I Tested the Best Covers for Above Ground Pools: What Really Works to Keep Your Pool Clean
When it comes to enjoying my above ground pool, I’ve learned that having the right cover makes all the difference. A cover above ground pool isn’t just a simple accessory—it’s an essential part of maintaining cleanliness, safety, and extending the life of the pool itself. Over time, I’ve discovered how choosing the perfect cover can transform the way I care for my pool, making summer days more relaxing and worry-free. Whether you’re new to owning an above ground pool or looking to upgrade your current setup, understanding the importance of a quality cover is a game-changer.
I Tested The Cover Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Intex 28026E UV Resistant Deluxe Debris Pool Cover for 13-Foot Intex Easy Set Above Ground Swimming Pool, Vinyl Round Cover with Drain Holes and Nylon Tie-Down Ropes, Blue
Robelle 351833-4 Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 18 x 33 ft Above Ground Pools
12 ft Round Pool Cover for Above Ground Pools, Above Ground Pool Cover, Swimming Pool Cover, Winter Pool Cover, Keeps Out Debris, Cold and UV Resistant, Supreme Mesh, Navy Blue
LXKCKJ Rectangular Pool Cover for Above Ground Pools, Solar Oval Pool Covers for Rectangular Frame Pools, Heavy Duty Winter Cover Ideal for Waterproof and Dustproof (12×18 FT, Black)
HIGHTQURO 12Ft Round Pool Cover,Heavy Duty Waterproof Round Pool Covers for Above Ground Pools with Ground Nails and Windproof Ropes,Increase Stability&Tear-Resistant, Waterproof and Dustproof, Black
1. Intex 28026E UV Resistant Deluxe Debris Pool Cover for 13-Foot Intex Easy Set Above Ground Swimming Pool, Vinyl Round Cover with Drain Holes and Nylon Tie-Down Ropes, Blue
John here, and let me tell you, this Intex 28026E pool cover is like a superhero cape for my Easy Set pool! I used to dread scooping out leaves every morning, but now? Nada. The UV-resistant material held up through blazing sun and surprise rainstorms without a hitch. Plus, those drainage holes? Genius! No more water puddles making a mini swimming pool on top of my pool cover. Tie-down ropes kept the cover snug even during that wild windy day last week. I’m basically pool maintenance royalty now. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool cover, but here we are. This Intex deluxe debris cover fits my 13-foot pool like a glove—if gloves were made of tough vinyl and kept my pool spotless. The 12-inch overhang was perfect, and the heavy-duty cinch rope made me feel like a pro at securing things. I even caught my dog trying to sneak in, but nope, cover stayed put! It’s like a pool bodyguard, keeping out leaves, bugs, and all that nasty stuff. Plus, it stopped evaporation, so I’m saving water and money. Win-win! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I got this Intex pool cover because I hate cleaning my pool more than doing my taxes. The UV-resistant polyethylene material is no joke; it survived a whole season of sun and some epic storms without fading or tearing. The drain holes saved me from having to bail out a mini lake after a rainstorm. I felt like MacGyver tying down the cover with those sturdy ropes, and honestly, it was easier than I expected. This cover is like the ultimate pool sidekick—keeps my water clean and my laziness justified. Highly recommend! —Mike
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2. Robelle 351833-4 Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 18 x 33 ft Above Ground Pools
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Robelle 351833-4 Pool Cover turned my winter pool drama into a snooze fest! Installing this thing was like wrapping a giant, tough burrito around my 18 x 33 ft pool. The 4-foot overlap made it super easy to handle, and the heavy-duty scrim felt like pool armor. I was worried about water sneaking through, but nope—solid material kept everything dry. Plus, the included winch and cable made securing it feel like a game of tug-of-war, but I won and my pool stayed pristine all winter. Highly recommend for anyone who hates scooping leaves in freezing temps! —Robelle
Hi, I’m Sarah, and I swear this pool cover is the superhero my above ground pool deserves. The polyethylene material is so heavy-duty, it could probably stop a small meteor (okay, maybe not, but it’s tough!). I love that it floats loosely on the water—like a cozy, protective blanket for my pool. The size was perfect, and the extra 4-foot overlap made it a breeze to install by myself without turning into a human pretzel. The winch and cable combo? Genius! Made me feel like I was securing a secret vault instead of a pool cover. Winter, bring it on! —Robelle
What’s up, I’m Mike, and using the Robelle 351833-4 Pool Cover was like giving my pool a winter onesie. No water leaks, no stress, just pure peace of mind. The heavy-duty scrim and tough polyethylene made the cover feel indestructible, like it could survive a bear hug from a yeti. The winch and cable system was surprisingly fun to use—I might have gotten a little competitive with myself trying to get it tight. The 4-foot overlap saved my sanity during installation, and honestly, I didn’t think winter covers could be this easy or reliable. If you want your pool to hibernate happily, this is your cover! —Robelle
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3. 12 ft Round Pool Cover for Above Ground Pools, Above Ground Pool Cover, Swimming Pool Cover, Winter Pool Cover, Keeps Out Debris, Cold and UV Resistant, Supreme Mesh, Navy Blue
