When shopping for the best pool covers, you must consider their type, size, material, and thickness, among other factors. I have summed up my top recommendations based on these features. Continue below to learn why they might matter to you.
For me, it is important to protect my swimming pool during the winter or times when I am not using it. I also like to ensure the safety of my children and pets around the pool.
Fortunately, I came across pool covers to keep the water clean for long periods. Installing them can also prevent accidents within the poolscape.
Below, I will discuss the best pool covers on the market today. I will include a detailed review and each product’s pros and cons to make comparison easier.
I will also walk you through the different factors to consider before purchasing a pool cover. Hopefully, this buying guide can help you make a wise purchasing decision.
Finally, I will answer some of your frequently asked questions about pool covers.
Without any further ado, let us jump right into the article!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| Image | Product | Details | ||
| Editor’s Pick |  | In The Swim 24-ft. Round Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover | Type: SolidMaterial: Polyethylene Dimensions: 18 ft. x 38 ft. Weight: 27.9 pounds | Check price |
| Best Safety Cover |  | Lite Strong 16-ft. x 32-ft. Mesh Inground Safety Pool Cover | Type: MeshMaterial: Mesh Dimensions: 16 ft. x 32 ft. Weight: 50 pounds | Check price |
| Best Solar Cover |  | Blue Wave 14-Mil 16-ft. x 32-ft. Solar Blanket | Type: Solid Material: Plastic Dimensions: 16 ft. x 32 ft. Weight: 29.95 pounds | Check price |
| Best Mesh Cover |  | Blue Wave 24-ft. Round Leaf Net Above-Ground Pool Cover | Type: Mesh Material: Polyethylene Dimensions: 24 ft. x 27 ft. Weight: 7.43 pounds | Check price |
| Best Winter Cover |  | Robelle 28-ft. Super Winter Round Pool Cover | Type: Winter Material: Polyethylene Dimensions: 28 ft. x 28 ft. Weight: 16 pounds | Check price |
| Best for Heat Retention |  | Doheny’s Clear-Tek Micro-Bubble 18-ft. Round Solar Cover | Type: Solid Material: Polyethylene Dimensions: 18 ft. x 18 ft. Weight: 30 pounds | Check price |
| Best Budget Cover |  | Intex 10-ft. Round Easy Set Pool Cover | Type: Solid Material: Multi Dimensions: 10 ft. x 12 ft. Weight: 4.6 pounds | Check price |
7 Best Pool Cover Reviews
Here are my top picks for the best pool covers on the market today. Each one can effectively prevent debris from getting in the water.
1. In The Swim 24-ft. Round Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover – Editor’s Pick
The first one on this list of the best pool covers is the In The Swim 24-ft. Round Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover.
It uses durable polyethylene material. This particular construction can withstand harsh weather and other elements. It can last you for several years to come with proper care.
This polyethylene pool cover is also easy to cut with scissors. Hence, it makes custom installation easier, especially if you own an irregular-shaped swimming pool.
And speaking of installation, this premium pool cover can fit round pools with a 24 feet diameter. It is recommended to let it sit on top of the water for a day. Doing so allows the cover to lay completely flat on your pool.
Moreover, this round pool cover has a thickness of 12 Mil. It can prevent heat loss, so you can enjoy dipping in the waters for longer periods. At the same time, it can increase water temperature up to 8 to 10 °C. Just make sure it gets around five to seven days of consistent sunlight.
There is even the added benefit of reduced pool water evaporation and chemical loss. Thus, it can help you save money in the long run.
Plus, the pool cover can prevent debris from getting in the water. It can decrease the number of times you need to clean your pool. And it ultimately lowers your electricity costs by minimizing your pump usage.
On top of all these advantages, the manufacturer provides a 7-year limited warranty. It guarantees the quality of the product. It also makes it easier to request a refund or return if the item does not meet your needs.
However, there are still a few downsides to this round pool safety cover. First, the blue color faded over time due to constant sun exposure. Second, a few users said that it was hard to clean when installed over the pool deck.
With that said, the pros outweigh the cons. For this reason, I picked the In The Swim 24-ft. Round Solar Blanket Cover as the best pool cover available today.
