8 best pool covers

Pool covers are essential accessories for swimming pools, serving various purposes related to safety, maintenance, and energy efficiency. These covers are typically categorized into different types based on their intended use and design. Here's what you should know about pool covers:

  1. Safety Covers: Safety covers are designed to prevent accidents and enhance the safety of your pool area, especially when it's not in use. These covers are typically made of strong materials like mesh or solid vinyl and are anchored securely to the pool deck. They can support the weight of a person or pet, reducing the risk of accidental drownings.

  2. Solar Covers: Solar covers, also known as solar blankets or pool blankets, are designed to harness the sun's energy to heat the pool water. They are typically made of a UV-resistant material that floats on the pool's surface. Solar covers help retain heat, reduce evaporation, and can extend the swimming season by raising water temperature.

  3. Winter Covers: Winter covers are heavy-duty pool covers designed to protect the pool during the off-season, typically in colder months. They are made from durable materials like heavy-duty vinyl or polyethylene and are secured to the pool using water bags or a cable and winch system. Winter covers keep debris out of the pool, prevent algae growth, and protect the pool structure from winter weather.

  4. Automatic Covers: Automatic pool covers are motorized systems that can open and close with the push of a button. They provide convenience and can be used for both safety and maintenance purposes. When closed, they create a barrier over the pool, enhancing safety.When open, they offer easy access to the pool.

  5. Mesh Covers: Mesh covers are designed to allow water to pass through while keeping debris out. They are typically used in warmer climates or for pools that remain open year-round. Mesh covers help prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the pool, making maintenance more manageable.

  6. Leaf Nets: Leaf nets are lightweight covers made from mesh material. They are placed over the primary pool cover and are particularly effective at catching leaves and large debris. Leaf nets simplify pool maintenance by making it easier to remove surface debris.

  7. Benefits: Pool covers offer several benefits, including reducing water and chemical evaporation, lowering heating costs, keeping the pool cleaner, and extending the pool's lifespan by protecting it from harsh weather and UV radiation.

  8. Installation and Maintenance: Proper installation and maintenance of pool covers are essential to ensure their effectiveness. Regular cleaning and inspection are necessary to prevent debris buildup and ensure that the cover functions correctly.

In summary, pool covers are versatile accessories designed to enhance pool safety, reduce maintenance, and improve energy efficiency. The type of pool cover you choose depends on your specific needs, climate, and intended use of the pool, whether for safety, heating, or off-season protection.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best pool covers on the market
  

Sun2Solar Blue 16-Foot-by-32-Foot Rectangle Solar Cover | 1200 Series | Heat Retaining Blanket for In-Ground and Above-Ground Rectangular Swimming Pools | Use Sun to Heat Pool | Bubble-Side Down

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A solar cover is a great way to capture the sun’s heat and take full advantage of this natural resource to heat your above-ground or in-ground swimming pool. The benefits of owning a solar cover are plentiful and serve a multitude of purposes.

Cover Benefits:

  • Take advantage of the sun's FREE HEAT resulting in a warmer water
  • Made from durable resin material
  • Constructed with thousands of small air bubbles to capture and transmit heat from the sun to your swimming pool
  • Blocks undesired dirt and debris from your pool
  • Helps prevent up to 95% of pool water evaporation, thus reducing heat loss at night or on cloudy days.
  • Helps keep your pool free from dirt and debris

Cover Details:

  • Size: 16’ x 32’
  • Cover Style: Blue
  • Shape: Rectangle
  • Series: 1200

NOTE: Please remember that the bubbles on the cover face DOWN into the water!

Warranty 6 Years/ 2 Years Full of Limited Warranty Coverage against manufacturer's defects

**Disclaimer** Please note that solar covers may come with 2" - 11" of overlap to allow trimming to fit your pool - Trimming will NOT void the manufacturer’s warranty.

