As a homeowner, you can use the same tools and equipment that professionals use to clean and maintain your swimming pool. From brushing and skimming to vacuuming and everything in between, there are a variety of products available to help you get your pool squeaky-clean quickly.
We have put together a list of essential pool cleaning supplies that every pool owner should have. Whether you have a small or large pool, these supplies are necessary for cleaning and maintaining a healthy swimming pool.
With the help of these pool cleaning tools and equipment, you can keep your pool in pristine condition throughout the season and not have to hire a pool service professional.
Essential Pool Cleaning Equipment List for Pool Owners:
- Pool Skimmer net
- Pool Brush
- Leaf Rakes
- Vacuum head
- Vacuum hose
- Telescopic pole
- Pool Caddy
- Handheld Pool Vacuum
- Automatic Pool Cleaner
1. Pool Skimmer Net
A pool skimmer net is a tool used to remove debris, such as leaves, twigs, bugs, and other debris, from the surface of a swimming pool. The net is attached to the end of a telescopic pole, which allows you to reach different parts of the pool. These types of nets can be purchased at a variety of price points, ranging from around $15 to $20.
To use the skimmer net, hold the handle with one hand, lower it into the water until it is submerged about half an inch below where dirt collects on its surface, and quickly pull up to retain all objects, including floating leaves, within reach
2. Pool Brush
A pool brush is a great tool for scrubbing dirt off the walls and floors of your swimming pool before vacuuming. The brush is attached to the end of a telescopic pole, which allows you to reach the hard to reach areas of the pool. These types of pool brushes can be purchased at a variety of price points, ranging from around $15 to $25.
Brushing a pool can prevent scale, stains, algae, and etching. Scale is formed when particles settle and build up on the bottom of the pool. Stains can be caused by dirt, minerals, oils, or metal objects. Algae grows in the micro-pores of the pool surface and can be prevented by brushing. Brushing the pool after adding chemicals can also prevent etching, keeping the pool surface soft and smooth.
To use the pool brush, start by brushing the steps, benches, and shallow end walls with a short pole. Then, use the pole to brush the shallow end floor towards the deep end drain. Finally, use the pole to brush the deep end walls and floor. Remember to keep your back straight and use a long reach, pulling in on the pole with your guide hand to keep the brush firmly against the surface.
3. Leaf Rake
A pool leaf rake is a tool that is used to remove leaves, debris, and other small objects from the surface of a swimming pool. It is similar to a pool skimmer net, but is designed with a deep bag that makes it particularly effective at picking up and holding large amounts of surface debris.
The pool leaf rake is attached to the end of a telescopic pole, which allows you to reach different parts of the pool. These types of rakes can be purchased at a variety of price points, ranging from around $40 to $50.
To use a pool leaf rake, simply assemble the rake, position yourself at the edge of the pool, and use a sweeping motion to collect leaves, debris, and other small objects from the surface of the water. When the rake bag becomes full, lift it out of the water and dump the collected debris into a garbage bag or waste container.
4. Vacuum head
A pool vacuum head is a tool that is used to remove dirt, debris, and other small particles from the bottom and walls of a swimming pool. It is typically attached to a long, flexible hose, which is connected to a pool pump or filter system. When the pump or filter system is turned on, it creates suction that pulls the debris off the pool surface and into the hose, where it is then filtered out of the water.
There are several different types of pool vacuum heads available, including brush models and roller models. Brush models are good for brushing the pool as well as vacuuming, and are particularly useful for vinyl pools. Roller models are better for speed and are less likely to cause wheel marks or stick to the pool surface.
Both types of vacuum heads can be used in concrete or fiberglass pools, but brush models are generally considered safer and more versatile.
5. Vacuum hose
A pool vacuum hose is a flexible, tube-like device that is used to connect a pool vacuum head to a pump or filter system. It is typically made from a synthetic resin material that is resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and crushing, and is designed to be lightweight, maneuverable, and floatable.
Pool vacuum hoses are available in a range of lengths, including 30 feet, 35 feet, 40 feet, 45 feet, and 50 feet, to suit different pool sizes and configurations.
6. Telescopic pole
A telescopic pole is a useful tool for various pool maintenance tasks such as scrubbing, skimming, and vacuuming. These poles are able to extend and collapse in size, providing you with the necessary reach and flexibility to clean your pool.
When choosing a telescopic pole for your pool, it is important to select a long one with thick tubes and heavy aluminum construction to ensure durability and strength. This will help to ensure that the pole can handle the weight of any attachments and withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Some telescopic poles also have additional features such as a dual lock system or a push-button extension mechanism, which make it easier to adjust the length of the pole and lock it into place.
