Attractive self-contained design
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Powerful cooling, sanitation, and filtration
Water lasts up to six months
Upgrades are pricey
Not ideal for small spaces
Very heavy
If you want a cold plunge tub that just works, with a large, comfortable basin, easy setup, and a filtration system that keeps the water clear with minimal effort, we strongly recommend the Plunge. We've tested this cold plunge twice (including the latest pro heater/chiller) and it remains our unquestioned favorite.
We love how cold this tub gets and how easy it is to just jump in any time (especially compared to hauling around big bags of ice). We liked the original version that got down to 39 degrees, but Plunge's latest chiller dips all the way to 37 degrees with the option for heat as well.
Our best chiller pick can get down to 32 degrees for an especially chilly dip, but 37 will be icy enough for most. In fact, we had to set the temperature to a much balmier 60 degrees to start and ease our way in through months of testing and use.
Even at 60 degrees, we found the Plunge to be a bracing experience, with a sense of warmth and wellbeing persisting for a while after use. It also helped with an ankle injury and felt much more effective than wrapping and applying ice.
This tub is physically quite large—approximately a foot longer than the average bathtub—so it requires significant space. However, its attractive design makes it a great addition to any backyard deck or patio. If you opt for the pro chiller, you can even use it indoors. We installed one inside and loved the convenience (and the option to switch to heat, since we tested the version that can do that).
The tub is quite heavy when it's full of water (which is true of any high-capacity cold plunge tub), but we were surprised by how light it's when empty. It only took one person to move around into position (the chiller unit is significantly heavier, but it's still manageable).
We love how the chiller module handles filtration and chilling duties, and highly recommend the pro version with heat if you think you'll take advantage of it. It does take quite a while to make the switch, so we left ours primarily in cooling mode, but having the option to relax in a hot tub is a fantastic extra value.
We also love that the chiller plugs into a standard wall outlet, which simplifies installation, whether you use the Plunge indoors or outdoors.
Plunge recommends leaving it on at all times to keep the water circulating and filtered (and cold so you can jump in whenever you want), but we opted to leave it unplugged to save on electricity the first time we tested. That worked well enough, as we only had to wait a couple of hours each time we wanted to use the tub.
Just be aware that if you do that, Plunge warns that gunk may accumulate in the pipes and pump, requiring a deep clean. The second time we tested, we left it on as recommended, and we were impressed with how well the filtration system works.
Aside from providing a comfy lounging environment and ice-cold water, we're also impressed with this tub's details, extras, and accessories. The included holder is great for keeping your dry while tracking plunge sessions, and the durable cover helps with insulation (and keeps out debris). The bright LED light is also fun since it makes the water look as cold as it really is.
Dimensions: 66.63 x 31.5 x 26 inches (not including chiller) | Material: Acrylic, fiberglass, reinforced metal | Temperature Range: Down to 37 degrees (optional heat to 120 degrees) | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: 1,019.7 pounds | Dry Weight: 144 pounds | Capacity: 105 gallons
What We LikeDoesn't require electricity
Easy to use
Great for beginners
Not for stretching out
With The Ice Pod, you can still enjoy all the benefits of a cold plunge tub without spending a fortune. We recently put this model through rigorous testing, using it at least three times per week after workouts for 15-minute sessions at temperatures ranging from 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. After each use, our muscles were less sore, and it felt like a meditative experience.
While we tested other inflatable models, we were impressed with the simplicity of setting up the Ice Pod. To speed up the process, we used a bike pump to inflate the tub's rim. The PVC support rods helped stabilize the ice bath's structure. We assembled the tub in about five minutes and filled it with water from the garden hose in about ten. Before using, you must add ice to cool the water.
Depending on the initial water temperature, the brand recommends adding 15 to 40 pounds of ice to the tub before each session. We added about 60 pounds of ice before each use, which took roughly 20 minutes to chill. Draining the tub is a breeze—attach a standard garden hose to the drain. We used the excess water for our garden.
The tub's exterior is made of soft peach skin fabric that is UV-resistant, its inner layer is waterproof and withstands extreme weather conditions, and it has pearl cotton insulation. At 29 inches tall and 30 inches in diameter, it's designed for adults to submerge themselves upright rather than stretch out.
This portable cold tub takes up very little room compared to bathtub-style models like our best overall pick, so it can be placed anywhere. You can buy just the tub or opt for the Pro Bundle (like we did) for about $80 more, which includes a cover, a travel bag, a handheld pump, and a floating thermometer. The cover kept dirt, bugs, and leaves out. Although the thermometer tends to fog up, we found it effective.