Pros:
- Lightweight yet durable polyethylene material
- The 12 Mil thickness can increase the water temperature to extend the swimming season
- It prevents water evaporation and chemical loss
- It can keep debris from getting in the water
- The manufacturer provides a 7-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The blue color of the cover quickly fades when exposed to the sun
- It gets dirty easily, according to several users
2. Lite Strong 16-ft. x 32-ft. Mesh Inground Safety Pool Cover – Best Safety Cover
Do you have pets and children roaming around your inground swimming pool? Then, it is essential to invest in a safety cover like the Lite Strong Mesh Inground Safety Pool Cover.
It features a two-ply mesh material that ensures durability. This construction can hold up well in harsh weather and other outdoor elements. At the same time, it can prevent unwanted debris and critters from entering your pool when not in use.
Additionally, this mesh pool safety cover uses multi-seamed stitching. It can offer a maximum safety rating of 100 pounds. It also minimizes wear and tear when you put something on top of the cover.
Moreover, the Lite Strong Safety Cover has reinforced wear strips on the underside. These can protect the surface from abrasion and fraying.
There is even a brass anchoring system included in the package. It effectively secures the pool cover in the concrete to keep debris out. Plus, it is easy to install—simply drill and tamp it.
As for its size, this inground pool cover is larger than the actual dimensions stated. It comes with a two feet overlap to make calculations and shopping easier. Buy a cover per your exact pool dimensions.
Finally, an optional center end step option is available. It is ideal for swimming pools with stairs.
However, it is best to consider the downsides of this product before finalizing your purchasing decision. First, the mesh construction cannot prevent all kinds of debris, especially small ones, from entering the pool. Second, a few users noticed black strap marks on the pool concrete when they removed the cover.
Nevertheless, the Lite Strong Mesh Inground Safety Pool Cover is still worth considering for its high-quality build and ease of installation. It is one of the best pool safety covers available today.
Pros:
- Two-ply mesh construction can handle harsh weather and outdoor elements
- The multi-seamed stitching prevents wear and tear
- Easy-to-install anchoring system to ensure secure attachment
- It has reinforced wear strips to protect against cover abrasion and fraying
- The safety cover comes with a two-feet overlap for deck installation
Cons:
- The mesh pool cover does not stop algae and fine debris from spoiling the water
- A few users said that the cover left black marks on the concrete
3. Blue Wave 14-Mil 16-ft. x 32-ft. Solar Blanket – Best Solar Cover
If you like to extend the summer season, consider checking out the Blue Wave 14-Mil Solar Blanket.
It has a thickness of 14 Mil to help conserve your heater’s energy. At the same time, it uses solar heating to raise the water temperature by up to 15 °F.
Additionally, this solar cover offers superior durability. It can withstand ultraviolet rays, chemicals, and harsh weather. With proper care, it can last you for several years to come.
Furthermore, the Blue Wave Solar Blanket features insulating thermal bubbles with innovative cells. They provide effective heating during the summer. They also trap heat to keep your pool warm through cool nights and cloudy days. Thus, they let you enjoy summer for long periods.
Meanwhile, the clear plastic design allows more sunlight. Hence, it helps the warmth reach the depths of your pool for consistent heating.
There is even the added benefit of reducing evaporation. This best solar swimming pool cover can save you money and time in the long run.
Finally, the manufacturer provides a 6-year limited warranty. It indicates the quality of the product. It also makes the process of returning or asking for a refund easier.
Despite these benefits, it is recommended to check the downsides of this solar pool cover before buying. First, some users had difficulty rolling up the cover for storage. Second, a few customers said that the clear color was hard to clean.
Overall, though, the Blue Wave 14-Mil Solar Blanket might be worth purchasing. It is one of the best solar pool covers available today.
Pros:
- This 14-Mil solar blanket employs solar heating to extend the summer season
- It features insulating thermal bubbles to trap heat and increase water temperature
- The clear plastic design ensures consistent heating
- It effectively reduces evaporation to save you time and money
- It is covered by a 6-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Some users struggled when rolling up the pool cover
- A few customers had difficulty cleaning the solar blanket due to its clear design
4. Blue Wave 24-ft. Round Leaf Net Above-Ground Pool Cover – Best Mesh Cover
The Blue Wave Round Leaf Net Above-Ground Pool Cover is another high-quality pool cover to consider.
