13 Best Inflatable Swimming Pools For This Summer

Nothing beats jumping into the water on hot summer days to cool off. And if you don't have an in-ground or above-ground pool in your backyard this year, you can still entertain the idea of having a "swimming pool" to stay cool.

Why not take your summer to the next level with an inflatable swimming pool? Inflatable pools tend to be much more accessible, cost-effective, and easier to set up than in-ground pools. No matter the size of your outdoor space (or budget), you most likely will be able to fit an inflatable, above-ground swimming pool in your outdoor space. To help you shop, we've got an inflatable pool for you below. Plus, we're offering helpful care tips too!

13 Best Inflatable Swimming Pools for This Summer

No matter what age you're shopping for, you can't go wrong with an Inflatable Kiddie Pool from Funboy. The oversized round pool sits above ground, allowing you to dip your toes anywhere in the water you'd like. While it's a hit with kids, it's a great option for adults too. Grab a beach ball, pool toys, and a few cold drinks, and you're ready for a backyard pool party. An integrated drain plug makes it easy to pack up when you're finished. The best-selling inflatable pool comes in an array of eye-catching color options, though we're partial to this limited-edition Malibu Barbie print.

This versatile Intex Swim Center Inflatable Family Lounge Pool offers enough room for the whole family. On one side is a comfortable backrest and spacious bench that seats two adults while the kids play in the water. Two built-in cup holders keep your beverage close by while you enjoy the sun. It's crafted from durable PVC with a drain plug and two separate air chambers. For less than $50, this Intex Swim Center provides endless summer fun!

If you are looking for an inflatable swimming pool for the whole family to enjoy, this Inflatable Swimming Pool With Seats may fit your needs. A wider size design can accommodate up to two small families of 4 adults and 3-4 kids. Inside the pool, there is a bench seat for you or your kids to rest. With the drink holder, you can conveniently place your drink inside at any time without needing to get out.

This inflatable pool is crafted from 4mm thick PVC material with UV-resistant coating, allowing it to stay outside all summer long without needing a cover. It is also lead-free, BPA-free, CPSIA CPC, and ASTM certified. Because of its thickness, this pool is also dog-proof! With the three individual air chambers, this pool can withstand extra weight while preventing air leakage and making it safe for you and your family.

Keep yourself and your little ones protected from the sun with this Taruor Automatic Inflatable Swimming Pool For Kids. The rectangle inflatable swimming pool comes equipped with a removable canopy to protect from harmful sun exposure and keep cool on hot summer days. Crafted from high-quality PVC material, it is durable and sturdy. The thickened bottom with sponge protection will block the cold and avoids direct contact with the hard ground. Available in three sizes and two colors.

You don't need to spend a fortune to find a cute inflatable pool for your backyard. And this Inflatable 3-Ring Pool from Sun Squad is proof! It comes in four summery prints that are impossible not to love. The round three-ring design provides a little back support while you soak up the sun. Made from lightweight PVC, it fills quickly with an electric or handheld air pump (not included) and wipes clean with soap and water.

This Costzon Inflatable Water Park will be a hit with the kids! The inflatable pool features a climbing wall, jumping area, curved slide, and a large wading pool. Heavy-duty grips, heightened slide handrails, and mesh walls around the jumping area for added security. Use it wet like a water park or dry as a fun bounce house. With a 300 lb capacity, the heavy-duty puncture-proof Oxford materials hold up well against heat and wear-and-tear caused by rambunctious kiddos. Also, making this inflatable pool a hard-to-find PVC-free is an excellent choice for a family that wants to avoid PVC. The set includes an inflatable water slide, six ground stakes, a carrying bag, and a repair kit. Purchase the optional 480w air blower for quick inflation and deflation without the hassle.

Inflatable pools aren't just for kids. This Inflatable Swimming Pool from Summer Waves was designed with adults in mind. Each corner features a comfortable seat and pillow backrest so you can soak up the sun in total comfort. Unlike most kid-sized inflatable pools, it's spacious enough to seat four adults comfortably. Two cup holders let you bring the party straight to the pool. Consider it the perfect addition to your next backyard BBQ.

Inflatable pools aren't just for kids. This Inflatable Swimming Pool from Bestway was designed with adults in mind. The rattan print will bring a classy look and feel to your backyard. Crafted from a sturdy TriTech enhanced 3-ply liner is durable and puncture-resistant. This pool comes with a filter pump, pool cover, pool ladder, and repair patch.

Are you avoiding toxic plastics? This Mylie Inflatable Pool is made from non-toxic heavyweight vinyl that's free from phthalates, BPA, and lead. It works with any standard electric air pump or hand air pump, making it quick and easy to fill. The round, 105-gallon pool comes in various fun patterns that please kids and adults alike. A coordinating storage envelope with snap closure makes it easy to store and bring along on your next summer adventure.

This Clear Pink Heart Inflatable Pool from Funboy is just what your Instagram feed needs. The pink inflatable pool comes in the shape of an adorable heart. Fill it with water to cool off on a hot summer day or fake flower petals for a sensational photo shoot. It inflates and deflates in two minutes using an electric air pump, making it easy to bring on the go too!

