How fun it is for the little ones in the house to play in the water. And you don’t have to have a luxurious house with a pool for it. If you have a garden, patio, terrace, or you have some space – preferably outdoors – that can get wet, a great alternative for your children to entertain and even learn to swim is to install an inflatable pool.
However, adults also enjoy being immersed in the water on weekends or during vacations. With a medium-sized inflatable pool, you can share family time while cooling off the heat, especially on those days of intense summer. In this article, we are going to present to you the best inflatable pools to help you find the model that will work best for you.
Table of Contents
The most important about Inflatable Pools
- Inflatable pools are an economical variety of detachable pools usually made of plastic or liner. To enjoy them, just inflate them and fill them with water. They vary in size, price, material, and shape. Some are designed exclusively for children, but others, for the greater amount of liters of water they house, allow the whole family to enjoy them.
- Punctures are enemies of the pools. To avoid them, it is important to choose the installation site well and, if possible, reinforce the base of the same with some protective floor mat that helps us to avoid breaking it. In the case of holes, the patches and glue usually included in pool repair kits are very useful.
- Besides looking at quality and price, it is advisable to buy an inflatable pool that is easy to install and whose dimensions, capacity, and shape adapt to our needs. If it is large, it is better to include an air pump and purifier. Also, it is important to follow the recommendations on the pool and water cleaning to avoid infections.
What you should know about inflatable pools
The inflatable pools meet the requirements to offer guaranteed fun for both the little ones and the big ones in the house. Its ease of assembly, and the versatility of uses that can be provided (playground or ball pool) make these pools the perfect gift to entertain anyone who enjoys water, games, or spending time with family and friends.
What exactly is an inflatable pool?
Inflatable pools are a type of detachable pool that generally does not need structures to support itself. They are the best alternative for those who cannot afford to pay the costs of manufacturing, installing, and maintaining their own pool. By not containing hard parts, they allow children to dive and play in the water without fear of hitting each other.
Compared to steel, plastic, and wooden pools, inflatable pools tend to gain more and more followers because, in addition to being cheaper, they do not require the use of sophisticated tools for assembly and serve both for children’s fun and adults for the treatment of various health problems in which hydrotherapy is recommended.
What are the pros and cons of an inflatable pool?
There are fixed pools of various materials, such as stainless steel, polyester, or reinforced concrete. But their manufacturing costs mean that most of the time, we cannot afford to build one. However, detachable pools are a great alternative. Topping the list are also inflatables, with their advantages and disadvantages:
Fixed Swimming Pools
Pros:
- They last many years.
- They are made of high-strength materials.
- Repairs are not usually frequent.
- They can be as small or as large as you want.
Cons:
- High investment and maintenance costs.
- Its construction can take from weeks to months.
- More dangerous
- Frequent bumps with the edges.
Inflatable Swimming Pools
Pros:
- Minimum costs
- Few hours of assembly.
- More secure.
- You never hit the edges.
- You can move them and install them wherever you want.
Cons:
- They usually last a few months or a few years.
- Its materials are less resistant.
- They usually require fixes with patches or glue because of scratches or punctures.
We have seen that, according to the budget we have, our needs and preferences, the use that we will give, and the time we have, it will be more or less advantageous to acquire an inflatable pool. But, in general, there are more favorable aspects of a removable pool of this type, especially considering the quality/utility/price ratio.
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Comparison of Top 3 Best Inflatable Pools
If you are trying to save time, here is a quick comparison table of the top 3 inflatable pools. The key features have been mentioned in the table.
10 Best Inflatable Pools
1. Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool
Intex is a leading brand that manufactures durable inflatable pools all over the world. These pools are suitable for both adults and kids. Intex makes the best inflatable pools in different types, shapes, and sizes.
Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool has a built-in bench giving you a lounge experience. Enjoy it with a drink or read a book is your choice! If you want to sit in the water and supervise your children playing, the integrated bench seat within this inflatable lounge pool offers you the luxury of doing so.
