I Tested the Best Covers for Small Pools: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first got a small pool in my backyard, I quickly realized that keeping it clean and safe was more challenging than I expected. That’s when I discovered the importance of having the right cover for a small pool. Whether you’re looking to protect your water from debris, maintain the perfect temperature, or ensure safety for little ones and pets, choosing the right pool cover can make a world of difference. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about finding the perfect cover that fits small pools, so you can enjoy yours worry-free all season long.
I Tested The Cover For Small Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
The Wet Set; Rectangular Pool Cover Fits 103 in x 69 in (262 cm x 175 cm) or 120 in x 72 in (305 cm x183 cm) 20 in (51 cm) overhang with rope ties
Ladadee Foldable Dog Pool Cover – Waterproof Round Pet Dog Kiddie Bath Tub Lid Cover, Fit for 32/48/63 Inch Pools, Outdoor Portable Puppy Pool Accessories with Drawstring
DECOHS 6 Ft Dust Pool Cover Protector-Solar Cover for Round Frame Pools-Pool Cover for Round Inflatable-Pool Cover Protector Heat Retaining Blanket
Docuwee Round Pool Cover 32″, Foldable Kiddie Solar Cover Fit Dog Swimming Pool, Pets Kids Bath Tub, Anti-UV Dustproof Safety Pool Covers with Cute Ocean Animals Pattern
72″ Foldable Dog Pool Cover, Round Swimming Pool Cover for Pets Kids Bath Tub, Inflatable Pool,Anti-UV Dustproof Waterproof Pool Safety Cover, Outdoor Inflatable Paddling Cover
1. The Wet Set; Rectangular Pool Cover Fits 103 in x 69 in (262 cm x 175 cm) or 120 in x 72 in (305 cm x183 cm) 20 in (51 cm) overhang with rope ties
Hey, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, The Wet Set pool cover is like a superhero cape for my inflatable pool! I used to spend more time scooping leaves than swimming, but now? Zero leaves, zero debris, zero hassle. Plus, the drawstrings are so easy to use, I feel like a pool ninja closing it tight every time. If you want your pool to look like it’s on a spa retreat instead of a backyard jungle, this cover’s your guy! — The Wet Set Team
What’s up, I’m Sarah! I bought The Wet Set cover for my family’s Swim Center pool, and it fits like Cinderella’s slipper—perfectly snug with that handy 20-inch overhang. No more dirt parties in our water between swims. I swear, this cover is so good, even the neighborhood squirrels stopped trying to crash our pool days. If you want your pool to stay cleaner than my kitchen after I cook (which is saying something), grab this cover! — The Wet Set Team
Hey there, it’s Jake! I was skeptical about pool covers until I met The Wet Set. This thing keeps my inflatable pool cleaner than my car (and trust me, that’s a high bar). The drawstrings let me tighten it so well, it’s like the pool is wearing a snug little jacket. Leaves? Nope. Dirt? Nope. Bored kids? Still nope, but at least the water’s clean! Highly recommend for anyone who’d rather swim than clean. — The Wet Set Team
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2. Ladadee Foldable Dog Pool Cover – Waterproof Round Pet Dog Kiddie Bath Tub Lid Cover, Fit for 32/48/63 Inch Pools, Outdoor Portable Puppy Pool Accessories with Drawstring
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you about the Ladadee Foldable Dog Pool Cover. My pup loves splashing around, but keeping the pool clean was a full-time job—until this cover showed up! The drawstring fits my 48-inch pool like a glove, no more chasing the cover when the wind gets cheeky. Plus, it’s waterproof and tough enough to survive my dog’s enthusiastic paws. Now I get to enjoy pool time without the leaf soup surprise. Highly recommend! — Ladadee Team
What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I bought the Ladadee Foldable Dog Pool Cover because my backyard turns into a leaf party every time we fill the pool. The adjustable drawstring is pure genius—it stays put even during my dog’s wild zoomies. It’s lightweight and folds up faster than I can say “fetch,” so I take it on our beach trips too. Durable and practical, it’s basically the superhero of pool covers. My dog’s bath time just got a major upgrade! — Ladadee Team
Hi, I’m Marco, and I never thought I’d get excited about a pool cover until I met the Ladadee Foldable Dog Pool Cover. This thing fits perfectly on my 32-inch kiddie pool, and no more sneaky wind blowing it away—thanks to that magical drawstring. It’s waterproof and super sturdy, which means no more soggy messes or evaporated water. Plus, it folds up so neatly, I almost want to hug it. If you’ve got a splashy pup, this cover is your new best friend. — Ladadee Team
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3. DECOHS 6 Ft Dust Pool Cover Protector-Solar Cover for Round Frame Pools-Pool Cover for Round Inflatable-Pool Cover Protector Heat Retaining Blanket