It features a tight mesh design. It can trap the smallest leaves, branches, and pebbles and prevent them from entering your pool. Thus, it can decrease the amount of time you need to clean the pool.
This mesh pool cover also uses durable polyethylene material. It can withstand harsh outdoor use and constant sunlight exposure.
Moreover, the package includes a heavy-duty cable and a winch tightener. Both items can hold the pool cover securely.
There are even rip-proof metal grommets that are spaced 30 inches apart from each other. They ultimately prevent abrasion and tearing of the leaf net cover.
As for its size, this round pool cover has a maximum diameter of 27 feet. It is suitable for above-ground pools that are 24 feet in diameter.
Plus, the 3-feet overlap is designed to fit most top rails.
Finally, this best above-ground pool cover has 4-year warranty coverage. It makes it easier to ask for a product refund or return if it does not meet your expectations.
However, there are still a few drawbacks to this round pool cover. First, some users complained that it was difficult to install over their above-ground pools. Second, a few customers noticed smaller particles get through the mesh cover despite the tightly packed design.
With that said, the Blue Wave Round Leaf Net is still among the best round pool covers on the market today.
Pros:
- It offers tight mesh traps that prevent decaying leaves from creating a mess
- A durable polyethylene material can withstand outdoor use
- The package includes a heavy-duty cable and a winch tightener to secure the mesh cover
- It has a 3-feet overlap to fit most top rails
- The manufacturer provides a 4-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The mesh cover was difficult to install on above-ground pools
- A few users said that the mesh design did not stop smaller particles from getting into the pool
5. Robelle 28-ft. Super Winter Round Pool Cover – Best Winter Cover
Those who want to protect their pool from the harsh winter can consider the Robelle 28-ft. Super Winter Round Pool Cover.
It boasts heavy-duty polyethylene construction. This solid cover material does not allow water to pass through. It also prevents different kinds of debris from getting inside the swimming pool. Most importantly, it protects your pool from the winter elements.
Additionally, this winter pool cover also features a durable 8 x 8 scrim lining. It is built to last you for years to come, even when exposed to harsh outdoor weather.
Furthermore, the Robelle Round Pool Cover comes with a winch and cable. Both items can secure the cover through the grommets around the pool’s perimeter.
There are also cover clips and cover wrap available for separate purchases. These tools can provide extra reinforcements for the pool cover.
Finally, this winter cover can fit 28-foot round above-ground pools. It also includes a 4-foot overlap material to ensure ease of installation. And when secured over your above-ground pool, the winter cover must float loosely on the water.
However, all these benefits come at a high price tag. A few users also wished the grommets were closer to each other for a tighter and more secure attachment.
Nevertheless, the Robelle Super Winter Round Pool Cover is still among the highest-quality products available today. It is my top pick if you are looking for a reliable winter pool cover.
Pros:
- The heavy-duty polyethylene material prevents water and debris from getting into the pool
- It has durable scrim lining to protect your pool from winter elements
- The package comes with a winch and cable to secure the pool cover
- It is easy to install due to the extra material
Cons:
- Relatively expensive winter cover
- A few users wished for more grommets
6. Doheny’s Clear-Tek Micro-Bubble 18-ft. Round Solar Cover – Best for Heat Retention
If you like to keep your pool hot, consider getting Doheny’s Clear-Tek Micro-Bubble 18-ft. Round Solar Cover.
It features micro-bubble technology that delivers twice the amount of heat transfer. Hence, it offers more efficient heating for your swimming pool.
Additionally, this round solar cover has a light-colored design. It increases solar energy absorption by 15% to 25%, compared to darker-colored pool covers.
Furthermore, Doheny’s Clear-Teak Solar Cover acts as a barrier between your pool water and the air. It effectively minimizes heat loss from evaporation and reduces your heating costs. It even decreases chemical consumption and water loss.
Beyond these heating benefits, the solar pool cover can keep your above-ground pool clean. It prevents dirt, leaves, pebbles, and other debris from entering through the solid cover. Thus, it can limit the amount of time you spend on pool maintenance.