Also, you are provided with 2 cup holders on either side of the corner, convenient for stocking snacks or cans. The maximum water capacity is 590 liters. The water depth is 30cm. It comes with a drain plug and repair patch. The approximate time to inflate the pool is about 10 minutes and another 25-30 mins to fill in the pool.
Product Features:
- The product dimensions are 90 X 86 X 31inches
- Suitable for – kids and adults
- The shape is round
- The material used is plastic
- Package weight 15 pounds
Pros:
- Comfortable and cushioned backrest and bench seat
- Sidewalls are transparent
- Two cup holders on corners
- Big enough for 2adults and 2kids
Cons:
- It doesn’t come with an air pump
- Difficult to find holes or leaks
Bottom line – Amazing buy! This Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool comes at a great price.
2. Hesung Family Inflatable Swimming Pool for Kids and Adults
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Playing with your family anywhere, such as outdoors, backyard, garden, or in an inflatable pool is what you desire in summer. Hesung Family Inflatable Swimming Pool for Kids and Adults has a unique design inspired by the color of the sea and waves.
The durable inflatable pool is made with material that is BPA-free and lead-free. This inflatable lounge pool top ring is designed with a white cap to reflect the sun’s heat. The structure has a curved drainpipe for facilitating the outflow of water and built-in drain holes to drain the pool water quickly.
The setup is pretty easy and quick, taking about 3-4 minutes to inflate the pool with an electric pump. It can accommodate up to 6 person at a time, making it one of the best inflatable pools for big families. One can enjoy fishing with this standard Inflatable pool.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 117″ X 69″ X 21″
- Suitable for – kids and adults
- The shape is rectangular
- The material used is premium PVC
- Package weight 11.9 pounds
Pros:
- Thicker than other models
- Triple-layered framework for durability
- Soft and smooth edges for protection
- The pool can hold up to 2 adults plus 3-5 kids
- Easy inflatable pool
Cons:
- Air pump is not included
- Absence of a filtration system
Bottom line – Hesung Family Inflatable Pool is another multipurpose choice for families since it’s shallow enough for an adult and deep enough for young kids to splash in.
3. Intex Swimming Pool – Easy Set
The Intex brand is counted for manufacturing the best inflatable pools. Among its many models, the Intex Swimming Pool – Easy Set model is quite refreshing and cool.
You don’t need any extra tools for its setup apart from an air pump. The three-layered structure provides durability and strength. This durable inflatable pool is resistant to the elements like debris, small stones, or even chemicals added for disinfecting water.
This particular model from Intex also has a drain plug with a garden hose connector for inflation and vice versa. The diameter of a fully inflated pool is 8ft. Intex Swimming Pool- Easy Set comes in different sizes, water capacities, and for different age groups.
Product Features:
- Comes in three sizes
- Suitable for – kids: 3-6 years and adults up to 50 years
- The shape is round
- The material used is premium PVC
- Water capacity- 886l – 3854 Litres
- Package weight 6 kg
Pros:
- Easy setup
- Available in many sizes
- Affordably priced
- Durable framework
Cons:
- Some customers complained of misshaping of the pool while pumping water.
Bottom line – Intex Swimming Pool- Easy Set is Worth all the money and experience. Easy set on level ground.
4. Aquadoo Family Swimming Inflatable Pool
The durable inflatable pool by Aquadoo is super fun for a group and the whole family. Aquadoo Family Swimming Inflatable Pool has an oceanic design, having a 312-gallon water capacity.
This inflatable lounge pool is a top-ring swimming pool with a white cap to reflect the sun’s heat. It’s made with BPA-free material and is an eco-friendly product. It is a certified model under the safety protocols measurement scale.
The setup is pretty easy and quick, taking just 3-4 minutes to inflate with an electric pump. The 3 individual air chambers in the pool make it one of the best inflatable pools. One can even enjoy fishing with this full-sized Inflatable pool.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 120″ X 72″ X 22″
- Suitable for – kids and adults
- The shape is rectangular
- The material used is premium 0.44mm PVC
- Package weight 18.58 pounds
Pros:
- Thicker than other models. Very durable
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Soft and smooth edges for protection
- The pool can hold up to 2 adults plus 3-5 kids
- 2 x Repair patches
Cons:
- Some people complained of deflation after some hours of usage.