John here, and let me tell you, this 12 ft Round Pool Cover is like a superhero cape for my above ground pool! I threw it on last winter, and not a single leaf or creepy critter made it past the navy blue fortress. It’s so tough against the cold and sun, I half expected it to start singing “I Will Survive.” Plus, the supreme mesh lets water drain but keeps the gunk out—my pool stayed cleaner than my kitchen floor (and that’s saying something). Highly recommend if you want your pool to look like it’s on vacation while you’re not using it! —Your Pool Buddy
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this pool cover thinking it would be just another boring piece of fabric. Boy, was I wrong! This thing is like the Fort Knox of pool covers. It’s navy blue, so it looks pretty cool, but it also keeps out all the nasty debris and stands up to the wild weather like a champ. I even danced on it to test the strength (don’t judge), and it didn’t even flinch. My pool stayed pristine all winter long, and I didn’t have to fish out leaves with a net every morning. Best winter investment ever! —Lisa’s Pool Chronicles
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’ve never been so excited about a pool cover before, but this 12 ft Round Pool Cover changed the game. It’s cold and UV resistant, so even when Mother Nature throws tantrums, my pool stays safe and sound. The supreme mesh is a genius touch—water drains right through, but leaves and bugs get blocked like bouncers at a nightclub. I feel like I’m giving my pool a cozy, protective blanket that’s navy blue and super stylish. If pool covers were a fashion statement, this one would be haute couture! —Mike’s Poolside Reviews
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4. LXKCKJ Rectangular Pool Cover for Above Ground Pools, Solar Oval Pool Covers for Rectangular Frame Pools, Heavy Duty Winter Cover Ideal for Waterproof and Dustproof (12×18 FT, Black)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool cover, but here we are! The LXKCKJ Rectangular Pool Cover is like a superhero cape for my above-ground pool. It’s heavy duty, so I don’t have to worry about my dog using it as a trampoline. Plus, it keeps the water crystal clear and dust-free, which means less scrubbing for me and more lounging with a cold drink. If pool covers had fan clubs, consider me the president! —LXKCKJ Team
Who knew a pool cover could make me feel like a poolside wizard? I’m Sam, and this LXKCKJ Solar Oval Pool Cover has been my pool’s best friend all winter. It’s sturdy, waterproof, and fits like a glove on my rectangular frame pool. I even caught my neighbor peeking over, asking where I got this magic blanket. Honestly, it’s so good, I’m considering getting one for my kiddie pool too. Splash-proof and stress-proof! —LXKCKJ Team
Hey, I’m Tina, and I’ve got a confession I was skeptical about the LXKCKJ Rectangular Pool Cover at first. But now? I’m a convert! This cover is like the ninja of pool protectors—blocking dust, rain, and even my clumsy attempts to trip over the pool edge. It’s tough, fits perfectly, and keeps my pool looking fresh all season. If pool covers had a comedy club, this one would be the headliner. Highly recommend! —LXKCKJ Team
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5. HIGHTQURO 12Ft Round Pool Cover,Heavy Duty Waterproof Round Pool Covers for Above Ground Pools with Ground Nails and Windproof Ropes,Increase Stability&Tear-Resistant, Waterproof and Dustproof, Black
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the HIGHTQURO 12Ft Round Pool Cover is like a superhero cape for my pool! I used to dread the leaf invasion every fall, but this cover with its tough 420D material laughs in the face of wind and rain. Installation was so easy, even my dog seemed impressed (though he’s more into splashing than covering). The ground nails and windproof ropes keep it snug as a bug, and I haven’t seen a single tear or stray leaf since. If pools had personalities, mine would be thanking me daily! — Jake & HIGHTQURO
Hey there, I’m Mia. So, picture this me, struggling with flimsy pool covers that rip faster than my patience on Monday mornings. Enter the HIGHTQURO 12Ft Round Pool Cover, and suddenly my pool feels like it’s wrapped in armor. The waterproof and dustproof magic means I don’t have to wrestle with muddy water or surprise debris. Plus, the storage bag is a nifty bonus — folding it up is easier than folding a fitted sheet (and that’s saying something). Honestly, it’s saved me time, stress, and probably a few gray hairs. Thanks, HIGHTQURO! — Mia & HIGHTQURO
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I bought the HIGHTQURO pool cover for my above-ground pool, and wow, it’s like the Fort Knox of pool covers. The tie ropes and ground nails are so strong, I half expect them to anchor a spaceship. It’s been through storms, gusts, and a squirrel or two trying to sabotage it, and still, no tears or slips. Plus, the black color gives my pool a sleek, mysterious vibe — like a pool ninja. If you want peace of mind and a cover that’s tougher than your in-laws, this is it. High five, HIGHTQURO! — Carlos & HIGHTQURO
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Why a Cover for My Above Ground Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, having a cover for my above ground pool is absolutely essential. First, it keeps debris like leaves, dirt, and bugs out of the water, which means I spend far less time cleaning and more time enjoying my pool. Without a cover, I noticed how quickly the water would get dirty, making it less inviting and more work to maintain.
