Whether it’s for a staycation, a pool party, or to upgrade a family-friendly yard, having an inflatable pool is loads of fun. There are suitable sizes and designs for all ages and all yard types. To make sure your pool lasts through endless water fights and squirt gun standoffs, it's important to ensure you get a quality product that fits your yard layout. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to consider when choosing an inflatable pool.
Inflatable pool types
Although there are a variety of pools to choose from, the two main types are differentiated by their inflatable structure. Standard inflatable pools expand with air on all sides to maintain its structure, while other models inflate only around the top ring of the pool. As the pool is filled with water, its structure will expand and stabilize until it reaches its full height.
With a standard inflatable pool, you will need to ensure the structure is always properly inflated, although it does not have to be filled with water to hold its shape. However, top-ring inflation models will need to be kept filled with water to hold their full structure.
Size
The pool size you need will depend on the size your yard can accommodate and how many people will use the pool. The age of the users should also be considered, as a smaller pool will be much safer for toddlers and easier for you to maintain. If it is for adults and teens, you’ll need something significantly larger.
With size, don’t assume that the entire yard is suitable for the pool placement area. You'll need to consider the actual surface terrain and the fact you might have to level and smooth out surfaces that are too rough or sloped.
Depth
In relation to the pool size, you also need to consider its depth. A pool that is only 8 inches deep is ideal for toddlers, and a pool for young kids should not be deeper than their hip height. For adults and teens, a pool with a 3.3 foot depth is a good option. This size pool often comes with a ladder, which makes it easy to get in and out over the edge.
Material
Pool liners are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) varying between 0.2 and 0.6 mm in thickness. Some large pools feature a reinforced lining that comprises two PVC layers with a polyester mesh lining which offers a good level of stability and tear resistance. If you are setting the pool up on a slightly bumpy surface, a reinforced lining is a must-have.
Equipment and accessories
While some inflatable pools come as a set with all the equipment needed for setup and maintenance, others include the pool liner and nothing else. If this is your first inflatable pool and you don’t yet have a ground mat or any maintenance products, get a unit that comes with additional accessories. Here's what to look for:
Ground mats
These are laid on the ground before inflating the pool to protect the bottom exterior of the pool.
Chlorine dispenser
This floating pod holds chlorine tablets to dissolve gradually. Check whether it includes chlorine tablets or if you need to buy them separately.
Filter system
Toddler-size pools don't require filter systems, but larger inflatable pools definitely benefit from them. While cartridge filtration systems are less expensive, they don’t last as long as sand filters. While sand filters are bulkier, they have a good filtering capacity.
Pool cover
Having a pool cover will make maintenance much easier by keeping out leaves, bugs, and other dirt when not in use.
Repair kit
Regardless of the pool size, get a repair kit to fix small punctures the moment they happen. Self-adhesive patches are the most convenient type.
Cleaning accessories
A pool brush and skimmer can help you easily scoop out leaves and clean the pool liner.
Ladder
Make it easy to get in and out of a deeper pool with a small ladder designed specifically for the pool height.
Water Analysis Kit
This will help you monitor the pH and chlorine levels of the water and is only necessary for larger pool sizes where you are using chlorine.
Inflatable pool FAQ
Q: How do you prepare the ground to install an inflatable pool?
A: Before setting up the pool, you need to level the ground and remove any stones, rocks, and other sharp or uneven objects. Fill any holes and lay down sand before placing the ground mat on top.
Q: Are inflatable pools safer for children than in-ground pools?
A: Regardless of the type of pool, children should never be left unattended. Pools that remain filled with water should be covered or have barriers in place to prevent access for little ones when not accompanied by an adult.
Q: How should I store a pool when not in use?
A: If you live in an area with extreme winters, pack away the pool to maintain its quality during the colder months. Drain out all the water, clean the liner with a manufacturer-recommended product, and let it dry completely before folding it up. Ideally, you want to store it in its original packaging in a frost-free area.