Best Home Foot Spa Machines 2017 - Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
You are probably on your feet for the most part of the day and most of the activities you do like walking, running, enduring uncomfortable tight shoes all day long make your feet go through a lot of discomfort and stress.
Even sitting at your office desk all day long can make your feet all achy and painful. And, like the rest of your body deserves relaxation and pampering, so do your feet.
Going to a spa needs quite a lot of planning, not to mention the cost of a day at the spa. Foot reflexology sessions sound and feel like heaven, but are difficult to schedule when you actually want to get it done. At such times, you have a fantastic option of getting a foot spa right in the comfort of your own home by getting your very own foot spa machine.
Contents
- Reviews of the Best Home Foot Spa Machines 2017
- PIBBS Foot Bath Massager
- Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa - Budget Friendly
- Brookstone Heated Aqua-Jet Foot Spa - Feature Rich and Durable
- Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager - Editor's Pick
- HoMedics FB-600 Foot Salon Pro
- Ivation Foot Spa Massager
- Buyer's Guide
- Difference Between a Foot Spa and a Foot Massager
- How Do Foot Spas Work?
- Advantages of a Foot Spa
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Foot Spa for Your Home
- Foot Spa Tips
- Some Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Is a Foot Spa Important?
- Final Words
Reviews of the Best Home Foot Spa Machines 2017
See our comparison table. Our Buyer’s Guide section below the reviews will provide you with more in-depth information about foot spa machines.
| Foot Spa | Size | Weight | Max Foot Size | Use with Salts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PIBBS Foot Bath Massager | 14" x 15" x 6.5" | 7.2 pounds | Up to a Men's size 12-13 | Yes | Check Price |
| Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa (Budget Friendly) | 13.9" x 16.4" x 7.7" | 4.2 pounds | Up to a Men's size 12-13 | Yes | Check Price |
| Brookstone Heated Aqua-Jet Foot Spa | 15.5" x 9.5" x 18" | 13.2 pounds | Up to a Men's size 14 | No | Check Price |
| Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager (Editor's Pick) | 19" x 15" x 12" | 7 pounds | Up to a Men's size 14 | Yes | Check Price |
| HoMedics FB-600 Foot Salon Pro | 16.8" x 8.1" x 13.5" | 3.8 pounds | Up to a Men's size 13 | Yes | Check Price |
| Ivation Foot Spa Massager | 16.5" x 9.2" x 14.9" | 6.7 pounds | Up to a Men's size 12-13 | Yes | Check Price |
If you're in a hurry, then have a look at these two top picks:
- Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager (Editor's Pick) - With 4 built-in functions – heating, bubbles, vibration and infrared - it is far superior compared to other affordable models.
- Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa (Budget Friendly) - A simple, affordable, lightweight foot bath with many features. It is accompanied by many attachments.
PIBBS Foot Bath Massager
The PIBBS Foot Bath Massager is a foot spa that has plenty of features. It has three massaging modes that you can select from: Bubbles; Bubbles and heat; Bubbles with heat and vibration together.
The front of the spa has a detachable splash guard that prevents the water from spilling out of the foot spa so you don’t have to spend much time cleaning after use. The model has two rubber foot pads in the footwell of the spa that makes stepping into the unit smoother and softer. Additionally, the floor of the device is also lined with massaging nodes.
The model comes along with three plastic attachments for additional functionality. And, it is equipped with a pedi center in the middle, where you can place all the attachments accompanying this unit.
The unit is very compact compared to other models and it can easily accommodate users who have a foot size of up to 12-13 (US). The built-in water warming feature is complemented by its' vibrating massage action.
You can use bath salts and essential oils very safely and it is designed in such a way that it prevents any clogging. A big plus of the PIBBS foot massager is the convenience it offers and ease of assembling and dismantling, which makes the device extremely portable when not in use.
