SMONTER Portable Bathtub Review

Cold plunge pools have grown in popularity, particularly among athletes and fitness enthusiasts, due to their range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. These products vary significantly in price, from as little as £29.99 to well over £2,000. Well-known brands such as Lumi and Polar dominate the UK market, positioning themselves as premium recovery-focused plunge pools, typically priced between £70 and £100. Compared to these, the SMONTER presents itself as a highly competitive alternative for those looking for an affordable entry point into cold water therapy.

The SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub is a budget-friendly option designed for cold plunges, aiding muscle recovery and overall well-being. Measuring 70 x 70 cm and featuring a pod-style design, this foldable and portable bathtub is marketed as a multi-purpose solution, suitable for both cold therapy and traditional bathing.

Testing the SMONTER Portable Bathtub

For context, I am a 29-year-old female with a healthy lifestyle, regularly exercising 4-5 times a week, including road running and weighted HIIT workouts. My fiancé, Mark, a 31-year-old police officer, also maintains an active lifestyle but has asthma and eczema. Over the course of five weeks, we tested the SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub multiple times, primarily after workouts to aid muscle recovery. Additionally, we experimented with morning plunges to assess their impact on energy levels, mood, and overall well-being.

Having previously tried another cold plunge pool that was sturdy and maintained temperature exceptionally well, I was curious to see how the SMONTER would compare. Given its lower price point, I expected a slightly lower build quality but hoped that it would still perform effectively in keeping water cold.

The bathtub arrived securely packaged in a brown box, with all components neatly enclosed in a clear plastic bag. The included instruction booklet, written in both English and Mandarin, provided a clear step-by-step guide on how to assemble the pool. The setup process was straightforward and required minimal effort, making it accessible for first-time users.

Considering its price, I initially expected the SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub to feel flimsy, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the material. It felt durable and even came with a pillow for added comfort. However, one aspect that immediately stood out was the design. The exterior features a playful star and moon print, combined with a pink plastic lining. This aesthetic choice seems more suited to a child’s portable bathtub rather than an adult-oriented cold plunge pool, which may be off-putting for those seeking a sleek, minimalist design.

The key findings were the physical benefits, eczema relief, and long-term health claims. The immediate post-plunge sensation was one of refreshment. Both of us noticed a reduction in muscle soreness, particularly after my long runs. The next-day fatigue in my legs was significantly less pronounced after using the cold plunge. One of the most noticeable benefits was an improvement in Mark’s eczema flare-ups after exercise. While we cannot definitively attribute this to the plunge pool alone, the cold water appeared to have a soothing effect on his skin, reducing redness and irritation. While the short-term benefits were clear, determining long-term effects—such as improved immune function—would require extended use over a longer period.

Given its design and affordability, the SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub seems to be geared more toward families or those looking for a multi-purpose portable bath. However, it also serves as an excellent entry-level option for anyone wanting to experiment with cold plunging before committing to a more expensive setup.

The setup and breakdown process reinforced the idea that this product is intended for temporary or travel use rather than a permanent cold plunge fixture. The included drainage tube made emptying the pool effortless, adding to its practicality.

Final verdict

Overall, we were impressed with the effects of using a cold plunge pool, and the SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub delivered a solid experience given its price point. While the design could be improved to better align with adult users, the product itself performed well in maintaining cold temperatures and providing noticeable recovery benefits.

For those new to cold plunging, this is a great budget-friendly option to test the waters before committing to a more expensive, high-end model. Its portability and ease of setup also make it a practical choice for those who may not have the space for a permanent cold plunge pool.

Would we recommend it? Yes—but with the caveat that its design leans more toward a family-friendly aesthetic rather than a sleek, professional cold plunge pool. If function over form is your priority and you’re looking for an affordable way to reap the benefits of cold water immersion, the SMONTER Portable Ice Bathtub is a worthwhile investment.