Bottom line – Definitely recommended. Aquadoo Family Swimming Inflatable Pool can be compared with Homech Family Inflatable Pool mentioned at the top. One of the best inflatable pools.
5. Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool
Your kids will love Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool. This uniquely shaped inflatable kiddie pool has a water capacity of 321 gallons and a water depth of 15.5 inches. It can be set up on leveled ground.
This durable Inflatable Pool allows maximum play area with broad sidewalls designed to provide extra comfort and stability. Other added features include a drain plug, repair patch, and see-through windows on all wall sides.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 19 x 16.3 x 4.8 inches
- Suitable for – kids above 6 years
- This is a waved-shaped pool with 3 rings constructive framework
- Durable 14-gauge vinyl material is used
- Package weight is 13.9 pounds
Pros:
- Comfortable and wide sidewalls
- Drain plug placement is perfect
- Elegant and stylish design
- It is roomy
Cons:
- Electric pump has to be purchased separately
Bottom line – Highly recommended. Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool is perfect for families. Kids have plenty of room to splash and play.
6. Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set
Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set is a durable inflatable pool that comes from a well-known brand Bestway. The brand is renowned for making ground swimming pools airbeds, boats, and other exciting leisure products.
The model needs a simple setup that requires a level ground and an air pump. This huge pool can be easily set up in less than 10 minutes. The water capacity is 960 gallons, and it is recommended to be filled up to 80% of its capacity for best results. It also comes with a filter pump and filter cartilage for maintaining cleanliness. The built-in drain valve controls the outflow of water.
It’s a good choice for both adults and big kids among the available products under the inflatable lounge pool series.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 10 feet by 30 inches
- Suitable for – kids above 6 years
- The shape is round
- Lightweight PVC material is used
- Package weight is 22.13 pounds
Pros:
- Installation is very easy
- Very spacious
- Triple-layer pool liner
- Puncture resistant
- Filter pump is included
Cons:
- No air pump is included with the product
- Filter pump is not very strong
Bottom line – Fast Set Above Ground Pool Set is reusable, and the brand has excellent customer service. Go for it.
7. Jasonwell Foldable Bath Pool Pets and Kids
Jasonwell Foldable Bath Pool is a portable and foldable pool that is easy to set and store. It needs no inflation. This Jasonwell dog pool uses a thick, high-density fiberboard and is slip-resistant. It’s easy to drain and refill with water as it has a bottom and side drain system. The product comes in a plastic pouch and is quite sturdy.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 63 x 63 x 11.8inches
- Suitable for – kids and pets
- Available in five sizes
- Extra tough PVC material is used
- Package weight is 15.56 pounds
Pros:
- Installation is effortless
- The bottom is made of durable plastic
- Easy to drain
- Folding back is pretty easy
Cons:
- Dog nails can cause punctures/tears in the product. So supervision is recommended.
- Some Customers had complaints about its wall getting collapsed during the pumping of water to its full capacity.
Bottom line – A must-buy for pet lovers. It is sturdy.
8. Doctor Dolphin Inflatable Pool for Kids
Doctor Dolphin is a very popular inflatable kiddie pool brand, both in domestic and international online markets and is known for its quality creations. Buyers claim that the pool sets up very quickly.
The three-layered unique air chambers help deter water and air leakage. Customers love the large space it offers and are fully satisfied with its robust and sturdy PVC material. This durable inflatable pool is puncture resistant. The soft and comfortable design is perfect for children to play with balls or other games in the pool. The air nozzles are double-layered, and thus deflation becomes faster and easier.
The ocean-themed design is a feature loved by all, along with the Unicorn shaped water spray on the side. Our list of best inflatable pools would be incomplete without its mention.
