There’s never been easier access to a pool when it gets hot than an inflatable, or blow-up, pool. The inflatable pool is intended to provide an easy way to cool off for the entire family. Inflatable pools also come in a wide variety of designs which can alter the way each pool is experienced.
So, how can you know which inflatable pool will best suit you and/or your family’s needs? Well, for starters, we’ve created a list of inflatable pool reviews. We’ve compared features of the pools such as size, shape, function, etc. to determine the very blow-up pools on the market.
By comparing products with one another, we were able to comprise a comprehensive list to ensure you are informed if/when you choose to make a buying decision. Find out which inflatable pool works best for you!
Inflatable Pools: My Top Picks
1. INTEX 28131EH Easy Set 12 Feet x 30 Inch Inflatable Puncture Resistant Above Ground Swimming Pool
The first pool in review is the Intex 12ft x 30in Easy Set Pool Set with Filter Pump, the inflatable pool for adults. Many inflatable pools are designed specifically for the family, and more specifically for children.
This pool, while still appropriate for younger children under supervision, is the fittest of any we’ve reviewed for adult use. Manufactured by the trusted Intex brand, this pool is also the top-rated inflatable swimming pool.
The Intex Easy Set Pool Set is super simple to set up, requiring only the top ring to be inflated, after which point you begin adding water. The walls rise and fill out as the water fills the pool. Being the biggest blow-up pool it’s suitable for adults and for multiple people to enjoy at once.
Pros
- Ready for water in 10 minutes
- Comes with set up and maintenance DVD
- Dual suction outlet fittings and pump create hygienic, clear water
Cons
- Not suitable for setup on mud, sand, or soft soil
2. Summer Waves KB0706000 8.75ft x 26in Outdoor Inflatable Ring Above Ground 4 Person Deluxe Comfort Swimming Pool with Backrests and Cupholders
The final blow-up family pool in review is none other than an Intex model. The Summer Waves is designed to do specifically that – relax and lounge while keeping cool. This Intex family pool has a squarish design with each corner being a built-in chair.
The chairs aren’t just benches or divots to sit in either, they’re actual chairs with backrests. This unique pool is designed less for moving around and more specifically for relaxing, as its name suggests.
This inflatable pool is an awesome option for those looking to sit back, perhaps drink in hand, and enjoy a little relaxation with a cool-off. It’s suitable for the whole family (ages 3+) and is sure to keep you on call all season long.
Pros
- Seats (4) with backrests
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for 4 people
Cons
- Not suitable for assembly on mud, sand, or other soft surfaces
- Not suitable for children/toddlers under the age of 3
3. Intex 8ft X 30in Easy Set Pool Set with Filter Pump
This next pool in review is another Intex pool, placing it among the backyard inflatable pools. The Intex 8ft x 30in Easy Set Pool Set with Filter Pump is similar to the Easy Set pool reviewed at number one.
The difference lies in the size and the body shape. The pool is round at its mouth but the sidewalls have edges when the pool is filled. This pool is easy to set up.
This smaller Easy Set edition is great for those looking for a durable solution for cooling off in the hot weather. Being a small inflatable pool with a pump, the water is kept clean without replacing it every swim.
Pros
- Ready for water in 10 minutes
- Comes with set up and maintenance DVD
- Dual suction outlet fittings and pump create hygienic, clear water
Cons
- Not suitable for setup on mud, sand, or soft soil
4. Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool
The next pool in review is the Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool (103″ x 69″ x 22″) which is perhaps the inflatable above-ground pool. This edition of the pool, which comes in various sizes, is just over eight feet long and is meant to accommodate people of all sizes.
The pool walls are two layers of large, inflatable tubes stacked with one another. Coming through with another reliable product.
This Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool is ideal for those with younger children who also wish to enjoy the pool with them. While an adult won’t be able to swim per se, there is room to sit and cool off. While it’s a great option for you and your kids, keep in mind it isn’t recommended for children under six years of age.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for multiple people (accommodates family)
Cons
- Sidewalls cannot be leaned on, pushed, sat on, etc.
- Only suitable for those ages 6+
- Not suitable for assembly on mud, sand, soft soil, balconies, decks, concrete
5. Intex Kiddie Pool – Kid’s Summer Sunset Glow Design
The next pool in review is the only pool on the list that specifically identifies as a kiddie pool. The inflatable kiddie pool on the market is manufactured by none other than Intex.