Dimensions: 29 x 30 inches | Material: PVC, pearl cotton, UV-resistant exterior | Temperature Range: Ice-dependent | Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor | Filled Weight: Not listed | Dry Weight: 8 pounds | Water Capacity: 79 gallons
What We LikeExtra-strong, weather-ready material
Included step stool, stand, and debris cover
Fits adults of all heights and sizes
No seating
If you prefer an outdoor plunge with the bracing sensation of ice against your skin, the Ice Barrel Cold Therapy Training Tool is your best bet. During testing, we dipped in the tub three to five times a week. It's made of durable yet lightweight thermoplastic that's waterproof, fade- and crack-resistant.
Unlike options with external chillers (like our best overall), you have to add ice after filling this cold plunge tub with water from a hose. Once set up, we added about 80 gallons of water and topped it off with up to 80 pounds of ice per plunge (about $18 to $40+, depending on how much ice costs in your area).
We found that we could jump in immediately after adding the ice—there was no need to wait because the ice started slowly melting as soon as we added it. Even though the barrel had insulated walls and a lid, the ice melted in as little as 7 to 10 minutes on warmer days, so you really do need to take a plunge as soon as you add the ice.
The barrel can hold up to 105 gallons of water, but we don't recommend filling it to the top. Leave room for the ice (and melted water). When full, it weighs around 930 pounds, which is an unmovable weight, so make sure it's positioned where you want it (and on a sturdy surface) before filling.
Setting up the barrel was pretty straightforward. Due to its large size, we recommend having at least two people build it. At just 55 pounds when empty (the third lightest on our list), it's conveniently portable and easy to move around your space, but it can be a lot for one person to handle on their own.
Adults of most heights and weights can fully submerge themselves upright. We wish there were a seat or a bench so we wouldn't have to squat awkwardly in the tub. We liked the step stool, though, which made it easy to climb in regardless of how tall you are.
Getting out was a bit trickier, but the ladder helped. The protective cover keeps debris out while helping it maintain cold water temperatures, and the built-in drain allows you to empty and refill it as needed.
Dimensions: 42 x 31 inches | Material: Recycled thermoplastic | Temperature Range: Ice-dependent | Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor | Filled Weight: 930 pounds | Dry Weight: 55 pounds | Water Capacity: 105 pounds
What We LikeStraightforward and quick setup
Easy inflation with included pump
Very effective chiller
Tough to get into for shorter individuals
Tough to get into for shorter individuals
No way to lock out controls
If you’re interested in a cold plunge tub but don’t have the space to keep it up all the time, we think you’ll enjoy this inflatable option from MiHigh. It sets up fast, works well in backyards, on decks, in garages, and home gyms, and you can use it either with or without MiHigh’s excellent electric chiller.
We set up this cold plunge on our patio, and we were impressed with how quickly and easily it inflated. The footprint isn’t huge, as it’s a barrel-style cold plunge, but setup is quick and easy enough that taking it down whenever you need the extra space isn’t a significant issue, unlike with other cold plunges.
You can use this cold plunge with ice or a cooler, and we tested it with MiHigh’s cooler. The chiller doesn’t get as cold as others, but the minimum temperature of 41 degrees is more than cold enough for a very bracing cold plunge (if you’re new to cold plunges, you’ll likely want to start warmer than that anyway).
This tub includes a cover with two secure clips, which keep debris out and help insulate the cold water. We especially appreciated that they kept a toddler from pulling the cover off, although we wish the control panel had some kind of lockout to prevent unwanted tampering with the temperature.
If you don’t want to go the electric chiller route, you can use the cold plunge with bags of ice or make your own with MiHigh’s eight-pound ice block MegaCube. Either way, this inflatable cold plunge is a great option if your space is limited or you need to be able to take it down and store it when not in use.
Dimensions: 27.5 x 31.5 inches (not including chiller) | Material: Fiberglass-reinforced PVC | Temperature Range: Down to 41 degrees (with optional chiller) | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: 782 pounds | Dry Weight: 16 pounds | Capacity: 92 gallons
What We LikeEasy to relocate
Double as a hot tub
Cools water rapidly
Pretty large
When selecting the best cold plunge for indoor use, convenience is key. While we initially tested the Sun Home Cold Plunge Portable Ice Bath on our balcony, we quickly transferred it to our first-floor living room after realizing it could be used indoors (and that, thanks to the versatile chiller/heater unit, we could use it for a warm soak in addition to a cold plunge). The tub weighed only 15.5 pounds before inflating, so relocating it was a breeze.
