The best pool cleaners are the ones that keep your swimming pool ready to use all summer long.
A pool cleaner scrubs, vacuums, and filters out the stuff you don’t want floating around. Additionally, by removing leaves, dirt, bugs, and algae, the right cleaner helps your pool stay safe and clear with less effort.
Below, we’ve put together a closer look at why investing in the right pool cleaner matters for every pool owner.
Why Every Pool Owner Needs a Reliable Pool Cleaner
Every pool picks up its share of leaves, dirt, and other debris. And without a reliable pool cleaner, that buildup gets into your filters and can clog your system, leading to murky water. Luckily, all it takes is regular cleanings to keep your pool looking better and running longer.
The bottom line is that the best pool cleaners give you back your time. Automatic pool cleaners take over the work of skimming and scrubbing, which means you spend more time enjoying your pool and less time worrying about it.
But cleaning your pool isn’t just about keeping it looking nice. Dirty water breeds bacteria and algae that put your health at risk. Therefore, a consistent cleaning routine helps reduce those risks and keeps your water safer to swim in.
Lastly, a clean pool is easier on your wallet, too. By preventing debris from damaging pumps or filters, you’re less likely to deal with costly repairs. Plus, the best pool cleaners help your pool equipment last longer and run better.
Understand Your Pool Type Before Shopping
Before you pick out a cleaner, you need to know what kind of pool you have. The type, size, and shape of your pool all determine the best pool cleaners for your needs.
As you can imagine, above-ground and in-ground pools have different needs. Above-ground models are usually smaller and lighter. On the other hand, in-ground pools are often deeper, larger, and have more complex surfaces.
A few other things to keep in mind:
- Size & shape: Bigger pools may need cleaners with longer cords or more power. Meanwhile, pools with odd shapes or tight corners call for cleaners that can easily navigate around the pool.
- Surface material: Pools can be made from vinyl, fiberglass, concrete, or tile. Each surface may require a different type of cleaner or brush style to avoid damage.
- Debris load: Pools under trees or in windy areas often fill up with leaves, twigs, or dirt. Others may only need light maintenance for sand or bugs.
- Filtration system: Some cleaners rely on your pool’s built-in pump, while others operate on their own power. You’ll want to match your cleaner to what your setup can handle.
- Budget & use habits: Some people want a hands-off cleaner that runs on a schedule. Meanwhile, others prefer something manual and inexpensive. Think about how often you swim and how much time you want to spend on pool cleaning before you buy.
Knowing your pool type gives you a clear starting point. And it narrows the list so you can focus on the best pool cleaners for your setup.
Types of Pool Cleaners to Know Before You Buy
Before you can choose the best pool cleaner, it helps to understand the main types available. Each one works differently, connects in its own way, and suits certain pool setups better than others.
Here’s a quick guide to your options:
Smart Robotic Pool Cleaners
While generally the most expensive option, smart robotic pool cleaners are an excellent choice for pool owners who want deep cleaning with minimal effort. These cleaners plug into a standard electrical outlet and work completely separate from your pool’s filtration system. This way, it takes pressure off your equipment and simplifies the setup.
Another plus is that these pool cleaners use built-in motors and sensors to scan your pool and follow smart, efficient cleaning paths. That means better coverage and fewer missed spots, even in corners or along the waterline.
Additionally, many models offer extra features like:
- Scheduling
- Wi-Fi app control
- Advanced filtration
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi is a good example of a smart robotic pool cleaner. It includes a great list of benefits inlcuding:
- A 2-hour cleaning cycle
- Weekly smart timer
- Top-load filter basket that traps sand and fine debris
Fortunately, robotic pool cleaners work well for both in-ground and above-ground setups. So, if you want hands-free cleaning and cleaner water with less work, they’re worth a close look.
Suction-Side Pool Cleaners
Suction-side pool cleaners hook directly to your pool’s skimmer or a dedicated suction line. They rely on your pool’s existing pump to move around and collect debris, making them one of the simplest and most affordable options out there.
These cleaners work like underwater vacuums, pulling in leaves, dirt, and sand through the hose and into your pool’s filtration system. This could be one of the best pool cleaners for small to medium ground pools that have light to moderate debris.
One well-reviewed example of a suction-side pool cleaner is the Hayward PoolCleaner 2-Wheel Suction Vacuum. It uses patented tire treads for climbing and internal gears to shift direction every 8–10 ft., helping it cover the entire pool floor.
Other benefits of this pool cleaner include:
- Easy installation
- No tools required for maintenance
- A 32-foot hose that fits most in-ground pool setups included
If you want something a bit more budget-friendly than a fully-robotic pool cleaner that still gets the job done, suction pool cleaners are worth considering.
