Whether it's been an eventful day of gardening or a busy day at the office, all we want to do once we come home is unwind and relax. Making a cuppa, putting our feet up and switching on the TV is a method many of us use, but what if there was an even better alternative?
Foot spas are hardly a new invention, but they're a fantastic way to alleviate the tension and stress of a long day, bringing the spa experience to your doorstep. They're especially brilliant if you're giving yourself an at-home pedicure. Much like with a hot tub, the warm water, bubbles and jets all work to induce a sense of tranquillity, and foot spas are also known to improve blood circulation, reduce the pain from arthritis and promote better sleeping patterns.
If you feel like trying one out, we've listed the best foot spas on the market for the ultimate foot spa experience.
Things to look for in a foot spa
Heat: Choosing a foot spa with heating will elevate your experience and also heighten the therapeutic effect. Look out for different temperature levels, and make sure the model you choose is designed to maintain heat all throughout the session.
Size: Overall size is an important consideration if you have larger feet, but also be sure to opt for a foot spa with enough depth to fully submerge your feet in the water.
Massage rollers: Ideally, you want as many rollers per foot as possible for the best effect.
Extras: Some foot spas will come fully equipped with pedicure kit accessories including a nail cleaner, toe separators and more. Also, look out for extra attachments such as a pumice stone, to completely elevate your foot spa experience.
Are foot spas good for your feet?
The therapeutic effects of foot spas are well known and include improved circulation, lower blood pressure and higher energy levels.
In people with minor foot injuries, such as ankle sprains, foot spas can help with fast recovery. Arthritis sufferers can also benefit from the anti-inflammatory effect of a foot spa.
The best foot spas to buy now
REVLON Pediprep Foot Spa and Pedicure Set
Editor's pickIf you love a pedicure, then you'll be glad to hear that foot spas can help give you that salon-ready feel. This Revlon spa comes with a full pedicure set including a brush, nail cleaner, cuticle pushers, cuticle scissors and lots more. The bubbling massage will alleviate all the stress of your day and the mechanical rolling massage will promote overall relaxation. Review: "After a long day on your feet this is what is needed, so soothing and relaxing, massaging your feet, not too noisy and easy to operate. Have your towel at the ready, excellent to soften harden skin - a joy. Great cost, one of the better ones on the market."
Beurer FB35 Foot Spa with Aromatherap
Runner-upTired and sore feet be gone; operating with three massage functions, this foot spa is just what you need following a stressful day. With a vibration massage to soothe the pressure and a bubble massage that will knead your feet into relaxation, you'll be feeling at ease in no time. The reflexology roller functions to target pressure points for a more effective result, and thanks to the aromatherapy filter you'll almost think you're at a real spa.Review: "Bought this as a gift for a friend and she loves it. Uses it very often and loves how it heats the water to a relaxing temperature, stays warm and has all the attachments one needs for a relaxing experience. I would recommend it 100 per cent, it arrived earlier than expected and well packaged.
Sensio Foot Spa Massager Pedicure Bath
Least noisyLooking to rid yourself of achy feet? The Sensio foot spa can help you unwind after a long day, and relax tight muscles. This option also includes a pedicure kit with six different accessories to help you look and feel your best. Review: "Product works excellently, has a vibrate setting which massages the bottom of the foot and also the option for bubbles which relax the entire foot, or both simultaneously which is incredibly relaxing. Was bought for my girlfriend as her feet have been sore from work and has helped to relieve the pain. Amazing value for the £28 paid, not sure on the durability but so far is faultless."
Hangsun Foot Spa Bath Massager
Best for maintaining heatMuch like a hot bath, a hot foot spa is all you need to set your day straight. Hangsun's foot bath maintains a warm temperature at 14 different levels and produces oxygen-rich bubbles to revive your tired feet. A sense of wellness and rejuvenation will flow through your whole body, as 14 massage rollers simultaneously hit all the right pressure points.Review: "Excellent purchase for me as I suffer from a cold feet problem, also helps with relaxation and destressing before bed. It's very easy to use, just follow the instructions. Other family members also enjoyed this foot spa, my daughter in particular. Winter must-have product for me!"
Foot Spa Misiki Foot Bath Massager
Best for Shiatsu massageThis heavenly foot spa will cure your aching feet in an instant. The oxygen bubbles work to relax your soles, promoting circulation and improving your metabolism. Massage rollers are there to stimulate all those key acupressure points, and the additional foot stone exfoliates, removes calluses and any dead skin, making your footsies pedicure-ready. Review: "Absolutely love, this is so relaxing! It's a good bath and massage for the feet. Very comfortable to use. Elegant design. It completely relaxes me after a tiring day and I sleep better at night and wake up full of energy the next day. Definitely recommended."
LIVIVO Deluxe Foot Spa
Best valueThis multifunctional foot spa with infrared sanitising light, vibration and massage will help release any muscle tension built up from your day. The effervescent bubbles will maintain heat the whole way through, providing hydrotherapy and soothing your whole foot. With three intensity levels, you can take complete control of your session. All you have to do is add water, some salts or oils and you're good as new.Review: "Got this today and used it with some sea bath salts for just 10 minutes and my feet feel totally refreshed. I read some reviews about it being loud, but I didn't think so. I was watching TV while using it. I will probably purchase another for my mum for Christmas as I am she'll love it too. Great spa, recommended."