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Top 10 Best Ice Bath Tubs

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedJuly 23, 2024

A cold plunge is the practice of fully dipping yourself in ice-cold water for some time. It is a passive-active recovery routine implemented by athletes, exercising fanatics, or individuals with injuries experiencing muscle bothering pains.

Apart from easing muscle inflammation, cold water immersion offers other benefits that can be derived when it is included as part of the recovery process: Sleep enhancement, stress relief, and body cooling, among others.

Top 3 Best Ice Bath Tubs

  1. The Cold Pod Ice Bath Tub for Athletes
  2. ACCOREN The Ice Bath New Upgraded Ice Bath
  3. Arcwilderness Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

In this guide, you will find everything that one needs to know about these magic tubs, like our top picks, advantages, and the features you should look at while buying.


The Cold Pod Ice Bath Tub for Athletes with Lid: Cold Plunge Tub for Recovery

Editor's Choice

The Cold Pod Ice Bath Tub for Athletes with Lid: Cold Plunge Tub for Recovery

Experience the ultimate in water immersion at home with the Cold Pod Tub. This pod-ice bath is insulated to retain the scheduled temperature of the water besides being lightweight to allow its inclusion in the daily schedule. It also has a convenient top and can be served and drained at any location making it a health boost in any location.

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If you want to achieve the advantages of water immersion in the comfort of your own home then Cold Pod Tub is for you. If you are out in the market searching for an ice recovery tub both indoor and outdoor, then consider this recovery pod-ice bath. The Cold Pod is totally enclosed, it has four layers to keep the water at the recovery temperature you want.

It is for these reasons that I advise it, because it arrives with the lid so you can immerse yourself, cover, and do so, inside or outside, as many times as desired. The cover also improves the thermal sealing of the product. For cold water immersion, it should be in a recommended range of 11 to 15 degree Celsius. It involves the three strong, cut-resistant, and water-resistant layers to hold the temperature inside the mattress.

The fact that Cold Pod ice bathtub is lightweight and can be moved easily drew my attention because it can be used to create an ice bath routine. The design is compact which makes is suitable for most users, and they can sit straight on it. The bottle also comes with an instruction which indicates it is suitable for heights of up to 6ft 7 inches.

This bathtub comes with Cold Pod ice barrel that is easy to fix and needs lesser attention to have this bathtub’s health-promoting advantages. It’s drainage system is, however, impressively simple. Once that is done you simply need to open the drain at the bottom of the Easy Flow Drainage System and then rinse of the ice pod. It is recommended that you should change the water after every four weeks or any preferable time as you may wish. This will mean applying a water stabilizer or a UV purifier to your water in order to keep it clean.

Pros

  • Maintains the desired temperature Waterproof and tear-resistant Boosts health benefits
  • Lightweight and robust
  • Easy installation

Cons

  • It may need a motorized pump to inflate the upper ring
  • The lid may collapse if not properly fitted

ACCOREN The Ice Bath New Upgraded Ice Bath, Metal Support

ACCOREN The Ice Bath New Upgraded Ice Bath, Metal Support

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After learning about the benefits of an ice plunge, I needed to help my body perform at its best after my fitness routine. The cold plunge you get from ACCOREN accelerates your body’s overall healing process, increases your body’s natural immune system, relieves your muscles’ tiredness and make you sleep better at night. This is an adult portable ice tub, probably to help a person get refreshed at the end of a tiring day. It facilitated my easy body and mind energization at home, as well as enhanced my overall whole-body relaxation and my tense muscles rapid recovery.

This adult ice bath burrel is capable of working between -10 and 50 of the centigrade scale. This in turn means that I could also use it more especially as a hot and cold tub for relaxing purposes. The toughness of the ice bath barrel that has been manufactured by the ACCOREN brand is an aspect that I was searching for. It is made with very hard and very long lasting materials to ensure that it lasts long.

It is lined with a nylon cloth that thickens it and supported with metallic poles that make it very durable and performs excellently. Also, you can transport your ice bath anywhere, at any time. It is accompanied by a handbag that will allow you to transport it with ease to have your cold plunge regardless of your location.

