Lay-Z-Spa vs Intex: Which Inflatable Hot Tub Wins?

Inflatable hot tubs have revolutionized garden relaxation for UK homeowners. At £400-£800, they're a fraction of the cost of traditional rigid spas (£4,000-£12,000+), yet deliver 90% of the experience.

But with Lay-Z-Spa and Intex dominating the UK market, which brand offers better value? We spent 12 months analyzing both brands—reviewing running costs, durability, comfort, and real user experiences—to help you make the right choice.

Why Choose Lay-Z-Spa?

Build Quality

Lay-Z-Spa uses reinforced I-Beam construction—three layers of material with thousands of polyester fibers between them. This creates exceptional rigidity and puncture resistance.

What this means for you:

• Tub walls remain firm when filled
• Less likely to puncture from debris
• More comfortable seating position
• Better heat retention

Heating Performance

Lay-Z-Spa's heating elements are more powerful and efficient:

• Heats water from cold in 24-48 hours (vs Intex's 36-72 hours)
• Maintains temperature better in cold weather
• Lower running costs over winter

Warranty & Support

• 2-year warranty on most models (vs Intex's 1 year)
• UK-based customer service
• Better spare parts availability
• Stronger brand reputation

Head-to-Head: Top Models

Real Running Costs (12-Month Analysis)

Summer (May-September)

Lay-Z-Spa Paris:

• Heating: £25-£35/month
• Filtration: £8-£12/month
• Chemicals: £10-£15/month
• Total: £43-£62/month

Intex PureSpa Plus:

• Heating: £30-£40/month
• Filtration: £10-£15/month
• Chemicals: £10-£15/month
• Total: £50-£70/month

Winter (October-April)

Lay-Z-Spa Paris:

• Heating: £50-£70/month
• Filtration: £10-£15/month
• Chemicals: £15-£20/month
• Total: £75-£105/month

Annual costs:

• Lay-Z-Spa: £700-£1,000
• Intex: £820-£1,150

Lay-Z-Spa saves £120-£150/year in running costs thanks to better insulation.

Durability & Lifespan

Lay-Z-Spa:

• Average lifespan: 3-5 years with proper care
• Some users report 5-7 years
• I-Beam construction resists wear better
• Most failures: pump/heater unit, not tub itself

Intex:

• Average lifespan: 2-4 years
• FiberTech material less puncture-resistant
• More common to need replacement after 3 years
• Seams can weaken over time

Verdict: Lay-Z-Spa's superior construction justifies higher upfront cost through longer lifespan.

Long-Term Value Analysis

3-Year Ownership Costs:

Lay-Z-Spa Paris (£700 purchase):

• Purchase: £700
• Running costs: £2,700 (£900/year)
• Chemicals: £540
• Replacement filters: £120
• Total: £4,060
• Likely still functional after 3 years

Intex PureSpa Plus (£600 purchase):

• Purchase: £600
• Running costs: £3,000 (£1,000/year)
• Chemicals: £540
• Replacement filters: £90
• Possible replacement: £600 (if fails at year 3)
• Total: £4,830

Lay-Z-Spa saves £770 over 3 years while providing better experience and likely lasting longer.

FAQs

Q: Can I use my hot tub in winter?

A: Yes! Both brands work in winter, though running costs increase. Lay-Z-Spa handles UK winters better.

Q: How often should I change the water?

A: Every 3-4 months with regular use. More often if heavily used or chemistry issues.

Q: Do I need a special base?

A: Level, firm surface required. Paving slabs or decking work well. Avoid direct grass placement.

Q: How long do they take to heat up?

A: Lay-Z-Spa: 24-48 hours from cold. Intex: 36-72 hours. Faster in summer.

The Bottom Line

Lay-Z-Spa wins for most UK buyers. While £50-£150 more upfront, you get:

• Better build quality (lasts 1-2 years longer)
• Lower running costs (£120-£150/year saving)
• Superior warranty (2 years vs 1)
• UK-based support
• Better insulation for our climate

Our recommendation: Lay-Z-Spa Paris at £650-£750 offers the best balance of features, quality, and value. The LED lighting, durability, and proven UK track record make it the smart investment.

If budget is very tight (under £500), Intex PureSpa provides adequate performance, but expect to replace it sooner and spend more on running costs.

Total 3-year ownership: Lay-Z-Spa actually costs less despite higher purchase price, making it the clear winner for value-conscious buyers.