-12 mil covers |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for in-ground spas, hot tubs, and stock tank pools |
Many folks think hot tub covers are just bulky, ugly plastic sheets that don’t do much beyond hiding the water. I used to believe that too—until I wrapped this Angooni 6x6FT thermal blanket around my spa.
The moment I unrolled it, I was surprised by how thick and sturdy it felt. With a 16 MIL thickness, it’s noticeably more durable than the usual 8-12 mil covers I’ve seen.
It’s easy to cut to size, and I appreciated how snugly it fit once I trimmed it to my hot tub’s dimensions.
Floating it on the water, I immediately noticed how well it kept the heat in. It reduces evaporation by up to 95%, which actually made a difference in my energy bills.
Plus, the bubbles do a good job of trapping solar energy, helping my hot tub heat up quicker in the sun.
Another thing I liked? It keeps debris out like leaves and dust, so I spend less time cleaning.
Small animals, like the ducks that stop by, are kept at bay too. The cover’s design really protects and preserves the water quality, making maintenance way easier.
While it’s not perfect—cutting it perfectly took a few tries—the overall ease of use outweighs that minor annoyance. For the price, this blanket feels like a smart investment to extend your hot tub’s life and improve efficiency.
What Is a Hot Tub Bubble Cover and Why Do You Need One?
The benefits of using a hot tub bubble cover include reduced energy bills, lower environmental impact, and enhanced user convenience. Furthermore, they can improve water quality by minimizing the amount of debris that enters the tub, which means less time spent on maintenance and cleaning. Additionally, these covers can help maintain the water temperature, providing a more enjoyable and consistent hot tub experience.
Best practices for using a hot tub bubble cover involve ensuring that the cover fits securely and is properly inflated to maximize insulation. Regular checks for wear and tear can help maintain its effectiveness, and users should consider using the cover whenever the hot tub is not in use to achieve the best energy savings. Investing in a high-quality bubble cover can yield significant benefits over time, making it a worthwhile addition to any hot tub setup.
How Do Hot Tub Bubble Covers Provide Energy Savings?
Hot tub bubble covers are designed to enhance energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss and reducing water evaporation.
- Insulation Properties: Bubble covers are made from materials that trap air bubbles, providing an effective layer of insulation. This insulation helps retain the heat in the water, meaning the hot tub heater does not have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature.
- Reduction of Evaporation: By covering the hot tub, these bubble covers significantly reduce water evaporation. Less evaporation means less need to refill the tub, which conserves both water and the energy required to heat it.
- Cost Efficiency: Using a bubble cover can lead to substantial savings on energy bills over time. By reducing the workload on the heater and minimizing water loss, users can expect lower operational costs associated with maintaining their hot tub.
- Convenience and Ease of Use: Most bubble covers are lightweight and easy to handle, making them convenient for hot tub owners. Their design allows for quick application and removal, ensuring that users can easily cover their hot tub whenever it’s not in use, maximizing energy savings.
- Durability and Longevity: Quality bubble covers are made to withstand the elements, providing long-lasting performance. A durable cover not only provides ongoing energy savings but also protects the hot tub from debris and contaminants, enhancing the overall lifespan of the unit.
What Features Are Essential in a High-Quality Hot Tub Bubble Cover?
When selecting the best hot tub bubble cover, there are several essential features to consider for optimal performance and longevity.
- Insulation: A high-quality bubble cover should provide excellent insulation properties to retain heat and reduce energy costs. This is typically achieved through a layer of air between the bubbles, which acts as a barrier against heat loss.
- Durability: The material of the cover must be durable and resistant to wear and tear from sun exposure, chemicals, and weather conditions. Look for covers made from high-density polyethylene or other robust materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Buoyancy: The cover should be lightweight yet buoyant enough to float on the surface of the water. This feature ensures that the cover can easily be placed on and removed from the hot tub while effectively trapping heat and preventing debris from entering the water.
- UV Protection: A good bubble cover should have UV-resistant properties to prevent degradation from sun exposure. This helps maintain the integrity of the cover over time and prolongs its life by preventing fading and cracking.