Product Features:
- Product dimensions 5″ X 65″ X 24inches
- Recommended age above 3 years
- The material used is PVC
- Package weight is 11 pounds
- It’s a giant pool
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy
- Cute water spray
- It can be used both as a pool and a ball pit
- The Theme is based on the Ocean Kingdom, which is very attractive
- Easy to inflate
Cons:
- Available only in one size
- Doesn’t come with a pump
Bottom line – Doctor Dolphin Inflatable Pool for Kids is the perfect kiddie indoor and outdoor pool. Very convenient to inflate, and the unicorn design is a hit among kids.
9. Inflatable Splash Pad Sprinkler for Kids
This Zen laboratory product is the perfect choice for your little ones. It acts as an alternative to your regular pool. The splash pad sprinklers are fun for toddlers.
Inflatable Splash Pad Sprinkler for Kids is quite big and wide compared to other similar products available in the market. It’s like a mini water park in your backyard. With quality material and easy hookup features, it is excellently built. Don’t worry about the Water spray height. It is adjustable.
Product Features:
- Suitable for kids from 2 to 10 years
- 68 inches splash pad
- Package weight is 0.8 ounce
- BPA and phthalate-free product
Pros:
- Installation is very easy
- Large enough for 3-4 kids
- Water toys can be placed in the middle
- Easy hook up to the hose
Cons:
- Water pressure should be good to get the proper sprinkler effect.
Bottom line – Great splash pad at a great price for little ones. Inflatable Splash Pad Sprinkler for Kids is worth buying.
10. Sellotz Inflatable Pool for Adults and Kids
There are times when we are left with no option but to cool off in our backyard. Inflatable Kiddie and adult pool is the right choice to rejuvenate in those times. Brand Sellotz just offers the best inflatable pools to homeowners.
The Sellotz Inflatable Pool for Adults and Kids claims to be large enough to fit a full family of 2 adults and 2-3 kids. This triple-layered structured model is not only strong and sturdy but also has negligible deflation during its use for activities.
The design has a top ring that doesn’t get heated up in the hot sun, and one can keep their arms on it. The size of this inflatable pool is 10ft x 6ft, and the depth is 2 feet.
Product Features:
- The dimensions are 120’*72’*22′ inches
- Suitable for – kids and adults
- The shape is rectangular
- Durable PVC material is used
- Package weight is 16.35 pounds
Pros:
- Comfortable and wide sidewalls
- Inflate in just 3-4 minutes with an electric pump
- Elegant and stylish design
- Multipurpose pool use such as a sandpit, fishing pond, and toy pool for kids
Cons:
- Electric pump has to be purchased separately
Bottom line – Sellotz Inflatable Pool for Adults and Kids is good as a basic pool option.
Can’t find what you’re looking for in our list of best inflatable pools? Check these suggestions:
What types of inflatable pools exist?
The inflatable pools differ in their materials (plastic, liner, polymers) and shape round, oval, hexagonal, and other regular and irregular shapes. Also, for its designs, measurements, and capacity: for babies (5-18 gallons), children (18-450 gallons), and adults (450 gallons onwards), although large and small, they usually share the games with each other.
For the uses they have, there are inflatable swimming pools to provide light baths to a baby or with slides, sprinklers, parasols, game centers, balls, hoops, etc. There are also hammocks or hot tubs, with armchairs, backrests, or coasters. And there are those of a lifetime, which simply fill with water and invite children and adults to cool off, swim, and play underwater.
Inflatable Pool for Adults
An inflatable pool for adults is particularly interesting in summer and when the temperature is constantly above 25 degrees. In principle, the whole family can cool off with the inflatable pool. The adults can, of course, also go to a lake or go to the crowded outdoor pools, but the best thing to do is to buy your own swimming pool. An inflatable pool for adults is so popular because it can be set up very quickly.
The fixed above-ground pools made of wood or metal are often uninteresting because they take too much time. It is generally interesting that there are inflatable pools for all ages. The baby pools have been designed for the youngest, and there are also inflatable pools for adults. For adults, it usually doesn’t matter whether an inflatable pool is rectangular or round.