ACCOREN ice bath can be seen as an ice bathtub that any user would opt for since using it is very easy. The whole product is aesthetically designed and it is accompanied with clear guidelines on how best it can be used. It is safe to order because it has a 60-day money back guarantee to ensure maximum satisfaction. It can be recommended for everyone who is an athlete, a gym freak, a home fitness freak, and even meditation freaks.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Robust metal posts
  • Reinforced material
  • Easy transportation
  • Versatile use
  • Compact design

Cons

  • Hot water can damage the nylon material

Arcwilderness Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

Arcwilderness Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

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Several factors led me to settle for this bathroom bathtub, but mainly because I am a heavy person and required a bathtub that will hold my weight without getting messy. Actually, when it came to support my weight, Arcwilderness Ice Bath Tub seemed to be able to do it well. It uses superior material, sturdy and it employs a different kind of thermal sealing system. This makes it fairly rigid and provides it with balance and equal percentage weight distribution to give you a secure and relaxed plunge experience.

It also makes this technology anti-burst. This ice bathtub has been constructed to be circular in shape and for the added touch of comfort, the inflatable head rest is included. This brand of bathtub comes highly recommended for anyone who is cool and refreshing after extreme tiredness; the Arcwilderness Ice Bath Tub is the solution to all your recovery needs.

This portable bathtub will make you recover quickly from soreness and fatigue right in your area/room. Whether you are an athlete or If you wish to view your general body health then this bathtub will provide you with the right feel of a spa. Due to easy installation, cleaning, and storing attributes, this cold plunge tub will provide you with a convenient and hygienic way to have a relaxing and efficient cold therapy session.

All in all, installing was quite an experience that I did not find very burdensome at all. It is also easy to manage, does not require much attention in terms of time and frequent checks require little time to complete. It has a polycarbonate lid and an Oxford cloth cover to assist you in covering it after lightly scraping its surface. It is advisable that you replace the water every two weeks but you can do it as you deem fit.

To retain the water purity, you may use a UV purifier, or a water stabilizer. This particular dual-use bathtub was useful in my case since I did not have to buy another bathtub for ordinary showers. Depending on its core, temperatures may vary from -10 C with respect to the Celsius scale to 55 C. It also as an insulated four-layered fabric that will ensure the water stays cold for a bath or hot for a hot bath.

This freezable and portable ice bathtub for adults is useful for athletes to use as a cold bath, for muscles aching relief, or as a recovery bathtub. It is ideal for people who prefer a fast, effective, and healing method of unwinding and recuperating. Do you want to have a tub that you will also use inside and outside the house? You can be extremely comfortable and safe notwithstanding of whether or not you select to put this draining cold water tub to use; it is really steep and non-toxic.

Pros

  • Easy to install and low maintenance
  • High-quality
  • Stable and anti-burst
  • Dual use for a cold and hot bath
  • 4-layer insulated to maintain temperature

Cons

  • It does not have a filtration system

Valktech Portable Ice Bathtub

Valktech Portable Ice Bathtub

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I was looking for a bathtub that I could use both indoors and outdoors. I could now take my spa anywhere with the Valktech Portable Ice Bathtub. Its area is rather large and measures 31. 5x29 inches to allow you ample space when seated and sufficiently stretched to avoid being restricted when you are taking your ice baths.

It has a dual drain hole; one at the base and the other at the side of the pot – to help in easy and quick water drainage. The outlet hose can also be pulled out to allow enough time when draining the water. When carrying out drainage of the bathtub, I did not have to transfer the bathtub at all.

This premium ice bathtub is made of firm, strengthened material, non-absorbent, leak-proof which can be easily washed. This cold tank is supported with eight brackets to enhance this cold plunge tube. They make the tube stiff and cannot tilt when water is added to make it seep through the walls.

There is the issue when there are some limitations concerning the space you have available. The Valktech portable ice bathtub showed that it could be folded to a small-size and be easily stored. It can be placed in a locker, drawer, storage bag or in a normal pocket if there is any. With this bathtub for adults, you will have the best relaxation either while out in the camps or within apartments or small houses.

Pros

  • Easy to store
  • Portable
  • Easy to drain water
  • Thickened and insulated material

Cons

  • Water cannot be filled beyond two-thirds of the bathtub
  • The small size may be a limitation for some users

Portable Ice Bath Tub for Athletes/Recovery by Ice Frontier

Portable Ice Bath Tub for Athletes/Recovery by Ice Frontier

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The Ice Frontier Cold Water Therapy Tub is one of the most effective and fast acting ways of exercising or competition recovery among athletes or people involved in fitness regimes. This formula is easy to use although it is your first time to deal with this product. All you have to do is to pour ice and cold water on the tub so that you can alleviate swollen muscles and quicken the recovery rate.

This is the kind of bathtub which I have known for quite a number of years, yet never feels like a thing of the past. It is made from fine-quality and long-lasting material, constructed to be utilised daily, and has a long service life. Ice tub’s bottom is more reinforced, handles are strong and its structure make it absolutely leak proof for enhanced sturdiness and service. Also included is a lid to put on after you are done using the Ice Bath.