Having the tub within easy reach made us utilize it more often. Whether first thing in the morning or at some undetermined hour after CrossFit, we hopped in it nearly every day and found it effective. We also like that this cold plunge tub uses an external chiller to achieve the desired temperature, eliminating the hassle and mess of ice bags.
The chiller can cool the water to 32 degrees Fahrenheit and heat it to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though the water temperature began at 74 degrees Fahrenheit when we turned on the machine, it took a few minutes to reach the desired temperature. We liked how easy it was to adjust the plunge tub's temperature using the Tuya app. When the cold weather rolled in months into testing, we found ourselves enjoying the warm setting for relaxation sessions.
Even though this versatile hot/cold plunge tub is ideal for indoor use, it has a large footprint (76.4 inches wide), so you'll need enough space to set it up comfortably. With a larger size comes ample space, and our 5-foot-7-inch tester had no trouble lying flat. The brand claims to accommodate users up to 6 feet 8 inches, which is a major plus for tall people.
The setup for this plunge was straightforward. The tub part can be inflated using the provided air pump, which we found simple. Despite being inflatable, it is certainly not made cheaply. Unlike any other inflatable cold plunge tub, this one is built to last using military-grade drop stitch technology. It also comes with an insulated lid that clips to the tub, which prevented water from accidentally getting on our floors when not being used.
Maintenance is similarly uncomplicated, but we found that it was important to keep up a regular schedule to avoid a slimy film that made it very slippery. In addition to changing the filters, we settled into a regular cleaning routine through six months of testing, changing out the water every two to three weeks. The filter does a good job, but we found that draining, hosing it down, and wiping it out was essential for keeping it clean.
Dimensions: 76.8 x 27.6 x 25.2 inches | Material: Military-grade, drop stitch | Temperature Range: 32 to 140 degrees | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: Not listed | Dry Weight: 15.5 pounds | Water Capacity: 95 gallons
What We LikeAdvanced chiller and filtration system
Energy-efficient and whisper-quiet
No additional cushioning
We tested the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro three times a week in our backyard and can attest to its effectiveness for muscle and joint recovery. When the cold weather set in, we also enjoyed the heating function for a relaxing soak.
Of all the cold plunges we tested, the Cold Plunge Pro boasts the most luxurious features and the best chiller for the coldest plunge possible. We loved its sleek, rectangular form, which made it a seamless addition to our outdoor space.
Unlike most other cold plunges on our list, which use ice or an external chiller, the Sun Home Plunge Pro has an integrated chiller that cools water down to 32 degrees (the lowest on our list). It's a minor thing, but we love how it simplifies setup, and it looks much cleaner without an external unit hooked up with tubes.
When we started with room-temperature water, it took about 5 hours to reach 50 degrees. It can get a lot colder than that, though, and it's even capable of creating floating ice, which sets it apart from other tubs we tested.
Whether you set it up indoors or outside, you'll barely notice it's there since it's designed to be whisper-quiet. We set it up outdoors so we could soak up the sun before plunging—and for easy draining. If you change your mind about placement, the tub has casters for easy relocation. The spot we picked in our backyard was a bit bigger than the tub itself, so we’d have enough room to plug in the tub and place the attached step stool.
The setup only took about 20 minutes. We filled it with a garden hose, powered it on, and found its insulation quite effective. Even after turning the tub off, the water remained cool, requiring only about an hour of power to reach our preferred temperature for other plunging sessions. After six months of testing, we found ourselves still using it at least once or twice a week because it's so convenient and effective.
We also love that this tub has a three-step filtration system with a 20-micron filter that removes all debris from the water. When you change your water, a simple twist opens the drain at the bottom of the tub. We settled into a routine of draining, wiping it clean with water and vinegar, refilling once each week, and keeping on top of filter changes.
At 78 inches long, the cold plunge is 2 inches longer than the Plunge All-In (our top recommendation for tall people), so it can also accommodate those taller than 6 feet. We tested this tub with an individual who was 6 feet 5 inches, and they found they could lounge with no issues.
The tub's sturdy edges made it easy to enter and exit since they supported us while we lowered into and raised ourselves out of the tub. We enjoyed the attachable headrest, which we were able to adjust to accommodate our height. However, it's worth noting that the tub lacks cushioning and ledges for varying seating positions inside.
Other standout features include an insulated lid, internal jets, lighting options, and a sturdy exterior to withstand inclement weather. Despite its high list price of over $10,000 (the most expensive option on our list), the impressive features and the brand's backing with a one-year warranty (with three- and five-year options available) make this cold plunge a compelling choice.