Key Features of PIBBS Foot Bath Massager
- Built-in warmer to heat water and keep water warm for up to 2 hours
- Detachable splash shield prevents spills and splashing
- Multiple nodes at the bottom and two detachable rubber foot pads for a smoother surface
- Comes with 3 additional attachments
- Dimensions: 14” (w) x 15” (l) x 6.5” (d)
- The product’s weight is 7.2 pounds
- 1-year warranty
- Solid and compact design
- Adjustable temperature and speed
- Easy and convenient to assemble and dismantle
- You can use salts, soaps and essential oils
- Comes with a detachable splash guard
- Difficult to control
- Does not come along with a remote control
- The water may get very hot, which makes it unsuitable for use by people suffering from impaired circulation and sensation and diabetes
Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa - Budget Friendly
This is a basic model that offers water massage functions. Though the device is not feature-loaded like offering multiple massage options and different intensities, the model has other features and is accompanied by many attachments.
The Dr. Scholl's Foot Spa is compactly designed, is lightweight and does not occupy a lot of space. The basin’s base has small raised nodes and as you move back and forth, it uses acupressure to relax the muscles on the soles of your feet by stimulating blood flow and it also has a roller. The unit has a splashguard in the front that prevents the water from sloshing out of the basin.
The front and center of the basin also have a pumice stone that helps to remove dead skin. You can enjoy a reflexology-style foot massage on the roller that is covered with nodes that you can find towards the rear of the device.
The device has a waterproof on/off button; however, the level of the bubble production cannot be adjusted. Dr. Scholl’s foot spa is equipped with pedicure functions and has a nail brush with a handle that can be hooked to the rim of the basin, toe separators and nail clippers for a complete pedicure experience along with a foot massage.
Key Features of Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa
- Smart Heat system keeps the water warm
- Vibrating air bubble massage
- Comes with an easy portability handle
- Comes with a 5-piece pedicure set and pumice stone
- Manual acupressure reflexology rollers
- Deep tub for more capacity
- Toe-touch controls to turn unit on/off
- Splash-guard to prevent water from splashing
- A simple, uncomplicated device that provides a relaxing massage
- Equipped with dual foot massage rollers for a better massaging experience
- Splash-guard hood equipped with storage bins
- Acupressure nodes basin
- If you have large feet, the basin may be too small to fit them in comfortably (however, the basin can accommodate wide feet)
- Does not have a water heating function
- If you have poor blood circulation, it is not advised to use this model
Brookstone Heated Aqua-Jet Foot Spa - Feature Rich and Durable
This model works like a foot jacuzzi and a foot soaker. It is equipped with rotating water jets that help to relieve foot pains and aches. The powerful twin jets deliver water streams that are not only invigorating but improve the blood circulation in your feet and helps to relieve pain too. It has two speeds that you can choose from, low and high by which you can customize your spa experience.
The device is also equipped with a heating function that can heat the water up to 115°F and keeps it warm throughout the time that the unit is in use. It has a water stopper that allows you to drain out the water after use.
The Brookstone Heated Aqua-Jet is equipped with two removable rolling nodes at the bottom of the basin and you can roll your feet over them for complete relaxation. Although these may not massage larger size feet very well, they can provide a reflexology-style massage to your arches and heels.
It has a removable high-quality pumice stone located in the center which you can use to exfoliate and soften the dry skin on your foot pads and heels. You can even remove the pumice stone and use it for rubbing your feet manually. The model has been designed to accommodate feet of larger sizes.
Key Features of the Brookstone Heated Aqua-Jet
- 2 hydro water jets with adjustable speeds
- In-built heater heats water to 115 °F and keeps it hot
- 2 rolling nodes for kneading massage
- Removable pumice stone for exfoliation
- Over-sized, roomy tub with shield to prevent splashing
- Fits up to men’s size 14 (US) and weighs 13 pounds
- Minimized sound which makes the device less noisy
- Provides the optimum pressure to the foot pads and heels
- Can accommodate large size feet
- Not lightweight and bulkier compared to other models
- On/off switch that controls the heat function
Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager - Editor's Pick
The Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager is the best option for you if you want to experience a relaxing and calming bubble massage. The device has four built-in functions – heating, bubbles, vibration and infrared. These features make the unit far superior compared to other affordable models.
It is equipped with a specific setting for vibration and lights without heat and bubbles. You can also use any one of the functions or a combination without turning on the others. The Kendal All in One also has preset programs.
There are removable foot rollers at the base of the basin and whenever you want them, you can snap them on again. However, these massage wheels are not motorized and need to be rolled manually.
