Choosing a Hot Spring Cover Lifter: CoverCradle, CoverCradle II, UpRite, and Lift 'n Glide Compared

A good spa cover is heavy for a reason. Thick, dense foam is what keeps heat in and energy costs down, but it also makes the cover awkward to remove, especially for one person. That is why so many Hot Spring owners add a cover lifter. The right lifter turns opening the spa into a quick, one-person motion, protects the cover from being dragged or dropped, and helps it last longer.

Hot Spring offers four cover lifter designs, and the biggest difference between them is how much space they need behind the spa. This guide compares the CoverCradle, CoverCradle II, UpRite, and Lift 'n Glide so you can match a lifter to your spa, your space, and the way you use your hot tub.

Why a Cover Lifter Is Worth It

It is easy to think of a lifter as a convenience item, but it does real work protecting your investment.

• Less strain on the cover: Dragging a cover across the spa edge or dropping it on a deck stresses the seams, hinge, and vinyl. A lifter supports the cover evenly every time.
• Less strain on you: Waterlogged or simply large covers can be heavy. A lifter uses leverage and, on some models, gas springs so one person can open the spa comfortably.
• More consistent use: When opening the spa is easy, you use it more, and a spa that is used and checked regularly tends to stay better maintained.
• A clean storage spot: The cover rests off the ground, away from dirt, lawn equipment, and pets.

The Four Hot Spring Cover Lifters at a Glance

Each of these designs works with Hot Spring covers, but they differ in lifting mechanism, clearance needs, and what the open cover looks like. Hot Spring lists the following clearances, and notes that actual requirements vary by spa model and location.

• CoverCradle: 24 inches of back clearance and 3 inches of side clearance. Dual pneumatic gas shocks.
• CoverCradle II: 24 inches of back clearance and 3 inches of side clearance. Single pneumatic gas spring.
• Lift 'n Glide: 14 inches of back clearance and 3 inches of side clearance. Gliding action.
• UpRite: 7 inches of back clearance and 3 inches of side clearance. Folds the cover up behind the spa bar top.

CoverCradle: The Full-Featured Option

The original CoverCradle uses dual pneumatic gas shocks and a smooth gliding motion. Hot Spring describes it as its largest lifter option, with a cross bar that integrates into the cover seam. You fold the cover in half along its hinge, then guide it back, and the gas shocks do much of the lifting.

Best for: Owners with open space behind the spa who want the smoothest, most assisted operation, and households where different people of different heights or strength will open the spa.

Consider: It needs about 24 inches of clear space behind the spa, so it will not suit spas tucked against a wall, fence, or railing.

CoverCradle II: Simplified Assist

The CoverCradle II is the second-generation version. It keeps the same basic motion but uses a single pneumatic gas spring, which Hot Spring says makes it very easy to lift. Clearance requirements match the original at 24 inches in back and 3 inches on the sides.

Best for: Owners who want gas-assisted lifting with a simpler mechanism.

Consider: Like the original CoverCradle, it needs generous rear clearance.

Lift 'n Glide: The Middle Ground

The Lift 'n Glide uses a gliding action to move the cover off the spa and needs only about 14 inches of back clearance. That makes it a practical choice for patios and decks where there is some room behind the spa but not the full two feet a CoverCradle requires. Hot Spring positions it as both easy to use and economical.

Best for: Moderately tight spaces, and owners who want a lifter without paying for gas-assist features they may not need.

Consider: Without gas springs doing the lifting, a heavy cover may take a bit more effort than on a CoverCradle.

UpRite: For Tight Spaces and Privacy

The UpRite is built for installations with very little room behind the spa. Instead of sliding the cover back and down, it folds the cover up behind the spa's bar top, so it needs only about 7 inches of rear clearance. Hot Spring highlights it for patios, decks, and gazebos where space is limited.

The UpRite has a second benefit that many owners come to appreciate: when the cover stands upright behind the spa, it creates a sight barrier. If your spa faces a neighbor's window or a street, the open cover doubles as a privacy screen while you soak.

