The 15 Best Pool Accessories

As pool owners, we can easily get caught up in the mundane maintenance and responsibility of it all. That’s one reason it’s good to take a step back once in a while and remember why you wanted a pool in the first place.

Chances are you weren’t sitting in your recliner thinking, “I wish I had more boring chores.” 

No, you were probably dreaming of pool parties, backyard barbecues, and some much-needed family time.

One way to put the fun back in your pool life is to add some fun accessories that everyone can enjoy. Whether it’s a volleyball set to get everyone outdoors and playing or some colorful lights to add character and whimsy, these fun items will remind you why you thought putting in a pool was a good idea.

Of course, aside from toys and fun, some of these items made our list because they’re practical and save you time. 

After all, if they cut down your maintenance time, that also gives you time to enjoy your pool. Am I right?

The 15 Best Pool Accessories

#1. Floating Inflatable Lounge

The number one accessory every pool needs is a floating lounge and this one takes the cake in that category. Perfect for all ages, this floating recliner conforms to your body in the most comfortable way. 

The armrests are complete with cup holders on each side. And the heavy-duty handles give you some stability in rougher waters. 

This product is made from super-durable 18-gauge vinyl so your whole family can enjoy it wherever you go.

#2. FrogLog Animal Escape Ramp

A FrogLog is exactly what it sounds like. Well, almost exactly…

This cool little floater serves as an escape ramp for frogs and other critters that might find themselves in your pool with no way to get out. Think of all the little lives you could save — turtles, chipmunks, birds, rabbits, and even small dogs. 

But saving lives isn’t the only benefit. It will also save you time and money in maintenance and clean-up.

If you’ve ever had to scoop a dead bird or rodent out of your water, you know exactly what we’re talking about.

The way it works is you set the sandbag end directly on the side, allowing the floater to hang over into the water. Then animals, amphibians, pests, and rodents have a sure-footed escape if they happen to fall in.

#3. Intex Solar Cover

Every pool needs a cover to protect it from debris or rain that can mess with its chemistry. This one is designed for round 12-ft diameter above ground pools and it’s as easy to store as it is to use.

The Intex Solar Cover uses the sun to retain heat in the water beneath it. That means less work on your pool heater and less energy used.

It also reduces evaporation by 90% so you won’t have to continually fill the pool. 

The drain holes in the top are small enough to keep out debris, but still prevent rainwater or dew from pooling and making it heavier.

#4. HydroTools Floating Pool Dispenser

There are different ways to chlorinate a pool, but the floating dispenser is one of the easiest. This particular one holds both one or three-inch chlorine tablets and has an adjustable control ring.

The product is made to last with durable plastic and should last you for several years. 

All you do is pop in a chlorine or bromine tablet (whichever you currently use), lock the cap, adjust it to its proper setting, and throw it in the pool. It will automatically float around and distribute the appropriate amount of chemicals to keep your water safe and clean.

#5. GoFloats Pool Drink Holders

These are the perfect accessories for a pool or hot tub party. They’re little inflatable drink holders that keep your drinks floating on top of the water without spilling over.

Each package contains a set of three cup holders in the design of your choice. You can choose from swans, flamingos, bulls, parrots, eagles, and several more. 

We suggest buying a few different types so everyone can easily identify their own beverage.

#6. Robarb Super Blue Clarifier

You may not be a chemical every pool owner thinks of buying right off the bat, but they definitely should!

What a product like this does is clump small particles and debris together so that it can be more easily filtered out. It keeps your water from getting muggy and hazy from all that gunk that keeps circulating through your filters.

On top of that, it can reduce the amount of sanitizer you need to use by removing dirt particles that throw off the chemistry.

The Robarb Super Pool Clarifier is concentrated so you only need an ounce for every 5,000 gallons. And it’s fast-working and won’t clog your filters.