Dimensions: 34 x 78 x 33 inches | Material: Stainless steel | Temperature Range: Down to 32 degrees | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: Not listed | Dry Weight: 345 pounds | Water Capacity: 80 gallons
What We LikeIncludes and anti-slip mat
Durable vinyl
Plenty of room
App is not user-friendly
Although several of the models on our list have built-in cleaning mechanisms that make maintenance a breeze, like our best for tall people pick, the Supertub Cold Plunge's three-step sanitization system gave us the peace of mind we needed during our in-home testing.
To start, water is filtered out of the tub using an 80-mesh water strainer, which is great for catching bigger debris like sand and hair. After that, a 20-micron water filter eliminates extremely fine particles. Lastly, using a commercial-grade ozone generator, the water is disinfected by breaking down germs, including mold, bacteria, and viruses. To further ensure that the water remained clean, we used the net that comes with it daily to scoop anything floating on the surface.
Aside from the tub's extensive cleaning process, every feature and accessory that came with the tub impressed us. Despite being inflatable, the cold plunge is made of double-walled marine vinyl that has undergone extensive testing for durability. A water balance kit, compressor unit, and air pump are all included with this plunge tub.
We particularly liked the pump, which has four small suction feet on one side to keep it in place as it pumps air into the plunge pool. Another accessory we enjoyed was the anti-slip mat that kept us from slipping when entering or exiting the tub. We also recommend keeping a bath towel around to dry your body.
Compared to the other models on our list that let you fully extend your legs, this one is on the smaller side, at only 52 inches long (smaller than the average bathtub). For reference, our best overall option is 15 inches longer. Despite this, we tested the cold plunge with someone who is 5-foot-8 and found the tub to be plenty spacious. A 6-foot-8 person also fit comfortably in the tub, they just had to sit much more upright.
Everything went smoothly during the setup process. The pool and cover were simple to inflate, and the directions were clear. After filling the tub with water and adding the water balancing kit, the only step left was to cool the water. To set the desired temperatures, we either had to tap the plus or minus buttons on the onboard display or drag the slider (both were extremely easy to use). Like our best for taller people pick, the chiller on this model can cool the water down to 37 degrees.
While the setup was easy, we were not fond of the app. The Tuya app is shared by multiple companies and isn't made with cold plunge pools in mind, so it's messy and not very user-friendly.
Dimensions: 52 x 28 x 24 inches | Material: SGS-certified military-grade marine vinyl | Temperature Range: Down to 37 degrees | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: Not listed | Dry Weight: 21 pounds | Water Capacity: 60 gallons
Compact option
Insulated barrel and lid
Easy setup
Takes weeks to ship
The Ice Barrel 300 is an excellent choice if you're short on room but still want a refreshing dip. It can be used indoors or outdoors and has a very small footprint—just 35 inches wide, comparable to the size of a nightstand. Like our best outdoor pick, this barrel is made of extremely durable material. It also has an insulated barrel and lid to help keep the water cold between uses.
We tested it on our back deck near the hose for easy refilling. Although the barrel isn't designed for stretching out, it's big enough for a single person as tall as 6 feet 2 inches and up to 250 pounds. Unlike the Barrel 400 (Ice Barrel's taller model), the 300 has a shelf-like seat at the bottom.
During our testing, we barely used the provided "seating" since our bodies were floating most of the time. We liked the side shelves—they're great armrests. Two carry handles on the outside of the barrel make it easier to move than other models on our list, but we wouldn't recommend moving the barrel when water is added, as it can weigh up to 700 pounds (holding 77 gallons of water).
If you intend to use a cold plunge inside your home or any interior place, you'll need a long enough hose to reach the room where you set up the plunge barrel. This is essential for a smooth and effective water-filling process. To drain the water, connect a hose to the spout at the bottom of the barrel and allow the water to flow out via the hose and out of the room. This will help you avoid any potential water spills or messes inside.
With competitive price and timely delivery, Nancent sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Like the Ice Barrel 400, this cold plunge tub has a user-friendly setup. All we had to do was fill it with water about 8 inches to the top (it took about six minutes) and add ice (we added 40 pounds, which cost us $14). We also added the water stabilizer the manufacturer recommended, adding about one and a half teaspoons to the water. Overall, the tub has been a great addition to our home. It's backed by a lifetime warranty and a 30-day window for return, so if you're not thrilled, you can send it back for a refund.
