Best Pool Covers: Top 5 Options for 2024

Pool covers are an essential accessory for any pool owner. They help to keep the water clean, reduce evaporation, and maintain the temperature of the water. Pool covers come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In this article, we will be discussing the best pool covers and what to look for when purchasing one.

When it comes to pool covers, there are two main types: solid and mesh. Solid pool covers are made of vinyl or other materials and are designed to keep debris out of the pool. They are also effective at reducing evaporation and heat loss. Mesh pool covers, on the other hand, are made of a porous material that allows water to pass through while keeping debris out. They are ideal for areas with high winds or heavy rain.

When choosing a pool cover, there are several things to consider. The first is the size of your pool. You want to make sure that the cover you choose fits your pool perfectly. The second is the type of material. Solid pool covers are more durable and long-lasting than mesh covers but are more expensive. Mesh pool covers are more affordable and easier to install but may need to be replaced more frequently.

Other factors to consider include the color of the cover, which can affect the temperature of the water, and the method of installation. Some pool covers require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the pool owner.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various pool covers to identify the best ones on the market. We will be discussing the top pool covers, their features, and what makes them stand out from the rest. Whether you are looking for a solid or mesh pool cover, we have got you covered.

Best Pool Covers

We understand the importance of keeping your pool clean and safe, especially during the off-season. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best pool covers on the market to help you make an informed decision. Our roundup includes a variety of options, from solar covers to safety covers, to fit your specific needs. Read on to discover our top picks for the best pool covers.

Intex 10-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover

If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use pool cover, the Intex 10-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover is a great option.

Pros

• The lightweight material makes it easy to handle and store.
• The round cover with 13-inch overhang ensures a snug fit over the edge of the pool.
• Drain holes prevent water accumulation, which can damage the cover and the pool.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the cover is not very sturdy and can tear easily.
• The holes in the cover can let in some debris, so it may not be the best option for areas with a lot of trees or other sources of debris.
• The cover may not fit perfectly on all types of pools, especially those with irregular shapes or sizes.

We recently used this pool cover on our 10-foot diameter pool and found it to be easy to use and effective at keeping out debris. The lightweight material made it easy to handle and store, and the round shape with the overhang ensured a snug fit over the edge of the pool. The drain holes worked well to prevent water accumulation, which can cause damage to both the cover and the pool.

However, we did notice that some debris was able to get through the holes in the cover, so it may not be the best option for areas with a lot of trees or other sources of debris. We also found that the cover was not as sturdy as some other options we’ve used in the past, and it tore easily in some areas.

Overall, we would recommend the Intex 10-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover for those on a budget who are looking for a simple and effective way to keep their pool clean. Just be aware of its limitations and make sure it’s the right fit for your pool before purchasing.

Blue Wave BWC508 24-ft Round Leaf Net Above Ground Pool Cover

We highly recommend purchasing the Blue Wave BWC508 24-ft Round Leaf Net Above Ground Pool Cover because it is an effective solution to keep your pool clean and healthy.

Pros

• Easily removes leaves and debris
• Protects your pool
• Easy to secure

Cons

• May not fit all pool sizes
• Can be difficult to install for some users
• May not be as durable as other pool covers

We recently used the Blue Wave BWC508 24-ft Round Leaf Net Above Ground Pool Cover and were impressed with its performance. The netting allowed us to easily remove leaves and debris from the pool cover in just a few minutes. We found that the leaf net was perfect for regions that experience changing seasons, as it prevented decaying leaves from collecting in the middle of the winter cover and dirtying the existing pool water.

We also found the vinyl-coated cable and metal winch to be effective in keeping the leaf net secured tightly and efficiently. The metal grommets spaced every 2-feet ensured that the leaf net remained in place. The 3-ft overlap ensured a proper fit for most top rails.

However, we did find that the Blue Wave BWC508 24-ft Round Leaf Net Above Ground Pool Cover may not fit all pool sizes. Some users may also find it difficult to install the netting properly. Additionally, while the leaf net is crafted from polyethylene mesh fabric and treated to protect it from sunlight degradation, it may not be as durable as other pool covers.

Overall, we believe that the Blue Wave BWC508 24-ft Round Leaf Net Above Ground Pool Cover is a great investment for pool owners who want to keep their pool clean and healthy.

Intex Rectangular Pool Cover

If you’re looking for an affordable pool cover that gets the job done, the Intex Rectangular Pool Cover is a solid choice.

Pros

• Easy to install with the included drawstring closure
• Keeps debris out of the pool, reducing maintenance time
• Fits well on Intex swim centers and other rectangular pools

Cons

• Not very durable, may tear easily
• String closure may not be as effective as elastic
• May not fit perfectly on all pools, leaving gaps for debris to get through

We recently used the Intex Rectangular Pool Cover on our swim center and found it to be easy to install and effective at keeping leaves and other debris out of the water. However, we did notice some tears in the cover after just a few weeks of use, so it may not be the most durable option out there.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pool cover that will help keep your pool clean, the Intex Rectangular Pool Cover is worth considering. Just be aware that it may not hold up as well as more expensive options.

Yankee Pool Pillow 28 ft Round Pool Cover

Protect your above-ground pool from the harsh winter weather with the Yankee Pool Pillow 28 ft Round Pool Cover.

Pros

• The cover is extra thick and durable, made with a 14 x 14 scrim count and a density of 185 gsm.
• It has a patent-pending sealing technology that prevents dirt from entering the pool.
• The LDPE coating on the cover withstands solar UV radiation and prevents water overgrowth.

