On a hot, summer day there are few things that will cool you down as effectively as jumping into a pool, and if you’re lucky enough to own one then you know how refreshing that crystal-blue water can be. But alongside all of the fun and enjoyment your pool can provide, it also requires a significant amount of work, and unless you want to be swimming around between floating debris and built-up scum, then it’s going to be your responsibility to keep your pool clean. Of course, many pools will include some type of filtration system, and this can help to reduce the bugs, leaves, and twigs that make their way into your area. However, truly keeping your pool pristine will require some additional scrubbing and maintenance, and this is where a separate pool cleaner becomes necessary. 

Designed to help you tackle algae, fine particles such as sand, and stubborn stains, the right pool cleaner will keep your water sparkling and your pool inviting, and it’s a must-have product whether you have an in-ground or above-ground version. But not all pools, or cleaners, are the same, and before you rush out and purchase a cleaner, you’ll want to be certain you’re selecting the correct device for your set-up. From manual scrubbers to fully robotic models, there is a lot of variation that exists when it comes to pool cleaners, and this buying guide will walk you through many of your potential options, so you can make an informed decision about what would work best for you. Covering the potential types, as well as additional factors you’ll want to consider, this article will ensure you end up with that perfect cleaner that will leave your pool always looking its best. 

1. Manual Cleaners

Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who have small pools or spas, and don’t mind physically cleaning the pool on their own

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One of the most basic options for pool-owners who aren’t looking to spend a lot of money on cleaning equipment, manual cleaners are basically exactly what the name implies - a manual scrub brush and net that can be used to catch debris and scrub away build-up. The great thing about manual set-ups is that they offer you complete control over the cleaning process, and you can truly ensure a thorough, deep clean because you’re the one doing it. However, the downside here is that it can be quite physically demanding, and depending on the size of your pool, having to personally scrub every inch of it can be a major drain on your energy and your time. 

2. Handheld Vacuum

Best For: Above-ground and in-ground pools that experience debris but not a lot of build-up

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Similar to the type of vacuum you’d find inside your home, a handheld pool vacuum is a great choice if you’re looking to tackle all of those leaves, twigs, and other debris that seem to constantly find their way into your water. Completely self-contained with a suction head, filter, and canister, these affordable options will help to reduce how much work your built-in filtration needs to do on a daily basis, and they can be a great solution for above-ground pools, as well as in-ground. Where they fall short, however, is that their main goal is to remove debris, not scrub walls or floors, so if you’re hoping to tackle some built-up scum or last season’s stains, then the vacuum may need to be used in tandem with another manual or automatic cleaner.

3. Pressure Cleaner

Best For: Pool owners who don’t want to manually scoop out debris and want an additional automated device that can reduce the strain on the built-in filtration system

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If your pool tends to experience a lot of debris throughout the year then an automated pressure cleaner may be the best choice for you. Not only will this fully automatic device eliminate the need for you to manually scoop out leaves or twigs with a net, but it can reduce the load on your built-in filtration system by capturing large debris first and ensuring clogs are avoided. Connecting directly to your existing filtration pump for power, these pressurized vacuums will move completely on their own and the included wheels will allow it to easily navigate the bottom of your pool effortlessly. With that said, pressure cleaners aren’t the greatest when it comes to actually scrubbing the bottom or sides of your pool, and not only can they be quite expensive, they also require you to have an existing filtration pump that needs to be on when the cleaner is in use. 

4. Robotic Pool Cleaner

Best For: Pools that need to be thoroughly cleaned without any effort required

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One of the top choices for pool owners who want to enjoy a sparkling, clean pool without having to manually do anything, robotic pool cleaners are an expensive yet worthwhile solution that eliminates all of the hassle, time, and energy usually required when maintaining your water. Fantastic at both scrubbing and collecting debris, these independently powered devices can quickly tackle both your walls and your floor, and some models can be programmed by you to complete different cleaning patterns or cycles. Depending on the size of your pool, these robots can be found in both cordless and corded versions, and they are a great addition to both above-ground and in-ground pools as they don’t need to be connected to an existing filtration system in order to be operational. 

Key Considerations

With so much diversity to be found when it comes to the types of pool cleaners available, it can sometimes be hard narrowing down your choice to the option that actually meets all of your needs. Is it worth spending more for an automated version or can you save yourself some money by choosing something manual? Do you already have the correct set-up needed for a pressurized cleaner or should you be looking at cleaners that are independent? In order to answer these questions, there are some key considerations you’ll want to ponder as these will be what ultimately direct you towards the correct cleaner for your preferences, budget, and outdoor set-up. 

The first thing that you’re going to want to take into account is your maximum budget, as there can be a big range between the cost of different types of pool cleaners. If you’re hoping to spend the least amount possible, then you’re going to be solely exploring the manual options available, as these are going to be the most cost-effective way to clean your pool. However, if you have a bit more to spend then automated can be worth considering, as these hassle-free devices are significantly easier and less time-consuming, meaning you’ll be more likely to utilize them on a regular basis.  

Whether you have an in-ground or above-ground pool will have a big impact on which style of pool cleaner best suits your needs, as not every type is going to have the existing system required in order to attach a cleaner and use it. For example, if you want to purchase a pressurized cleaner, then you need to already have a dedicated pressure line that you can tap into, and without one, this type of cleaner would not be a feasible choice. Likewise, if you own a very small above-ground pool then you may not need a high-end robotic cleaner or extra-powerful vacuum, and instead could get by with either a smaller, less expensive robot or even a manual cleaner. 

When browsing various pool cleaners, especially robotic models, one major feature you’ll want to be sure to look at is whether or not the cleaner is able to scrub both the floor and walls of your pool, or if it’s limited to just the floor. Debris may have a tendency to sink down to the bottom and wait to be collected, but scum and build-up isn’t just limited to the floor of your pool. If you’re hoping to tackle all aspects of cleaning with the device you select then it’s essential that you get one that’s capable of climbing walls, or opting for a manual brush that you can physically deep-clean your pool with.  

If you’ve decided that you want to purchase a robotic vacuum then there is going to be another choice to make - whether or not you opt for a wireless or corded. The best way to decide this is to look around your outdoor area to see where the nearest accessible power source is, and that can let you know whether or not you have the set-up required to be able to plug in a corded version, or if you should opt for a wireless model. The benefit to wireless is that they are fully battery-operated and only need to be recharged between uses, however, they will have a limit on their runtime so they may not be sufficient if you have a very large, oversized pool. 

Bottom Line

Although it may not be the most fun part of owning a pool, cleaning the debris and build-up is a necessary reality, and it’s something you’re going to need to do if you want to maintain your water, protect your filtration system, and enjoy your pool on those warm, sunny days. This is why it’s important that you invest in the right cleaning system for your needs, and why you’ll want to spend some time browsing the various options before settling on a cleaner. With a range of styles, prices, and features available there is a lot for you to take into consideration, but by doing your research, you can end up with the perfect solution for your pool.