While suitable sun protection is often important for children and babies, this plays a rather minor role for most adults. A baby pool is the smallest version, then there is the larger paddling pool, and there are also large models for adults. All pools are usually available in different sizes, shapes, and colors. A quick-up pool for adults can be inflated within a short time, and the models are often made of plastic. You can check the best inflatable pools for adults here.
Inflatable Pool for Children
If you are looking for the best Inflatable pool for your little ones, there are many different criteria to consider. In addition to size, type, and material processing, you should not neglect factors such as the price range, additional features, and simple assembly and disassembly.
Because the options are many, finding the best pool can be a difficult task. If time is a constraint for you, but you still want to make a good decision in the shortest possible time, our buying guide can certainly help you because, in this guide, we have summarized the best models for you. You can check the best inflatable pools for children here.
Inflatable Pool with Slide for Children
Pool slides ensure real bathing fun in the pool. Children, in particular, love the variety and are quickly fond of slipping. For this reason, many parents want to purchase a pool slide.
There are pool slides in various shapes and sizes on the market. Getting to grips with this selection and choosing one of the slides can be a real challenge. Before buying, you need to check whether there is enough space in the garden for the slide. The processing quality of the pool slide and other factors are also decisive.
A pool slide test is, therefore, ideally suited to determine the best pool slides. Our article will introduce you to some good slides and explain why these pool slides made it onto our leaderboard.
In our extensive guide, we also deal with all the important points you should consider before purchasing. See the best inflatable pools with slides here.
What precautions should you take with children in the inflatable pool?
As mentioned earlier, the protective cover helps ensure children’s safety while the pool is not in use. But while using the pool, it is essential that you consider safety measures.
According to experts, children can play in the inflatable pool after six months. But there must always be an adult supervising the child at any age. This is because, unfortunately, drowning is a common cause of infant death.
Another safety measure is to put arm floats on the child. Still, very deep pools are not suitable for children. In any case, what will guarantee the child’s safety and avoid accidents is the permanent monitoring of an adult.
What steps should I follow when installing my inflatable pool?
Because of their materials and designs (regular: circular, square, hexagonal, and irregular: oval, rectangular), inflatable pools are installed more simply and quickly than other types. However, in addition to reading the instructions in the manual, we must follow certain steps to make the best use of our pool and make it last for many years:
- Choose a flat area without a slope. Thus, in addition to preventing the pool base from deteriorating, we can take full advantage of its dimensions and maintain the same depth of water at all points. Some experts even recommend using a level to ensure that the area in which it will be installed has no slope.
- Remove any object from the ground. However small, the element that we least expect can damage or break the pool base material. Therefore, it is necessary to remove anything that can act as a sharp object. Now, if we only have a rough surface, we will have to use some protective mat as a base.
- Place a protective mat or canvas. It is advisable to use it on any type of soil, and it is essential to use it on rough surfaces or with imperfections. We must ensure that the size of the canvas or mat that we get is larger than the diameter of the inflatable pool so that the base is fully protected.
- Inflate the pool. Once we have prepared the area where we will put our pool, we can inflate it, preferably using an electric or manual pump. We must read the instruction manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially regarding the optimum air pressure for our pool and the precautions to be taken.
- Fill the pool with water. Using a hose is the best option when filling a pool. Ensure that the water is in optimal health conditions (that it is clean and that its chlorine concentration is adequate). It is better if you are present during this phase to avoid setbacks, especially so that the recommended number of liters is not exceeded.
How to keep the water in my pool clean?
After installation, and especially if we will use it for several days, we must ensure that the water is clean. To do this, we must first keep it in good condition. It is recommended to use a pool cover of adequate size when we are not using it and, before diving, clean the entire body with our hose, especially our feet.
It is also important, especially in large pools, to use sweepers and nets to clean the water, frequently use a filter or purifier, and chlorine tablets. It is also recommended to change the water from time to time, especially in children’s pools, since it easily gets dirty and can be affected by bacteria and germs’ appearance.