Pressure-Side Pool Cleaners
Pressure-side pool cleaners connect to a return jet in your pool and use the water pressure, sometimes boosted by an extra pump, to zip around and pick up debris. So, instead of relying on your pool’s main filter, they collect debris in a separate bag. This process helps take the load off your filtration system and keeps things running smoothly.
These cleaners are great for pools that see a lot of leaves, acorns, or larger debris. This is because the strong jets help stir up particles and sweep them into the cleaner’s path.
A good example of a pressure-side pool cleaner is the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280. It uses dual jets for fast cleaning, can handle large debris through its wide intake throat, and finishes most jobs in under three hours. Though it does require a dedicated pressure line and booster pump, it’s a proven option for heavier-duty cleanups.
So, if your pool sits near trees or deals with a lot of yard mess, a pressure-side cleaner can save you from skimming and scooping all season.
Manual Pool Cleaners
Manual pool cleaners give you full control over the cleaning process. These tools attach to a telescopic pole and either a garden hose or a suction line. Then, you guide them by hand to scrub, vacuum, or scoop out debris. Though they take more time and effort than automatic options, they’re inexpensive and easy to use.
Manual pool cleaners are best for spot cleaning or maintaining small above-ground pools. So if your pool only gets the occasional leaf pile or dirt patch, a manual cleaner can take care of it without much setup.
One budget-friendly manual cleaner is the Poolmaster Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum. It uses eight water jets powered by a standard garden hose to push leaves into a mesh bag. Plus, with its four wheels and swivel handle, it moves easily across most surfaces and weighs under 2 lbs.
As a backup or starter option, you can’t go wrong with a manual pool cleaner. They’re simple, portable, and give you the precision to clean exactly where you need to.
Battery-Powered Handheld Cleaners
Battery-powered handheld cleaners are cordless pool vacuums built for convenience. They run on rechargeable batteries, which means no hoses, no cords, and no setup headaches. Just grab it, press the button, and start cleaning.
These cleaners are perfect for small jobs, like tidying up spas, steps, or above-ground pools. Also, they’re lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for spot cleaning between deep clean cycles.
A solid example of a battery-powered handheld cleaner is the Pool Blaster Max Cordless Rechargeable Cleaner. It offers up to 60 minutes of runtime per charge and includes a pivoting vacuum head with brushes. Plus, the internal filter bag handles both fine silt and larger debris without the need for hoses or an external pump.
So, if you want a quick, grab-and-go way to keep your pool fresh, a battery-powered handheld cleaner can be a smart add-on to your pool care routine.
How to Get the Most From Your Pool Cleaner
Owning a pool cleaner makes upkeep easier, but you still need a few good habits to get the best results.
Try pairing your cleaner with this simple maintenance checklist to keep your pool looking its best:
- Empty the filter basket often: A full basket slows suction and makes robotic cleaners less effective.
- Inspect hoses & connections often: Look for wear or cracks, especially after storms or heavy use.
- Use built-in features: Timers and cleaning cycles help prevent debris buildup with less work for you.
- Keep your water balanced: Poor water chemistry can reduce cleaning performance and lead to algae.
- Brush & skim weekly: This supports your cleaner and helps cover spots it might miss.
Choosing the Best Pool Cleaners for Your Swimming Pool
Choosing the best pool cleaner starts with knowing your pool type, but it also depends on your routine, budget, and cleaning needs.
If you want something hands-off with advanced features, a robotic pool cleaner is hard to beat. It handles the cleaning cycle independently, works well in most pool types, and reduces wear on your filtration system.
Meanwhile, suction pool cleaners are better if you’re looking for something affordable that hooks into what you already have. Plus, they work great in smaller pools and handle light debris well.
Then, if you get a lot of large debris, like leaves or acorns, pressure-side models are a stronger choice. They keep junk out of your filter and often clean faster than suction types.
On the other hand, manual cleaners and handheld vacuums work best for small pools or specific areas like steps or spas. They’re budget-friendly and easy to store, though they require more hands-on time.
Each type of cleaner comes with trade-offs. So, start by thinking about how often you swim, how messy your pool gets, and how much effort you want to spend. Then, choose the cleaner that fits your habits, not just your pool.
Keep Your Pool Clear Without the Hassle
A clean pool shouldn’t feel like a full-time job. With the right pool cleaner matched to your setup, you can spend less time scrubbing and more time swimming.
From robotic models to handheld vacuums, there’s a cleaner out there that fits your pool, your schedule, and your budget. Pick the best pool cleaners for your system and enjoy crystal-clear water all summer long.
