Having your own swimming pool is the stuff dreams are made of, but let’s face it, it isn’t always possible. It could be the climate you live in or the fact that you are renting your property. Sometimes space is limited, as is your budget. Or the idea of regular pool maintenance has you breaking out in hives.
But it isn’t all doom and gloom. Not when you can buy an inflatable pool that is quick and easy to fill, doesn’t require costly upkeep, and if you do move, you can take it with you.
We have put together reviews of the best inflatable pools for adults currently available on the market. And, yes, there is space for the kids too.
Reviews of the Best Inflatable Pools for Adults
Intex Pool Set with Filter Pump
The Intex Pool Set with Filter Pump combines quality, convenience, and affordability and is one of the best inflatable pools for adults. Set up is quick, and the drain pipe lets you drain the water into your yard, away from the house.
The pool comes with a ground fault interrupter, which automatically turns off the pump if the electrical current is exposed to water. This is a very welcome safety feature, especially if you have children and animals running around. And the filter pump uses Hydro Aeration Technology which works to improve water circulation and keeps the pool clear.
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Intex Swim Center Family Lounge Pool
Another Intex product is the Family Lounge Pool. With four seats and two drink holders, it is the perfect lounging spot for adults to cool down, while the kids can splash around in the shallow water.
This is an excellent choice, even if you have a swimming pool, as it is safer for toddlers and you can keep cool while keeping a watchful eye on them.
There are two air chambers, and the seats inflate separately. The pool is approximately 2.5 feet deep and 5 feet x 5 feet wide, so there is more than enough space for an adult to stretch out or relax on a float ring. The family lounge pool is durable, holds its shape, and the affordable price makes it one of the best inflatable pools for adults around.
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Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool
The Intex Swim Center Inflatable pool comes with three inflatable air chambers, and its wide walls are built for comfort, and strength, to keep the water and kids in.
The pool’s simple rectangular shape makes for quick and easy inflating and deflating, and there is ample space for adults to cool off and kids to splash and play.
Because it isn’t too deep, the Intex Swim Center is suitable for little ones. You can make it more fun by adding a few toys. This is another affordable option from a trusted name in inflatable pools.
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Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable Pool
While the Intex Swim Center Paradise Inflatable pool isn’t necessarily one for adults, it is definitely a solid choice for parents or grandparents with little ones around.
The pool is perfect for three children at a time, and an adult will be able to sit comfortably in the pool to keep an eye on them. We particularly like the free flow exhaust valve safety feature, which regulates how much water is in the pool while the kids are in it.
The kids love the bright colors and design, and parents especially like that it is so affordable.
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Jilong Pentagon Inflatable Family Pool
There is a lot to like about the Jilong Pentagon Inflatable pool for the whole family. At 12 feet long, it is a good size, and the walls are extra wide for more stability. The only problem, if you want to call it that, is find a level piece of ground to accommodate it.
The pool can be set up with minimum fuss, and it has a handy valve for when you want to drain out the water. There are two separate chambers, and can comfortably fit kids as well as adults. It holds just under 120 gallons when it is filled to 75% of its capacity. You can’t go wrong with this inflatable pool, money, and quality wise.
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Inflatable Pool Buyer’s Guide
When you are choosing an inflatable pool, there are a few factors to keep in mind, especially if it is going to be regularly used, and by loads of people, including family, friends, and the neighborhood kids.
The Size
The first thing you will notice when you are looking to buy an inflatable pool is the available, wide range. When it comes to the size, you can choose a pool as small as 90 cm or opt for one that measures around 6 meters. Two factors will determine the one you choose: who all will be using it and what kind of water supply do you have.
The larger pools will take a little longer to inflate and fill with water, which could be problematic if you want a “quick” dip.
If smaller children will be using the pool the majority of the time, then it is better to get more of a splash-type pool. The best inflatable for pools for adults are deeper but pose the same risks as an in-ground swimming pool. If you plan on using it as a family, the deeper option is better. Remember, though, whatever the depth, small children should always be supervised.
The Shape and Design
There are as many shapes and designs as there are sizes. Oval-shaped pools are a popular choice for families, while teens and adults will probably prefer the lounge-type pool. Regarding design, for kiddies, you can find ones with slides, water cannons, and other fun features.
You can even choose from a variety of colors. For teenagers and adults, there are different low-key shades of blue, or for kids, there are loads of bright and colorful options.