The Intex Kiddie Pool with Kid’s Summer Sunset Glow Design sports bright, enjoyable colors to catch the eye of your toddlers.
The blow-up/inflatable pool for toddlers, the Intex Kiddie Pool is sure to create great experiences for your child while remaining in a safe environment. The padded, inflatable floor is more than ideal for all of the bumblings and stumbling young children do.
Being inflatable and smaller in size, the pool is super easy to assemble and store after every use, or however often you choose to store it. However, water should be frequently changed.
Pros
- Inflatable floor for added comfort and safety for your toddler/s
- Playfully bright colored
Cons
- No water filtration (water should be replaced every swim)
6. Intex Mandarin Swim Center Family Pool, 90″ x 60″ x 19″, for Ages 3+
Next up on the long list of inflatable swimming pools is the Intex Mandarin Swim Center Family Pool (90″ x 58″ x 18″). This is the same model as the previously mentioned Intex Swim Center Family Pool except that it is smaller in size, and different in color.
The sidewalls are formed from two stacked, inflatable tubes. As the name insinuates, the color of the pool walls is a light, orange type of color.
This Intex Mandarin Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool is great for those looking for a durable inflatable pool that can accommodate the whole family. The pool water only reaches a height of about 13 inches, making it a very safe option for those with young children or toddlers. The durable construction allows this pool to last and deliver awesome experiences time and time again!
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for multiple people (accommodates family)
Cons
- Sidewalls cannot be pushed, sat on, etc.
- Only suitable for those ages 3+
- Not suitable for assembly on mud, sand, soft soil, balconies, decks, concrete
7. Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool, 90″ X 90″ X 22″, for Ages 6+
While there aren’t many blow-up swimming pools for adults, this next pool serves as a bit of a sit-back-relax option for adults looking for a quick cool-off. The next rendition of the Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool is a more squared model. Like most Intex products, this pool is reliable and durable. Being inflatable, this pool can be ready as quickly as you can fill it.
This Intex Swim Center Family Inflatable Pool is a great option for those interested in a square, hot tub-like shape for their inflatable pool. This model also has a higher water height than the other Intex Swim Center models. Easy to assemble, this pool is way more fun than work and will provide great experiences all summer long!
Pros
- Deeper water more suitable for adults than other models
- Easily assembled
- Suited for multiple people
Cons
- No water filtration (water should be replaced every swim)
- Not suitable for set up on mud, sand, or other soft surfaces
8. Methink Toy Swim Summer Family Backyard Cabana Pool
The pool in review is another Intex Swim Center pool, although this model varies the most from the previously mentioned Swim Center Family pools. The Intex Family Cabana Swim Center Pool (122″ x 74″ x 51″)comes with an attachable cabana piece, as the title suggests.
The little cabana piece over the middle of the pool provides some shade in addition to the splashy fun. Having a generally rectangular shape, the pool has a decent length for play.
The Intex Family Cabana Swim Center Pool is ideal for those looking for a little comfort and shade while watching over their young ones. The pool is more than safe with accompanying supervision and is suitable for all children over the age of three.
Pros
- A built-in bench and detachable shading
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Should not be assembled on mud, sand, or soft surfaces
- Not suitable for children under 3 years of age
- Has an overflow hole below the water height line, requiring you to find a way to plug it to reach max water height
9. Bestway H2OGO! Two-In-One Wide Inflatable Family Outdoor Pool
The next pool up in the inflatable pool reviews is the Bestway H2OGO! Two-In-One Wide Inflatable Family Outdoor Pool is the first pool on the list that strays from the traditional round shape. Possibly the best inflatable family pool, this pool has a two-in-one design suited for children and adults.
Slightly more than half of the pool is designed for children, holding water at a limited height. The other portion of the pool designed for adults adds another layer of the pool wall to allow for more water height.
The Bestway H2OGO! Two-In-One Wide Inflatable Family Outdoor Pool is perfect for those looking to entertain the whole family or both adults and children with a small splashdown. The bench in the adult end faces the children’s end so that you can supervise young people while they do their own thing.
