After browsing countless articles and customer reviews, I compiled this list of the best pool skimmers available. Read on as I discuss each product’s pros and cons.
When I think about pool maintenance, the first equipment to come to mind is the pump. It can effectively circulate water and filter debris. However, running a filter pump is not enough to ensure your pool water is clean and safe.
You might want to consider investing in a skimmer to keep your pool looking its best throughout the year. This equipment can remove bugs, leaves, twigs, and other unwanted particles floating around your pool.
Below, I will discuss the best pool skimmers you can buy on the market today. I will include a detailed review complete with each product’s pros and cons, so you can easily make a comparison.
I will also walk you through some important details to consider when shopping for a skimmer. I hope that this buying guide helps you make a wise purchasing decision.
Finally, a handy FAQ section awaits you below. I will answer some of your pressing questions about skimmers and pool maintenance in general.
Let us dive right into the article!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| Image | Product | Details | ||
| Best Robotic Pool Skimmer |  | Betta 2 Solar-Powered Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer | Type: Automatic Weight: 14 pounds Dimensions: 22 x 19 x 8 inches | Check price |
| Best Manual Skimmer |  | U.S. Pool Supply Professional Leaf Skimmer Net | Type: Manual Weight: 0.35 pounds Dimensions: 14.68 x 10.87 x 1.34 inches | Check price |
| Best Automatic Skimmer |  | Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer | Type: Automatic Weight: 3.5 pounds Dimensions: 8.25 x 9.5 x 13 inches | Check price |
| Best for Above Ground Pools |  | Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer | Type: Automatic Weight: 4.75 pounds Dimensions: 12.75 x 10.25 x 8.25 inches | Check price |
 | Sepetrel Swimming Pool Leaf Skimmer Net | Type: Manual Weight: 0.56 pounds Dimensions: 17.24 x 10.71 x 1.54 inches | Check price | |
 | The Skimmie Pool Skimmer | Type: Manual Weight: 0.85 pounds Dimensions: 57 x 5 x 1.5 inches | Check price | |
 | BOZZON Pool Skimmer Net | Type: Manual Weight: 1.05 pounds Dimensions: 20.1 x 16.33 x 1.77 inches | Check price |
7 Best Pool Skimmer Reviews
Below are my top picks for the best pool skimmers available today. Whether you are looking for a manual or automatic skimmer, each product on this list can help keep your swimming pool clean.
1. Betta 2 Solar-Powered Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer – Best Robotic Pool Skimmer
The Betta 2 Solar-Powered Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer is another automatic skimmer to consider for reliable pool maintenance.
It operates completely on solar power to operate the twin Salt Chlorine Tolerant (SCT) Motors. These efficiently drive the propellers to remove floating debris.
Additionally, this robotic pool skimmer has a fine mesh filter basket. It traps dirt, dust, leaves, and more to keep your pool clean. It is also easy to clean—simply take out the basket.
Moreover, the Betta 2 boasts four bumper rods with ultrasonic radar sensors. They avoid obstacles and automatically reroute the skimmer to clean your inground pool.
There is even a special UV-resistant coating. This material protects the skimmer from ultraviolet radiation and harsh outdoor elements.
Plus, the package includes a wireless remote. It enables you to switch between automatic and remote control use.
On top of all these benefits, the Betta 2 comes with a one-year warranty. It makes it easier to ask for a product refund or return if it does not meet your expectations.
However, this solar-powered pool skimmer has a high price tag. A few pool owners also said that the off button was malfunctioning.
Nevertheless, the Betta 2 Solar-Powered Pool Skimmer is among the best automatic skimmers available today. It is my top choice if you are looking for an energy-efficient motor.
