Inflatable pools are the best and safest way you can enjoy this hot season in your very own backyard. Now that everyone is being discouraged to gather in groups, they are great alternatives for the tempting public pools we can’t afford to visit right now.
There are inflatable pool models that come in various forms and designs. Now, they can be enjoyed not just by kids, but so as by regular folks who want to cool off in the midst of the terrible heat waves we are experiencing. For instance, the Intex 28120NP 10’X30” Inflatable Pool has a water capacity of 1,018 gallons and can cater to 4 to 6 individuals. Most of all, it is one of the easiest inflatable pools to set up due to its ergonomic build.
On the other hand, there are also models that are specifically meant for children such as the Intex Dinoland Inflatable Pool that doubles as a play center with lots of integrated fun details and games for kids. The SplashEZ SEZ0101002 3-In-1, on the other hand, is a splash pad that integrates colorful charts on the pool surface. This makes it both educational and fun.
However, before purchasing an inflatable pool, it is important to check some boxes to make sure you’ll get the best experience. This includes:
A wide backyard or lawn. Inflatable pools are truly portable but they have limitations if you are just renting an apartment with no wide space you can wet. This is could be a problem, especially for those who live in condominium units. Though there are smaller versions of inflatable pools, draining them can be problematic if the ground around you is covered with nothing but tiles and a slippery floor.
Air pumps. You would certainly not want to inflate a huge inflatable pool with nothing but your breath. Not only would it take you hours to do it, but it could also take a lot of effort to do it. It is best to check if the package comes with at least a manual air pump. If you can’t find one, it is okay as most packages do not really include one. With this, it is best to invest in an air pump or inflator. It should save you time and effort and would make your setup faster.
Features. As said, inflatable pools come in various models and designs, so you always have the freedom to look for the best one that suits your needs and preferences. However, make sure to have the one that is not just aesthetically pleasing. Instead, opt for the model that comes with ergonomic designs that will make the pool itself comfortable and safe.
Cleaning. Check if the inflatable pool model allows easy cleanup and disposal of water. This is very important since germs can spread easily in kiddie pools and water slides, as stated by the CDC. With this, the public health agency suggests cleaning the pool daily. Furthermore, the CDC says that you can disinfect the pool using a bleach solution by diluting ½ cup of household bleach (5.25%–8.25%) in 1 gallon of room-temperature water.
With lots of choices on the market, it is best to go for quality products that can only be offered by reliable brands such as Intex, FUNAVO, and SplashEZ. To give you more insights about the inflatable pool models the brands are offering, we prepared a detailed review for each of them below. Read their best highlights and get their best deals by clicking on the buttons we prepared for you.
Best Inflatable Pools Comparison & Rating
Inflatable Pools | Features |
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1. Intex 28120NP 10’x30” Inflatable Pool
Brand | Intex |
Weight | 17.71 pounds |
Dimensions | 8.2 x 2.5 x 10 feet |
Water Capacity | 1,018 gallons |
Intex 28120NP is the best option for your entire family. Because of its wide diameter that can fit at least 4 to 6 persons, your family will certainly enjoy it. It is deep enough for adults to enjoy a short dip with their kids. It has a water capacity of 1,018 gallons or 3,854 liters (80% full) which is enough to submerge half your body in water.
The sidewalls of the pool are pretty durable, given that they are made with 3 separate layers of material. This gives you at least 0.5 mm thickness which is just enough to tolerate small and sharp rocks on uneven surfaces. It is also supported by 2 outer layers of heavy gauge PVC laminated to an inner layer of polyester mesh as additional reinforcement. Besides the thickness, what’s really remarkable about it is how durable and resilient its wall is. Despite the movements of the water, the material stays tough and free from any sign of tearing.
Furthermore, the assembly is truly easy since the top section of the pool is the only one that needs to be inflated. With this, you can set it up as fast as 15 minutes! Plus, it includes setup and maintenance instruction through a DVD. It even comes with a repair kit, ensuring that you could use the inflatable pool for a long time. Storage and cleanup are also wonderful since it features a convenient drain plug for easy emptying. All in all, the best buy for a family hoping to bond this summer.
