4 Best Foot Spas to Soothe Tired Feet

The Good Housekeeping Institute's Beauty Lab runs extensive testing across every beauty category, from foot-care products like callus removers and pumice stones to skincare products and devices, like facial cleansing brushes. Leaning on our categorical expertise and combined dozens of years testing the latest and greatest health and beauty products, our pros rounded up the best picks out there according to our experts and extensive research of online reviews.

While the best foot spa can be different from person to person, Correa highlighted a few features to look for when picking one to purchase:

✔️ Ease of cleaning. "While there are many soothing and spa-like features offered, detachable pumice stones, massagers, 'bubble' holes or other small compartments can be difficult to clean and potentially harbor bacteria and mold," Correa says. "To avoid possible contamination, always clean and dry your foot spa very well."

✔️ Extra settings. Options like adjustable heat and temperature controls allow you to customize your experience. Plus, an ice cold foot bath does not sound as relaxing as soaking your feet in warm water.

✔️ Size. Big and bulky is not ideal no matter how much living space you have. Look for an option that is foldable, collapsible or tucks away neatly to optimize storage.

Foot spas can be super beneficial for feet, "especially when using in conjunction with other foot tools and products, like Epsom salt, which can help reduce inflammation and ease pain from ingrown toenails or hardened skin around the toes," Correa said. "It can help soften up hardened skin for easier exfoliation and make it easier to cut thick nails."

She suggests using them in conjunction with a metal file to exfoliate, a foot cream to soften skin and heel protectors to treat dry and cracked heels. "Those with added settings like heat also help with pain reduction and blood circulation," she adds.

Overall, it really depends on your needs and lifestyle if foot spas are worth it for you, but they definitely have benefits that can be helpful. "They are especially helpful for those that suffer from things like ingrown nails, plantar fasciitis or general pain on their feet due to skin build because of an overactive lifestyle," Correa said.

In general, soaking your feet in warm water can soften skin, which makes it easier and painless to remove calluses. Foot baths with or without essential oils can also improve circulation, according to one study, which can consequently reduce pain and swelling in the feet.

The Cleveland Clinic recommends adding Epsom salts, gentle body soap and tea tree oil for a foot soak, so be sure to check the instructions of your device to see if these additives are compatible.

"Have a routine, of course!" Correa said. This is her step-by-step process to make the most of a foot spa:

1. Brush toenails and soles of the feet to remove dirt or debris.
2. Soak feet for about 15 minutes.
3. When finished, dry your feet very well, paying close attention to in between the toes.
4. Apply a foot cream and use a manual exfoliator to gently remove any skin buildup on the soles and sides of the feet.
5. Add a little more foot cream and put on heel protectors to lock in moisture.
6. Gently clean up around the nails and then cut and/or file to your desired length.

"The most important step is to always follow your soak with a moisturizing cream and heel protectors," Correa said. "While it may feel soothing and relaxing, hot water strips all of the moisture and oils out of your skin and nails, leaving them super dry."

Dr. Sutera adds that it is critical not to share a foot spa. "It's best if everyone has their own for sanitary reasons." She also advises against using one if you have any open wounds or infection, as it could make them worse.

Last but certainly not least: "Always check the water temperature before submerging feet to avoid burns," says Dr. Sutera. "This is especially important for elderly people, anyone with diabetes, neuropathy or poor circulation."

Correa suggests using a foot spa once a month for those with "healthy" feet or that aren't experiencing any specific foot ailments. "If you are dealing with nail fungus or athletes foot, I would suggest using it twice a month (max) to remove the buildup of dry skin and make thicker nails affected by fungus easier to cut and manage," she said. But Correa adds that "for those with nail fungus, excess water exposure on the nails should be avoided, so be mindful of usage."

First, empty the tub. Then, "use a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner and a plastic brush to clean the tub and reach all the crevices," advises Butler. Rinse with water and "leave it to dry very well before storing," adds Dr. Sutera.

"Foot spas can be safe for use at home if you’re careful not to use water that is too hot," says Butler. Make sure the water feels comfortable and not scalding before putting feet in. "Also, always dry your feet well after you finish soaking them to prevent fungal growth."

Dori Price has over 15 years of experience researching and writing skincare stories, combining her knowledge with the expertise of top industry professionals including dermatologists, aestheticians and others. She is an expert in all face and body skincare product and device categories, from cleansers to toners, serums, moisturizers, sunscreens, exfoliators, masks, professional treatments and more.

Isabella Cavallo is the Assistant Commerce Editor at the GH Institute where she covers all things shopping. She writes roundups of beauty, fitness and clothing products with a previous experience in health journalism. Cavallo most recently updated this story with recent research and information. She also consulted with Chiara Butler, the Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab Reviews Analyst at the GH Institute, who tested a foot spa in the Beauty Lab.