If you are seaking comfort, get yourself, this ice bathtub. It has a rather large space where the dimensions are 75cm x 70cm, thus it can easily accommodate any size of people. It also has a contoured design enhanced to support the body perfectly while you eliminate the chilly temperatures trapping your body comfortably with no feeling of constraint.

The Ice Frontier Cold Plunge Tub is very easy to use, you literally just switch it on and it is ready in minutes. It is one of the portable ice bath options which you can use at home, in a gym, or anywhere you feel like, because it is lightweight and portable. A portable bathtub that an adult can use is the perfect invention.

Laying amongst ice is the Ice Frontier ice bath recovery tubs which is an effective recovery tool. I was able to use in almost all the settings and application that I may come across in my day to day life. Regardless of whether one has just exercised, has an existing injury, or wishes to enhance his or her wellbeing, the Ice Frontier tub is a beneficial tool.

Pros

  • Comfortable design
  • Easy to use
  • Spacious
  • High-quality construction
  • Versatile

Cons

  • The top edges are not sturdy
  • Can leak from the drainage hose if not properly fixed

AellerSen Portable Bathtubs

AellerSen Portable Bathtubs

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I wanted an ice bathtub that could be placed in a small area and the AellerSen Portable Bathtub perfectly fit the bill. This bathtub is portable in nature and is designed for setting up wherever you are, so that you do not miss out on … cold plunges. This folding bathtub is very simple to set up, and you can easily fold it once you are done with your bath and you can place it in any corner or even under your bed or anything as it does not take much space.

The thermal protection and insulation that surround this bathtub cannot be said to be of any lesser quality. Thanks to 5 layers of insulation, the water temperature in the plunge will be constantly comfortable and close to the set one. I kept my water temperature fairly consistent for most of my dip.

The outer part having waterproof canvas provides insulation adhesion and dirt resistance and the four-inch thickened cotton provides insulation for the tub keep it warm. Separate to these, the temperature lock coating also locks in temperature and the internal waterproof type provides the waterproof ability and heat insulation property. The ice bathtub is strong enough and I no longer have issues with my body weight.

The brackets are made of aluminum alloy; the material is stronger, safer and it has longer life expectancy as compared to plastic brackets. This goes a long way in increasing the life expectancy of your bathtub as you partake in your cold bath without any bad results. Its width is 114cm while its height is 58cm which make it right for any portion of the house and provide a feeling of liberation while taking the bath.

Pros

  • Metal brackets make it stable
  • Easy to store
  • 5-layer insulation for good insulation
  • Portable and foldable

Cons

  • It’s difficult to drain

BESTHLS Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

BESTHLS Ice Bath Tub for Athletes

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Having heard lots of hype concerning the benefits of taking an ice bath and as a fitness fanatic, I wanted to try out the bath. I decided to transform the methods of recovering my muscles, thus buying the BESTHLS Ice Bath Tub. Authority certification of this bathtub is eco-novice whereas construction material used is food-grade safety.

I was aware that insulation is one of the loop holes, and, this tub has it. It has three layers of textile incorporated in its design. The first layer which is described as the structural layer is made up of the anti-cold insulation fabric. This is non-toxic, and you will find it highly durable for the protection of your bathtub, hence, long-lasting.


The second one is reinforced cotton that aids to retainer the temperature, and the third one is a waterproof PVC that endows it a strong insulation feature. If space is a problem, do acquire this foldable ice barrel where you can fold it after use and place it under the bed, at the back of the door, or in the drawer. You can spend it indoors and outdoor at any one time and look like you are getting a spa treatment all the time.

Regarding the time to prepare for your cold plunge, it should be noted that this ice tub will take about three minutes to construct. This ice tub has six robust support columns that bear the bath’s weight and all the sizes of the human body.

If hot water is used, it should be just warm, about 45 degrees Celsius, too much hot water more than 60 degrees Celsius will harm the inside layer which is PVC. You can now have your spa at home irrespective of the size of your space through the below tub that also works as a soaking tub, an ice bathtub and even as an outdoor tub.

Pros

  • Foldable
  • Takes little space
  • Stable
  • Eco-friendly and safe material
  • Easy to assemble

Cons

  • It may take time to empty and fold

PLKO Foldable Bathtub Portable Soaking Bath Tub

PLKO Foldable Bathtub Portable Soaking Bath Tub

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The small size of my bathroom was a major challenge until I got the PLKO foldable soaking bathtub I was able to use it comfortably. It can easily accommodate in a small bathroom or shower area to allow one to have satisfaction of his spa at his home.

