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6 Best Inflatable Pools You’ll Use Every Day This Summer

Updated: Apr. 10, 2024

Cool off fast with an easy-to-set-up inflatable pool for every sized backyard.

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Family enjoying an inflatable pool in the summer time
Peter Cade/Getty Images

Make a splash!

As we get ready for another sweaty summer ahead it’s time to think about quick and easy ways to cool off. Whether you’re low on space or want immediate gratification, an inflatable pool is a great option to add some chill to your backyard. Besides, inflatable pools are both practical and more affordable than in-ground pools. They also offer all the fun and relaxing summer vibes without any of the stress of keeping up a pool year-round.

On a more practical level, inflatable pools are available immediately, so you don’t have to wait months to literally dive right in.

“Right now, it’s all about availability. Many pool builders are booked out until next year, and the above-ground pool market is severely depleted, so most people looking to enjoy the water are left with limited options,” said Tracy Dick, pool expert at Leslie’s. “If you want to swim this summer, an inflatable pool is your best bet.”

Before you start shopping, Dick offered some tips:

  • How and where will it be used? The most important thing to consider when shopping for an inflatable pool is where and how it will be used. Before you begin the shopping process, Dick said to “make sure you’ve got a location identified that is large enough for your needs, flat enough, on compacted and firm ground, and with enough clearance from balconies, decks, platforms, and potential sources of electricity.
  • Safety first: Before you even consider a pool, assess your space and set up a safety plan. That includes designating someone to be a “pool watcher” whose only job is to watch the pool. To make things easier, change the pool watcher every 10 or 15 minutes. Drowning isn’t the only pool danger you need to be aware of.
  • Get the proper size: To get the most enjoyment, Dick said that “it’s vital to get a pool that is large enough to comfortably hold the maximum number of swimmers you might have.”

Other considerations include the cost for water to fill your pool, the cost of supplies needed to maintain your pool’s condition and your water’s health, and if you will need any type of permit from your local authorities. The last thing you want to do is purchase an inflatable pool and find out that it’s not permitted or requires significant legal approval.

After you find the best inflatable pool, pick out the best swimsuit and a chic pair of sunglasses and get ready to have some fun.

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ACTION AIR Inflatable Waterslide via amazon.com

via amazon.com

If you can’t spend the entire summer at the water park, here’s the next best thing. This cool inflatable pool combines all the thrilling elements of a water slide combined with an inflatable pool that comes with a blower motor and can be inflated in less than three minutes. At $400+, this is not the kiddie pool you splashed around in as a kid, but it’s definitely our pick for best backyard game. Speaking of, take a look at these inflatable sprinklers that’ll add to the fun.

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ban.do Red Heart-Shaped Inflatable Swimming Pool via amazon.com

via amazon.com

One of the more fun aspects of inflatable pools is that you can go a bit crazier with your choices than you would with a backyard swimming pool. So while you might not want a heart-shaped in-ground pool, you can show off your love with a more temporary version. This cute pool is 24 inches deep, so it’s probably a better pick for adults and we officially declare this one the best pool for couples!

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Summer Waves Above Ground Inflatable Swimming Pool via amazon.com

via amazon.com

If you’re as picky about your inflatable pool as you are about your outdoor decor, you might be looking for something a bit more subtle. With a 10-foot circumference, this pool has enough room for everyone to play comfortably and a subtle basket weave design that adds a bit of elegance to all the merriment.

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Intex Miniature Outdoor Frame Beginner Teaching Above Ground Square Kiddie Swimming Pool via target.com

via target.com

If you’re limited in space but still want your kids to have fun splashing around this summer, this teeny pool is a great pick. At only 4-foot x 4-foot the pool has a small footprint but with foam padding and comfort beams, it offers a great option to teach even the tiniest paddlers to swim.

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Minnidip Pool: That's Banana leaves via target.com

via target.com

We are obsessed with this pool which is described as being an “Adult Kiddie Pool.” Decorated with palm leaves in several shades of green along with a hint of coral, this inflatable pool is just waiting patiently to grace your Instagram feed. Add some tropical-themed cocktails and you’ll know why it’s also our pick for the most stylish inflatable swimming pool. Bonus points for providing your besties with an inflatable beach pillow so they can get some beauty sleep while lazing in the sunshine. If you plan on staying in the water for hours, consider purchasing some sun-protective clothing.

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Intex 120V Electric Air Pump & Intex Inflatable Ocean Scene Sun Shade Kids Pool via amazon.com

via amazon.com

OK, so it’s not exactly one of the most extravagant hotel pools in the world, but this inflatable swimming pool is adorable and just the slightest bit sneaky. With a built-in sunshade, you can feel a bit better about junior splashing outdoors knowing there’s a clever canopy blocking some of the sun.