How much space do you need for a cold plunge? Less than most people think. The compact Baltic stands on a circle just 37.5 inches across. The full-length Polar needs a level base of at least 34 by 72 inches. Then add room to step in and out, space for a chiller if you use one, and a base strong enough for the filled weight. That last point is the one people miss.
Footprints of the three cedar tubs
| Baltic | Polar | Flow | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Upright barrel, you sit in it | Long tub, you stretch out | Stainless tub in a cedar cabinet |
| Exterior | 37.5" round, 43.75" tall | 71" x 32.25" x 25" | See product page or ask us |
| Interior | 32" round, 40.75" deep | See product page | See product page |
| Water | 132 US gal | 190 US gal | See product page |
| Recommended base | Solid and level | At least 34" x 72" | Solid and level |
| Weight empty | About 108 lbs on skid | About 402 lbs crated | About 575 lbs shipping weight |
| Price | $2,554.50 | $3,444 or $6,428 | $7,850 or $8,336 |
Do not forget the filled weight
Water weighs about 8.3 lbs per US gallon. So the water alone in a Baltic weighs roughly 1,100 lbs, and in a Polar roughly 1,580 lbs. Add the tub and a person. That is why every product page says to plan the base for the filled weight. Good options are a concrete pad, compacted gravel with pavers, or a deck an engineer or builder confirms for the load. If the tub goes on an existing deck, check it before you order.
Space around the tub
- Entry side. Leave room to step in and out safely, and a dry spot for a towel and sandals. The Polar's angled sides make entry easier, but you still need clear space beside it.
- Chiller. With the Baltic or Polar, the chiller sits next to the tub. Add its footprint plus the open space its vents need, per the chiller manual. With the Flow, the chiller hides in the built-in compartment, which saves deck space.
- Power. A chiller needs an outlet or circuit nearby. Plan it with your electrician.
- Drain. The Polar has a garden-hose drain. Make sure the water can run somewhere sensible.
- Cover. Leave room to take the cover off and set it down.
Getting it to the spot
Measure gates, side paths and steps before you order. The Baltic and the Flow ship fully assembled, so the whole tub has to fit through. The Polar arrives crated at about 402 lbs. Delivery is curbside, so plan who moves it from the curb to the base. Our delivery guide explains how freight works.
Small deck, balcony or patio corner?
The Baltic is the one for tight spaces. It is compact, upright and light when empty. On a balcony or raised deck, the filled weight matters even more, so confirm the structure first.
Next to a sauna
The most common setup is a plunge a few steps from the sauna door. Plan a path between them that will not get slippery, and keep the plunge outside the sauna's heater and chimney clearances. The Flow was designed to pair with a sauna. See outdoor sauna fire safety for clearance basics.
Want a whole cold room?
We also carry the Sweaty Yeti Plunge Max, an insulated 8' x 17' plunge room with an integrated chiller tub, starting at $44,400. You provide the foundation, permits and electrical connection.
Cold plunge space: common questions
Can I put a cold plunge indoors?
Our cedar tubs are designed for outdoor living spaces. If you are thinking about a garage or basement, ask us first about weight, drainage and humidity.
Do I need a permit?
Usually not for a freestanding tub, but rules differ by town, especially for electrical work. Check with your local building department.
Which tub needs the least space?
The Baltic, at 37.5 inches across.
Which one fits your space?
- Baltic ($2,554.50) for decks, balconies and small corners.
- Polar (from $3,444) if you have at least 34 by 72 inches plus access.
- Flow (from $7,850) if you want the chiller inside the cabinet instead of beside the tub.
Compare them in Baltic vs Polar vs Flow, read ice vs chiller, or send us your measurements.