Best for: Spas close to walls, fences, or railings, and anyone who wants extra privacy.

Consider: The upright cover can block a view you do want to enjoy, so think about which direction you face when seated.

How to Choose the Right Lifter

1. Measure Your Clearance First

Measure the open space directly behind the spa where the cover will go, and check the sides as well. Remember that railings, gutters, downspouts, windows that swing outward, and overhanging branches all count as obstructions. If you have less than 14 inches behind the spa, the UpRite is likely your only practical option. Between 14 and 24 inches, the Lift 'n Glide fits. With 24 inches or more, all four are on the table.

2. Think About Who Opens the Spa

If the person who opens the spa most often wants the least possible effort, the gas-assisted CoverCradle models make a noticeable difference. If everyone in the household is comfortable guiding a cover by hand, the Lift 'n Glide can be a good value.

3. Consider Views and Privacy

Picture where the open cover will sit and what it will block. An upright UpRite cover makes a great privacy wall but can hide a garden view. A CoverCradle drops the cover lower behind the spa, keeping sight lines more open.

4. Match the Lifter to Your Cover

A lifter works best with a cover in good condition. If your cover is waterlogged, broken at the fold, or sagging, it will be heavy and may not ride the lifter smoothly. If your cover is due for replacement, it often makes sense to replace the cover and add a lifter at the same time.

Pairing a Lifter With the Right Cover Accessories

A lifter handles opening and closing, but a few small cover accessories round out the setup. Cover clips and latch straps keep the cover locked down against wind and curious children when the spa is closed, and a latch strap repair kit is an inexpensive fix when a strap wears out before the rest of the cover does. If you live somewhere with frequent high winds, a cover lock kit adds another layer of security. Replacing a worn strap or clip promptly protects both the cover and the lifter, since a cover that shifts in the wind puts stress on the lifter's arms and mounting brackets.

Installation and Care Tips

• Follow the installation instructions for your specific lifter and spa model, since mounting brackets and positions vary.
• Check mounting hardware a few times a year and tighten anything that has loosened.
• Inspect gas springs periodically. If the lifter no longer holds the cover or feels much heavier than it used to, a spring may need replacement.
• Keep cover latch straps and clips in good repair, since a lifter does not replace the need to lock the cover when the spa is not in use.
• In windy areas, secure the cover whenever the spa is closed. An open cover on a lifter can catch wind, so avoid leaving it open unattended in gusty weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Hot Spring cover lifter needs the least space?

The UpRite needs the least rear clearance, about 7 inches, because it folds the cover up behind the spa's bar top. The Lift 'n Glide needs about 14 inches, and both CoverCradle models need about 24 inches. All four need about 3 inches on the sides.

What is the difference between the CoverCradle and CoverCradle II?

The original CoverCradle uses dual pneumatic gas shocks, while the CoverCradle II uses a single gas spring. Both require about 24 inches of back clearance.

Can one person open a Hot Spring cover with a lifter?

Yes. That is the main purpose of a cover lifter. Gas-assisted models like the CoverCradle and CoverCradle II make it especially easy, but all four designs are meant for one-person use.

Will a cover lifter damage my cover?

Used correctly, a lifter reduces wear by supporting the cover evenly instead of letting it be dragged or dropped. Make sure the lifter is installed properly for your spa model and that the cover is in good condition.

Can I add a cover lifter to an older Hot Spring spa?

In most cases, yes, as long as you have the required clearance and the correct mounting hardware for your spa. Confirm compatibility for your model before ordering.

The best Hot Spring cover lifter is the one that fits your space and makes opening the spa effortless. Measure your clearance, think about who will use it and what you want to see while you soak, and choose between the CoverCradle, CoverCradle II, Lift 'n Glide, and UpRite accordingly. Your cover will last longer, and you will find yourself enjoying the spa more often.