  • ATTRACTIVE BLUE DESIGN - Sun2Solar solar blankets are made from a film of thousands of tiny bubbles, which work together to collect and retain heat both at night and on those chilly days. The blue color provides an appealing look while also using the sun’s rays to help warm your swimming pool.
  • MINIMIZE WATER EVAPORATION - The use of a solar cover helps in preventing up to 95% of pool water evaporation. When not enjoying a refreshing swim, keeping your pool covered lessens the vast amount of water lost into the environment. Fill up your swimming pool less and enjoy it more!
  • JUMP INTO WARMTH - Show friends and family your bravery by jumping in without the standard toe dip. Enter the swimming pool confidently knowing the Sun2Solar solar cover has kept the water warm just for you. It’s easy to put on and take off allowing more time for showing off.
  • HEAT RETENTION - After everyone has called it a day with wrinkled fingers from too much fun in the sun, make sure to place this solar cover back atop the water. Don’t lose all of that warmth generated throughout the day when the sun sets. Assure your pool’s temperature does not drop too much by protecting it at night through use of a solar blanket.
  • TRIM TO FIT - Your pool may be uniquely shaped and getting the right fit is as easy as finding a marker and sharp pair of scissors. Have the bubbles facing down to the water and trace a line on the cover showing where you should cut off the additional material. Do so confidently knowing this won’t affect the manufacturer’s warranty---they understand.

User questions & answers

Question: Shipping dimensions 20x40 12 mil and weight
Answer: I think he/she is asking what are the dimensions and weight of the box that the cover is shipped in. I would also like to know the answer.
Question: What is this material made of? Is it safe to use in a pond
Answer: It will be safe for at least a year. I have had the cover for exactly 13 months and the cover is starting to fall apart and is leaving small blue bubble debris in my pool. If you have fish in the pond, I would be concerned that the debris could harm the fish if they tried to eat it.
Question: Is there a warranty on this solar cover
Answer: They claim there is but when we had an issue with all of the bubbles falling off and clogging our filter leading a brand new pump to burn out they claimed the bubbles separating from the cover isn’t under warranty! We had the cover 10 months and our pool pump was just about a year old...we had put in a new pool. DO NOT BUY THIS COVER
Question: Does any color work better than the other
Answer: Hands down clear is the better cover for solar gain. Yhe Department of Energy say the following. "Outdoor pools gain heat from the sun, absorbing 75%–85% of the solar energy striking the pool surface. This is an important contribution to the pool's heating needs. A pool cover will decrease the solar gain contribution to some extent, depending on what type you use. A transparent bubble cover may reduce pool solar energy absorption by 5%–15%. A completely opaque cover will reduce it by 20%–40%. You need to consider this when selecting a pool cover."

Product features

BUBBLES DOWN

Get the best results from using your solar cover by placing the bubble-side of the blanket facing downwards towards your water. This takes advantage of the free heat produced by the sun while more optimally retaining heat within your swimming pool.

FREE HEAT

Transmit UV rays into free heat for your swimming pool with thousands of small air bubbles built into this blanket. The air bubbles capture and transmit heat from the sun to your swimming pool for a more enjoyable swim!

PROTECT YOUR POOL

Stop any unwanted dirt and debris from entering your swimming pool with the Sun2Solar solar cover made from durable resin material. This material not only protects but also helps prevent up to 95% of your pool water from evaporating.

Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Above-Ground Pool Cover, 24-ft, 01 - Super

Robelle

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover is a heavy-duty solid winter pool cover. Solid pool covers do not allow water to pass through their material. The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover features a heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim. The heavy-duty polyethylene material used for this cover weighs 2.36 oz./yd2. Both the scrim count and material weight are the best indicators of the strength and durability for your pool cover. This is a heavy-duty pool cover designed to protect your pool from the winter elements. The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover features an imperial blue topside and a black underside. Please order by your pool size, as the overlap goes beyond the pool size listed. This cover includes a four-foot overlap. If you have a very large top rail, please consider a larger pool size. This cover should be able to comfortably float on the pool water without excessive stress. This cover is not meant to be used as a debris cover during the swimming season. This winter pool cover is intended to be used during the off-season. This cover is meant for traditional above ground pools with a traditional top rail. Includes a winch and cable that should be used to secure your pool cover through the grommets around the perimeter of the pool cover. For extra securing, cover clips and cover wrap (both sold separately) are suggested for pool closing. No other method of installation is recommended. Includes a ten year warranty.