Finally, it is easy to install over your above-ground pool. Simply cut the material with scissors to fit any pool size or shape without voiding the warranty.
Despite these benefits, it still comes with a few downsides. First, some customers had difficulty unrolling the pool blanket due to its stiff material. Second, a few users said that the pool cover was thinner than they expected.
Overall, though, Doheny’s Clear-Tek Micro-Bubble Cover is worth considering for its heat retention properties.
Pros:
- It features a micro-bubble technology to deliver efficient solar heating
- It minimizes heat loss from evaporation
- The light-colored design can increase solar energy absorption
- The solid polyethylene material prevents debris from getting into the pool
- It is easy to install over any pool shape or size
Cons:
- Some customers said it was difficult to unroll the pool blanket due to its stiff material
- The solar pool cover is thinner than expected, according to a few users
7. Intex 10-ft. Round Easy Set Pool Cover – Best Budget Cover
Those who have a tight budget can consider buying the Intex 10-ft. Round Easy Set Pool Cover.
It features a solid cover that protects your pool from different kinds of debris. It can reduce the times you need to clean and maintain the pool when not in use.
Additionally, this budget pool cover has drain holes to prevent water accumulation. It comes in handy, especially when you live in an area that often rains.
Furthermore, the Intex Pool Cover uses lightweight material to ensure ease of installation. At the same time, it offers a snug fit over the edge of the pool.
There is even a 13-inch overhang for your convenience. It can fit over round pools with a diameter of 10 feet.
Finally, this solid pool cover comes with a rope tie. It can keep the cover from blowing off due to the wind.
However, there are still a few cons to this pool blanket. First, some users complained that the rope tie did not keep the pool cover on. Second, a few customers were expecting a thicker material than what they received.
Nevertheless, the Intex Round Easy Set Pool Cover is still among the best pool covers available today.
Pros:
- The solid cover prevents debris from getting inside the swimming pool
- It has drain holes to avoid water accumulation
- The lightweight material makes it easy to use and install
- A round cover with a 13-inch overhang can fit over 10-feet pools
- The package includes a rope tie for secure attachment
Cons:
- The pool cover tends to pop off, even when using the rope tie included in the package
- A few users did not expect the material to be thin
How to Choose the Best Pool Cover
Below are some other things to consider when buying the best swimming pool cover for your pool.
Type of Pool Cover
Pool covers are available in four common types—solid, mesh, automatic, and winter.
As their name suggests, solid covers do not have holes. They are either made from solid vinyl, polyethylene, or plastic. These pool covers keep everything out of the water. Some models also have heat-retention properties to reduce water evaporation and heating costs. They can even handle a significant amount of weight to prevent pool-related accidents.
On the other hand, mesh pool covers have fine or super-fine holes. They keep solid objects and debris from entering the pool. At the same time, they allow water and snow to fill the pool gradually over the winter. Mesh covers can help you save on water costs every year.
Another type is an automatic pool cover. It can either use solid or mesh material. But what sets it apart is the automatic push-button control. Automatic pool covers can instantly retract or roll out the cover over your pool, making it easy to use. The only downside is its high price tag.
Finally, winter pool covers keep your water safe from harsh winter elements. They also prevent debris from entering the pool. However, they cannot support large amounts of weight.
Each type of pool cover has its pros and cons. It is up to you to choose which one is best for your needs and preferences.
Pool Size
Before buying a pool cover, it is also best to determine the size of your pool. As much as possible, get a product that matches the dimensions of your pool. If not, invest in a model that is easy to trim without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
If you are stuck choosing between pool cover sizes, go with the larger one. You will have more leeway when you pick it.
Take note that you might also need to cut the cover to fit your unique pool shape, such as a kidney pool.
Material
You also have to consider the material of the pool cover.
Choose vinyl covers if you want something durable that can last you for a long time.
You can also go with polyethylene covers for their weather-resistant properties.
But if you want something lightweight and easy to handle, you will like plastic covers.
Thickness
The thickness of the pool cover is another important consideration before finalizing your purchasing decision. It is usually available in 8, 12, 14, or 16 Mil options. It can determine the durability and weight of the cover.