The most outstanding thing about this bathtub is that you do not have to pump air each time as seen with other large plastic ice bathtubs; so, installation is easy and quick. Thus, you can freely turn it into ice bath, hot tub or a portable bathtub for outdoor usage. The amount of thermal some bathtubs have is one of the big issues I pay attention to. This bathtub has thermal materials, which make the water to retain the preferred temperature for a longer period than other bathtub.

It has a multi-layer thickening with high-quality PVC material in its inner part. If you want to boil some water, it is recommended that you put cold water in then followed by hot water. Do not wash it using water, which is 60 degrees celsius since this will lead to the destruction of the PVC layer. The required temperature of the hot water is 45 degrees Celsius.

Through out it is rectangular which allows you sufficient space to put your feet all over the water. It is large enough to accommodate an adult no matter their size. I also took advantage of the PLKO ice bathtub that is portable and foldable so that I could to use it both inside and outside.

I also was not concerning its storage as once you fold it, it does not occupies much space at all. It turns to be stable whenever the two compartments have water half way filled. It can be used by persons with a weight capacity of 880lb and a height of 2m at most. This bathtub also includes a provision of a double drain. At the bottom of bathtub, a faucet drain valve is installed and for the water to drain, another valve, which is just a simple drain plug, is ideal for the water to drain perfectly.

It also has no impacts on the environment and it is also long-lasting thus enabling the client to spend long in the bathtub. Nevertheless, something that I felt was rather worrying was a certain pungent smell of plastic that comes with the pack immediately one opens it for use after purchasing it, it quickly fades away after washing the garment/FIT for the first time.

Pros

  • Multi-layer thickening
  • Excellent thermal insulation
  • Double drain
  • Can fit in small spaces
  • Foldable and portable

Cons

  • Too hot water can damage the PVC material
  • It has a plastic smell once the package is opened

Inflatfun Inflatable Bathtub for adults

Inflatfun Inflatable Bathtub for adults

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My skin is very sensitive, and I wanted to enjoy my spa moments in a safe bathtub. This inflatable bathtub in the Infatfun is constructed using safe, non-toxic and high density Vinyl making you embrace a peaceful mind. That practically means it is also elegant and beautiful. To keep ice and hot baths it can be able to withstand heat up to temperatures of 60 degrees Celsius.

Infatfun is another inflatable bathtub for adults that, when deflated measures 65*34*28 inches. I could bend my body to whichever direction in the water to get the right wash. Following your spa, expel the water and air, collapse, and tuck in the bedding. The position it occupies when stored is comparatively small so that those who have very little space for storing are favored.

The Inflatfun inflatable bathtub is comfortable of styles. It has an air mattress and an insulating layer placed at the base to protect it from the floor and regulate the temperature of the bathtub’s water respectively. Indeed, to increase the comfort level, this chair is fitted with an inflatable backrest.

Those requiring to take a quick soak are likely to benefit since this ice bathtub has been engineered to inflate and deflate quickly. The blowhole of the machine is 3-layer and independent; this makes it easy to install and to remove as needed. A drainage opening is provided on the side and on the bottom which can be used for total drainage of the tub. As if clearing the drains was not easy enough, there is the stretching drainpipe that is slightly easier to use. This inflatable bathtub with a pump includes a free repair patch and due to which any accidental puncture can extend the time in the spa.

Pros

  • Quick inflation/ deflation
  • Foldable and portable
  • Easy to set up
  • Comfortable
  • High-quality material
  • Fast drainage

Cons

  • Very hot water can damage the material

Starbrilliant Foldable Portable Soaking Inflatable Bathtub with Electric Air Pump

Starbrilliant Foldable Portable Soaking Inflatable Bathtub with Electric Air Pump

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When I was deciding on the kind of bathtub I wanted, I was in specific search for a comfort after a hard day at work. Starbrilliant foldable soaking bathtub was comfortable and provided a nice soaking experience that I was waiting for. It has a smooth feel and has thick layer of material that provides characteristics a strong thermal efficiency.

The Starbrilliant foldable soaking bathtub has a unique sort of look. It has large removable revolving circular backrest, sitting pad, elastic circular soft backrest, temperature locking, and sealing zippers at the seams. It provided me with the sort of comfort that it wanted to give, the best of sorts.

After zipping it up, it becomes a bath washed cover and can also be used as a bath tub shelf. This basically enables you to spend quite some time in the ice bath as the heat loss is well slowed down. Some of the accessories like bath gel, soap or shampoos can be stored in the storage bag that is hanged at the side of the bathtub.