Dimensions: 35.5 x 30.5 inches | Material: Recycled plastic | Temperature Range: Ice-dependent | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: 700 pounds | Dry Weight: 61 pounds | Water Capacity: 77 gallons
What We LikeExtra legroom
Can set reminders on the app
Simple setup process
Maintenance chemicals not included
Tall people have difficulty fitting into most bathtubs, let alone cold plunge tubs. However, the Plunge All-In is designed for anyone who needs extra legroom. Its interior is one of the most spacious you'll find, with enough legroom to accommodate individuals up to 6 feet 9 inches in height. We tested the cold plunge at home and really liked that the tub was deep enough to fully immerse ourselves in and long enough to let us stretch out when we reclined.
The underwater light, which not many models on our list have, was a great feature. It allowed us to take a dip at night, which was chilly but something we enjoyed. Like the Plunge Standard model we tested, it's made from fiberglass-reinforced acrylic, which allows it to tolerate outside climatic changes without breaking down.
It's also incredibly easy to set up. Once we filled the plunge with water using the included filter that connected to our garden hose, we just plugged it in and adjusted the temperature. Unlike the standard plunge, the chiller is built right into the tub, which speeds up the setup process a lot. We downloaded the accompanying app and had no issues linking the All-In tub to our Wi-Fi, which we used to operate the tub through our phones.
The cold plunge tub may also be operated using a control panel. However, we preferred the ease and convenience of using the app. The app also lets us create reminders to track when it's time to winterize, clean the vent screens, and change the water or filter.
We found that the chiller consistently maintained the water temperature within 1 degree Fahrenheit of the desired temperature. Additionally, the cold plunge has an insulated lid that extends its cold retention period even when turned off. To keep the water clean for longer between refills, jets continuously circulate it and pass it through filters.
Installing this cold plunge, measuring 76 inches in length, will require ample space because it is larger than a bathtub. Since the Plunge All-In needs approximately 7 by 3.5 feet of room, we constructed an 8 by 4-foot foundation with stone outside. The Plunge All-In was delivered to our home and taken from the truck to the precise location where we wanted to install it. We purposely avoided a location that involved stairs since the delivery service would not bring the tub up or down stairs.
This cold plunge is among the priciest options on our list, costing nearly $9,000. However, the inbuilt chiller prevents the need for 60 to 80 pounds of ice, which, if used daily, can cost up to $960 per month at $2 to 4 per pound for a 10-pound bag. In the long run, the Plunge All-In could be a cost-effective investment.
Dimensions: 76.75 x 31.5 x 28.75 inches | Material: Fiberglass reinforced acrylic | Temperature Range: Down to 37 degrees | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: pounds | Dry Weight: 270 pounds | Water Capacity: 100 gallons
Auto-filtering system
Spacious interior
Features easy entry/exit design
Android app has limited functionality
Heater can't operate in ambient temperatures below 10 degrees.
Lid allows debris to get inside
If you're looking for a cold plunge with many customization options, the Plunge Evolve Air Pro is one to consider. While we tested the cold plunge at home with the chiller and heater, you can also purchase just the tub (to be used with ice) or the tub with a chiller. This flexibility allows for a personalized cold plunge experience. After six months of testing, we found ourselves using it for about 10 minutes every day.
The Plunge Evolve Air is similar to The Plunge (our best overall) at almost half the cost. They both come with a powerful external chiller that promises to cool water quickly and use a built-in thermostat to set it as low as 39 degrees. Like the other tub we tested from the brand, the Air is also incredibly spacious. We tested it with someone who was 6 feet tall, and they could fit comfortably. What's great is that the tub isn't too deep, so we found stepping in and out is super easy, almost like getting in and out of a large tub.
The biggest difference is that the Air is made from a durable inflatable material that offers easy portability. We can vouch for this because we initially set it up on the back deck but later moved it to the side of the garage. While we placed the cold plunge outdoors, we’re not concerned about the wintertime since the chiller has a heater to prevent freezing.
The heater option is a big plus when using the tub outside during the colder months, and one of the reasons we wanted to test this plunge tub is that it does have limitations. We enjoyed the heater function when relaxing on cool fall nights, but that changed when winter set in.
It isn't immediately clear (we had to dig through support documentation on Plunge's website), but this tub needs to be emptied, winterized, and taken down (which includes hauling the heavy heater/chiller inside) if the outdoor temperature drops to 10 degrees. If your climate is milder than that, you can leave it up all year, but we were disappointed to find that we had to take ours down during a cold snap.
