Spas and Hot Tubs: from Ancient Springs to Modern Backyards
Warm water and therapeutic soaks have roots that stretch back thousands of years. Both spas and hot tubs can trace their origins to ancient springs where people gathered to experience relaxing and rejuvenating waters.
A town named Spa
The origin of “spa” comes from the Belgian town of Spa, well known for its healing waters in ancient Roman times. After centuries of neglect, the town’s therapeutic mineral springs regained their fame in the 16th century. As its popularity spread, “spa” became the word for any place where you could drink or soak in mineral waters. Eventually, the name was applied to the containers that hold the healing waters.
Wood tubs and warm water
Hot tubs trace their origin to Japan’s “ofuro,” wood bathing tubs dating back to 737 A.D. The modern hot tub became popular in America in the 1960s when skiers discovered the pleasures of wood vats converted into large soaking tubs. Dubbed “hot tubs,” they were big enough for two or more people and became a favorite for an après-ski group experience. Manufacturers soon developed their own versions of hot tubs, which evolved into today’s rectangular tubs built of fiberglass or acrylic and equipped with water-jets.
Tubs and spas at home
Bathtubs, which offer a similar experience to hot tubs, started appearing in American homes in the 19th century and were more widely adopted when modern plumbing entered our homes in the 20th century. In the 1960s, some home tubs came equipped with water jets and were called “spas.” The late ‘60s also brought us large custom spas and manufactured hot tubs with water jets. Like a jetted bathtub, these spas and hot tubs afford the convenience and privacy to enjoy water therapy in your home.
The irresistible appeal of spas and hot tubs
Today, you can experience warm water soaks and healing therapy outdoors, whenever you want, in your own backyard. That’s an experience our ancestors would travel miles to enjoy. The appeal has been irresistible: There are about 7.3 million spas and hot tubs in the US today. More than 200,000 are added every year, making spas and hot tubs the nation’s top choice for enhanced outdoor living.
Hot tub or spa?
As we’ve seen, hot tubs are sometimes called spas, and that can be confusing if you’re trying to explain the differences. To simplify matters, those of us in the industry generally call it a “spa,” when it’s custom-built and in-ground, and “hot tub,” when it’s a manufactured tub sitting above ground. But then you have luxury hot tub manufacturers that prefer to use “spa.” For example, at Budd Pools and Spas, we offer both custom-designed, in-ground spas and free-standing hot tubs made by Bullfrog Spas.
Which is best for you depends on your budget and how you plan to use it. A spa integrated with your pool creates a beautiful setting and special experience. From late spring to early fall, spas are ideal for use in New Jersey and the Philadelphia metro area. Hot tubs are easier to heat in cold weather and the best choice for year-round use.