If, as in my case, you do like taking in the feel of the environment right before plunging in, you’ll be able to take in multiple scenes when using this bathtub. You can use it anywhere: the shower, toilet, tub, sink, outside area, balcony, seashore, living room, park or garden. This is the best item that you could gift any of your relative or friend who has a keen penchant for outdoor showering. These type of baths are ideal for those residences or compounds that do not have bathtabs installed.

Included with this bathtub is a wireless inflation pump which is very powerful and has three air filling holes. It comes with a fitting that allows you to connect it to the floor drain at your home and you are set. If it is used outdoors, then use the air pump to the type of air and expel it quickly from the top most part. If you need to wash the stress off, get off the day’s exhaustion and fatigue, and generally relax for better sleep, then you better take a bath in this ice tub.

Pros

  • Novel design
  • It can be used indoors and outdoors
  • Ergonomic large backrest
  • Side storage pocket

Cons

  • It can take a while to inflate

Best Ice Bathtub Buying Guide

Design

Ice bath tubs come in varied designs and that will mean that you have to settle for a certain ice bath tub depending on your taste. There are vertical tubs and flat ice baths of this kind. The uprights can let you stand in your cold plunge phase of the shower, while the horizontal ones fit you to lie down like in the normal bathtubs.

Warranty

A good warranty gives you confidence and makes your investment useful for numerous years. In most cases, the warranty of an ice bathtub depends on the design that you create. Most ice bathtubs are provided with a usual one year product warranty for their purchase price. However, some of the expensive ice bathtubs, especially those that require the services of a contractor have a warranty that ranges from 3-5 years.

Benefits of Cold Ice Baths

Cold plunge tubs have various psychological and physiological benefits for most people. Some of the potential benefits of incorporating cold-water immersion in your wellness routine include the following:

1. Reduces inflammation

Post exercise and for any people with chronic pain, soreness or injury cold water immersion can aid in reducing inflammation and pain. It aids in shortening the period of hospital stay. The cold exposure when the subject is immersed, causes constriction of ones blood vessels. These blood vessels expand when you step out of the cold water, that helps in eliminating metabolic products, enhances circulation and prolongs muscle soreness.

2. Improves mental health

Cold water immersion can have a positive influence on mental health with regard to decreased stress symptoms, decreased depression, and decreased anxiety. Adaptation of the mind to cold weather makes one be able to bear pain in this region, and cope with changes in the environment. Suffering through cold water therapy requires the ability to control your breathing, and for that reason, breathing exercises are done to build your breathing as well as help you handle your stressful moments better.

3. Boosts immune system

Cold water immersion may help increase the defenses of the body against diseases through increasing the activity of the immune system.

4. Improves Sleep

If you take a bath with cold water before retiring to bed you will minimize cases of insomnia since you are likely to fall asleep and also sleep deeply, hence resulting in a stronger CNS. This in turn will assist in maintain a strong nervous system hence less fatigue, a boost in immunity and generally a better mental health state.

Frequently Asked About the Best Ice Bathtubs

1. What is the best ice bathtub?

According to our review, the Cold Pod Ice Bath Tub for Athletes is the best ice bathtub. Heating and cooling units can work in conjunction with it or separately; it can be situated indoors and outdoors and is insulated with four layers that maintain the unit’s thermal seal. It is also portable and of relatively small size thus assisting you develop a daily routine. It is also relatively easy to operate as well as maintain.

2. Which portable ice bath is best?

Portable Ice Bath Tub for Athletes is the best portable ice bathtub. This one you can organize easily even if it’s your first time to use it. In addition, it is made of high quality and very sturdy material which allows the phone to when used everyday can last for years. It is easy to carry, easily portable, leak proof and options for use in several environments.

3. What are the disadvantages of ice baths?

Combined with excess temperature, Hypothermia and frostbite can happen if a person is exposed to heat or cold for a long time. You should not spend more than 15 minutes inside the ice bath whether exercising or not while exercising you should not spend more than 15 minutes. Watch your body and if you find that you are aching or your skin has changed colour, it is time to get out.

Stepping into an ice bath is by no means a pleasant experience and it becomes very painful when one does it haphazardly. If the pain lingers beyond the few minutes of the movie, switch off the television set and go to a different room.

Conclusion

Cold plunge tubs are the new front line in the world of health and wellness that enthralled the people. You have most likely witnessed your most esteemed sports personality jump into an ice bath after practice or after a game and probably wished to do the same. If you are all for taking the cold shower head on, then here are the leading ice bathtubs to go with it.

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