Skip to content

10 Best Pool Covers of 2024: Top-Rated Options for Safety and Savings

You might think that pool covers are a unnecessary expense, but the truth is they can save you money in the long run by reducing energy costs and prolonging the life of your pool. In fact, the right pool cover can pay for itself in just a few years. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your pool. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top-rated pool covers of 2024, from solar blankets to winter covers, to help you make an informed decision. Now, let’s take a closer look at what sets these top picks apart.

Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel

Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to cover and uncover your inground pool, the Pool Boy 1 Powered Pool Solar Blanket Reel is the best choice, as it extends and retracts with the click of a button.

This convenient reel is designed for inground pools up to 20 feet wide and 40 feet long, and it’s backed by a 3-year prorated warranty.

Made in the USA, the Pool Boy 1 is a reliable option for pool owners.

However, be aware that some customers have reported quality control issues and assembly difficulties.

Despite these concerns, the reel’s ease of use and good customer service have earned it an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars from 55 reviewers.

Best For: Pool owners with inground pools up to 20 feet wide and 40 feet long who want a convenient and hassle-free way to cover and uncover their pool.

Pros:

  • Extends and retracts with the click of a button, making it easy to use
  • Backed by a 3-year prorated warranty, providing peace of mind
  • Made in the USA, ensuring a reliable and quality product

Cons:

  • Quality control issues, including cheap materials and poor design
  • Assembly difficulties, which can be frustrating for some users
  • Remote control issues, such as lost connection and slow motor, which can be inconvenient

Blue Wave BWC704 Above Ground Pool Winter Cover

Blue Wave BWC704 Above Ground Pool Winter Cover  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Blue Wave BWC704 Above Ground Pool Winter Cover is the best choice for pool owners who want a reliable and long-lasting solution to protect their above-ground pool from harsh winter weather.

With its 8-year pro-rated warranty and durable construction, you can have peace of mind.

The cover’s woven, laminated polyethylene strands prevent sunlight degradation, and its black underside retards algae growth.

The metal grommets, spaced every 2 feet, along with the vinyl-coated cable and metal winch, guarantee a secure fit.

With a 4-foot overlap, you can be confident in a proper fit.

Best For: Pool owners who want a reliable and long-lasting solution to protect their above-ground pool from harsh winter weather.

Pros:

  • Durable construction with woven, laminated polyethylene strands that prevent sunlight degradation
  • Secure fit with metal grommets, vinyl-coated cable, and metal winch, along with a 4-foot overlap
  • Backed by an 8-year pro-rated warranty, giving you peace of mind

Cons:

  • May require additional equipment, such as a submersible pump, to extract water from the cover after heavy rains
  • Requires adequate water level to support the weight of the cover and prevent structural damage
  • May not be suitable for pools with complex shapes or sizes

Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover

Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Happybuy Inground Pool Safety Cover is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and durable solution to protect their inground pool, thanks to its triple-stitched design and 15-year warranty.

This cover is made of high-strength polypropylene material that’s resistant to aging, high temperatures, and abrasion.

The complete hardware kit makes installation a breeze, and the powerful tight mesh design allows water to pass through for efficient drainage while blocking leaves, snow, or debris.

You’ll appreciate the child and pet safety priority, as it prevents accidental pool access and reduces water evaporation.

With a 4.3-star rating and over 1,500 customer reviews, it’s clear that this cover is a top choice for many pool owners.

Best For: Homeowners with inground pools seeking a reliable and durable safety cover solution.

Pros:

  • Sturdy and durable design with triple-stitched construction and 15-year warranty
  • Easy to install with complete hardware kit and adjustable rope length
  • Prevents accidental pool access and reduces water evaporation, making it a great option for families with children and pets

Cons:

  • Some customers have reported issues with the clamps that hold the cover in place
  • May not be sturdy enough to prevent larger pets from falling through
  • Some customers have experienced difficulties with installation and quality control

INTEX Solar Pool Cover

INTEX Solar Pool Cover  Get it now on Amazon.com

This INTEX Solar Pool Cover is an excellent choice for pool owners seeking to reduce water evaporation and retain heat, as it can warm up pool water by 6 degrees in just 12 hours.

You’ll appreciate how it insulates your pool water, reducing evaporation by 95% and keeping debris out.

This cover is also efficient, reducing chemical consumption and making your pool maintenance easier.

With its easy-to-use design, you can put it on and off with minimal effort.

Plus, it’s durable and heavy-duty, ensuring it’ll last for a while.

