What is a Plunge Pool, and How Can You Make One Work for Your Backyard?
Sometimes a little bit of water is all you want on a hot day. You don’t need a massive backyard or an Olympic-sized pool to cool off and get the break you need from the heat. That’s kind of the magic of a plunge pool. It’s small, cool (literally and otherwise), and can easily fit onto your property without too much fuss. Whether you’re dreaming of quiet evening swims or cooling off during a heat wave, there’s probably a version of a plunge pool that’ll work for you. Let’s look at how you can make one work for your space, your budget, and your life.
So, What Exactly Is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small, deep pool, usually not much bigger than a hot tub. It’s not made for laps or cannonballs, it’s made for sitting in to cool off and relaxing in the water. Some are cold, others heated, and a few even come with jets. It’s really about enjoying the benefits of being in water without needing a full-size swimming pool in your home. A smaller pool means less cost, and less maintenance too.
Making a Small Space Work
You really don’t need a sprawling backyard for a plunge pool. In fact, plunge pools fit perfectly into small spaces. A corner of your patio, a spot beside the garden, or even a courtyard can be transformed by the addition of a plunge pool. Some people tuck one close by their backdoors for easy in-and-out access, while other people build one right into their deck. Creative placement is everything. Just measure a few options, and then look at your property and see where you can fit one in. Remember to think about how you might walk around, or sit by the plunge pool, and think about how it’ll look from inside your house.
Materials Matter (But You’ve Got Options)
There’s not just one way to build a plunge pool. You can go high-end with concrete or stone, or use a prefab fiberglass shell. Some people even use galvanized stock tanks for a rustic, budget-friendly option. I’ve also seen people repurpose hot tubs or install shipping container-style models to get the pool they want. The point is, you’ve got options. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to hold water and make you happy. Talk to a local contractor or look online for DIY kits if you’re handy.
Heated or Cold? Pick Your Vibe
Some plunge pools are made for chilling, literally. A cold plunge is a fantastic option for hot days and is great for muscle recovery. But if you live somewhere with seasons, you might want your plunge pool to have a heater. Being able to warm the water can extend the use of your pool through spring and fall. Some people even use their plunge pool like a hot tub in winter. You don’t have to decide right away, you can add a heater later, but it’s something to think about when planning out your setup.
No Hassle Maintenance
Here’s the good news: plunge pools are way easier to maintain than full-sized pools. Less water means you need to use fewer chemicals, and smaller filters. Plus, you’ll spend less time cleaning. That said, don’t skip on quality equipment. A basic filtration system, a good cover, and a skimmer are worth the investment. You’ll want to keep your plunge pool clean and safe to use without making it a second job. Because the smaller the pool, the more noticeable any debris or chemical imbalance will be.
Add the Details That Make It Yours
This is where you can have fun designing your plunge pool. Want a little waterfall? Go for it. Prefer it tucked behind some hedges for privacy? Do it. Love the idea of adding benches or built-in steps? Yes, please. Even small design choices, like the color of the tile, or whether you surround it with pebbles or wood, can totally change how the space feels. Think about how you want to feel when you’re there. Relaxed? Energized? That mood will guide how you shape the space around your pool, and it can be done without spending a fortune.
Making a Plunge Pool Part of Your Life
At the end of the day, a plunge pool is less about swimming and more about living. It’s a space to breathe, cool-off, and unwind in the comfort of your own home. It doesn’t have to be perfect or Pinterest-worthy. It just has to fit your life, your budget, and your idea of comfort. So if you’ve been wondering whether or not a pool can work for your space, a plunge pool might be the simple answer you’ve been looking for.