Its Durability
Nowadays, most inflatable pools are made from a thick PVC-type material or vinyl that is durable and tear-resistant, but they should still be handled with care. It is better to choose one with separate chambers, so a puncture in one area doesn’t affect the entire pool.
When setting up the pool, make sure there are no stones or sharp objects underneath, and if it is possible, try and keep the family pet away because sharp claws will damage it.
The Maintenance
The best inflatable pools for adults often come with filter pumps or fittings that can attach to a pump and water hose. This is a quick and easy way for you to maintain the pool. Smaller pools don’t typically need to be maintained as such, because they can be filled and emptied relatively quickly.
Some pools have covers to keep debris out when the pool isn’t in use.
Accessories
It is worth looking at what kind of accessories are included with your purchase. For example, some inflatable pools come with a base that can be placed underneath it to reduce the risk of punctures or tears.
Bigger pools do, or should, come with a ladder, and there should also be a net or cover of some kind. Oh yes, a pump to inflate the pool isn’t standard issue, so check if you need to purchase one separately. The last thing you need is a deflated pool with no way of blowing it up, and hot and bothered kids wanting to use it.
The Benefits of Inflatable Pools
For some people, a built-in pool isn’t an option. It could be a space problem, or you are renting the property. Maybe it is a budget issue; after all, in-ground pools are almost a luxury item nowadays. Whatever the reason, more people are choosing inflatable pools because of all the benefits. Let’s take a look at what these are.
Quick and Easy
One of the main benefits of an inflatable pool is how quick and easy it is to set up and fill with water. The smaller pools can take around 10 minutes, while the bigger ones may take 45 minutes. The best inflatable pools for adults are larger, and unlike kiddies ones, don’t need to be deflated and drained after every use.
Portable
The sun has moved, and your pool is in the shade? No worries, set it up in a sunny spot. Also, when summer is over, you can store it safely, and if you move home, you can take your pool with you. The smaller inflatable pools can even be taken on weekends away.
Safer for Children
Depending on the ages of the children using the pool, you can choose one that doesn’t hold a lot of water, which makes it safer. Also, the sides of the pool, while soft, are sturdy to stop little ones rolling out.
Easy to Maintain
Have you spent precious weekends cleaning your in-ground pool? Inflatable pools are easy to clean and maintain. The small inflatables can be wiped clean, and the large ones come with covers as well as filter pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taking Care of Your Inflatable Pool
What is the Best Way to Keep the Water Clean?
Obviously, the smaller-sized inflatable pools for children don’t need to be cleaned as such unless there is a small mishap while it is being used. More often than not, because they are shallow, they are emptied and deflated in between use.
The larger inflatable pools for adults hold hundreds of gallons of water, and some don’t have a filtration system, which means you will need to treat the water so that it is safe.
To ensure your pool water is bacteria-free and safe, you should have a few items on hand throughout the summer. These include:
- pH balance strips to check the acidity levels of the water
- Chlorine to treat the water, and occasionally shock it
- Cleaning tools such as a pool net, a brush (if necessary) and a cover or net
Can I use Standard Chlorine Bleach in my Pool?
No, under no circumstances should you use chlorine bleach in your inflatable. The solution will weaken the PVC or vinyl of the pool and cause it to weaken, and your pool won’t last very long. It is best to only use approved chemicals specifically for pools.
Isn’t It Easier to Just Dump the Water?
Yes, if it is a 90 cm pool that holds a few liters of water, but when your pool holds 500 gallons or more, it isn’t the most viable option.
Dumping so much water could damage your property, and then there is the cost of refilling it. Also, water shouldn’t be wasted.
If the PVC inside the pool needs to be cleaned, you can get an underwater vacuum cleaner. This works well and can remove algae, mold, or mildew. A pool cover will keep debris out of the pool when it isn’t being used.
Can I Keep the Water in the Pool All Year-Round?
All pools need to be maintained correctly. Occasionally problems arise, and pools need to be drained, but for the most part, if the water is clean and safe, you won’t have to empty it.
Inflatable pools are affordable, and easy to set up. They are also very convenient and will take your summer from drab to fab in no time at all; it is a case of just adding water.
There are so many to choose from, whether you want to spend quality time with the whole family in the pool, let your little ones splash to their hearts’ content, or if you just want a cool spot to chill.
You can’t go wrong with any of the pools we have reviewed here. Or maybe you have one that you would like to recommend. Go ahead, you know we love hearing from you.