Get your little ones to enjoy the outdoors more with this Picasso Tile KC108 Water Slide Park Inflatable Bouncing House With Pool Area! It is fun and a great way to stay cool during the hot summer heat. The mini water park includes a slide, an arch with a water sprayer, and a water cannon. 

Crafted from high-quality toxic-free material that is ETL certified to ensure the safety of children and can put health-conscious parents' minds at ease. The heavy-duty claiming area is constructed from the highest quality material to ensure its sturdiness and durability.

Go big or go home this summer with the Mega-Blast Inflatable Backyard Water Park from Kahuna. The inflatable activity water park features an oversized slide, climbing wall, splash pool, and three water cannons. Constructed from heavy-duty PVC, it's durable enough to last through summer after summer of fun. The interactive pool attaches easily to any garden hose to keep your water cannons ready to fire. It inflates in less than three minutes using the blower motor included with the pool.

Running through the sprinkler is undeniably one of the best parts of summer. And this Giant Rainbow Sprinkler from Pool Candy makes for unforgettable summer memories— no matter your age. Connected to a standard garden hose, it sprays water in every direction, soaking those who dare to pass through the rainbow arch. Made from 100% PVC vinyl, it's lightweight, durable, and easy to wipe clean. Place it over a patch of grass or an inflatable pool to make for one epic backyard water park.

Tips for Maintaining Your Inflatable Swimming Pool

Pool maintenance is equally important for inflatable pools. Regular cleaning and upkeep will extend the product's life and make for a more enjoyable experience. Here are a few tips to make the most of your new inflatable swimming pool:

Choose the Best Location for an Inflatable Pool

Set up your pool on a flat surface that you don't mind getting wet. Aim for a grassy patch free from branches, rocks, and other debris that can tear the vinyl material. Avoid placing the pool beneath trees that'll dirty the water with falling leaves.

Deflate Between Uses

Avoid leaving your pool inflated for long periods. Prolonged sun exposure can weaken the vinyl and shorten product life. Be sure to clean and dry the pool prior to deflating it with an electric pump. At a minimum, move the pool into a shady spot to keep it from the scorching sun.

Clean & Dry Before Storing

It's crucial to clean your inflatable swimming pool after every use. Most plastic pools can be washed with a wet rag and soapy water or a gentle multipurpose cleaning spray. Be sure the pool is fully dry before putting it away, as any lingering water can lead to mildew growth. Store it in a bag or plastic tote to keep bugs, dirt, and other debris out until you're ready for your next pool party.

Supervise Small Children During Use

Always supervise small children while they use their kiddie pool. It only takes a few inches of water and a few unattended moments for a child to drown. Consider placing a safety barrier around the pool when not in use. A temporary plastic mesh fence can prevent children and pets from falling in (and simply getting wet when they're not supposed to).

What To Consider When Choosing A Inflatable Pool

Size

Determining the right size of the inflatable pool and your available space is essential. Inflatable pools come in different shapes, but circular, oval, and rectangular are the most common.

It is also important to think about how many people you are looking to entertain. Some are big enough to hold a whole family, and some are perfect for individuals. Even with kiddie pools, some can fit more than others.

Types

Nowadays, you can find a ray of inflatable pools: kiddie pools, lounge pools, full-sized swimming pools, hot tubs, shade pools, and ride-on floats. Before purchasing one, think about which type is the right fit for you.

Material

Inflatable pools are typically made from thick vinyl that is puncture-resistant and heavy-duty. For inflatable above-ground pools, a more robust laminated PVC is used for the sidewalls to better hold in the immense amount of pool water.

With most blow-up pools being made from PVC plastic, health-conscious individuals and parents may want to avoid such products. PVC products can contain chemical additives, including phthalates, cadmium, lead, and other potentially harmful ingredients. The good news is that safer options are available on the market today.

Features

There are a few features you can look for in inflatable pools.

Water Filtration

Depending on the pool size, a water filtration system may be necessary to clean the water.

Slides

Some of the kiddie pool comes with fun features like an inflatable slide.

Convenient drain plug

When you are ready to store the inflatable pool away, features like a drain plug can help empty the pool quickly. Smaller pools or smaller kiddie pools may not have this option.

Safety

Safety should always come first. Never dive or jump into an inflatable pool. And if you are going into a pool with your kid or having your kid using the kiddie pool, parents should always keep their eyes on them to prevent any accidents.

Easy Set-Up

Setting up an inflatable pool is fairly easy. We recommend placing a tarp on the ground before blowing up the pool, and it will protect the pool bottom from any sharp objects.

An air pump or air compressor may be worthwhile to speed up the process of filling the pool with air, and this will depend on the size of the pool.

Maintenance

Like an in-ground pool, a large inflatable pool requires proper maintenance to keep water safe for swimming. Regularly monitor the pH and chlorine levels with test strips to keep the water and pool sanitized. If the pool is large enough, a pool vacuum or filter can effectively keep the water clean. A pool cover is another great way to keep leaves and bugs falling into the pool.

Small inflatable pools will require water change daily and sanitized with disinfection, especially kiddie pools. The CDC recommends using bleach to disinfect your kiddie pool after use but never use bleach or pool disinfectant in the water.