Pros
- Dual design, suitable for children and adults
- Slide for added fun
- Bench and cup holders for added comfort
Cons
- The slide takes up a good portion of the children’s end
- No water filtration (water should be replaced every swim)
10. Intex Crystal Blue Inflatable Pool
Next in review is another Intex brand pool. The Intex Crystal Blue Inflatable Pool may be the above-ground inflatable pool. The pool carries a round shape and is designed for younger children in particular.
The Crystal Blue Inflatable Pool is a great backyard option for cooling down on a hot day as it takes up very little space and is ready for swimming relatively quickly.
The Intex Crystal Blue Inflatable Pool is the perfect option for anyone with young children or even pets who need a quick and easy way to cool down in the hot months. Simply inflate and fill and the pool is ready for some swimming! It’s also incredibly easy to store as it is foldable and pliable when deflated.
Pros
- For children as young as 2 years of age
- Comes with a repair patch
- Simple assembly
Cons
- Not suitable for adults
- No water filtration (water should be replaced every swim)
Tips on Choosing
Keep an eye on the brand
With inflatable pools being so easy to manufacture, there are tons of options out there. To ensure you’re getting a quality product that won’t fail you it would be wise to keep an eye on the company or brand selling the product.
Some brands, such as Intex, have proven track records of manufacturing quality products that perform pretty well across the board. Sometimes something as quick as a web search for a brand or company can help you determine whether or not it’s one you’re comfortable doing business with.
Ask around
While inflatable pools are not necessarily all for children, a vast majority of them are most suited for children. That being said, you likely know others with children, like your children’s peers’ parents. There’s no harm in asking if they’ve had any experience with inflatable pools for their kids.
If this isn’t a feasible option for you or simply doesn’t get the job done, ask online groups or communities. Whether you’re asking questions via threads or just reading consumer reviews, the info they glean can only help.
Durability over design
While some inflatable pools are designed with unique shapes, not all are going to be designed with the same durability. Be sure to never sacrifice durability over the want of a style or add-on that may come with a pool. The durability of inflatable pools is the most important thing to note because cheaper models and brands will likely break or tear on you within a season.
Vinyl is a very sturdy material and many of the best options on the market utilize it for their sidewalls and pool construction. Whether or not an item is made of vinyl is generally a good first indication of its quality (though some will not be and can still be durable)
Factors To Consider
Type of inflatable pool
The first factor to consider is which type of inflatable pool you’re looking for. As we’ve seen from the small sample size of these reviews, inflatable pools come in a wide array of shapes.
Some are round, others squared, others squared with wavy walls, and some are even rectangular. There are plenty of options when it comes to shape. Which one you decide to buy is generally a matter of personal preference and what you would like to use the pool for.
Your space
The next factor to consider is your yard space. Where do you intend to place the pool? Most of the pools covered in this review cannot be assembled on top of mud, sand, or other soft soils and surfaces. Similarly, most of the models cannot be set up on solid surfaces like concrete and deck boards.
With that in mind, you want to be sure you have ample, suitable grass space for the model you desire to buy. It would be a shame to get a pool only to find that it won’t work out for you. Checking ahead of time will help avoid this.
Swimmers
Another factor and perhaps the most important is who’s going to be using the inflatable pool. Do you have young children and toddlers? Do you have pre-teen children? Are you looking at inflatables for yourself? The person or people using the pool are going to determine the model you should buy.
For toddlers and children ages three and younger, the tinier, low-depth water pools are the best option. If you have pre-teen children, larger options like the Intex Easy Set model may be more suited for your needs. So know your swimmers and know how they intend to use the pool.
Water capacity
A final factor to consider is water capacity. While some models may appear bigger due to a different shape, the water capacity will tell you how much water you’ll generally have at your disposal. Of course, be cautious of how much you rely on the capacity in your decision-making as various shapes could have different water heights for the same amount of water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the inflatable pools are going to be different for everyone. However, there are still factors and features such as durability that will elevate certain models over others, regardless of personal preference. We’ve created this list of reviews containing the items we see as the top ten on the market not to tell you which to buy but to point you in the right direction.
Having read these inflatable pool reviews and reviewed all of the products here, you should have the confidence to know what to look for as well as what you have in mind when it comes to a suitable inflatable pool.
Inflatable pools are fun for the whole family, especially for young children and toddlers. With so many options available, you’re sure to find one to bring a few splashes of fun to your backyard this swimming season. And speaking of it, it’s at the door and knocking. So, what are you waiting for? Find and buy the right inflatable pool for you ASAP!