  • Winter pool cover to be used with traditional above ground swimming pools
  • Solid material will not let water pass through
  • Pool Size: 24 Foot Round - Cover Size: 28 Feet (includes overlap in total)
  • Heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim
  • Heavy-duty polyethylene weighs 2.36 oz./yd2

User questions & answers

Question: What is the thickness ? 18mil or 16 mil
Answer: It is basically a tarp with a tension string around it to tighten it to the pool. It’s heavy duty tarp material. Sorry I don’t have any kind of measurement.
Question: Which ones are mesh covers
Answer: Most all
Question: how does the rain get off the cover ? my pillow shifted to one side and the rain is in the middle of the cover
Answer: I have owned above ground pools since 1978. The seller of the first pool I purchased said not to use a pillow. He said it raises the cover out of the pool and expose it to the sun and wears it out. I took his advice and never used a pillow. I am on my second above-ground pool installed 1998. I have had many pool covers over the years and the majority of them wear out within about 3-5 years. I have had many types expensive 20 year warranty and cheaper ones. They all last about the same 3-5 years. I live in Southwest Ohio and have a 28 foot diameter pool. I have had this cover for about 2 years and so far it shows no wear. I purchased a leave cover a few years ago and put the leaf cover the solid cover. I helps hold the solid down during winds. When I get a nice sunny day in the first three months I take the leaf cover off and empty the leaves and sometimes I put it back on to hold it down during the Spring rains. During the winters I siphon the water off by using garden hoses. I have done this procedure for the past 5 years. I would provably purchase this cover again. My neighbor uses a pillow but he has only had a pool for about three years. He tries to secure the pillow but it come loose and floats to one side. I see this year he is not using a pillow. You are welcome to try my way or keep fighting with the pillow. Your choice. Wish you well.
Question: if my pool is 24 ft. should I buy a 28 ft cover
Answer: The 24 foot pool cover is actually 28 foot to allow for overhang You do not need to buy a bigger cover for that purpose. It is in the description. I own a 24 foot pool and buy a cover for a 24 foot pool.

Product features

Robelle Round Solid Pool Covers

Robelle offers the most complete line of pool covers ever created. All Robelle winter pool covers are made with the strongest polyethylene material. The topside of solid covers are treated to inhibit damaging UV rays, and the bottom is black to prevent algae growth. Above ground pool covers include an all-weather cable and a heavy-duty winch, to be used with grommets placed every four feet on the cover. When included, the binding on above ground covers in 1.5”.

Blue Wave BWC752 Bronze 8-Year 20-ft x 40-ft Rectangular In Ground Pool Winter Cover,Dark Navy Blue

Blue Wave

Based on 694 reviews Check latest price

Product description

In-Ground Winter Cover with 8-Year Warranty. This Defender entry level cover has the strength and durability of covers costing twice as much. Rugged polyethylene scrim and coating means that this cover can withstand winters worst. Defender covers are U.V. protected so they will last for years in direct sunlight. The cover’s black underside retards algae growth and heat sealed seams means a crystal clear pool next spring. The Defender 8-Year cover comes with loops every four feet to secure water bags, and corner grommets allow for extra tie down in windy areas. The cover is 5 feet longer and wider than the pool size, and comes in a dark navy blue with a black underside. This Defender cover is backed by an 8 year warranty.

  • Pool size: 20 feet x 40 feet
  • Cover size: 25 feet x 45 feet
  • Number of 8 feet water tubes needed: 16
  • Protects against sun, snow, ice and wind
  • 5 foot overlap to ensure there is no stretching or ripping
  • Pool size: 20 feet x 40 feet
  • Cover size: 25 feet x 45 feet

