These Handy Hot Tub Steps Make Getting Out Less Precarious

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Hot tub steps are an afterthought for many hot tub buyers—and something you may not even realize you need until your new hot tub arrives. No one wants to struggle (or be seen struggling!) getting in and out of the water, or worse yet, get injured in the process.

Hot tub steps aren’t cheap, so expect to spend around $100 on the low end, but they’re an essential investment if you want your soaking sessions to be safe and enjoyable. Read on for the best hot tub steps to consider, plus shopping advice.

Need to replace your old hot tub? Check out our coverage for the best hot tubs and inflatable hot tubs.

What to Consider

The most important thing is ensuring the safety of the people who use the hot tub most. For example, if they’re generally adults, you may be fine with something basic and less expensive. But if younger kids and older folks need access, your best bet is to consider wider steps with traction or even models with handrails.

The majority of hot tub steps are made of all-weather plastic, which is easy to maintain, though some are constructed of metal. Most plastic steps are likely to bow under heavier adults (we’ve provided maximum weight capacity below, when possible) to varying degrees, especially if they’re set in direct sunlight, which causes the plastic to heat and become more pliable. Metal hot tub steps are sturdier and often powder-coated to prevent rust, though they’re generally more expensive.

Some steps come with storage space underneath, which can be used for chemicals and other necessities to maintain the hot tub, though keep in mind that they often don’t have locks, so use caution if there are pets or kids around.

How We Selected

After casting a wide net, we culled our list of hot tub steps by taking stock of quality and weighing it against cost. We also dug through customer reviews to look for common issues and complaints, which helped inform our choices. All of the hot tub steps we cover have average customer ratings of 4 stars or higher, and we cover a range of styles and sizes, plus options across price points, starting at around $100.

Deluxe Storage Step

Of all the hot tub steps we considered, this one looks the most like a permanent fixture in your yard. Although it's made of plastic, its rough, grainy texture gives the appearance of stones on a country path.

Another bonus: The top step flips up to reveal storage space for chemicals and supplies—just keep in mind that there’s no safety lock for children and pets. It’s available in brown stone, equally as lovely as the gray stone that’s shown.

Hot Tub Steps

It isn’t easy to find steps with a handrail for your hot tub. Customers have found that this option works brilliantly, and although it’s mainly marketed for RVs and campers, the company says it’s also great for hot tubs and pools.

The all-metal construction is sturdy, and the tall handrail—which attaches to either side of the stairs—extends nearly 3 feet above the top platform. It also features nonslip fabric on the bottom two steps, with a neon yellow line to help guide you. The maximum weight capacity is 300 pounds.

Universal Spa & Hot Tub Steps

If you’re looking for a relatively affordable hot tub step, we recommend this option. The step is designed to fit hot tubs of any size, and features wavy, no-slip treads. It’s available in three colors and has a maximum capacity of 230 pounds.

Hot Tub Step With Storage

If you're looking for sturdy hot tub steps with ample storage, look no further. Flip up the top step to reveal the removable storage bin, a handy place to store spa chemicals. However, it doesn’t lock, so use caution if there are young children or pets in the house.

The 3-foot-long resin steps are U.S.-made and weigh a solid 25 pounds, with treads to prevent slipping. This model also has a 300-pound weight limit, a bit higher than comparable steps, and comes in dark brown and terra cotta.

2-Tier Spa Steps

An extra-long hot tub step is essential for anyone who has a wide, rectangular hot tub. In addition to serving as a way to climb in and out, there’s plenty of room for rolled-up towels, flip-flops, and sunscreen.

This sleek option is done in elegant shades of gray, with a lighter hue used for the bench and a steel tube frame finished in dark charcoal. It has a 325-pound weight limit.

2-Step Hot Tub Steps

Key Specs

• Dimensions (L x W x H): 31 x 25 x 16 inches

• Weight: 24 pounds

• Primary Material: Plastic

This basic but attractive step has deep no-slip groves and comes in eight color options, including dark granite, sandstone, and dark green.

At 24 pounds, this U.S.-made set of steps weighs more than budget options of similar size, so it’s less likely to slide around, a common complaint with some hot tub steps. It’s made of UV-resistant plastic, has a 225-pound maximum weight capacity, and comes fully assembled. The steps are hollow, and several customers say they're roomy enough to use for storage.

Spa Steps

Key Specs

• Dimensions (L x W x H): 36.2 x 17.7 x 9.8 inches

• Weight: 15 pounds

• Primary Material: PE rattan, steel, and hardwood

If you're looking for a hot tub step that is not only functional, but downright stylish, look no further. With a curved shape to sit flush against your hot tub, this one features an eye-catching mix of tones and textures for an upscale look. Their powder-coated steel frame is wrapped with all-weather synthetic rattan and features aluminum feet and eucalyptus tropical hardwood planks on top, with a natural oil finish.

Although the step is made with weatherproof materials, covering it in rain is recommended to extend its use.

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