Unless you’re one of those very serious swimmers who does a hundred lengths every morning at 5 am, you’re probably going to use your pool for something a little more fun.

Enter pool toys.

Who doesn’t love a flamingo-shaped drink holder, a full-sized plastic sofa, or a giant floating shark? Let’s face it, swimming is a lot more fun with props. 

Of course, we need to be careful that our pool toys don’t turn into an expensive headache. Here are a few thoughts to bear in mind.

Pool Toy Tips

If you’re going to take anything away from this article, let it be this: If you take it into the pool, be sure to take it out.

Blocked pump?

Water balloons are probably one of the best inventions ever. But, if you’re not careful you’ll end up with a dozen soggy pieces of plastic at the bottom of your pool. These, as well as goggles, balls, and any other small object, can get sucked up into your system, block it up properly, and cost you money.

Preserve the plastic

After a hard day in the pool, it can be tempting to leave your floaties in the water. Don’t. The sun and chemicals in the water will be hard at work breaking down these plastic items. 

Rather rinse them off with fresh water, dry them and pack them away out of the sun. You’ll get far more use out of them this way.

Keep it clean

Remember that you’re fighting a constant battle with algae and other lurgies in your swimming pool. 

Left unchecked, mould, mildew, and other forms of algae will happily grow on your pool toys and then keep popping up in your pool water. Keep your pool toys clean by regularly washing them with a solution of household bleach or baking soda. 

Pool toys are the best way to enjoy your swimming pool, just be sure that you keep them in their place.