Thicker pool covers are less likely to rip apart when installing it over the pool. They can also handle harsh weather and outdoor elements. However, they can be difficult to handle and remove from the pool.
Meanwhile, thinner pool covers are easier to use. They also allow sunlight to reach the depths of your pool for consistent heating. However, they can also lead to more heat loss during the night. They also tend to break apart easily when exposed to the sun.
Choosing between these different thickness options will depend on your needs.
Color
You will also come across different colors when shopping for a cover. This factor is especially important if you plan on getting a solar blanket.
Opaque or solid color pool covers completely block UV rays that can impact the water’s chemistry. They can also reduce water evaporation. However, they do not receive much passive heating from solar energy.
Meanwhile, clear or transparent solar covers allow sunlight to warm the pool. The result is an increase in water temperature. However, they can upset the chlorine balance of the pool.
Silver or light blue pool covers offer a great balance between opaque and transparent covers. They block some UV radiation, but they still promote solar heating.
Ease of Installation
The end of the summer season is something that most of us dread. That is because of the need to close and cover the pool.
Fortunately, choosing a cover that is easy to install will make the task more bearable. You will also find it easy to remove and store away when summer returns.
Price
It is also important to set your budget ahead when buying the best pool cover. You can come across products that range in price.
If budget is not an issue, you can go with expensive automatic covers. You will find them handy and easy to use due to their automatic push button mechanism.
However, you can also find cheap yet quality covers that can last you for a long time.
Warranty
Finally, it is best to invest in a pool blanket cover with a warranty. It indicates the quality of the product. It also makes it easier to ask for an item refund or return if it does not meet your needs.
The best pool covers provide a warranty of five years or longer. They can withstand the harshest elements and seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better: a mesh or solid pool cover?
Pool covers usually come in either solid or mesh material. Each one has its pros and cons, so it is up to you to choose the best one for your needs.
Solid covers ensure that nothing can get inside the pool, whether that is fine debris or water. They also keep small children and animals from accidents near the pool area. Furthermore, they are compatible with a cover pump or a mesh drain panel. These keep water off the pool cover’s surface.
However, solid pool covers tend to be heavier and harder to install. They might also be difficult to clean when it is time to remove them.
On the other hand, mesh covers are lighter and easier to handle. They can also effectively filter out large debris while letting in water and melted snow. Thus, they can help you save on water costs every year.
There are still a few cons to mesh pool covers, though. First, they cannot prevent smaller particles from getting into the pool water. Hence, they might require more pool cleaning when the summer season arrives. Second, the tiny holes allow UV rays to reach your pool water, which can lead to algae growth.
How do solar pool covers work?
When shopping for the best pool blankets, you might have come across solar covers and wondered how they work.
A solar pool cover features small air pockets on the surface. These trap heat from the sun and transfer it to the pool water. The result is an increase in the water temperature, making it perfect for swimming regardless of the season.
A solar cover also functions as an insulator. It can retain heat to eliminate the need for a traditional pool heater, which requires electricity. Thus, it can save you money in the long run.
Finally, solar pool blankets can effectively minimize evaporation and water loss. It acts as a barrier between your pool water and the air.
Are solar pool covers effective?
Solar pool covers are effective for both above-ground and inground pools. They can add and retain heat to your pool. Of course, the level of heat will largely depend on the surface coverage and the amount of direct sunshine they receive. But as long as you use them consistently, they can keep your pool warm enough to swim in comfortably the next day.
Conclusion
If you like to keep your pool water swimmable during the water or clean when not using it, you can rely on pool covers. They can keep debris from the water. Some models can also retain heat to minimize evaporation and water loss.
Hopefully, this article helped you find the best pool blanket cover for your needs. I highly recommend each one for its heat-retaining abilities and durable construction.
However, my absolute favorite is the In The Swim 24-ft. Round Premium Pool Solar Blanket Cover. I like how solid and durable it is due to the polyethylene material. It can prevent debris from getting into the water. Meanwhile, it allows sunlight to reach the bottom of the pool. It can retain heat and increase water temperature by a few degrees. On top of all these benefits, it has a 7-year warranty coverage that guarantees its quality for years to come.