Pros:
- A solar-powered skimmer uses innovative motors and technology for cleaning the entire pool
- It includes a large and easy-to-clean debris basket
- The skimmer comes with a UV-resistant coating to prevent wear and tear
- It allows you to switch between automatic and remote control use
- The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty
Cons:
- Most expensive pool skimmer on this list
- A few users had difficulty turning off the automatic skimmer
2. U.S. Pool Supply Professional Leaf Skimmer Net – Best Manual Skimmer
If you are looking for an affordable yet effective skimmer, consider getting the U.S. Pool Supply Professional Leaf Skimmer Net.
It features a wide and sturdy fine mesh net frame. This netting basket can trap both small and large debris, including leaves and pebbles.
Additionally, the two-foot-long leaf skimmer offers quick and easy cleanup of debris in your above-ground pools. It also allows you to collect more debris in one go, owing to the six-inch depth.
Furthermore, this manual leaf skimmer net comes with a detachable 12-inch aluminum pole handle. It has a little bit of flex to help you maneuver the skimmer throughout the water.
As for its construction, the best pool skimmer uses a durable plastic frame. It is compatible with all types of pools without staining the surface.
Finally, it is built to last for many years to come. If you are not satisfied with the product, the manufacturer provides a one-year warranty guarantee.
But before buying this manual skimmer, it is wise to check its downsides. First, the pole handle might be too short, depending on how large your pool is. Second, a few users received a skimmer net with a small hole in the middle.
Nevertheless, the U.S. Pool Supply Professional Leaf Skimmer Net is still worth purchasing. It is my top choice for the best manual skimmer available today.
Pros:
- The ultra-fine mesh net can effectively trap bugs, leaves, pebbles, and twigs
- It offers a large volume capacity to collect more debris at a time
- The detachable 12-inch aluminum handle allows a bit of flex to ensure easy maneuvering
- A durable plastic frame makes the skimmer safe to use on all types of pool surfaces
- The manufacturer provides a one-year satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- The handle might be too short for your needs
- A few users noticed a hole in the skimmer net
3. Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer – Best Automatic Skimmer
Those who do not have time to manually skim their pools might want to look at the Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer.
This automatic skimmer attaches to your filter pump. It can instantly draw in all kinds of debris into a strainer basket to keep your pool clean.
Meanwhile, this filter basket can effectively trap leaves, twigs, and other large particles before sinking to the bottom of the pool. It is also easy to pull out for convenient cleaning after usage.
Furthermore, the Intex Pool Skimmer conveniently mounts to Easy Set or metal frame pool sidewalls. There is also an adjustable bracket to make installation easier.
As for compatibility, it works on any Intex filter pump with a minimum flow rate of 800 gallons per hour (GPH).
Finally, the Intex Wall-Mounted Skimmer features a durable polypropylene plastic material. This construction can resist pool chemicals and harsh outdoor elements. It can benefit you for years to come.
However, some users said that this automatic skimmer lacked suction power. It was not able to clean their pools completely. A few users also noticed that the skimmer was easily affected by any disturbance on the water surface.
With that said, the Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer is still among the best pool skimmers today.
Pros:
- It works alongside your filter pump to remove floating debris
- The skimmer mounts to Easy Set or metal frame pool walls with an adjustable bracket
- It offers a pull-out strainer basket for trapping leaves and twigs
- The durable polypropylene plastic build can effectively withstand pool chemicals and outdoor use
Cons:
- The suction power might be too weak if you have a large pool
- A few users complained that the skimmer did not stay put whenever the water surface was turbulent
4. Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer – Editor’s Pick
For above ground swimming pools, check out the Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer.
This automatic skimmer is compatible with wide top-seat swimming pools. It can also work alongside your automatic pool cleaner and filter pump to remove debris from your swimming pool.
The Hayward Dyna-Skim Skimmer also comes with a large debris collection basket. It can effectively trap dirt, dust, leaves, twigs, and other pool contaminants floating around the water.
Furthermore, it offers top and front basket access. It makes cleaning easier and more convenient.
There is even a removable weir that easily snaps on the skimmer if you want. This feature removes any kind of oil that might have gotten on your pool surface. At the same time, it automatically adjusts to the flow rate and keeps itself floating.