User questions & answers

Question: I just need to cover a pool at night to increase the pool temperature 5 F. Would this work
Answer: This won't increase the water temperature. It will stop some evaporation and slow the water cooling. If you want to preserve the water temperature you would do better to look at thermal blankets for pools. They're basically heavy duty bubble wrap and not that expensive. I've used them and had good luck. Try to get a clear one so the sun can get through it to warm the water when it's left on during the day.
Question: what size do i need to cover an 16x32 ft in ground pool
Answer: 21' X 36' in needed to cover a 16' X 32' pool
Question: Mesh pool cover
Answer: Not mesh. It's a tarp that sits on the water to block sunlight. A security mesh cover goes over this. Need to pump rain water off the tarp occasionally. Works great. Water always clear when open pool.
Question: Plan to send this pool cover to Africa to keep pool clean. Will use it all year round and want to know if it will hold under intense sun in Africa
Answer: You may want the Africa version. Thank you for your interest. FamilyPoolFun 320-695-2899

Intex Solar Cover for 16ft Diameter Easy Set and Frame Pools

Intex Recreation

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The intex family of companies is dedicated to developing and manufacturing the highest quality products that not only provide the best value in price, but are innovative, fun and exciting.

  • Pool cover helps keep pool water warmer
  • Helps protect pool from debris
  • Designed with central drainage holes to prevent rainwater from pooling on cover
  • Light-weight and easy to use and store
  • Fits 16' Easy Set and Framed Pools

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work in an area with some tree shading
Answer: The cover does best keeping the pool temp from dropping overnight. Partial shade should be fine.
Question: Can i run the pump with the cover on
Answer: The pump can still be run with the cover.
Question: My pool is kidney shape and 90 linear feet. What size and how many do I need
Answer: I had a kidney shaped pool once, it had a stone in it. I have an Intex 18 ft pool. 18 ft in diameter. So you need to figure it out. I wouldn't recommend the Solar Cover as it works well for about 6 months then falls apart. Obviously the Solar Cover has no sunscreen in it.
Question: Does this cover really help heat the pool
Answer: This is how I use it. During the sunny hours or when I'm in the pool, I take it off. Remember it's like insulation. Take it off in sun and let the solar energy heat the water. After the sun is gone, cover the pool with this to keep most of your heat gains. Diminishing returns of course, but it works for me.

Intex 12-Foot Round Easy Set Pool Cover

Intex Recreation

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Product Description 12 ft cover keeps debris such as trash, leaves and etc from getting into your swimming pool. Pool cover also works with Intex Easy Set, Quick Set, Summer Escapes, Fast Set and Sand N Sun style pools that have the inflatable top ring. From the Manufacturer Intex easy set pool cover 12'. Round pool cover. Easy to use. Makes a snug fit over the edge of the pool. Drain holes to prevent water accumulation

From the Manufacturer

Intex easy set pool cover 12'. Round pool cover. Easy to use. Makes a snug fit over the edge of the pool. Fits 12' diameter pools. Drain holes to prevent water accumulation. Fits: 12ft Easy Set Pools. Dimensions: 12ft by 12in

  • Easy-to-use, durable small round pool cover
  • Drain holes to prevent water accumulation
  • Fits 12-foot diameter pools

User questions & answers

Question: does it help warm the pool
Answer: Well, I find out it actually DOES!When pool open, water is cool and wind bring dust in it.As soon as you put cover on, pool become warm almost as jacuzzy at evening!
Question: Anyone have sucess using this cover with the 12 foot metal frame pool
Answer: It work, for value. Couple of hiccups but 90% of leaves and trash are out of the pool
Question: How can a 12ft cover fit a 12ft pool if it has to hang over a bit to stay? which size is intended for a 12' pool
Answer: Whatever size the pool is that’s the size you have to get it hangs over and you pull the string and it will get snug into the inner crease
Question: Will it fit a 10x30 round pool
Answer: Since there is a perfect fit for 10ft diameter pools, your question implies you have a 12ft cover and a 10 ft pool. Should be ok...
Question: Me sirve para una piscina de
Answer: No amigo. No le sirve
Question: is this cover good for the intex easy set pool
Answer: Cover has holes. Not good for keeping bugs and crass clippings out of any pool.
Question: will this cover fit other pool brands that are 10' diameter
Answer: I bought another brand 8' pool and bought this cover in 8'. Harley was right and it doesn't fit. It is about 2' too short so i am going to try this 10' to see if it fits. I will let you know what happens....!
Question: would it fit a 10x30 summer escape pool
Answer: Based on the above it's probably the same as the 12-14 ft summer escapes, the summer escapes 12-14ft can be tucked under the pool.