2. FUNAVO F001 Inflatable Swimming Pool
Brand | FUNAVO |
Weight | 18.76 pounds |
Dimensions | 100 x 71 x 22 inches |
Water Capacity | 240 gallons |
FUNAVO F001 has all the essential features you are looking for in an inflatable pool. It is a space saver but can still offer a considerable space. It has a 240-gallon capacity and it isn’t as deep as the Intex 28120NP. Nonetheless, it can still be enjoyed by 2 adults and 4 children.
It has dimensions of 100 x 71 x 22 inches and uses a 0.4 mm thick wall. Compared to other designs, the walls of the pool are divided into 3 sections or chambers that are pumped individually. This gives the pool a better structure and support. Moreover, the walls are made from wear-resistant PVC material, allowing them to tolerate punctures from small sharp rocks and pebbles. It also employs valves that can be hidden and features extra security by employing two caps which no air would leak.
Most of all, it stands out as the package already comes with a pump which is gives you a good value for your purchase. What’s even better is that the pump isn’t just any ordinary manual pump: it is electric which makes your job easier, faster, and more effortless! With the help of the FUNAVO electric pump, it would only take you a maximum of 5 minutes to inflate all 3 air chambers.
3. Intex 57190EP Lounge Pool
Brand | Intex |
Weight | 15 pounds |
Dimensions | 88 x 85 x 30 inches |
Water Capacity | 156 gallons |
Do you hate watching kids play and enjoy the water but you can’t join them due to the size of the small pool? Well, this is a perfect choice that would be enjoyed by kids, but most specifically by adults.
It is considerably spacious with dimensions of 88 x 85 x 30 inches. It has a 156-gallon (590 liters) capacity which means filling it up won’t take forever. A truly portable option for homes with limited spaces in the backyard. It is also made from 13 GA vinyl and has 2 air chambers, giving it a good structure.
The Intex 57190EP offers not just a decent diameter for kids to play around with water, but so as a bench where parents could comfortably stay. The overall unique design is well thought that it could even serve as a mini-jacuzzi for adults while they are enjoying glasses of juice that could be placed safely in its two built-in cup holders. With this, you can stay cool and enjoy dipping in the water up to your thighs. A true win-win for both the kids and kids at heart. This is the main reason why it is a top pick for adults and teens looking for a cool and fun swim in the yard this summer.
4. Intex Dinoland Inflatable Play Center
Brand | Intex |
Weight | 15 pounds |
Dimensions | 10.11 x 7.6 x 3.8 feet |
Water Capacity | 74 gallons |
It might not have the great water capacity of Intex 28120NP or the comfy bench of Intex 57190EP for adults, but if you want your kids to have the best. This is the one to have.
It has a 74-gallon water capacity and just a 6-inch wall height which makes it safe for children. The space of the pool is also relatively wide enough at 10.11 x 7.6 x 3.8 feet. With this, it can be used simultaneously used by 3 small children.
Kids 2 years old and above will certainly fall for Intex Dinoland Inflatable Play Center. It features various sections that allow them to play four games: ball tossing, water sliding, ring tossing, and ball rolling. What’s even great about it is that everything your kids need for the games mentioned is included in the package! The 6 colorful plastic 3 1/8" balls, hoops, movable built-in Dino arch water spray, and more! Indeed, it is a complete play center package for your kids!
We also appreciate that the slide integrates a landing mat which serves as extra padding. This gives the kids a soft fall every time they use the slide. A great safety feature, especially if your yard is made of cement.
On the other hand, the water spray feature also adds up more fun. It is movable which gives you the choice of whether you want to use it or not to prevent puddles on the ground. Just simply attach it to a garden hose and it will continuously release water to the pool. It won’t just replace the spilling water from the pool, but it will also make the experience for the children more exciting.
5. SplashEZ SEZ0101002 3-in-1 Splash Pad and Pool
Brand | SplashEZ |
Weight | 1.2 pounds |
Dimensions | 60” diameter |
Water Capacity | 30 gallons |
If you are just planning to purchase an inflatable pool for your baby, SplashEZ SEZ0101002 is the best choice here. Besides being BPA- and phthalates-free, SplashEZ SEZ0101002 is truly safe for toddlers given its nature as a splash pad. The depth of the water accumulating on the pad won’t even reach an inch height. Most of all, since it works through the continuously flowing water, you can be sure that the water doesn’t stay stagnant. Hence, there is almost no chance for dirt to accumulate on the surface of the pad which is commonly a problem in deep inflatable pools.