Finally, the one-piece body construction uses heavy-duty ABS material. It can withstand UV rays and harsh weather conditions.
Despite these numerous advantages, this above-ground pool skimmer comes with a few downsides. First, the package does not include any clear installation instructions, which makes assembly confusing. Second, Intex pool owners said that the skimmer does not fit their pool.
But as you can see, the pros outweigh the cons. For this reason, I selected the Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim as the best pool skimmer for above ground pools.
Pros:
- An automatic skimmer can effectively remove debris alongside your pump and automatic vacuum cleaner
- The large debris basket traps all kinds of pool contaminants
- It provides top and front basket access for convenient cleaning
- The removable and snap-in weir keeps the skimmer afloat in the water
- It uses heavy-duty and weather-resistant ABS material
Cons:
- The package does not come with clear installation instructions
- A few Intex pool owners said that the skimmer was not compatible with their pool
5. Sepetrel Swimming Pool Leaf Skimmer Net
If you have a limited budget, then the Sepetrel Swimming Pool Leaf Skimmer Net might be the right product for you.
It features a wide and inclined front lip to help pick up debris from your pool. It can also prevent damage to pool lines and other pool surfaces.
Additionally, the corner sewed design makes emptying debris easier. Simply turn over the skimmer net to remove dirt, dust, leaves, and other particles.
Moreover, this pool skimmer net has a reinforced frame. It does not easily break or twist, even when exposed to harmful pool chemicals. It can also withstand harsh outdoor elements.
As for compatibility, the Sepetrel Manual Skimmer works with any standard pool pole. Make sure it has one ¼-inch diameter to fit the 1’/8-inch handle.
Finally, there is a big white button with an EZ clip mechanism. It can keep your fingers from getting pinched when attaching or removing the pool pole.
However, the package does not include this telescoping pool—you have to buy it separately. Some pool owners also said the net did not catch all fine debris.
But for its low price, the Sepetrel Swimming Pool Leaf Skimmer Net is hard to beat. It is among the best manual pool skimmers you can buy today.
Pros:
- It features a wide net for scooping out all kinds of debris
- The skimmer is easy to clean due to the corner-sewed design
- A durable, reinforced frame can withstand pool chemicals and outdoor elements
- It is compatible with a standard one ¼-inch pool pole
- There is a big white button to protect your fingers when installing the skimmer handle
Cons:
- It does not include a pool pole handle
- The skimmer net might not be fine enough to trap smaller debris
6. The Skimmie Pool Skimmer
The Skimmie Pool Skimmer is another high-quality product that can meet your pool maintenance needs.
It features an ultra-fine mesh net. It is built to trap all kinds of debris floating on the water.
Additionally, the Skimmie comes with a skimmer lid and basket. It offers a large capacity for scooping out fine particles in no time. It is also easy to remove and clean, owing to the stainless steel hook.
Furthermore, this hook can also help grab floaties, toys, and garden hoses. It keeps your pool water free of any distractions.
The package even includes a lightweight aluminum pole. It can help you reach the bottom of your pool to remove debris. It also prevents the need to bend down when cleaning your pool.
Finally, this manual skimmer uses heavy-duty material. It can resist pool chemicals, UV rays, and other outdoor elements.
Despite these advantages, some pool users had difficulty attaching the pool pole to the skimmer net. A few customers also said the pole handle did not stay secure.
Nevertheless, The Skimmie Pool Skimmer is still among the best skimmers available today.
Pros:
- The ultra-fine mesh net can effectively trap floating debris on your above-ground pool
- It has a tear-resistant and heavy-duty construction to last you for years to come
- It features a stainless steel hook for lifting the basket
- The lightweight aluminum pole can easily reach the bottom of the pool
Cons:
- The pool pole is relatively difficult to install
- A few pool owners said that the handle did not stay secure for long
7. BOZZON Pool Skimmer Net
The last product on this list of the best swimming pool skimmer is the BOZZON Pool Skimmer Net.