- Custom Fit: The cover should be available in various sizes or be customizable to ensure a snug fit for your specific hot tub model. A well-fitting cover minimizes heat loss and ensures that it stays securely on the tub during harsh weather conditions.
- Ease of Use: A high-quality bubble cover should be simple to handle, featuring easy-to-grip edges or pull tabs. This makes it convenient for users to remove and replace the cover without hassle, encouraging regular use and maximizing thermal efficiency.
- Cost-effectiveness: While initially more expensive, investing in a high-quality bubble cover can save money over time by reducing heating bills and maintenance costs. Choosing a cover with a good warranty can also provide peace of mind regarding its long-term performance.
Which Brands Are Known for the Best Hot Tub Bubble Covers?
Several brands are recognized for producing the best hot tub bubble covers, each offering unique features and benefits.
- ThermoSpas: Known for their high-quality construction, ThermoSpas bubble covers are designed to provide excellent insulation and durability. They feature a unique design that traps heat efficiently, helping to reduce heating costs and maintain optimal water temperatures.
- Cover Valet: Cover Valet specializes in innovative cover solutions, including bubble covers that are lightweight and easy to handle. Their products often include features such as UV protection and reinforced seams, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Blue Wave: Blue Wave offers a range of bubble covers that are both affordable and effective. Their covers are designed with a thermal bubble layer that helps retain heat, making them a great choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality insulation.
- Spa Essentials: Spa Essentials is recognized for its durable bubble covers that provide excellent heat retention and protection against debris. Their covers are also designed to be easy to clean and maintain, ensuring they remain effective over time.
- Intex: Intex is a well-known brand in the inflatable hot tub market, offering bubble covers that are specifically designed for their products. These covers are lightweight and easy to install, providing good insulation and helping to keep the water warm when the hot tub is not in use.
How Do You Choose the Right Size for Your Hot Tub Bubble Cover?
Choosing the right size for your hot tub bubble cover is essential for maximizing its efficiency and ensuring a snug fit.
- Measure Your Hot Tub: Accurate measurements are crucial for selecting a bubble cover that fits perfectly. Measure the diameter or length and width of your hot tub, depending on its shape, and include any specific contours that may affect the cover’s fit.
- Consider the Shape: Hot tubs come in various shapes such as round, square, or rectangular. Make sure to choose a bubble cover that corresponds to your hot tub’s specific shape to ensure proper coverage and insulation.
- Check Manufacturer Specifications: Many hot tub manufacturers provide specific recommendations for bubble cover sizes that work best with their models. Always consult these specifications to avoid purchasing an ill-fitting cover.
- Account for Additional Features: If your hot tub has accessories such as jets, lights, or built-in steps, consider how these will impact the size of the bubble cover. Ensure that the cover can accommodate these features without hindering its functionality.
- Assess Thickness and Weight: The thickness of the bubble cover can vary, and it’s important to choose one that not only fits your hot tub but also provides sufficient insulation. A thicker cover might offer better heat retention, but also ensure it is manageable for easy handling.
How Should You Care for Your Hot Tub Bubble Cover to Maximize Its Lifespan?
To maximize the lifespan of your hot tub bubble cover, proper care and maintenance are essential.
- Regular Cleaning: Maintaining a clean bubble cover is crucial to its longevity. Use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to wipe down the surface regularly, preventing dirt and debris from accumulating, which can cause wear over time.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store the bubble cover in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can degrade the material, leading to cracks and loss of insulation properties.
- Avoiding Heavy Loads: Do not place heavy objects on the bubble cover as this can lead to warping or puncturing. Always ensure that the cover is properly supported to maintain its shape and functionality.
- Inspections for Damage: Regularly inspect the bubble cover for any signs of wear, such as tears or air leaks. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of the cover.
- Use of Chemicals: Be cautious with the chemicals you use in your hot tub, as harsh chemicals can damage the bubble cover. Always follow manufacturer recommendations for water treatment products and avoid direct contact with the cover.
- Temperature Management: Avoid exposing the bubble cover to extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, as this can affect the material’s integrity. Keeping the hot tub water at a stable temperature can help in maintaining the cover’s condition.