Though we may see a beautiful and sleek Artesian hot tub and think of it as a modern luxury it’s important to note that people have been soaking in hot tubs for centuries. In fact, many cultures “invented” hot tubs and each culture developed their own version of the hot tub.  Apparently, the benefits of self-care are not a new principle as people have recognized the relaxation and self-care benefits of hot tubs since the time of the early Egyptians!  After learning a bit of their history, it becomes clear that soaking in a hot tub is a timeless activity that includes a rich history, so join us as we take a journey through time to explore the origins of this popular pastime. From ancient Roman baths to modern backyard spas, hot tubs have come a long way.

Hot therapeutic baths through the ages

The earliest evidence of using hot water baths as a therapeutic and social exercise dates back to the ancient Egyptians who developed a type of bathtub that used heated stones to maintain the water temperature. While this early design wouldn’t be classified as a “hot tub” as it was more similar to a warm pool, it is the first evidence of cultures developing ways to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hot tubbing. This design was later adopted by the Greeks and Romans who famously built large public baths featuring warmed pools where citizens could relax and socialize. It wasn’t until the Japanese began using natural springs to fill wooden tubs as early as the 4th century that we see the first “hot tub”.

First hot tub invented in Japan

The hot tub is not just a modern-day luxury. It turns out that its roots actually trace back to Japan in the 4th century where this early hot tub was known as a “spa”.  These spas often utilized hot springs rather than heated rocks as a source of natural warmth. In many ways, hot tubs have been around much longer than any of us could have guessed and we have just been putting the finishing touches on a design that has been centuries in the making. 

Modern hot tubs emerge in the 19th century

It wasn’t until 1887 that the first true hot tub was designed by an engineer named Roy Jacuzzi who developed a motorized pump and underwater jets for his family’s bathtub that allowed them to enjoy a more powerful massage in the comfort of their own home. This  invention was the first step in the development of personal, in-home hot tubs as a modern-day luxury. 

The 19th century was a time for the development and commercialization of many modern conveniences, and luckily hot tubs were no exception. Hot tubs offered social, mental, and physical benefits as well as allowed people to relax while escaping from the stressors of everyday life. It is no wonder that it didn’t take very long for hot tubs to become popular among American households. Hot tubs will continue to be popular for centuries to come; after all, relaxing after a long day is a timeless activity?

Modern hot tubs for every budget

It’s easy to see why hot tubs have become such a hit as they offer a luxurious escape from the daily grind and come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes, and prices so you can find one that’s perfect for your home or backyard. Whether you are looking for a cozy 1 to 2-person hot tub such as the Artesian Garden Spas Azalea, or a larger option like the Artesian South Seas Spa 748B, there are a multitude of options that will fit your lifestyle and the aesthetic of your home. 

Soaking in a hot tub with friends can be a great way to strengthen relationships while rejuvenating your mind and body. While some folks scour online reviews to decide which style and size of hot tub is right for them, there’s no substitute for actually trying it out so, if you’re lucky enough to live near our store know that we always have hot tubs on display and can work with you to schedule a test soak.

It’s amazing to think about the magnitude of effort and technological advancements that have gone into developing the beautiful modern-day hot tubs that are on the market today. Rest easy knowing that finding the perfect hot tub is as easy as taking our quiz or stopping in for a test drive!