It features a double-stitched fine mesh construction. This skimmer net can effectively pick up debris while being resistant to wear and tear.
The BOZZON manual skimmer can also handle up to 24 pounds of debris. Thus, it lets you skim and clean a large pool in one go.
Moreover, this best pool skimmer uses a textured 5 mm plastic body. It offers durability that is twice that of an ordinary skimmer net. Hence, it can withstand pool chemicals and harsh weather.
All the parts of this skimmer are also reliable and secure. They do not easily bend or break when exposed to strong winds or force.
At the same time, the skimmer net is flexible enough. It can maneuver underwater with minimal effort.
The package even includes a standard one ¼-inch connector. It allows you to attach a telescoping pool pole to reach the bottom of the water.
But before finalizing your purchasing decision, it is wise to check the downsides of this product. First, it does not come with a pool pole. Second, a few pool owners said that it is difficult to clean the skimmer net due to its large size.
Overall, though, the BOZZON Pool Skimmer Net is among the best skimmer available today.
Pros:
- The double-stitched fine mesh net can collect all kinds of debris
- It has a maximum capacity of 24 pounds
- It features a durable, textured plastic body
- This skimmer net is compatible with a standard telescoping pole
Cons:
- It does not include a pool pole
- The large skimmer net is difficult to clean and maintain regularly
How to Choose the Best Pool Skimmer for Your Needs
With so many variations in the market, choosing the best pool skimmer is no easy feat.
Fortunately, I will guide you through the factors to consider when buying a pool skimmer. I hope that this section can help you make a wise purchasing decision.
By now, you probably have an idea of the best pond skimmers on the market. But if you are still confused about which one to buy, fret not!
Below, I will talk about the features and factors to consider before buying a pond skimmer. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you can finalize your purchasing decision with confidence.
Type of Pool Skimmer
When shopping for pool skimmers, you might come across various types. However, most skimmers fall into either two categories—manual and automatic. Each type offers pros and cons, so it is up to you to choose which one best suits your needs.
Manual pool skimmers refer to fine mesh nets that can trap floating pool debris. They usually include long telescoping rods to let you reach the bottom of the pool. As their name suggests, manual skimmers require you to scoop out debris manually. Thus, they take more of your time.
On the other hand, automatic pool skimmers do all the dirty work for you. They use suction power to pull debris from your pool. Thus, they eliminate the need to fish out junk floating on the water. They only require you to clean the strainer basket once it is full.
An automatic pool skimmer usually connects to your pump, pool filter system, or pool walls. Some models also have a self-contained design. That simply means they have built-in batteries and motors to move the skimmer around your swimming pool.
The only downside of an automatic skimmer is its relatively high upfront cost. It can save you precious time, though, so it might be worth it in the end.
Size
You might also want to think about the size of the skimmer before purchasing one.
Consider the dimensions of your pool. If you own a small or medium-sized pool, you can use a handheld skimmer. However, you will have an easier time with an automatic skimmer, especially if you have a large pool.
Besides your pool size, take the type of debris into consideration. Do you want to remove decaying leaves floating in the water? Or perhaps you need to filter out dirt before taking a swim. If you are targeting the former, you will require a relatively large-sized skimmer. Meanwhile, invest in a small skimmer with fine mesh to filter the water.
Durability
If you want your skimmer to last for several years, make sure to buy a durable model. Choose a skimmer made of high-quality materials. These can withstand harsh pool chemicals and outdoor elements. They can also handle heavy debris. They ultimately offer value for your money.
Ease of Use
It is also best to purchase a pool skimmer that is easy to use. The last thing you want is to waste time figuring out how to install or operate the skimmer.
Look for automatic models with detachable baskets or removable lids. These make it easier to empty the debris. You might also want to consider one with a hose attachment. It helps you connect the skimmer to a pool vacuum with ease.