#7. AQUA Inflatable Hammock

We like this little 4-in-1 floating hammock because it’s so versatile. It can be a saddle, lounge, hammock, or drifter. And it’s also small and completely portable.

Those big floats are nice if you have the space. But this one doesn’t take up much room and it’s much easier to get on and off of. That makes it perfect for older folks or expecting moms.

The product comes in orange, pink, or teal, and can also be ordered in extra large to hold 2 adults. 

#8. Swimline Vacuum Head

A pool vacuum is a must-have for any pool owner and this one is lightweight, easy to assemble, and easy to use.

These work by hooking them up to a pole and pool hose and attaching it to your skimmer. Then you place the weighted head in the water and move it around the bottom of the pool until it’s clean.

We recommend using this with your weekly maintenance routine after you’ve brushed the pool walls. But definitely use it more often if needed. 

#9. Qoolife Submersible LED Lights

If you don’t have lights installed in the walls of your pool, these submersible LED lights are a great substitution. And even if you do, these are still a fun addition.

Each one of these lights is 3” in diameter and can change between 16 different colors and various modes. They run on simple AAA batteries and last up to 12 hours.

They come in packs of two, complete with a remote control. Simply drop them in the pool, where they will sink to the bottom and watch them light up the water. They’re perfect for parties!

#10. Flamingo Towel Clips

These little flamingo clips are great accessories to keep around the pool. But they don’t just come as flamingos. You can also choose from parrots, dolphins, flip flops, and more.

They have a super strong grip so you can hang your towel on a fence or secure it to your deck chair. Or you can use one to hold your towel in place around your waist.

These clips can be used anywhere but lots of people buy them for the beach so they can keep their towels above the sand. Or they buy them for cruises or pool parties just to keep everything dry.

#11. Evob Leaf Skimmer

One of the most important tasks on every pool owner’s maintenance list is keeping leaves and debris out of the water. That’s why we all have to keep a skimmer on hand to make the job easier.

This pool skimmer is lightweight, but still sturdy enough not to break with large scoops of leaves. The plastic frame is shaped with somewhat of a shovel edge so you can scrape up debris at the bottom of the pool with no problem.

The net connects to the end of a standard pool pole. 

#12. COWIN Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

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What’s better than a floating pool light? A floating pool light with a Bluetooth speaker!

These waterproof floating speakers have enhanced bass and a 10W subwoofer for extra loud sound. So, believe it or not, one speaker provides plenty of sound for everyone in an average-sized pool. 

The product is designed with a rubberized exterior so impact with the side of the pool won’t hurt it. And its lithium batteries will provide hours of entertainment.

As an added bonus, they have a 32-color LED display on top. 

#13. Inflatable Pool Volleyball & Basketball Net

Playing games in the pool has never been easier. This floating inflatable set comes with an inflatable volleyball net, 2 weighted bags, inflatable hoops, and two inflatable balls.

With this set, you can choose between water volleyball or basketball and entertain everyone in the swimming pool. 

The set is made from high-quality raft vinyl and is completely non-toxic and safe for kids. It’s also easy to set up for instant play.

#14. Aquatix Pool Pole Hanger

Remember the skimmer we told you that you needed earlier? Well, here’s what you need to hang it on.

These hooks come in sets of 4. They are heavy-duty aluminum so they’re rust-resistant and lightweight. 

Each bracket will hold up to 33 lbs. so you can hang almost any accessory. You can use them for plants, hoses, nets, and all other types of pool or outdoor tools. 

#15. Pool Pong Rack

Beer pong in the pool? Okay!

This pool pong pack includes two inflatable floating rafts with six cup holders each. It also comes with three balls for playing pong while you swim. 

But even when you’re not playing, it serves as the perfect little caddy for floating some drinks out to your friends. And its design keeps it from flipping over, even when you’re making waves.

What Does Every Pool Owner Need?

OK, so we just listed 15 pool accessories that are really cool to have, but not all of them make the “completely necessary” list. In other words, you could probably live without the pool pong set if you don’t allow drinks in your swimming pool.