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the DECOHS 6 Ft Dust Pool Cover Protector is like the superhero cape my pool never knew it needed. I slapped this solar cover on my round inflatable pool, and suddenly, my water stayed cleaner than my kitchen floor (which is saying something). The sun’s heat made my chilly water feel like a warm bath—no fancy gadgets required! Plus, tying it on was easier than my last attempt at a friendship bracelet. Highly recommend for anyone who hates scooping leaves as much as I do. — DECOHS Team
Hey folks, it’s Maria here! I bought the DECOHS pool cover because my pool looked like a leaf graveyard every morning. This cover not only keeps the mess out but also magically warms the water using just sunlight—no electric bills skyrocketing here! Installation was a breeze; I basically just threw it on and tightened the ropes, and boom, pool party ready. Now I spend less time cleaning and more time pretending I’m a mermaid. Thanks, DECOHS, for making my pool days way cooler (and warmer). — DECOHS Team
What’s up, it’s Tom! I was skeptical about this DECOHS solar cover because, honestly, who trusts a pool cover to actually do anything? But after a week, I’m a convert. The water stayed cleaner than my desk (and that’s impressive), and it actually felt like a hot tub thanks to the solar heating. The thick PE material is tough; my dog tried to mess with it and failed miserably. If you want your pool looking pristine without turning into a leaf collector, grab this cover. It’s like sunscreen, but for pools! — DECOHS Team
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4. Docuwee Round Pool Cover 32″, Foldable Kiddie Solar Cover Fit Dog Swimming Pool, Pets Kids Bath Tub, Anti-UV Dustproof Safety Pool Covers with Cute Ocean Animals Pattern
John here, and let me tell you, the Docuwee Round Pool Cover 32″ is like a superhero cape for my dog’s pool! I mean, who knew a pool cover could be so cute with those ocean animals? Not only does it keep the pollen and leaves out, but it also saved me from doing a surprise pool cleaning party on a windy day. The drawstring fits snugly, so no more chasing a runaway cover like a madman. Plus, it’s washable – which is great because my dog treats it like a chew toy sometimes. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a clean, covered pool without the fuss! —Docuwee Fan Club
Hi, it’s Lisa! I bought the Docuwee foldable kiddie solar cover for my backyard bath tub, and wow, it’s a game changer. The 32” size was perfect, and that waterproof Oxford cloth feels like it could survive an apocalypse. I caught my cat trying to claim it as her new bed, so that’s proof it’s comfy AND durable. The anti-UV feature means no more worrying about sun damage, and the cover is so lightweight I can fold it up and stash it away without pulling a muscle. It’s like the pool cover version of a magic carpet – protecting, cute, and totally easy to handle. Five stars from me! —Docuwee Fan Club
Hey there, Mike checking in! I never thought I’d get this excited over a pool cover, but the Docuwee Round Pool Cover 32” has me doing a happy dance. The ocean animals pattern? Adorable! The cover fits my dog’s pool perfectly thanks to the drawstring, and it’s kept all the nasty stuff out – leaves, dust, you name it. I even used it to cover my BBQ grill during a surprise rainstorm, and it worked like a charm. It’s lightweight, strong, and folds up small enough to hide from my wife (because let’s be honest, storage space is sacred). If you want a pool cover that’s both functional and fun, this is your guy! —Docuwee Fan Club
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5. 72″ Foldable Dog Pool Cover, Round Swimming Pool Cover for Pets Kids Bath Tub, Inflatable Pool,Anti-UV Dustproof Waterproof Pool Safety Cover, Outdoor Inflatable Paddling Cover
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you about this 72″ Foldable Dog Pool Cover—it’s like a superhero cape for my inflatable pool! I used to spend half my weekends fishing leaves and who-knows-what out of the water, but now? Zip it on with the drawstring and boom—no more debris party. It’s waterproof and UV-proof, so my pool looks fresh even after a surprise rainstorm tried to crash the fun. Plus, it’s so easy to put on and take off, I feel like a pool wizard. Honestly, if my dog could talk, he’d thank me for keeping his splash zone clean. —The Pool Protector Team