If you prefer to use a manual skimmer, choose one that easily attaches to a telescoping pole.
Compatibility
The compatibility of the skimmer with your pool is another factor to keep in mind before finalizing your purchasing decision.
Consider the type of pool you own. Above-ground pools have different requirements compared to inground pools and vice versa.
The pool size also matters. Some skimmers might require additional pieces of equipment to work with your swimming pool. These include a telescoping pole for manual skimmers.
Make sure to read the product manual carefully to prevent extra costs.
Other Features
You must also consider the other features of a pool skimmer before buying one.
Some models include detachable filter baskets and extra scrubbing brushes. They can make pool cleaning easier.
Meanwhile, manual pool skimmers come with a telescoping pole. It allows you to reach the bottom of the pool for thorough cleaning.
However, these extra features often cost you more money. If you do not have the budget, you can opt without these capabilities.
Budget
And speaking of budget, it is the last factor to consider when choosing a pool skimmer.
The price of a skimmer varies depending on its type, size, material, and other features. The more capabilities it offers, the higher its price. If you have a limited budget, it is best to consider a handheld skimmer. Look for one with a fine mesh net and large capacity to make cleaning easier.
But those with large budgets to spare can look into an automatic pool skimmer. You can rely on them to remove floating debris from the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a pool skimmer work?
You are probably curious about how a pool skimmer works. However, it operates differently based on the type of skimmer.
For instance, an automatic skimmer usually connects to a pool pump or filter to create suction. It pulls water and floating debris through the net or strainer. Then, a built-in skimmer basket traps and collects the debris until it is eventually removed.
Meanwhile, a manual skimmer requires you to scoop out debris by hand. You do this by dragging the net across the water surface and lifting any floating particles. Then, dispose of them to keep your pool clean.
How often should I use my pool skimmer?
It depends on several factors. These include how often you use your pool, pool size, location, and skimmer type.
If you take a dip in the pool daily, it is best to operate the skimmer every day as well. You must also do regular cleaning if you have a large pool and if it is located near plants and trees.
Those who use a manual skimmer can limit cleaning at least once a week. You do not have to skim the water every day. Just make sure to be consistent over the summer season.
When you leave debris unattended, you can expect them to decompose quickly, resulting in murky waters. You also have to deal with clogged filter baskets, drains, and pumps.
How often should I clean the skimmer basket?
Your task does not stop after you skimmed the pool. It is also essential to clean the skimmer basket frequently. Doing so can prevent clogging and slowing down the water circulation.
You can also put a tennis ball in your skimmer basket. You can expect the ball to soak up more of the dirt and oils in the water that the basket did not trap.
You might also want to consider adding a rock. It can help sink the basket because it tends to float and spill the debris when you turn off the pump.
Where should pool skimmers be placed?
There is no single answer because it can depend on your pool size and shape as well as the skimmer type you own.
Most pool owners install their skimmers on the side of the pool near its center. This puts the skimmer in an ideal position where it can clean almost all pool areas.
You can also place a pool skimmer near an entry point, such as the pool stairs or ladder. Doing so can help remove the debris before they sink to the bottom of your swimming pool.
If you own an inground pool, you will need to attach the skimmer to a return jet. Those with above-ground pools might cut out a hole for the skimmer or use a clip-on to place the skimmer on the poolside.
Are pool skimmers worth it?
Yes, pool skimmers are worth the cost because they help remove debris on the water surface. They can make your swimming pool clean. At the same time, they can minimize stress on your pool pump and filtration system. They ultimately extend their lifespan to benefit you for a long time.
Conclusion
That sums up the best pool skimmers to keep your swimming pool clean and free of debris! I highly recommend each one as it can help meet your pool maintenance needs.
But if I can only choose one to suggest, it would be the automatic pool skimmer robot: Betta 2 Solar-Powered Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer. If budget allows, pool maintenance should be as automated as possible, and robotic pool skimmers are just plain fun.
