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10 Best Pool Cleaners

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Pool Cleaners

Choosing the right pool cleaner can make a big difference in how much time and effort you spend keeping your swimming pool clean. The main goal is to find a model that matches the size and type of your pool, as well as your cleaning preferences. You should think about how often you use your pool, what kind of debris it collects (like leaves, dirt, or algae), and how much involvement you want in the cleaning process. By understanding key features, you can select a pool cleaner that keeps your water sparkling with minimal fuss.
Type of Pool CleanerPool cleaners come in three major types: manual, suction-side, pressure-side, and robotic. Manual cleaners are hand-operated tools that require you to physically move them around, which can be time-consuming but budget-friendly. Suction-side cleaners connect to your pool’s filtration system and use its suction to move around and clean the pool surfaces; they’re suitable for smaller pools or lighter debris but depend on your existing pump. Pressure-side cleaners use water pressure from a dedicated line to move along the surfaces and can handle larger debris, making them good for pools with a lot of leaves or dirt. Robotic cleaners are self-contained and run on electricity, offering the most convenience because they work independently and often provide the most thorough cleaning. Your choice should be guided by how much work you want to do yourself, the amount and type of debris your pool collects, and the features that would make cleaning easiest for you.
Cleaning CoverageCleaning coverage refers to which areas of your pool the cleaner can reach, including the floor, walls, and waterline. Some cleaners only clean the pool floor, while others can climb the sides and even scrub the waterline where oils and residue accumulate. If your pool tends to collect dirt on the steps and walls, or if you want a cleaner that can keep all parts spotless, you’ll want to look for a model that specifically mentions wall and waterline coverage. Picking the right coverage depends on your pool’s shape and your expectations for how clean you want every part to be.
Pool Size CompatibilityEach pool cleaner is rated for the maximum length or surface area of a pool it can handle effectively. Smaller cleaners may struggle with large or especially deep pools. Manufacturers usually specify the maximum pool size (for example, up to 40 feet or up to 100 square meters). If you pick a cleaner that's too small for your pool, it may leave areas untouched or take too long to finish. You’ll get the best results by knowing your pool’s size and matching it with a cleaner built for that scale.
Filter Type and Debris HandlingPool cleaners manage debris in different ways: some use bags, some have canisters, and others rely on your pool’s filtration system. Fine filters catch small particles like sand and silt; larger-mesh options are good for leaves and twigs. If your pool tends to gather mostly fine debris, look for a cleaner with a fine filter. If you get lots of leaves, a large-capacity or leaf-specific collector is best. Consider how easy it is to empty and clean the filter system too, as this affects how user-friendly the cleaner will be.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceSome cleaners require assembly, manual guidance, or frequent maintenance, while others are plug-and-play and simple to maintain. Robotic models often have intuitive controls, scheduling features, and straightforward debris removal, but even among manual and suction models, there are easier and more user-friendly choices. If you prefer less hands-on involvement, check for self-programming cleaners or those labeled as ‘easy to maintain.’ Otherwise, consider how comfortable you are with basic upkeep and hands-on cleaning.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency relates to how much electricity or power a cleaner uses during operation. Some cleaners, especially robotic ones, are designed to use less energy and can cut operating costs over time. Suction and pressure cleaners rely on your pool's pump, which can add to running costs if they have to be run for hours. If you are environmentally conscious or looking for long-term savings, look for energy-efficient models and check the power ratings or advertised operating costs.