The device is equipped with a heater that keeps the water warm. However, the temperature of the water is not adjustable. Once the water is heated, you can just turn on the vibration mode and enjoy the relaxing warmth of the water.
Key features of Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager
- Multi-functional unit with heating therapy, oxygen bubbles massage and high-frequency vibration massage
- Equipped with PTC semiconductor for speed heating and maintaining a steady temperature
- Secure and safe double overheating protection
- 2 massage rollers
- Body manufactured from high-quality plastic that is resistant to aging and high temperature
- Suitable for men up to size 14 (US)
- Efficient heating function
- Produces great bubbles
- Equipped with four built-in functions – heating, bubbles, vibration and infrared
- Preset functions
- Can accommodate large size feet
- The foot spa vibrates quite noisily
- The rollers can be quite uncomfortable if you have sensitive feet
- The device is not accompanied by a drainage hose
HoMedics FB-600 Foot Salon Pro
If you are looking for a foot spa that offers relaxing and soothing relief for your tired and overworked muscles and feet accompanied by a fantastic salon experience, then HoMedics FB-600 Foot Salon Pro is the best solution for you. The FB-600 is a low-end foot bath with spa pedicure features. It offers a manual roller massage and generalized vibration.
It has built-in features that massages and kneads your toes and feet while pampering them and also softening your skin. While the model provides effervescent bubbles, as a massager its actions are quite limited. The device produces gentle vibrations and bubbles that helps to relieve sore and tight muscles and it has a strong action that eases your aching feet.
The unit is fairly lightweight and portable. However, when filled with water it becomes quite heavy and can get brittle with age and is prone to cracking.
Key features of HoMedics FB-600 Foot Salon Pro
- In-built heater that heats water to around 98°F and maintains stable temperature throughout its use
- Pedicure center with 4 attachments
- 4 pressure node massage rollers
- LED lights for enhanced relaxation
- Effervescent bubbles and vibration for superior massage
- Heats up within a few minutes
- Maintains a constant temperature
- Pedicure center comes with four attachments
- Comes along with a foot brush and pumice stone
- Accommodates bigger foot sizes
- Can use salts and essential oils
- Equipped with four pressure node rollers that provides a relaxing kneading massage
- Heat boost power heats cold water up to 98 degrees
- The bubbles produced may be weak
- Rollers made of plastic, not rubber, which means they’re not as durable
- Produces noisy vibrations
Ivation Foot Spa Massager
This multifunctional device has an elegant design and is loaded with many attractive features and is ideal for a spa treatment, massaging and pedicure. It has dual massage rollers that help to relieve stress and give you the best massage experience.
The rollers along with the vibration technology of the Ivation Foot Spa Massager help to relax all your feet muscles and also increase the blood circulation in your feet.
The bottom of the unit has acupressure nodes that support your feet ergonomically and the plastic portion surrounding the unit can be used as a handle from the front to carry the unit around easily. The model comes with extra attachments i.e. a pumice stone, a brush and extra node massage head that can be placed at the center of the foot spa.
The unit has a built-in heater that heats the water to around 122 °F and you can even control the temperature of the water. The foot massager has an LED display and you can view all the functions of the device via the LED panel. It allows you to set the timer to time your foot spa sessions.
Key Features of Ivation Multifunction Foot Spa
- Extra pedicure attachments – pumice stone, brush and acupressure attachment
- Has an inbuilt LCD panel for display
- Equipped with a timer, massage and heat controls
- Limited one-year warranty
- It’s lightweight; weighs 6.7 lbs
- Very easy to use and also drain out the water
- Offers an extremely relaxing massage
- Very durable
- You can add bath salts
- Heated foot spa keeps the water warm
- Massaging effect not very strong
- It is very hard
Buyer's Guide
Here is a guide that will help you in understanding more about foot spas and help you select the one that is best suited for you.
Difference Between a Foot Spa and a Foot Massager
Very often one is quite confused between a foot spa and a foot massager and most of us can’t really distinguish between the two.
Foot Spa
A foot spa is essentially a machine that has a small basin or a tub where you put your tired feet in and soak, soothe and relax them. You can enhance your foot spa experience by mixing essential oils or salts with the water to help you relax even more.
