A cold plunge tub is a large vessel filled with cold water, designed for full-body immersion to provide a range of health and wellness benefits. Also referred to as ice baths or cryotherapy tubs, cold plunge tubs provide a convenient and controlled way to experience cold water therapy.
At Plunge Junkies we offer the largest selection of cold plunge tubs online. Browse our selection below or click the tabs above to learn more about cold plunge tubs such as types, buying considerations, and more.
What Are Cold Plunge Tubs?
A cold plunge tub is a large vessel made specifically for full body immersion in cold water temperatures, typically between 35-60°F. These tubs come in many shapes but most commonly resemble small above-ground pools or traditional bathtubs on stilts.
Most cold plunge tubs hold 50-60+ gallons of water in order to submerge the entire body while seated or in a standing position. They are constructed from durable materials like stainless steel, polyethylene plastic, acrylic, and fiberglass. More advanced models may also include beneficial features like adjustable temperature controls, built-in seating, underwater lighting, sound systems, and self-cleaning sanitation systems.
Portable, inflatable cold plunge tubs are also available for easy setup and storage. These typically require manual temperature regulation by adding ice to reach the desired cold temperature.
Cold plunge tubs are available across a wide range of sizes and price points for any budget. And many can pull double duty for both hot and cold water therapy.
Types of Cold Plunge Tubs
There are several styles and designs of cold plunge tubs available:
- Inflatable tubs: Made from durable plastic or vinyl, these portable tubs are easy to set up and store. They require filling with cold water and adding ice to reach the desired temperature. Best suited for personal use.
- Acrylic or plastic tubs: Fixed cold plunge tubs made from molded acrylic or polyethylene are durable and hold temperatures well. These resemble large bathtubs with integrated seats.
- Wooden hot tubs: Many wooden barrel hot tubs can also be used for cold plunging. Their thick wooden sides provide insulation to maintain cold temperatures.
- Metal tubs: Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials for cold plunge construction. Seamless steel tubs are rust-resistant and easily cleaned.
- Outdoor hot tubs: Existing outdoor hot tubs can often be converted into cold plunge pools. This provides a larger swimming pool-like immersion space.
- Indoor tubs: Indoor cold plunge tubs are smaller for fitting inside homes. They often include chillers for temperature regulation and therapeutic jets.
- Commercial grade tubs: Robust stainless steel commercial cold tubs accommodate multiple users and include commercial filtration systems.
Consider cost, size, temperature control method, special features, and usage requirements when choosing the ideal cold plunge tub type for your needs and preferences.
Cold Plunge Tubs: Buying Considerations
When shopping for a cold plunge tub, carefully evaluating the available options against your needs and budget ensures you select the ideal model. Key factors to consider include:
- Size: Measure where you plan to place the tub and doorway access. Choose a length and width that fits the space and provides the desired user capacity. Larger commercial tubs allow group use while smaller personal tubs take up less room.
- Temperature Range: Look for tubs that can cool water down to your target cold therapy temperature, often 35-60°F. Maximum chilling capability provides full benefits.
- Construction: Select durable, rust-proof materials like stainless steel or reinforced acrylic that withstand frequent hot-cold cycling without damage. This ensures longevity.
- Special Features: Consider useful additions like seating, underwater lighting, Bluetooth sound, and digital displays based on your budget and preferences to enhance the experience.
- Insulation: Proper insulation maintains cold temps, reducing icing needs and energy use. Locking insulated covers also retain temperature when not in use.
- Filtration: Effective filtration keeps water clear and free of contaminants for a safe and sanitary cold plunge. Replaceable filter cartridges simplify maintenance.
- Noise Level: Evaluate pump noise output if a concern. Inflatable tubs are silent but powerful chillers on large cold plunge pools generate noise.
- Safety Features: Non-slip surfaces, grab rails, usage timers, and emergency shutoffs maximize safety, especially for new cold therapy users.
- Cost: Cold plunge tub prices range from $100 for basic inflatable DIY models up to $20,000+ for luxury custom-designed commercial setups.
- Durability & Warranty: Robust construction withstands years of use. Quality tubs offer 5 to 10 year limited warranties on shell and 1-2 years on components.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable established brands known for performance and support versus generic imports.
- Ease of Use: Convenient control dials, entry steps, quick drainage, and interchangeable filters make operation straightforward.
- Reviews: Research candid customer reviews for helpful details on real-world performance, durability, ease of maintenance, and overall satisfaction.
- Appearance: Neutral colors fit most spaces but customizable wood finishes provide a natural look if tub is prominently visible.
- Shipping & Installation: Account for potential delivery challenges and professional installation costs for larger permanent outdoor tubs.
- Maintenance: While automated systems reduce maintenance, expect some periodic upkeep like changing filters, refilling water, and cleaning.
- Location: Permanent outdoor tubs allow more size but require heavy-duty construction and often professional installation. Indoor tubs are more compact.
- Frequency of Use: For heavy daily use, invest in a commercial-grade tub. Moderate use can utilize a residential tub. Inflatable tubs work for occasional plunging.
Carefully weighing all these key factors helps identify the ideal cold plunge tub for your budget, space, and wellness goals. Prioritize the features most important for your needs.
Benefits of Cold Plunge Tubs
Frequently reported benefits of cold plunge tubs and cold water immersion include:
- Reduced inflammation: Constriction of blood vessels decreases swelling and inflammation which can relieve chronic pain. This is why ice packs are applied for injuries.
- Muscle recovery: Cold exposure helps reduce exercise-induced muscle damage and delayed onset muscle soreness.
- Increased circulation: Alternating hot and cold causes veins to dilate and constrict, which improves circulation.
- Weight/fat loss: Cold temperatures boost metabolism and burns calories as the body works to warm itself.
- Immunity boost: Brief cold exposure activates the immune system which studies indicate can reduce illness.
- Improved mood: Release of endorphins and resilience built from cold therapy promote positive mental effects.
- Lower stress: Cold plunges help reset the nervous system and provide stress relief benefits.
- Better sleep: Routine cold immersion has shown the potential to improve sleep quality in some individuals.
- Increased energy: The shock of the cold is believed to provide an energy boost and heightened alertness.
- Enhanced performance: Athletes use cold tubs to reduce fatigue and muscle damage allowing harder training.
- Slowed aging: Cellular anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects of cold may slow the aging process.
The numerous benefits of cold hydrotherapy make investing in a home cold plunge tub appealing for athletes, those managing chronic conditions, and anyone seeking better health and wellbeing.
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