Setting up the tub isn't too complicated, but we did have to read the instructions to figure out how to use the included pump. During testing, we noticed that we needed to check the air pressure in the tub regularly, especially with the fluctuating Iowa weather. We found ourselves adding air every two weeks at first, which turned into every week as the weather grew colder. We do wish there was a built-in pressure gauge to make it easier to know when air needs to be added. This issue got even worse as winter set in and the temperature began to drop.
Aside from checking the air pressure, we also recommend buying a cleaning solution to maintain the water. While the water was constantly running through a filter all day, during our testing period, it started to get cloudy. We found that using the cleaning solution was the only thing that helped to clear it up again.
Overall, we’re pretty content with the health benefits of incorporating the cold plunge into our weekly routine. One drawback, however, is that we weren’t able to use the Plunge app at first because it was only compatible with Apple devices. Plunge has since released an Android version of the app, but the functionality is limited to adjusting the temperature.
Dimensions: 28 x 61 x 33 inches | Material: Nylon and PVC fabric | Temperature Range: Down to 39 degrees | Indoor/Outdoor: Both | Filled Weight: 904 pounds | Dry Weight: 28 pounds | Water Capacity: 105 gallons
After testing 15 different models to find the best cold plunge tubs, the Plunge Standard Cold Plunge Tub stood out for its sleek, self-contained design and impressive cooling, sanitation, and filtration systems. If you're on a budget or need something more portable, we recommend an inflatable option, like The Pod Company The Ice Pod.
To find the best cold plunge tubs on the market, we spent over a year testing 15 tubs in our homes across the country. For the initial test, we started by easing into the cold plunge tub at a temperature of 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. We then gradually lowered the temperature by one degree each week until we were able to comfortably finish at least two minutes in the frigid plunge. We then evaluated setup, ease of use, design, ease of cleaning, and value.
Setup: During testing, we carefully followed each tub manufacturer's assembly instructions and noted how simple or complicated the process was and whether any problems occurred during the setup procedure. We also recorded when white-glove delivery was used when the tubs were delivered.
Ease of Use: While testing, we noted how long it took the water to cool down if it used ice bags and whether it was ready to go each time for cold plunges with chillers. For models with apps, we also tested those.
Design: Since cold plunge tubs are pretty large, we noted how much space they took up. We also discussed the comfort or discomfort experienced by persons of varying heights while using the tubs. After testing the tubs for several weeks, we noted any signs of leaks and wear and tear that were present after consistent use.
Ease of Cleaning: While the test was underway, we checked the ease of the cleaning process. We also noted any inconvenient spots that would require specialized cleaning tools. We then discussed any maintenance that needed to be done on the cold plunge tub.
Value: We considered all of each tub's positive and negative aspects, including extra features like covers, in relation to its price point.
When you are not using your cold plunge, keep the cover on. A cover prevents debris such as leaves, dust, and even tiny animals from falling into the water of an outdoor cold plunge. This saves you time and effort by keeping your plunge clean and reduces the frequency of cleaning and filtration.
At-home cold plunge tanks come in various sizes. Tub-style options, like the Plunge Standard Cold Plunge Tub (our best overall pick), allow you to stretch out. The Plunge is actually a little bigger than a standard tub, at 72.75 inches long and 26.75 inches tall, so there's plenty of room to lean back and relax.
Other cold plunge tubs follow a narrower, vertical design style. They're typically more compact and take up less floor space, and are designed for sitting or squatting in an upright position instead of a relaxed, lounging posture. The Ice Barrel Cold Therapy Training Tool Ice Bathtub (our best outdoor option) measures 42 inches tall and 31 inches wide, and some people like the upright sitting position for breath work.
In addition to your preferred cold plunge position, you should consider your available space and check the dimensions before ordering anything. Tub style plunges typically take up more room than barrel-style, but it's still important to measure first.
Depending on your height, you can choose from a variety of cold plunge pod sizes. If you're comfortable kneeling or sitting, a smaller cold plunge pod, like Ice Barrel 300 (our best for small spaces pick), is a great fit.
However, taller people may find these smaller pods confining and uncomfortable. A full-size insulated ice bath, such as the Plunge All-In (our best for tall people pick) can comfortably seat individuals up to 6 feet 9 inches.
One important factor to consider when choosing a cold plunge tub is the temperature range within which it operates. Between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit is a good range for most people, but some get much colder, and others have built-in heating also to provide higher temperatures.
If you've never used a cold plunge tub, you may want to start on the warmer end of the temperature range. According to Richard Malone, co-owner of IceBurg Cold Plunge, you can reap the most benefits with 50 degrees Fahrenheit or colder water.