The foot spa machine usually has a few massage options (that adds an element of foot reflexology) and is also absolutely wonderful if you’re just looking to relax your feet. Using a foot spa machine you can give your feet a gentle massage and then after a good soak in the water, you can give yourself a nice foot scrub.
Foot Massager
On the other hand, a foot massager does not contain water and works primarily on the principles of reflexology, where the pressure is applied to vital pressure points of the foot helping you to relax. If you are looking for a special foot massage and variations in intensity, etc. then you should go in for a foot massager.
How Do Foot Spas Work?
Some models have both massagers as well as a heating function. The motion of the water and the heat help your feet relax and soothe them completely. The foot spa unit uses water and when connected to a power supply, the water gets heated. Most units also produce bubbles that help to gently massage your feet.
The units are equipped with massage rollers that may be operated automatically or manually and the basin also has acupressure nodes that also help to massage your feet and heels. You may also have the option of adding bath salts and essential oils to the foot spa for added relaxation. So, all you have to do is fill some water in the unit, plug it in and sit back and enjoy the “complete spa” experience.
Advantages of a Foot Spa
After a long, stressful day, nothing can be more blissful than a good soaking and massage of your feet. In addition to this, some of the other benefits of a foot spa are:
- Increases Blood Circulation - Although, you may not really realize it, your feet and legs get stressed due to walking around the entire day, wearing shoes that may be very tight, etc. One of the key benefits of using a foot spa is enhanced blood circulation, especially in your feet, legs and other parts of your lower body. A therapy session of 10-20 minutes can provide a lot of comfort and relaxation. This is particularly advantageous if you are suffering from diabetes.
- Relieves Stress - A foot spa not only relaxes your feet, but helps to reduce anxiety and relieves stress too. This can be especially beneficial for people suffering from depression, stress, or illnesses like cancer that cause depression, as a foot spa experiences can help to buoy your spirits dramatically.
- Relieves Foot and Ankle Injuries - Using a foot bath regularly can help you recover from foot and ankle injuries more quickly and also prevent them in the future. And, the best part of having a foot spa machine at your home is that you can enjoy a spa therapy session whenever you want.
- Helps to Relieve Migraines and Headaches - If you suffer from headaches and migraines, a foot spa therapy session can give you plenty of relief. When the nerve points on your feet are lightly massaged, it stimulates them and this helps in relieving the symptoms of migraines and headaches. Also, entering a state of absolute relaxation can calm and provide a satisfying feeling to your brain.
- Relieves Pain Due to Feet Conditions - If you suffer from problems of the feet like flat feet or plantar fasciitis, regular exercise, massages and foot spas can help to reduce pain caused due to these conditions and can even cure them.
- Helps to Relieve Arthritic Pain - Foot spas can help a great deal in reducing the tension in the joints and muscles. So, if you are suffering from arthritis, you can benefit a lot if you have a spa therapy session in the morning and in the evening. Using seaweed in the footbath can help in reducing the pain in arthritic people significantly.
- Aids in Detoxification - A foot spa can help to detoxify your body by flushing out the toxins. It helps to maintain the pH balance in the body, detoxifies the kidney and liver, helps in clearing wrinkles and acne, strengthens the immune system and helps in overall well-being.
The Other Advantages of Foot Spas Are:
- Helps to lower blood pressure.
- Stimulates the nerve endings and pressure points in your feet and can help to relieve indigestion and heartburn.
- Relieves muscle aches and pains.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Foot Spa for Your Home
When you are thinking of buying a home foot spa, you should consider all the features that you want from your purchase. Here are some features you should look for in a foot spa:
Foot Spa Tips
Setting up Your Foot Spa
- Place your foot spa machine on the floor when you are using it and ensure that is stable and level. Don’t place it on a soft mat or carpet as this will make the unit unstable.
- Always use your foot spa indoors and not outdoors.
- Keep your foot spa in an open and cool area in your home and keep it away from any heat sources. Keeping the device in an open and well-ventilated area prevents the air vents in the machine from getting blocked causing it to become overheated.
- Ensure that you are seated in a comfortable chair when using the spa and don’t use it when there are kids and pets around.