Although it may disintegrate after a few seasons, it’s a great value for its price.

Overall, you’ll enjoy the benefits of this INTEX Solar Pool Cover, including its ability to retain heat overnight and reduce water loss.

Best For: Pool owners who want to reduce water evaporation, retain heat, and minimize pool maintenance.

Pros:

  • Insulates pool water and reduces evaporation by 95%
  • Easy to use and put on/off with minimal effort
  • Durable and heavy-duty, ensuring it’ll last for a while

Cons:

  • May disintegrate after a few seasons
  • Does not provide a permanent solution for pool maintenance
  • May not be suitable for pools of all sizes and shapes

Robelle Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover

Robelle Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover  Get it now on Amazon.com

Extending your swimming season by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, the Robelle Heavy-Duty Swimming Pool Solar Heating Cover is the best choice for pool owners seeking to maximize their pool’s temperature and minimize evaporation.

This heavy-duty cover is designed to increase your pool water temperature by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, cutting evaporation by up to 90%. With its rectangular shape and solid blue pattern, it’s a stylish and functional addition to your pool.

You’ll appreciate the manufacturer’s warranty, which can be requested from customer service. Although some customers reported issues with quality, durability, and warranty, the overall 3.9-star rating and #486 ranking in Pool Safety Covers suggest it’s a top-rated option worth considering.

Best For: Pool owners seeking to extend their swimming season and minimize evaporation.

Pros:

  • Increases pool water temperature by up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Cuts evaporation by up to 90%
  • Stylish and functional design with a rectangular shape and solid blue pattern

Cons:

  • Some customers reported issues with product quality and durability
  • Some customers reported issues with product thickness and material
  • Some customers reported issues with warranty and customer service

Steinbach Krystal Clear Solar Pool Cover

Steinbach Krystal Clear Solar Pool Cover  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its ability to reduce evaporation by 95%, the Steinbach Krystal Clear Solar Pool Cover is the best choice for pool owners who want to retain heat and minimize water loss.

This lightweight, blue-colored cover fits pools 8-10 feet in diameter and is designed to keep your water warmer while reducing debris and leaves.

You’ll appreciate how easy it’s to use and remove, and you’ll notice an increase in water temperature of up to 10 degrees. Plus, it’s a great way to keep bugs and insects out of your pool.

With a 4.2-star rating from over 990 customers, this cover has proven itself to be a reliable choice.

Just be aware that it mightn’t last more than a couple of summers, and it may not fit perfectly on some pools.

Best For: Pool owners who want to retain heat, minimize water loss, and keep their pool clean and free of debris.

Pros:

  • Reduces evaporation by 95% and retains heat, keeping the water warmer
  • Easy to use and remove, and keeps bugs and insects out of the pool
  • Increases water temperature by up to 10 degrees, making it perfect for sunny weather

Cons:

  • May not last more than a couple of summers
  • May not fit perfectly on some pools, and has a seam down the middle that can split
  • Not suitable for windy areas and may not be effective on cloudy days

Blue Wave NS520 14 Mil Solar Blanket, 16-FT x 32-FT, Clear

Blue Wave NS520 14 Mil Solar Blanket, 16-FT x 32-FT, Clear  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re looking for a pool cover that can substantially raise your pool’s temperature, the Blue Wave NS520 14 Mil Solar Blanket is an excellent choice, as it can trap heat from the sun to increase the temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

This clear solar blanket features insulating thermal bubbles that not only heat your pool but also prevent up to 95% of pool water evaporation, reducing the need for frequent refills.

Made of durable 14-mil polymer construction, it resists deterioration from regular pool use.

You’ll also appreciate the 3-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

With over 2,269 ratings and a 4.3-star average, this product is a popular choice among pool owners who praise its effectiveness, ease of use, and durability.

Best For: Pool owners who want to increase their pool temperature and reduce water evaporation.

Pros:

  • Effectively raises pool temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Prevents up to 95% of pool water evaporation, reducing the need for frequent refills
  • Durable 14-mil polymer construction resists deterioration from regular pool use

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mention issues with the product’s size and material
  • A few reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with the warranty
  • May not be suitable for pools of irregular shapes or sizes

Blue Rectangular Solstice Solar Blanket Swimming Pool Cover 24 x 44

Blue Rectangular Solstice Solar Blanket Swimming Pool Cover 24 x 44  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Blue Rectangular Solstice Solar Blanket Swimming Pool Cover 24 x 44 dramatically reduces heating costs by up to 80% and increases your pool water temperature by 10 to 15 degrees.

