My Search for Relief for My Tired Feet Led Me to This $30 Foot Spa (2025)

Foot spas aren’t miracle workers. And yes, you can get the benefits that come with soaking your feet in warm water by using any old bucket. But if you’re looking to indulge in a self-care gift for yourself or someone else, foot spas can offer some additional relief from inflammation, tension, and general discomfort. I researched dedicated foot spas (and tested one) that have impressive features like massagers, exfoliators, and heat to bring day spa vibes to your home. As part of that research, I chatted with foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, of the podiatry practice Central Park SOLE, to get his download on the benefits of foot spas and when to avoid using them.

Ahead, I discuss everything worth knowing about foot spas, including how to shop for them, sanitation best practices, and four standout picks I vetted.

The Best Foot Spas

• Best Overall: Homedics Bubble Mate Foot Spa
• Best Value: Pursonic Foot Spa Massager
• Best Splurge: Sharper Image Foot and Leg Spa
• Best for Small Spaces: Viviya Collapsible Foot Bath Spa

What to Consider

Before we jump into how to shop for foot spas, keep in mind who will and won’t benefit from using foot spas.

Be Honest About Your Health

Schaeffer cautions against using foot spas if you have diabetes, fungal infections, or wounds on your feet. And if you have problems caring for your feet, such as being unable to safely reach down to dry them due to back issues, then foot spas are also a no-go. Same if you’re physically unable to properly sanitize the foot spa. “You need to dry them substantially after you’re done, or you can have other issues like bacteria and fungus,” Schaeffer says.

Double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp, M.D., of MDCS dermatology in New York City, adds that you should also avoid foot spas if you have an active infection, open sore, or neuropathy that could predispose you to a burn.

So, Who Can Safely Use Foot Spas?

Schaeffer notes most healthy people can use them in moderation — which can provide some relief from inflammation and a relaxing sensation to release endorphins.

That “in moderation” is key, though. While foot spas are enjoyable, be careful not to overdo it. According Schaeffer, when our skin becomes pruney from soaking in water too long, it can provide areas for bacteria and fungus to get in and cause infections. You might also experience toenail fungus and infections in between the toes if you don’t typically dry those areas properly.

Foot Spas Can Help With Arthritis

Foot spas can even be helpful for someone dealing with arthritis or just general foot discomfort. “Foot spas for those with arthritis are great because it stimulates blood flow to the area, and blood flow can help decrease inflammation, and therefore help with pain,” says Schaeffer. “It’s not going to cure arthritis though, but it can relieve.”

Size Is Key, and Additional Settings and Temp Control Are Nice-to-Haves

Camp says: “First, make sure your feet will fit in the basin. Also consider the importance of additional features, like massage, heating, and vibration. Think about the ease of cleaning the device too, as it is important to clean foot spas to prevent contamination with microorganisms.” Schaeffer also likes a lower temperature range to promote blood flow. The more expensive options have adjustable temperature settings, while affordable ones either have one preset or forgo temperature settings altogether.

Maintenance: Foot Spas Require Some Upkeep, But There Are Some Easy Guidelines You Can Follow

The experts argue that sterilization is the key point to consider when using a foot spa. In an ideal world, your dream foot spa includes some type of cleaning and sterilization instructions so you can prevent the device from harboring bacteria. “Some may recommend the use of a diluted bleach cleaner, others may recommend a mild soap and warm water,” says Camp.

Schaeffer’s general advice is to find a cleaner like bleach or, if you prefer a natural cleaner, opt for one that is antibacterial and anti-fungal. He says there are specific sterilizers marketed for foot spas that are not harmful to the skin. While there isn’t a particular one that stands out to Schaeffer, I researched and found some viable options on Amazon, including this hospital-grade sanitizer that helps kill athlete’s foot fungus.

Don’t Forget To Also Clean The Accessories

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, M.D., adds that sanitizing your foot spa — the actual basin where your feet rest — and any accessories before and after use is ideal.

And Actually Let The Foot Spa Dry Before Putting It Away

You’ll also want to leave them out to completely dry before the next use to avoid potential mildew and mold growth. And if you don’t feel like cleaning them (ahem, we’ve all been there… myself included), then you potentially leave yourself open to nail fungus, warts, and bacterial or candida paronychiae, which are all infections that can result from spa pedicures. That’s never the vibe, so take heed and order a sanitizer with your new foot spa to be extra safe.

How We Chose

After talking to the pros about foot spas, I wanted to try one at home. I carefully researched foot spas aligned with the above expert guidance, including ones that offer built-in massagers and heat, preferably with an adjustable temperature. Here are a few other factors I kept in mind.

Sizing: Since I live in a small studio apartment, I looked out for more compact options that can easily tuck away in the closet or under-sink cabinet.

Sometimes it pays to splurge: Throughout my research process, I noticed that you have access to higher end features when you spend more. So if you have a decent shopping budget, you can enjoy powerful massages and other unique perks, like LED light therapy. (More on that below).

I paid for one — and liked it so much I named it the top pick: I recently went through my own personal search for a foot spa, and I ended up buying this one from Homedics. My experience was positive, so I feel good recommending it. As for the rest, since I haven’t tried them IRL yet, so I carefully vetted each one and combed through thousands of online reviews to ensure customers were satisfied.

Though I haven’t tested these foot spas, I’m confident recommending them based on my research and conversations with Schaeffer and Camp.