If you're looking for colder water, the Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro (our best chiller pick) can reach 32 degrees. For a wider range that includes both cold plunge and hot tub temperatures, the Edge Tub Elite provides temperatures between 32 and 104 degrees.
There are two ways to chill the water in a cold plunge tub: bags of ice or an electric chiller, and we’ve tested (and recommended) options that fit into both categories. Ice is only an option for outdoor cold plunge tubs, while you can find both indoor and outdoor (and indoor/outdoor models that work in both settings) that use electric chillers.
The main benefit of chilling via ice is the lower initial cost. Cold plunge tubs that rely on ice are usually less expensive, like the Plunge Lab Ice Bath Tub XL (our best budget pick), which is typically priced under $100. There are pricier ice-based models, like the Ice Barrel Bathtub 400 (our best outdoor pick), which is priced around $1,200, but that’s still less expensive than a chiller-based model.
Models that use electric chillers, like The Plunge (our overall best recommendation) tend to be more expensive, priced between $4,000 and $10,000, but they’re easier to use, less expensive to run, and offer better temperature control. They do require electricity to run, but that’s typically much less than the cost of ice.
The cost of running an electric cold plunge tub will depend on the model, how much you use it, and the cost of electricity, but a typical model with average power costs could run you about $0.40 to run for two hours (long enough to chill off and take a plunge). Compare that to ice-based cold plunge tubs, which can use over $30 of ice per plunge unless you’re making the ice yourself at home (in which case you’ll need an ice maker and a garage freezer or somewhere else to store all that ice).
Cold plunge tubs, like hot tubs, require regular and deep cleaning to maintain the cleanliness of the water and the equipment's performance. Regular cleaning ensures a pleasant plunge experience free of dirt and grime and ensures that your cold plunge will remain functional for many years, but different types of tubs require different levels of maintenance.
If you have an ice-chilled cold plunge tub, or a chiller-based model that doesn't include filtration, then your daily maintenance regimen will consist of dumping the water when you're done, rinsing the tub, then draining and drying. You'll also want to scrub it weekly with a soft-bristled brush and mild cleaning solution (or whatever the manufacturer recommends).
When a deeper clean is called for, typically once a month or so, it should involve additional scrubbing if necessary and a thorough inspection for wear and damage.
For cold plunge tubs that include a combination filter/chiller unit, you'll need to follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. The filter will typically keep the water clean without needing to be drained after every use, but you will usually need to add chemicals and monitor the water's pH.
Some people reuse the water in their ice-chilled cold plunge tub for a week or so, but the more sanitary practice is to drain and replace it after every use. If you prefer to use the same water for multiple plunges, then rinsing yourself off under an outdoor shower can keep the water clean longer. Regular water changes keep your water clean and free from dirt, bacteria, and fungal growth.
For an easier draining experience, we recommend a cold plunge tub that comes with an attached drain, such as The Ice Pod. Then, all you need is a garden hose to empty the water.
If your cold plunge tub has a filtration system, then you don't need to drain the water as often, but you will need to add chemicals like chlorine and monitor the state of the water. Check with the manufacturer and follow their recommendations, but expect to change the water about every three to four months.
Some of our favorite cold plunge tubs lack filtration, which means you need to empty and clean them manually and add new water each time. However, some have advanced filtration systems that keep the water fresh and clean between uses, allowing you to take a cold dip whenever you want.
If you select a model that includes filtration, like the Hydragun Supertub (our best self-cleaning pick) that includes three-stage sanitization technology to filter out hair, sand, and grime, plan on replacing the filters as part of the regular maintenance and upkeep of your cold plunge tub.
Always follow the instructions provided by the plunge tub manufacturer, but you'll typically need to change the filters about once per month.
Even with frequent water changes and a sophisticated filtering system, it is essential to track the chemical levels of your cold plunge tub. The pH level determines how acidic or basic the water is.
The recommended pH range for a cold plunge tub is 7.2 to 7.8. When the pH of the water is too high or too low, it can irritate the skin and eyes, or damage the tub. We recommend testing water pH levels at least once each week.
Some brands, like Plunge, offer six-month maintenance kits for $190. These kits contain testing strips and other chemicals to keep the water at the ideal alkalinity and pH levels, among other things.
FAQCold plunge pools and tubs are relatively simple. "They include a tub, pump, chiller, and filter," says Matt Kuiper, founder and owner of Desert Plunge. "The pump pushes water through the chiller, cooling the water, then through the filter, removing any debris or pollution, and then through the tub and back again." Some portable, inflatable tubs don't have external chillers, so you simply fill them with water and add ice.