Cons

• The pool pillow is not included and must be purchased separately.
• Some customers have reported that the metal tightener included in the package is prone to breaking.
• The cover is relatively expensive compared to other pool covers on the market.

We highly recommend the Yankee Pool Pillow 28 ft Round Pool Cover for anyone looking for a reliable and durable pool cover to protect their above-ground pool during the winter months.

The extra thickness and density of the cover make it highly resistant to cold weather, ensuring that it can withstand temperatures as low as -10°F. The patent-pending sealing technology also ensures that the pool remains uncontaminated until spring, preventing dirt and debris from entering the pool.

Additionally, the LDPE coating on the cover prevents water overgrowth, ensuring that the pool remains in good condition throughout the winter months. While the pool pillow is not included, the cover is part of the Sapphire Series of Premium Cold- and UV-Resistant Pool Covers, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a high-quality pool cover.

However, some customers have reported that the metal tightener included in the package is prone to breaking, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the cover is relatively expensive compared to other pool covers on the market. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Yankee Pool Pillow 28 ft Round Pool Cover is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and durable pool cover to protect their above-ground pool.

LXKCKJ 18 Ft Round Pool Cover

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable pool cover, the LXKCKJ 18 Ft Round Pool Cover is a great option.

Pros

• The pool cover is made of high-quality materials that are strong and durable, ensuring maximum protection for your pool.
• The solar pool cover helps in preventing up to 90% of pool water evaporation, which saves money on water and chemical costs.
• The cover comes with multiple accessories that enhance its stability and make it easier to install and remove.

Cons

• The pool cover doesn’t come with enough stakes to secure it properly.
• The cover may blow off in windy conditions if not securely anchored with enough weight.
• The cover lacks some tie-down cords, which may be a concern for some users.

The LXKCKJ 18 Ft Round Pool Cover is a great investment for anyone looking to protect their pool from debris, leaves, and trash. The cover is made of 210D painted silver material, which is thicker than low-quality pool tarp, making it strong and durable.

The solar pool cover helps in keeping the water warm by using the power of the sunshine to heat up the water. It can prevent up to 90% of pool water evaporation, which saves money on water and chemical costs. The pool cover is also easy to install and remove, thanks to its multiple accessories that enhance its stability.

However, the pool cover doesn’t come with enough stakes to secure it properly, which may be a concern for some users. The cover may also blow off in windy conditions if not securely anchored with enough weight. Additionally, the cover lacks some tie-down cords, which may be a concern for some users.

Overall, the LXKCKJ 18 Ft Round Pool Cover is a great investment for anyone looking to protect their pool from debris and save money on water and chemical costs.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a pool cover, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:

Material

The material of the pool cover is an important consideration. Look for covers made from durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist fading and damage from UV rays. Some common materials used for pool covers include vinyl, mesh, and polyethylene.

Size and Shape

Make sure to measure your pool accurately to ensure you get a cover that fits properly. Many pool covers come in standard sizes, but you can also find custom covers that are tailored to fit your specific pool shape and size.

Type of Cover

There are several types of pool covers to choose from, including safety covers, solar covers, and winter covers. Safety covers are designed to prevent accidental drowning and are typically made from a strong mesh material. Solar covers are designed to heat the pool water using the power of the sun, while winter covers are designed to protect the pool during the off-season.

Ease of Use

Look for a pool cover that is easy to install and remove. Some covers come with automatic systems that make it easy to open and close the cover with the push of a button. Others require manual labor to remove and install, so make sure to choose a cover that fits your lifestyle and needs.

By considering these factors, you can find the best pool cover to meet your needs and keep your pool protected and in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of pool covers are recommended for inground pools?

When it comes to inground pools, there are several types of pool covers to choose from. Some of the most popular options include mesh covers, solid covers, and automatic covers. Mesh covers are great for keeping leaves and debris out of the pool, while solid covers offer more protection from the elements. Automatic covers are also a popular choice, as they are easy to use and offer excellent protection.

How do I choose a pool cover for an irregularly shaped pool?

If you have an irregularly shaped pool, it can be a bit more challenging to find a pool cover that fits properly. In this case, it’s best to look for a custom-made pool cover that is designed to fit your specific pool shape. You can also consider using a safety cover, which can be adjusted to fit irregular shapes.

What are the top pool cover options for above ground pools?

For above ground pools, there are several great pool cover options to choose from. Some of the most popular options include winter covers, leaf nets, and solar covers. Winter covers are great for protecting your pool during the off-season, while leaf nets are designed to keep leaves and debris out of the pool. Solar covers can help keep your pool warm and also reduce water evaporation.

Which pool covers offer the best safety features for children?

If you have children, safety should be your top priority when it comes to pool covers. Some of the best pool covers for children include safety covers, which are designed to prevent accidental drowning. You can also consider using a pool alarm, which will sound an alert if someone enters the pool area.

What are the advantages of dome covers over traditional pool covers?

Dome covers are a popular alternative to traditional pool covers, as they offer several advantages. Dome covers are designed to be more durable and long-lasting than traditional covers, and they also provide better insulation. Additionally, dome covers can help keep debris out of the pool and make it easier to maintain proper water chemistry.

What characteristics define the most durable pool covers for winter use?

Winter pool covers need to be durable enough to withstand harsh winter weather conditions. Some of the most important characteristics to look for in a winter pool cover include thickness, material quality, and UV resistance. Look for covers that are made from high-quality materials and have a high denier count for added durability.