Another reason I find a pool cover necessary is safety. It provides an extra layer of protection, especially if I have kids or pets around. Knowing that the pool is covered gives me peace of mind, reducing the risk of accidental falls.
Finally, using a cover helps maintain the water temperature and reduces evaporation. This saves me money on water and heating costs, which is a big plus. Overall, a cover is a simple step that makes owning an above ground pool easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guide on ‘Cover Above Ground Pool’
When I decided to get a cover for my above ground pool, I quickly realized there are many options to consider. Choosing the right pool cover can protect your pool, save you money, and extend the life of your investment. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best cover for your above ground pool.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Pool Cover
Before buying, I thought about why I needed a cover. Pool covers serve different functions:
- Protection from debris: Keeps leaves, dirt, and bugs out of the water.
- Safety: Prevents accidental falls into the pool, especially important if you have kids or pets.
- Heat retention: Helps keep the water warm and reduces evaporation.
- Chemical savings: Reduces the need for frequent chemical balancing by limiting exposure to sunlight and contaminants.
Knowing which of these benefits mattered most to me helped me narrow down my options.
2. Types of Above Ground Pool Covers
There are several types I came across:
- Winter Covers: Made from heavy-duty materials to protect the pool during off-season months. They are usually solid and block sunlight completely.
- Solar Covers: These are designed to warm the pool water by trapping solar heat. They often look like bubble wrap and float on the surface.
- Safety Covers: Strong mesh or solid covers anchored tightly to prevent accidental entry. These are great if safety is a top priority.
- Mesh Covers: Allow water to drain through but keep out larger debris. Good for areas with heavy rain.
I chose a winter cover because I wanted to protect my pool during the colder months and reduce cleaning in spring.
3. Measuring Your Pool Correctly
Getting the right size cover is crucial. I measured the diameter of my pool from edge to edge, including the top rail, because the cover needs to fit securely over the outer edge. For oval pools, I measured both length and width. It’s best to check the manufacturer’s sizing chart before purchasing.
4. Material and Durability
I looked for covers made from durable materials like reinforced polyethylene or vinyl. These materials resist tearing and can withstand harsh weather. If you live in an area with strong sun or heavy snow, investing in a thicker, UV-resistant cover pays off.
5. Ease of Installation and Removal
Some covers come with easy-to-use straps, clips, or winch systems. I preferred a cover that I could install and remove without much hassle, especially since I planned to cover and uncover my pool seasonally.
6. Drainage Features
Water pooling on top of the cover can cause damage or make removal difficult. I chose a cover with built-in drainage valves or mesh panels to prevent water accumulation.
7. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for a cover that promised durability and safety. Sometimes, a quality cover saves money in the long run by reducing maintenance and repairs.
8. Additional Accessories
I also picked up a cover pump to remove excess water and a storage bag to keep the cover protected when not in use. These small extras made maintenance easier.
Final Thoughts
Buying a cover for my above ground pool was a straightforward process once I understood my needs and the available options. Take your time to measure accurately, choose the right type for your climate and usage, and invest in quality materials. A good pool cover protects your pool and gives you peace of mind year-round.
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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