Using Your Foot Spa
- Once you have decided on the right spot for your foot spa, fill the basin with water up to the maximum level and then plug it in and turn on the machine before placing your feet in.
- Then, allow the device to get warm to the temperature you require.
- Keep your foot and pedicure products close at hand so that you don’t have to keep getting up in between interrupting the spa session.
- You can add essential oils and salts to enhance the spa experience and the relaxation.
- Make sure that you follow the instructions recommended for your specific machine.
- Once you have completed your spa session, first remove your feet from the unit before you turn off and unplug the machine.
Exercising Caution
- Although the foot spa can be very relaxing, it may not be suitable for all.
- If you have any health conditions like diabetes, varicose veins, poor circulation, open cuts, sores or an infection, you must not use the foot spa.
- If you have a pacemaker, then you must not make use of a foot spa machine.
Cleaning Your Foot Spa
- Always clean your foot spa thoroughly after every use to prevent infections. A very commonly occurring infection due to foot spa use is boils caused by certain bacteria. The boils can get infected and result in open wounds.
- Clean the device according to the instructions provided by the specific manufacturer.
- Some models can be cleaned using disinfectants or detergents, while others cannot. Follow the given cleaning instructions for your specific model.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Foot Spa Remove Calluses?
While the foot spa treatment by itself does not get rid of calluses, soaking your feet in the foot spa and the gentle massaging action can soften the skin of your feet and heels. Once the skin of your feet is soft, you can use a foot file to file and buff off the calluses, corns and the rough skin.
Can It Be Used During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women claim that foot spas can help to alleviate all kinds of aches and pains associated with pregnancy, while many others fear that spas may be harmful. There is no doubt that getting a foot massage when you’re pregnant can help to relieve stress and help you feel relaxed and calm, and this can definitely help your unborn baby as anxiety and agitation can cause distress to the fetus.
When pregnant, foot massages if done gently can help to relieve sore feet and ankles. It also helps you destress, reduce anxiety and also makes pregnancy comfortable both for you as well as for your baby. Also, massaging specific pressure points in your feet can stimulate endorphins or “feel good” hormones that help to elevate your mood and reduce stress.
Some health care professionals argue that foot massages during pregnancy can cause the uterus to contract and induce labor, which can be hazardous in the early stages of pregnancy, while others claim that this is baseless. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to check with your obstetrician if a home foot spa is safe for you and your baby or not.
Will a Foot Spa Help Circulation?
We lead sedentary lifestyles mostly and do not exercise our feet enough, which are essentially muscles too and at other times we are always on our feet tiring them out, not realizing how overworked they are. And, when you are stressed, your body is in the state of constant chaos that makes you anxious and stressed.
A foot spa can bring about a state of harmony and balance or homeostasis in your body, which is essential for your good health and well-being. The massaging and rubbing action of the foot spa on your feet and toes stimulates the circulation of both blood and energy.
When your nerve pathways and endings are blocked, it may lead to you feeling lethargic and tired, as the free flow of energy through your body is hampered. A foot spa is usually based on the principles of reflexology that can help to release these energy blockages and immensely helps to improve circulation not only in your feet but the entire body.
Why Is a Foot Spa Important?
Apart from all the benefits discussed earlier, a foot spa can also help to:
- Keep your feet clean and healthy by eliminating dirt and bacteria and also help to prevent foot odors, fungal diseases, etc.
- It helps your feet to retain moisture and also helps to keep it soft and free from cracks, blisters and other foot problems. Most importantly, it helps to keep the feet beautiful and attractive.
- It helps in exfoliating the skin, removing dead cells and stops them from collecting and forming corns and bunions that can be painful and uncomfortable.
Final Words
The key objective of a foot spa is that you can have a therapeutic, relaxing foot massage and spa without leaving the comfort of your own home. If you’re looking for a foot spa and you’re on a limited budget, you should opt for the Dr. Scholl's Invigorating Pedicure Foot Spa. If you have a slightly more relaxed budget then we’d suggest the Kendal All in One Foot Spa Bath Massager.
However, with so many options, models and features available, making a decision can be quite a confusing one. So, you can now evaluate all the options available based on the factors that have been discussed and choose the one you feel is best-suited for your requirements.
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