But there are a few things that every pool owner really does need, no matter what size or type of pool you have.

Skimmer

First of all, you need a net (or skimmer) to keep debris out of your pool. You absolutely cannot keep your pool chemicals balanced if you let the water get dirty.

Pool Test Kit

Speaking of pool chemistry, swimming pool owners need to keep a test kit on hand. It’s recommended that you test the water at least once a week. But if you have problems with the water, it may be a daily chore at times. 

Scrubber

A scrubber just looks like a big push-broom you use to clean the walls of the pool. This will help you keep algae and calcium build-up to a minimum.

Vacuum

A pool vacuum is another must-have as you will use it to suck up the debris left on the bottom of the pool after scrubbing it. This will help you keep your water sparkling clean all year round.

Pool Cover

Pools should be covered as much as possible when not in use. This not only keeps them clean. It also helps keep the heat in so you don’t use as much energy.

Types of Pool Accessories

There are several types of swimming pool accessories you can buy. Some are essential and some are non-essential. But deciding what category they fall in can depend largely on your own needs.

• Entertainment Accessories

Accessories you can buy for entertainment include things like Bluetooth speakers, game sets, drink holders, and inflatable pool floaties. These are items you might use for a party or simply to have a little more fun on your own.

• Convenience Accessories

Convenience accessories might include things like floating chlorinators or robotic vacuums. You can measure your own chlorine and use a push vacuum, but these tools can make your life a whole lot easier.

• Cleaning Accessories

Some of the cleaning accessories are also for convenience, but certain ones are absolute essentials. For example, every pool owner needs a skimmer net to clean out leaves. But a robotic vacuum can be considered more of a convenience.

• Aesthetic Accessories

If you go to the trouble of putting a pool in your yard, you probably want it to look nice. Accessories to spruce it up might include lights, fountains, or decking.

Best Pool Accessory Features

Depending on the type of accessory and how you intend to use it, there are a few features you should look for.

For one thing, pool accessories should be easy to use and easy to put away. Struggling with a huge pool toy that’s a hassle to take down at the end of the season can be more of an inconvenience than a source of fun.

Pool accessories should also be well-made. Look for quality material, such as raft-grade vinyl that won’t tear up the first time you use it.

UV protection is another feature you’ll see in a lot of floating lounges. This keeps the sun from breaking down the material.

What are the best pool toys?

A few of the items we listed are actually pool toys and they happen to be some of our faves. But the best pool toys for you depends on where you want to use them.

One thing to consider is the size of your pool and how many people are usually in it. If you have a good-sized pool, a volleyball set is a fantastic pool toy to invest in. 

On the other hand, if you have a small pool, a couple of beach balls may be all you have room for. 

Aside from that, some other cool toys include dive rings that sink to the bottom, unicorn pool floats perfect for all ages, and floating activity centers for babies.

How do you store pool accessories?

Storing pool accessories can be a little challenging. Floating toys can blow away, pool covers can be heavy, and smaller items have a tendency to get lost.

But the best way to store pool accessories is to have a designated space for each item. 

Poles, skimmers, and safety rings can be stored safely on the fence with hooks. This keeps them out of the way and organized so you’re not having to hunt them down when you need them.

Inflatable accessories can either be stored in storage bins or on shelves in the garage or shed. These shouldn’t be left on the ground for long periods of time where they can get dirty or damaged.

All items should be rinsed off and allowed to dry before putting them away. This will keep lingering pool chemicals or debris from drying out plastic or corroding metal.

Conclusion

Almost all pool owners have lists of items they’d like to have to make their pool more enjoyable or easier to maintain. For you, that might include games and toys to keep the kids entertained, or it might include fun party items like drink holders and floats.

Whatever happens to be on your list, you’re sure to find something that suits you here. What’s your favorite pool accessory?