Intex B008VQWPDK Rectangular Pool Cover for Swim Centers 58412EP, 1 Pack, Multi

Intex

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intex B008VQWPDK Rectangular Pool Cover for Swim Centers 58412EP, 1 Pack, Multi

  • 58412EP Intex rectangular pool cover
  • Protect your swim center family pool from leaves or other debris with the Intex rectangular pool cover, a great accessory for helping to maintain fresh, clean pool water All summer long.
  • Fits swim center family pools Sizes: 120” x 72” or 103” x 69” (20” overhang).
  • 120" X 72" X 20"
  • Stops dirt and debris entering the water between use Comes with draw strings to close tight

User questions & answers

Question: Hi , my pool is 79x52x20, would this be to big? Thanks
Answer: Fits swim center family pools Sizes: 120” x 72” or 103” x 69” (20” overhang). 120" X 72" X 20" Too much overhang.
Question: Does it fit 103x69 intex inflatable pool, hoping to keep debris,bugs out ehile warming up pool water will this be too big to make a tight snug fit
Answer: You can make it work. I have that pool currently and if you pull the ends under the pool it will fit just fine.
Question: Will this pool fit a rectangular steel frame pool
Answer: This cover is made for pools 120 x 72 x 20 so I would think it would, with room to spare.
Question: I have a pool that is 95x56 inches. Will this cover fit this pool or will the cover be too big
Answer: It could work, will just have a bit more overhang.

Swimline PCO834 30 Foot Round Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Cover, Blue

Based on 302 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Swimline 30-Foot Round Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Cover is great for keeping your pool in good condition during the cold, winter months, but it will also make getting your pool back into shape in the spring much easier. This pool cover is made of laminated polyethylene sheeting woven with thick, high-density polyethylene stitching, which ensures superior tensile strength and durability. It has also been treated to provide maximum resistance to damaging ultraviolet rays. For the long life of your pool, choose the Swimline 30-Foot Round Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Cover.

  • POOL PROTECTION: Protects your 30-foot round above ground swimming pool from weathering
  • DURABLE POOL COVER: Features thick, high-density polyethylene stitching that is highly resistant to punctures, tears, chlorine stains, and other chemical stains
  • SIZE: The cover size is 34 feet which allows for a 4-foot overlap
  • UV PROTECTION: Maximum material resistance to damaging UV rays
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED: Pool cover, metallic grommets, cable and ratchet

User questions & answers

Question: What else will i need to attach the cover to pool? will i need clips
Answer: You can use clips I never have tho. I just fill a ton of water blocks and set around the edge of the cover.
Question: Does the chain come with it
Answer: The cable and the ratcheting tighenter does come with the cover.
Question: I have a 30 ft. diameter above ground pool - Is this cover just 30 ft. total including 3-4 ft. overlap or is it 30 ft. plus the overlap
Answer: I didn't measure it but I would guess it is 30 ft plus a little extra for overlap. I put it on my 24 ft round pool and it hangs down to the ground on most sides.
Question: Can i use this on my 24x52 above ground Intex pool
Answer: This cover isn’t compatible with an oval pool. You must find one that says oval in description.

Robelle 352545R Super Winter Pool Cover for In-Ground Swimming Pools, 25 x 45-ft. In-Ground Pool

Robelle

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover is a heavy-duty solid winter pool cover. Solid pool covers do not allow water to pass through their material. The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover features a heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim. The heavy-duty polyethylene material used for this cover weighs 2.36 oz./yd2. Both the scrim count and material weight are the best indicators of the strength and durability for your pool cover. This is a heavy-duty pool cover designed to protect your pool from the winter elements. The Robelle Super Winter Pool Cover features an imperial blue topside and a black underside. Please order by your pool size, as the overlap goes beyond the pool size listed. This cover includes a five-foot overlap. Please order a larger size cover if you have steps (or any other irregularity) protruding from your pool. Water tube loops are placed around the perimeter of the pool cover. Water tubes sold separately. Only water tubes should be used to install this pool cover. No other method of installation is recommended. This cover should be able to comfortably float on the pool water without excessive stress. This cover is not meant to be used as a debris cover during the swimming season. This winter pool cover is intended to be used during the off-season. Includes a ten year warranty.