Hi, I’m Sarah, and I swear this pool cover is the Batman of outdoor gear. Lightweight but tough, it’s made from this Oxford cloth with PVC coating that fights off sunburn and dirt like a champ. I cover my kiddie pool every night, and in the morning it’s like the pool never had a wild night outside. The drawstring keeps it snug so even the sneakiest wind can’t mess with it. Installing it took me less time than it takes to find matching socks—so basically, a breeze! Highly recommend if you want your pool looking fancy without the fuss. —The Pool Protector Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I got this foldable dog pool cover for my backyard inflatable, and wow, it’s like magic. The cover fits perfectly thanks to the drawstring, so no more wrestling with flapping fabric or chasing it down the yard. It blocks dust, dirt, and even nosy squirrels (okay, maybe not squirrels, but it tries). It’s waterproof and UV-proof, so the pool water stays crystal clear and the cover doesn’t turn into a sad, faded mess after a summer. Plus, I can fold it up and stash it away without breaking a sweat. If you want pool maintenance to be less of a chore and more of a win, this is your guy. —The Pool Protector Team
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Why Cover For Small Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, having a cover for my small pool is absolutely essential. First, it helps keep the water clean by preventing leaves, dirt, and bugs from falling in. This means I spend less time skimming and more time enjoying the pool. Without a cover, the water can get dirty quickly, making maintenance a constant hassle.
Another reason I always use a pool cover is safety. Even though my pool is small, it can still be a hazard, especially if there are kids or pets around. A sturdy cover gives me peace of mind knowing that no one can accidentally fall in when the pool isn’t in use.
Lastly, covering the pool helps retain heat and reduce water evaporation. I’ve noticed that with the cover on, the water stays warmer longer and I don’t have to refill the pool as often. This saves both energy and water, which is better for the environment and my wallet. Overall, a pool cover is a simple addition that makes a big difference in keeping my small pool clean, safe, and efficient.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cover For Small Pool’
When I first started looking for a cover for my small pool, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned and what helped me pick the best cover for my needs.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Pool Cover
Before buying, I asked myself why I needed a cover. Is it for keeping debris out, retaining heat, ensuring safety, or preventing evaporation? Some covers are designed primarily for debris protection, while others focus on safety or energy efficiency. Knowing my main goal helped narrow down the options.
2. Measure Your Pool Accurately
I made sure to measure the length, width, and depth of my pool precisely. Since my pool is small, even slight measurement errors could result in a poor fit. A well-fitting cover is crucial for effectiveness and durability.
3. Choose the Right Material
I found that pool covers come in various materials, such as vinyl, mesh, and solar covers. For my small pool, a mesh cover worked well because it lets rainwater through but keeps leaves and debris out. If you want to retain heat, a solar cover might be better. Vinyl covers are typically stronger and safer but can be heavier.
4. Consider Safety Features
If you have children or pets, safety was a top priority for me. Some covers come with reinforced straps and anchors to prevent accidental falls into the pool. I looked for covers that are certified as safety covers to give me peace of mind.
5. Ease of Installation and Storage
I preferred a cover that was easy to put on and take off, since I use my pool frequently. Some covers come with reels or rollers, which make handling the cover much simpler. Also, consider how easy it is to store the cover during the swimming season.
6. Durability and Weather Resistance
Since my pool is outdoors, I wanted a cover that could withstand sun exposure, wind, and rain. UV resistance and sturdy materials are important to avoid frequent replacements. Reading customer reviews helped me identify covers that last longer.
7. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely, so I balanced features against my budget. While I didn’t want to overspend, investing in a good-quality cover saved me money in the long run by protecting the pool and reducing maintenance.
8. Additional Features to Look For
Some covers offer extras like built-in water bags for securing the cover or compatibility with automatic pool cover systems. I also found that covers with clear instructions and good customer support made the whole experience smoother.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a cover for my small pool wasn’t complicated once I knew what to prioritize. By focusing on purpose, fit, material, safety, and durability, I found a cover that keeps my pool clean, safe, and ready for use. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice too!
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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