This solar blanket is made from a durable polymer material with thousands of tiny sealed air bubbles that float on the surface of your pool water when not in use. It allows solar energy to pass through, trapping retained heat in the pool, and reduces evaporation, saving you water and costly chemical treatments.

With its 4-year manufacturer’s warranty and 8 mil thickness, you can trust this product to last.

The product requires no assembly and is easy to use. The Blue Rectangular Solstice Solar Blanket Swimming Pool Cover 24 x 44 is also made in the USA and comes with a 5-star rating from satisfied customers.

Best For: Pool owners who want to reduce their heating costs and extend their swimming season.

Pros:

  • Dramatically reduces heating costs by up to 80% and increases pool water temperature by 10 to 15 degrees
  • Made from a durable polymer material with thousands of tiny sealed air bubbles that float on the surface of your pool water when not in use
  • Comes with a 4-year manufacturer’s warranty and is made in the USA

Cons:

  • No solar reel is included with the product
  • The product is heavy, weighing 169 pounds
  • The product may not be suitable for pools of irregular shapes or sizes

Robelle 352040R Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 20 x 40 ft Inground Pools

Robelle 352040R Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 20 x 40 ft Inground Pools  Get it now on Amazon.com

This Robelle 352040R Pool Cover is the best choice for owners of 20 x 40 ft inground pools who need a heavy-duty solid winter pool cover to protect their pool from harsh winter elements.

You’ll appreciate its solid material that won’t let water pass through, and its heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim and 2.36 oz/yd2 polyethylene material that’s designed to withstand harsh winter conditions.

The imperial blue topside and black underside give it a sleek look, while the 5-foot overlap makes installation a breeze.

With a 4.0-star rating based on 2,844 reviews, you can trust that this cover will do its job.

Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and order a larger size if your pool has steps or irregularities.

Best For: Owners of 20 x 40 ft inground pools who need a heavy-duty solid winter pool cover to protect their pool from harsh winter elements.

Pros:

  • Solid material prevents water from passing through
  • Heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim and 2.36 oz/yd2 polyethylene material withstands harsh winter conditions
  • Easy installation with 5-foot overlap and imperial blue topside and black underside for a sleek look

Cons:

  • Some users experienced small tears in the material
  • Inferior fabric quality reported by some users
  • Defective products received by some customers

Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Cover for In-Ground and Above-Ground Pools

Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Cover for In-Ground and Above-Ground Pools  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its attractive blue design and thousands of tiny bubbles, the Sun2Solar Blue Rectangle Solar Cover is an excellent choice for pool owners seeking an efficient and effective way to collect and retain heat in their in-ground or above-ground pools.

This 16×32 feet rectangular cover is made from durable resin material and can be customized to fit your unique pool shape with scissors.

You’ll appreciate how it retains heat from the sun during the day and at night, reducing the need for pool heaters and saving you energy costs.

Plus, it helps extend the swimming season and keeps water temperature consistent, reducing the need for frequent refills.

Best For: Pool owners seeking an efficient and effective way to collect and retain heat in their in-ground or above-ground pools.

Pros:

  • Retains heat from the sun during the day and at night, reducing the need for pool heaters and saving energy costs.
  • Helps extend the swimming season and keeps water temperature consistent, reducing the need for frequent refills.
  • Prevents up to 95% of pool water evaporation and minimizes debris and leaves from entering the pool.

Cons:

  • Some customers reported issues with the product deteriorating quickly or disintegrating over time.
  • Others reported that it left plastic residue in the pool or did not last as long as expected.
  • The product may need to be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Covers

When you’re in the market for a new pool cover, you’re faced with a multitude of options, but vital factors must be taken into account to get the right one for your pool.

You’ll want to think about your pool’s unique size and shape, as well as the material and thickness of the cover.

Pool Size and Shape

Measure your pool’s dimensions carefully to guarantee a proper fit, as a cover that’s too small will leave your pool exposed, while one that’s too large will be a hassle to handle and store.

When choosing a pool cover, you must think about the size and shape of your pool. For rectangular pools, opt for rectangular covers, and for circular pools, round covers are the way to go.

If your pool has an irregular shape, you may need a custom cover. Take note of your pool’s length, width, and any obstructions like steps or handrails to determine the correct size of the cover.

Don’t forget to factor in the overlap, typically 3-5 feet, to secure the cover stays in place and provides maximum protection. Always check the product specifications and description to verify the cover is designed for your pool’s specific size and shape.