  • Winter pool cover to be used with in-ground swimming pools
  • Solid material will not let water pass through
  • Pool Size: 25 x 45 Foot Rectangle - Cover Size: 30 x 50 Feet (includes overlap in total)
  • Heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim
  • Heavy-duty polyethylene weighs 2.36 oz./yd2

User questions & answers

Question: Can water pass through
Answer: Water does not pass through it, it is sitting on top of the water of my pool and no water has passed through it.
Question: Ho do you drain the rain water
Answer: I use a pump and pump the water off. Any pool store will have a pump you can place on your cover to drain water.
Question: Is this cover waterproof
Answer: Yes it is 100% waterproof. Exactly what I needed to keep the pollen and decomposed leaf water out of my pool from fall until memorial day.
Question: For anyone that bought this and has used it for a season or more, how has it held up? Better reviews are mostly from people who hadn' installed it yet
Answer: I used it one winter (2014) and it held up much better than expected. It's a good cover for the money
Question: How can I return this? It will not stay in place on my pool
Answer: I'm not sure email the seller.
Question: Difference between 800, 1200 and 1600 series
Answer: The difference is in thickness and weight. 800 is 8 mils thick. 1200 is 12 mils thick and 1600 is 16 mils thick. We have found that the thicker blankets work best and last longer. We have had a 12 mil blanket that lasted 5 years. The 8 mil blanket we bought started breaking down after one year. The blankets were identical except thickness and weight.

Product features

In The Swim Basic Pool Solar Blanket Cover

In The Swim Basic Pool Solar Blanket Cover 8 Mil is an entry-grade cover to help heat up your water. Using a pool solar cover has many advantages that will help save you time and money. Our solar blanket covers are made from a light-weight, yet durable polyethylene material. They are easy to install by cutting the cover to the shape of your pool with scissors if it is irregularly shaped.

In The Swim Basic Pool Solar Blanket Cover 8 Mil will help heat your water temperature up to 8-10 degrees in approximately 5-7 days of consistent sunlight. Using a pool solar blanket cover prevents the water from losing heat which will help let you enjoy your swim season even longer. It reduces water evaporation, chemical loss, and the amount of debris that can get in the water.

Fitting Your Blanket

To figure out what size solar cover you are looking for, measure the longest length and width of the pool to ensure you get complete coverage. Once you roll the cover out on top of the water, let it sit for about a day to adjust so it will lay completely flat. Once it has adjusted, cut the blanket to fit your pool if it is irregularly shaped. To make using a solar blanket cover even easier, use a solar cover blanket reel. This will help make the process of taking the cover on and off the pool more convenient.

Extend the Season

Solar blanket covers are a great way to help you enjoy your pool or spa even when the weather is a little cooler outside. It will help give you an extra month or two on either end of your normal swim season. This will allow you to open your pool earlier and close it later. Our solar blanket covers offer up to 80% in thermal efficiency which provides excellent heating and water retention. One of the best times to use the solar cover is at night to help keep the water from evaporating. It also keeps the temperature from dropping too low.

Caring for Your Cover

When using a solar blanket cover, you want take care and use it properly to help extend the life of your cover. If you add any chemicals to the water, wait at least 24 hours before you put the cover back on the pool. This prevents the cover from chemical damage that can shorten the life of your cover. It can result in the bubbles deteriorating when you put the cover back on too soon after treatment. When you are going to not use your solar cover blanket for a long period of time, make sure you clean it before storing.

Robelle In-Ground Solid Pool Covers

Robelle offers the most complete line of pool covers ever created. All Robelle winter pool covers are made with the strongest polyethylene material. The topside of solid covers are treated to inhibit damaging UV rays, and the bottom is black to prevent algae growth. In-Ground pool covers include water tube loops to be used with water tubes (sold separately). When included, the binding on in-ground covers is 2”.

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