The best cold plunge tub to take care of is a self-cleaning design. When browsing options, look for something with a filter that captures debris, a UV sanitation system that kills germs, and a pump that keeps the water circulating. A built-in drain is also ideal, as this will make it easy to empty the tub when you want to replace it with fresh water.
"The most impactful benefit is building resilience to stress," says Richard Malone, co-owner of IceBurg Cold Plunge. "Placing oneself in freezing-cold water is clearly uncomfortable, but in that discomfort, you can achieve a level of calmness." We found them to be relaxing and meditative.
This article was written by Jeremy Laukkonen, an updates writer for The Spruce specializing in smart home tech, electronics, and outdoor equipment. He's currently testing the latest version of The Plunge: Original Cold Plunge Tub, which came just in time to help rehab a badly sprained ankle (so long, ice packs).
In preparation for this piece, Laukkonen considered the results of our cold plunge tests, selecting the best options for various situations based on ease of use, design, and value. He also considered tub size, maintenance procedures, and ease of setup, among other factors.
Our Experts:
The Chiller cools your ice bath for much cheaper than adding ice and it is a lot easier too. Simply turn on the Chiller and select your desired temperature.
Our recommended optimal temperature is 49-52°F - you will experience all of the benefits of ice baths at this temperature, whilst minimizing the energy usage of the Chiller. It takes 1-3 hours to reach this recommended optimal temperature.
The Chiller cools to our recommended ice bath temperature of 49-52°F in 1-3 hours. Average tap water temperature in the USA: 55-65°F Recommended temperature range for cold plunging: 49-52°F
Cool your ice bath to as low as 39°F using our Chiller! Average tap water temperature in the USA: 55-65°F Recommended temperature range for cold plunging: 49-52°F
The Chiller is able to run 24/7 - the energy efficient design automatically turns on/off to reach & maintain your set temperature, minimizing energy usage.
Yes, the Chiller cools to your selected temperature and then maintains that temperature.
Yes, our Chiller is designed to keep your ice bath super chilly even in hot temperatures.
For best results, we recommend doing an ice bath daily, but you can feel amazing benefits from as little as once per week.
Yes, safety is our top priority. It is designed to meet high safety standards. However, always follow the instructions provided and use with caution.
Yes, it completely suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Yes, absolutely. You can select 'Pay with HSA/FSA' at checkout to benefit from extra savings!
We stand by the performance of our products with a 1 Year Usability Guarantee from the delivery date. We quickly provide a replacement and return label when there are any issues that aren't due to improper use or care. Our standard approach is to issue a replacement rather than a refund when necessary.
If you have any issues at all that aren't due to improper use or care, do not hesitate to contact us right away and our 24/7 customer support team will work closely with you to resolve it as quickly as possible.
Rest assured that our number one priority is you - our customer.
The Chiller cools your ice bath for much cheaper than adding ice and it is a lot easier too. Simply turn on the Chiller and select your desired temperature.
Our recommended optimal temperature is 49-52°F - you will experience all of the benefits of ice baths at this temperature, whilst minimizing the energy usage of the Chiller. It takes 1-3 hours to reach this recommended optimal temperature.
The Chiller cools to our recommended ice bath temperature of 49-52°F in 1-3 hours. Average tap water temperature in the USA: 55-65°F Recommended temperature range for cold plunging: 49-52°F
Cool your ice bath to as low as 39°F using our Chiller! Average tap water temperature in the USA: 55-65°F Recommended temperature range for cold plunging: 49-52°F
The Chiller is able to run 24/7 - the energy efficient design automatically turns on/off to reach & maintain your set temperature, minimizing energy usage.
Yes, the Chiller cools to your selected temperature and then maintains that temperature.
Yes, our Chiller is designed to keep your ice bath super chilly even in hot temperatures.
For best results, we recommend doing an ice bath daily, but you can feel amazing benefits from as little as once per week.
Yes, safety is our top priority. It is designed to meet high safety standards. However, always follow the instructions provided and use with caution.
Yes, it completely suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Yes, absolutely. You can select 'Pay with HSA/FSA' at checkout to benefit from extra savings!
We stand by the performance of our products with a 1 Year Usability Guarantee from the delivery date. We quickly provide a replacement and return label when there are any issues that aren't due to improper use or care. Our standard approach is to issue a replacement rather than a refund when necessary.
If you have any issues at all that aren't due to improper use or care, do not hesitate to contact us right away and our 24/7 customer support team will work closely with you to resolve it as quickly as possible.
Rest assured that our number one priority is you - our customer.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Portable Ice Bath Chiller. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.