Material and Thickness

The material and thickness of your pool cover are crucial factors that substantially impact its performance, durability, and overall value.

The thickness of a pool cover is measured in mils, with 8-14 mil being a common range. Thicker covers generally provide better heat retention and durability, but they’re also more expensive.

Polyethylene and polypropylene are common materials used for pool covers. Polyethylene is more durable and resistant to UV rays, while polypropylene is more affordable and still provides good heat retention.

When choosing a pool cover, consider that thicker covers with a higher mil rating tend to provide better insulation and a longer lifespan.

They can also reduce evaporation by up to 95%, which means you’ll save on water and chemicals. A higher-quality pool cover material can also reduce the risk of algae growth and debris accumulation in the pool.

UV Resistance and Durability

Most pool covers can withstand exposure to UV rays for a limited time, but high-quality covers featuring UV-resistant materials can last up to 5 years or more before showing signs of degradation.

When choosing a pool cover, you’ll want to weigh the importance of its durability, which is heavily influenced by its ability to resist UV degradation.

Thicker covers tend to be more resistant to wear and tear, and can last longer than thinner ones. The density of the material also plays a significant role, with denser materials like polyethylene and polypropylene being more resistant to punctures and tears.

Additionally, a higher scrim count, which refers to the number of threads per square inch of material, can indicate a more durable and longer-lasting cover.

Finally, the coating on your pool cover can provide additional protection against UV rays, abrasion, and chemical damage.

Installation and Removal

As you consider the durability of your pool cover, it’s equally important to think about the installation and removal process, which can be a significant factor in your overall satisfaction with the product.

The type of cover you choose will greatly impact the ease of installation and removal. Automatic covers, for instance, are the most convenient, while manual covers require more effort.

Some pool covers come with a built-in reel system, making it easier to install and remove the cover without straining your back.

When choosing a pool cover, consider the size and shape of the cover, as larger covers require more time and effort to handle.

You’ll also want to think about the material – smooth, lightweight materials are generally easier to install and remove than heavier, more rigid ones.

Most importantly, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and removal to guarantee a safe and proper process.

Warranty and Maintenance

Two essential factors to consider when choosing a pool cover are the warranty and maintenance requirements, which can substantially impact your overall satisfaction with the product.

You’ll want to make certain that your pool cover comes with an extensive warranty that covers repairs, replacements, or both. Look for a warranty that’s at least 5-7 years long, and pay attention to what’s included and what’s excluded.

Additionally, take into account the maintenance requirements of the pool cover. Some covers may need regular cleaning, while others may require periodic inspections or replacement of certain parts.

You should also think about the ease of storing the cover when it’s not in use. Ask yourself: Will I need to dedicate a lot of space to store the cover, or can it be easily folded and tucked away?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Pool Cover on a Saltwater Pool?

You’re wondering if you can use a pool cover on a saltwater pool. Yes, you can! Most pool covers are compatible with saltwater pools, but it’s essential to choose a cover specifically designed for saltwater pools to ensure durability.

Do Pool Covers Come With a Warranty or Guarantee?

You’re wondering if pool covers come with a warranty or guarantee. Yes, most reputable manufacturers offer a warranty, typically ranging from 5 to 15 years, covering defects and ensuring you’re protected from costly repairs or replacements.

How Often Should I Clean My Pool Cover?

“Imagine knights polishing armor – you should clean your pool cover with similar diligence! You’ll want to brush off debris every 1-2 weeks, and deep clean it every 2-3 months to keep it in top shape.”

Can I Walk on Top of a Pool Cover in an Emergency?

You’re wondering if you can walk on your pool cover in an emergency. While it’s not recommended, some covers are designed to support your weight, but you’ll need to check the manufacturer’s specs to confirm it can handle your weight and the situation.

Are Pool Covers Compatible With Pool Automation Systems?

You’re wondering if pool covers work with automation systems – the answer is yes, most covers are compatible, but you’ll need to check the specific model and system you’re using to guarantee a seamless integration.

Conclusion

As you gaze out at your sparkling pool, remember that a great pool cover is the unsung hero of summer fun.

It’s the difference between a serene oasis and a murky mess.

By choosing one of the top-rated pool covers of 2024, you’ll be trading in algae blooms and water waste for warm, crystal-clear water and a longer swimming season.

So why wait?

Plunge into the world of pool covers and start making waves towards a safer, more energy-efficient summer.