Inflatable swimming pools have been a common sight in backyards for many a summer. If you’re like most people, you know firsthand the joy of being a child and splashing around in a kiddie pool in the backyard. Regardless, it’s easy to see why blow up pools been so popular for so long – they’re cheap, convenient, and tons of fun.
You can find inflatable pools on the shelves of brick and mortar stores in every town, and there’s a dizzying selection of unique blow up pools for sale online. But before you drop one into your shopping cart or click the Place Order button, there are a few important facts you should know:
1. They don’t last forever
First off, it’s important to set your expectations appropriately. You’re not getting a permanent pool, or even one that will necessarily last all summer. Certainly you can expect to get more use out of a higher-end pool made of quality materials – but any time you’re talking about an inflatable item used outdoors, there’s really no telling how long it will last. If you’re looking for durability, consider an easy set or other type of above ground pool (of course, you’ll have to pay more).
2. Leaks are a common complaint
When inflatable pools do get tossed out, it’s often because they spring one or more air leaks. However, even new pools can have this problem due to mishaps in manufacturing or shipping. When looking through reviews, keep in mind that just about every model of blow up pool is going to have a few customers who are unhappy with the product for this very reason. The best thing you can do about it is to look for pools that have fewer complaints and/or feature multiple air chambers (so they don’t completely deflate from a single leak).
3. They can be a bear to inflate
You can blow up small pools the old-fashioned way – with your mouth. But these days there are plenty of larger inflatable pools that will leave you gasping for air (including some that are designed to hold adults). For these pools, you may want to invest in a pump (electric or manual) or air compressor. Be sure to read the product documentation to make sure you don’t pop your new pool with a non-recommended inflation method.
4. You definitely need a level spot
Here’s another point that applies mostly to larger pools, but it’s a big one. Because inflatable pools are so shallow, even a small slope in the ground underneath them will be noticeable. This could seriously hamper your enjoyment of the pool. When considering what size pool to get, think in particular about how much level ground you have in your yard.
5. Safety is a big issue
Drowning isn’t something anyone likes to think about, especially in connection with a kiddie pool. However, it’s precisely because people don’t think about it that drownings happen routinely in inflatable pools – oftentimes involving children under five. The most important safety advice is to a) supervise children when they’re using the pool, and b) make certain they can’t access it when you’re not around. For more tips, check out this article on above ground pool safety.
Inflatable swimming pools are all about fun, but when you’re plunking down your hard-earned money, it’s time to get serious. Knowing the facts above can help you choose the best pool for you and your family, so you can make the most of your summer.
