Welcome to your ultimate guide on how to clean a paddling pool! Whether you have a small paddling pool for the kids or a large inflatable pool for the whole family, keeping your pool water clean is essential for a fun and safe summer.
Lucky for you, we have curated the best tips from cleaning experts to keep the water clean. From managing your very own foot bath to dealing with algae and dirt.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about maintenance so you can enjoy fresh water every time and keep your kiddie pool clean.
Let's dive in!
Why do I need to clean my paddling pool?
Maintaining a clean paddling pool isn't just about appearances; it's crucial for health and safety.
Dirty pool water can allow bacteria and algae to grow, making the water dangerous for swimming and splashing. Regular cleaning helps keep the water fresh and safe for everyone, ensuring endless summer fun without any nasty surprises.
Essential tools and supplies
Before we get started, let's gather the necessary tools and supplies. Having these items on hand will make cleaning much easier and more effective.
- Pool skimmer
- Pool Vacuum
- Pool cover
- Fitted sheet
- Washing up liquid
- Washing up bowl
- Bin with a lid
- Garden hose
- Clean cloth or sponge
Take a look at our range of pool accessories to find the right equipment.
Tips on cleaning your inflatable pool
1. Daily maintenance
Daily maintenance is key to keeping your paddling pool water clean.
- Skim the surface: Use a pool skimmer to remove debris, such as leaves or insects, that has fallen into the pool.
- Encourage clean feet: Place a washing-up bowl filled with water near the pool so everyone can rinse their feet before entering. This helps reduce the amount of dirt and debris introduced.
- Cover the pool: When the pool is not in use, cover it with a pool cover or a fitted sheet to keep out debris and bugs.
2. Weekly deep cleaning
Once a week, give your paddling pool a deeper clean to keep it in tip-top shape.
- Empty and refill: If your pool is small, empty and refill the water. For larger pools, you might need a vacuum to clean the bottom.
- Scrub the pool: Use washing-up liquid and a clean cloth or sponge to scrub the sides and bottom of the pool. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.
- Check the filter: If your pool has a filter, clean or replace it according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure it works efficiently.
3. Dealing with algae and bacteria
Algae and bacteria can turn your paddling pool green and slimy. To prevent this:
- Add a small amount of algaecide to the pool water as a preventive measure.
- Ensure the pool is covered when not in use to reduce sunlight exposure, which encourages algae growth.
4. Managing sun cream and other oils
Sun cream and body oils can leave a film on the water's surface.
- Encourage pool users to rinse off before getting in.
- Use a pool skimmer to remove any visible film from the surface.
- Add a scum ball (or tennis ball) to the pool to absorb oils and lotions.
5. Encourage good cleanliness of paddling pool water
Here are some expert tips for keeping your paddling pool water clean throughout the summer:
- Encourage clean feet: Set up a washing-up bowl so everyone can rinse their feet before entering the pool.
- Regular skimming: Use a pool skimmer daily to remove debris.
- Cover up: Use a pool cover or fitted sheet when the pool is not in use.
- No food or drinks: Avoid bringing food and drinks into the pool area to reduce contamination.
How to store inflatable pools for next summer
Properly storing your paddling pool at the end of the season will make it easier to use next summer.
- Clean thoroughly: Give the pool a final deep clean with washing up liquid and water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry completely: Make sure the pool is completely dry to prevent mould and mildew.
- Fold carefully: Fold the pool according to the manufacturer's instructions, avoiding sharp creases.
- Box it up: Store the pool in the box it came in or a bin with a lid to protect it from pests and damage.
Following these steps and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you'll enjoy a sparkling, clean kiddie pool all summer and easily store it for next year.
So grab your pool skimmer, set up that rinsing station, and dive into a season of fun and relaxation in your clean and safe paddling pool!
Check out our guide to paddling pool safety for ultimate peace of mind in the hot weather.
Splash safely with paddling pools from Outdoor Toys
Keeping your paddling pool clean doesn't have to be a chore. With the right tools, regular maintenance, and expert tips, you can ensure your pool stays fresh and inviting all summer. Happy swimming!
If you want to upgrade your garden with a new, shiny swimming pool, look no further than Outdoor Toys' vast collection.
From paddling pools and inflatable water slides to steel-frame pools and inflatable hot tubs, summertime offers something for everyone to enjoy. We’ve also got a guide on the best water toys for kids to enjoy this summer.
So, why wait? Dive into the world of endless fun with Outdoor Toys and watch your little ones' imagination soar as they explore, learn, and create family memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs about keeping your paddling pool clean
How do you clean an inflatable paddling pool?
Cleaning an inflatable paddling pool is straightforward. If the pool is small, start by draining the water, or use a pool vacuum to remove debris from the bottom before draining if it's larger. Scrub the sides and bottom of the pool using washing-up liquid and a clean cloth or sponge, paying close attention to areas with visible dirt or algae.
After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with a garden hose to remove all soap and debris. To prevent mould and mildew, make sure the pool dries completely before refilling or storing it.
How do you clean a paddling pool without emptying it?
To clean a paddling pool without emptying it, begin by skimming the surface with a pool skimmer to remove leaves, insects, and other debris. For debris on the bottom, use a pool vacuum. Gently scrub the sides of the pool with a sponge or cloth and washing-up liquid, rinsing the cloth frequently in a separate bucket of clean water. If your pool has a filter, ensure it’s running efficiently and clean or replace it as necessary.
What do you put in a paddling pool to keep water clean?
Keeping the water in your paddling pool clean involves a few simple steps. Use a pool cover or fitted sheet when the pool is not in use to keep out debris and bugs. Adding a scum ball helps absorb oils and lotions from sun cream and other products. A small amount of algaecide can prevent algae growth.
Skimming the pool regularly with a pool skimmer helps remove debris. Setting up a rinsing station near the pool encourages everyone to rinse their feet before getting in, reducing the amount of dirt introduced into the pool.