Furthermore, kids would also surely love the built-in sprinkler feature of the pool which makes the pool more attractive. The height of the sprinkling water depends on the water pressure being released by the hose but regardless of that, the holes are perfectly working. The amount being released by each hole is enough to keep the kids entertained and the water on the pad continuously being replenished.
Most of all, it doubles as a learning chart for babies and older kids, thanks to its base printed with educational images. You have the freedom to choose the design of the pool: animals, colors, geography, or letters. With this, your kids can gain some new learning while enjoying the fun!
It has a 60” diameter that is wide enough to serve as a wet playground for three or more babies. It can even accommodate one adult which makes the experience fun and safe. The pad is also relatively thick that it can tolerate the presence of small pebbles underneath. Nonetheless, it is still suggested to use it on flat and clean surfaces using an additional mat for support.
Best Inflatable Pools - Buyer's Guide
Always consider who will use the pool. If you are a parent planning to keep an eye on your child while enjoying a dip, it is better to have a pool of a considerable size that can accommodate at least two adults. Some great examples are the Intex 28120NP and Intex 57190EP. They are considerably huge which makes them ideal for the use of an entire family.
On the other hand, if you’re just planning to purchase a pool just for your children, you might want to consider the models with child-friendly features. As such, the Intex Dinoland and SplashEZ SEZ0101002 are good choices. Besides being shallow, they integrate extra features that will be enjoyed by toddlers. Another good thing about these models is that both allow a continuous flow of water through sprinklers. This replenishes the water and prevents germs from accumulating in the water. If you have a wide lawn and puddles of water are not a problem for you, such models are a good choice to have.
The size of the pool is another important factor. If you are planning to use it for the entire family, better have a big one. The Intex 28120NP can handle 6 or more individuals and it is relatively deep which allows even adults to enjoy the water.
On the other hand, a small and shallow inflatable pool would just be alright for a person or two. If you have a small garden, this should be enough. The FUNAVO F001 can cater to at least 5 to 6 individuals but it can still save space due to its rectangular shape.
Never forget to look for the features that will give additional comfort and fun to you or to your child. From built-in slides, benches, cup holders, sprinklers, prints, and others, make sure to get the features that will add value to your purchase.
Also, make sure to check how the inflation system of the inflatable pool works. For instance, the Intex 28120NP allows a faster setup since it only employs one air chamber. The rest of its body is engineered to automatically stand through the aid of the water being filled. The water inside gives the walls an outward push.
It is also better if you can find a model with air chambers that are separately pumped. Not only it would allow better build for the body of the pool, but it will also assure you longevity of its life. One example is the FUNAVO F001 which has 3 air chambers. In such a design, in case one of the chambers gets pierced, you can still use it as long as the top and the bottom sections are still working.
The durability of the product can also be seen in the structure of the pool. Nowadays, inflatable pools come in a number of air chambers. This makes the pool keep its function in case one of the chambers starts leaking air. Also, make sure that the pool is made from reliable materials and comes in layers. Most of all, remember that the thicker the wall is, the better.
An expensive inflatable pool won’t always give you the best quality and a cheap one won’t always assure you of a great deal. So, instead of focusing mainly on the price, look for the pool that offers all the features you need and make sure that it comes at the most reasonable price.
Best Inflatable Pools - FAQs
It is suggested not to use inflatable pools on uneven surfaces as the water could easily spill in such a setting. It can also harm the pool, causing it to lose some air.
If the pool is considerably deep (at least 2 feet) and you are using chlorine to kill bacteria, you can change it every two weeks. But if not, it is better to change it every other day.
A lightweight inflatable pool will do just fine in a lawn with soft grass. Nonetheless, you can also put a tarp underneath it. On the other hand, if you own a bigger pool, keep in mind that is more prone to damages. With this, better to put a ground cloth or a pool floor liner pad underneath it.
You can use salt and dissolve it in the water. This will help in preventing the occurrence of bacteria in the water. If you don’t have chlorine, you can also use two and a half teaspoons of household bleach for every 100 gallons of water in the pool.