How to repair an inflatable pool?
Although we take precautions with our pool, it is possible that at some point, it will be affected by a puncture or be damaged in some way. Therefore, patches, special self-adhesive tape for inflatable pools, and glue for patches are recommended (costs range from $ 1 to $20, depending on the type and quantity). Both usually come in pool repair kits.
First, it is necessary to locate the hole. Then two patches are taken to which the glue is applied. If the pool is empty, the bonding order does not matter, but if the pool is full of water, a patch is pasted inside the pool first (the glue is waterproof) and then an external patch. The pressure is exerted so that both remain firm and problem-solve!
Things to consider for buying the best inflatable pool
When the time comes to decide the best inflatable pool, preparing a list with purchase criteria can help us a lot. Here are some of the main factors to consider when choosing the pool that best suits your needs, tastes, and budget.
- Quality/price ratio
- Capacity and ages of use
- Material, dimensions, and shape
- Accessories included
- Installation/assembly time
Quality/price ratio
We cannot deny that depending on the budget, we can choose one type of pool or another. However, there are brands, materials, shapes, and sizes for all pockets. We can find good offers if we take the time for them and if we are previously informed about the most important aspects when choosing the ideal model for us.
Therefore, we should know that an extremely economical pool probably has not been made with very resistant material, but if we only want it for a few days or weeks, it may be worth making the purchase. However, before doing it, always think about what you want it for and how much it costs to know if it compensates you or not.
Capacity and ages of use
Look closely at the specifications of measures and the product capacity since you can get a surprise if you read the information badly and you get a smaller pool than you expected. Usually, the size is expressed in inches, and the length is indicated first, then the width, and finally, the height.
With the capacity, there are usually no doubts since it is expressed in gallons. In addition to verifying its dimensions and depth, find out about the recommended ages of use and draw your own conclusions about whether or not it is the pool you are looking for. Thus, you will ensure that you, your children, neighbors, or friends can enjoy playing or swimming in it to the fullest.
Material and form
Inflatable pools are usually made of PVC, other plastics, and their derivatives, such as vinyl and polymers, among other materials. Likewise, it is increasingly common to use the liner, a reinforced PVC compound (plasticized polyvinylchloride) that is characterized by its flexibility, tightness, and resistance.
On the other hand, the shape of the pool facilitates certain uses. A rectangular pool allows several adults to lie in it. In a round pool, it is very nice to sit and talk while the little ones play in the middle. On the other hand, an irregularly shaped pool with a play center and slide is the ideal solution for your children to have a great time.
Accessories
Depending on the brand and model you choose, the pool will come or not with a drain valve. Also, you can bring additional accessories. A baby pool can come with a removable chair. In swimming pools for children who are already walking, it is better to choose a model with a slide or sprinkler. If you want an adult pool, you can opt for a model with an armchair and coasters.
Other accessories that may come with the pool are a treatment plant, filter, or pump. Check their capacity and verify that, for the size of the pool, it will be sufficient. Otherwise, you better buy a pool without these additional accessories and, subsequently, purchase a suitable sewage treatment plant.
Installation/assembly time
It is recommended that you check how long it takes to set up your pool. This way, you will avoid headaches and disappointments. Once you have it with you, read the instruction manual before proceeding to install it. In this way, you can plan how you will make the assembly for your particular pool, and you can have the necessary tools at hand.
Final Words
So these were some of the best inflatable pools to buy this summer. Inflatable pools are the best known as removable pools. They are the favorite of the smallest of the houses and also popular among the adult public, either for their manufacture with resistant materials (such as vinyl or multi-layer PVC) or for their increasingly large presentations and designs and multifunctional.
It is important to take various precautions with our pool, such as putting a protective floor mat, covering it, and avoiding putting sharp objects in it. However, it may still be affected by a tiny hole or puncture. To avoid this, it is good to be prepared with glue and patches so that you can act quickly and avoid further damage.