Telescopic poles are an essential tool for anyone who owns a swimming pool, as they allow you to easily connect cleaning attachments and reach hard-to-access areas of the pool.
7. Pool Caddy
A pool tool caddy is a handy storage container that can hold a variety of pool cleaning equipment, including brushes, poles, test kits, and chemicals. It is an essential tool for pool service professionals, as it allows you to easily transport and organize all of the supplies you need to keep a swimming pool clean and well-maintained.
8. Handheld Pool Vacuum
A handheld pool vacuum is a portable device that is used to quickly clean specific areas of a swimming pool. It is powered by a battery and is equipped with a debris chamber to collect dirt and debris. The vacuum also comes with an adapter that allows it to be attached to a telescoping pole, enabling it to reach different parts of the pool for cleaning.
Pool owners appreciate this tool because it is easy to use and effective at removing dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the surface and bottom of the pool. The compact size and lightweight design of the handheld pool vacuum make it convenient and easy to use, store, and transport.
9. Automatic Pool Cleaner
An automatic pool cleaner is a device that is used to clean the floor and walls of a swimming pool. It is designed to remove dirt, debris, and leaves without requiring manual labor. Automatic pool cleaners are a convenient and effective way to maintain a clean pool, especially if you lack the time or energy to clean it manually.
There are three types of automatic pool cleaners, including suction cleaners, pressure cleaners, and robotic cleaners, each with its own unique features and capabilities.
Prices for automatic pool cleaners can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic model to several thousand dollars for a more advanced model, depending on the type, size, and features of the device.
Pool Cleaning Equipment Price List
Please note that the prices listed below may vary depending on the size, quality, and brand. It is important to carefully research and compare different products before making a purchase.
These prices should be used as a general guideline and may not reflect the actual cost of the equipment at your specific location.
| Product Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pool Skimmer Net | $15-$20 |
| Pool Brush | $15-$25 |
| Leaf Rakes | $40-50 |
| Vacuum head | $35-45 |
| Vacuum hose | $35-$55 |
| Telescopic pole | $35-$65 |
| Pool Caddy | $110-$130 |
| Handheld Pool Vacuum | $65-$140 |
| Automatic Pool Cleaner | $299-$1500+ |
What Pool Cleaning Tools Can Be Used for Removing Leaves Out of a Pool?
There are several effective ways to remove leaves from a pool. One option is a pool leaf rake, which is an easy and inexpensive way to remove small amounts of leaves. For larger quantities of leaves on the bottom of the pool, a pool leaf vacuum may be more suitable. If there are floating leaves and debris on the surface of the water, a surface pool skimmer can be effective in removing them. For a large amount of leaves and debris on the surface, a solar pool skimmer may be the best option.
List of pool cleaning equipment that can be used to clean and remove leaves from a pool:
- Use a pool leaf rake for small amounts of leaves, which is the easiest and most affordable option.
- Use a pool leaf vacuum for larger amounts of leaves on the pool floor.
- Use a surface pool skimmer for small to medium amounts floating leaves and debris on the surface.
- Use a solar pool skimmer for large amounts of surface debris and leaves.
For dealing with large amounts of trees that shed leaves, including pecans, pine, oaks, and maples, that fall into your pool we recommend a Leaf Master a type of leaf vacuum that is design to clean bottom of swimming pools.
Regular use of these tools can help maintain a clean pool by preventing the accumulation of leaves.
What Pool Cleaning Equipment Do Professional Pool Cleaners Use?
Ryan, a pool cleaner from the Arizona-based company, Pool Rescuers, recommends the following tools for new pool owners to get started with cleaning their pool
Basic pool tools for cleaning:
- Vacuum Head
- Vacuum Hose
- Net
- Brush
- Pole
- Caddy
- Water Test Kit
David Van Brunt, who has been in the pool cleaning service business for over 30 years, recommends the following pool cleaning equipment brands and products:
- SweepEase Green 18 Inch Pool Brush (Pool brush)
- Pentair R201276 Pro Vac #214 Commercial Vac Head (Vacuum head)
- Purity Pool Red Baron 20-Inch Professional Leaf Rake (Leaf rake)
- Pool Blaster Catfish by Water Tech (Handheld pool vacuum)
- Skimlite 9000 Dually Series Three Piece Pool (Telescopic pole)
Final Thoughts
As a pool owner, it is important to have the necessary tools and equipment to effectively clean and maintain your swimming pool. These products can help you keep your pool in top condition and avoid the need for professional pool services.
While it may require an initial investment, having the right pool cleaning supplies on hand can save you time and money in the long run. Whether you have a small or large pool, be sure to have the essentials on hand to ensure that your pool stays clean and healthy all season long.
