What Is an Air Bath? Your Guide to Air Bath Tub Types, Options, and Pros and Cons

Slip into spa-like relaxation with one of these bubbly tubs

modern bathroom with large bathtub
Photo : Image Supply/ istock/ Getty Images
modern bathroom with large bathtub
Photo : Image Supply/ istock/ Getty Images
Highlights
  • Air baths release soft, effervescent bubbles into bathwater for deep relaxation.

  • Their benefits include stress relief, better circulation, skincare, and low-intensity relaxation.

  • Customize sizes, styles, and special features to get the exact tub for your needs.

  • Consider the pros and cons and other types of tubs, like jetted tubs, for the right fit.

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If you want to add a little luxury to your soak, consider an air bath. What is an air bathtub? It adds a modern twist to the classic bubble bath, turning any bathroom into a relaxing oasis. Before you dive in, let’s explore what air baths are, how they work, their pros and cons, and more.

What Is an Air Bath Tub and How Does It Work?

Air baths or air tubs are special types of bathtubs with small jets that release streams of air into the water. Unlike jetted tubs or whirlpool tubs, which use high-pressure water jets for hydrotherapy, air baths create tiny air bubbles that give a gentle, all-over massage. The result is an extra-relaxing soak that feels like floating in fizzy bliss.

So how do air baths work? A built-in blower pumps air through jets that are strategically placed along the tub walls and base. The effervescent bubbles rise and pop, creating a soft, tingling sensation that’s ideal for relaxation and stress relief.

Benefits of Air Baths

 close up of jets in air bath
Photo : Stephan Zabel / istock / Getty Images

Yes, air baths are luxury items. They’re also bubbly health and wellness boosters. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Stress relief: Softly bubbling water promotes relaxation, reduces tension, and provides a great way to relax at the end (or start) of a long day.

  • Improved circulation: Gentle air jets and water movement encourage healthy blood flow. This relaxes muscles, moves lymph fluid throughout the body, and helps muscle recovery after workouts.

  • Skin benefits: Air baths can enhance skin hydration (especially if you use hydrating bath products) and detoxification.

  • Lower-intensity relaxation: Powerful water jets can sometimes be more invigorating than relaxing. However, air baths have mild, soothing jets for proper, low-key downtime. 

Air Bath Tub Sizes, Styles, and Features

Air baths come in various sizes and styles with many optional features to customize your calm. 

  • Sizes: From cozy nooks to spacious soaks, air baths come in various sizes to fit almost any bathroom layout. You’ll find compact tubs for small bathrooms and oversized models with room for two.

  • Styles: Modern air baths combine fashion with function. Choose from freestanding, alcove, or drop-in tubs to suit your bathroom aesthetic and soak away your stress in style.

  • Features: The options are almost endless. Built-in heaters keep the water warm no matter how long you soak, and customizable jet settings let you select pressure and location. Integrated aromatherapy systems and chromotherapy lights create a soothing ambiance and further lower stress levels.

A local bathtub installer who sells air bath tubs can help you understand your options and find the right fit.

Pros and Cons of Air Baths

Before you dip your toes into air-bath ownership, get familiar with the pros and cons. You may find an air bath tub that is perfect for you, or you may decide on a different type of jetted or relaxation tub that fits your style.

ProsCons
Gentle, all-over massage sensationNot ideal for deep-tissue relief
Quieter than jetted tubsMore expensive than traditional tubs
Wide range of sizes and optionsAir bubbles cool water faster (unless heated)
Easy to clean with the drying cycleRequire professional installation

The upsides of air baths are pretty easy to see. Their gentle massing bubbles provide a soothing, spa-like experience that’s perfect for relaxing, and the lower air pressure makes them quieter than jetted tubs or whirlpool tubs. They also have an air-only drying setting that keeps them mold-free and makes them easier to clean. No matter what you’re looking for, the wide variety of options means there’s probably a size, color, style, and special features that fit your needs.

It’s not all soft bubbles, though. In fact, the less intense bubbles mean air baths aren’t as helpful for deep-tissue soreness as jetted tubs. Those tiny bubbles cool the water faster unless you invest in a heated tub. Air bath tubs also come at a higher cost than traditional bathtubs and some jetted tubs. In addition, they require professional installation, which can add to the price.

The Differences Between Air Baths and Jetted Tubs

luxury air bath with a view
Photo: piovesempre / istock / Getty Images

While all level up your bathing experience, air baths versus jetted tubs have some important differences and cater to different preferences.

Air baths are known for gentle effervescent sensations rather than swirling water or forced jets. They’re best for those looking for relaxation.

Jetted tubs, also known as whirlpool baths, have pressurized water jets to provide stronger, more targeted hydrotherapy massage. Most mix air and water for added pressure, more bubbles, and turbulent water. They’re ideal for individuals with muscle soreness who want deep-issue relief.

Are Air Bath Tubs Worth the Price?

An air tub might be worth the splurge if you’re looking for a luxurious soak that blends relaxation and health benefits. While they’re pricier than standard bathtubs, they come with upsides still-water tubs can’t offer. They’re also relatively low-maintenance. In many cases, especially when paired with a larger bathroom renovation or design, they can increase your home’s value and desirability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Air baths work fairly simply: Built-in blowers pump air through small jets, creating small bubbles that gently massage your body as they rise to the surface. This effervescent effect soothes and relaxes the skin and sore muscles. Unlike jetted tubs, which force out a harder stream of water mixed with air, air baths are meant for quiet relaxation rather than active hydrotherapy.

Yes, air baths are good for you. They promote relaxation, improve circulation, and can even hydrate your skin. Since they’re gentler than water jets and whirlpools, they are a good choice for a wide range of homes and users, from children to adults. You can maximize the benefits by using them regularly for stress relief and by pairing the bubble effects with calming music, low lighting or chronotherapy, aromatherapy, and other relaxation techniques.

Surprisingly, cleaning an air bath is almost as easy as relaxing in one. Most air baths have a self-cleaning or drying cycle to remove moisture from the inner tubing. This prevents mold and keeps the tub ready for your next soaking session. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and a soft cloth to wipe the surfaces and periodically clean the air jets as the manufacturer recommends.

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