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Cleaning your pool doesn't have to take all day, and it no longer requires tons of bulky hoses, heavy vacuum heads, or lots of loose parts. Today's pool vacuums are easier, faster, and more manageable. Check out our favorites.

Buying Guide for Pool Vacuum Cleaners Our Picks for the Best Pool Vacuum Cleaners Final Thoughts

Why buy a pool vacuum cleaner?

Dirt happens. And so do leaves, bugs, and other icky things when you have an outdoor pool. To keep algae and phosphorus at bay, it’s best to vacuum your pool once a week. This has always been a time-consuming, boring, and sweaty chore—up until now. Today’s pool vacuum cleaners are better than ever, and there are even robot vacuum options, just like your Roomba! You no longer need to carry heavy hoses around just to get your pool sparkly clean.

What should you consider in a pool vacuum cleaner?

Is it okay to leave your pool vacuum cleaner in your pool all day?

In most cases, no. You’ll want to manage the situation by checking on your pool vacuum as it cleans. Some vacuums may reach filter capacity and may need to be changed out while you’re cleaning. Others may need to be moved either because they missed a spot or because they can get stuck. Leaving your pool vacuum cleaner in the pool also increases its exposure to chemicals that can break down the plastic and rubber parts of the vacuum.

This easy-to-use pool vacuum works along with your existing filtration system for crystal clear water all season long.

Pros: We love this vacuum because it’s such a great value. While it comes with many bells and whistles, you may not need to use all of them. It’s pretty easy to use, and if you read the directions thoroughly, you’ll know which ones you need and which ones you don’t. Overall, this vacuum has amazing suction and cleans pool surfaces thoroughly. And it even cleans pool steps.

Cons: There is a learning curve to using this vacuum correctly, and it may not work for all pools.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an affordable pool vacuum that works with most pools, check this one out. It cleans as well as premium pool vacuums that are 10 times the price.

This rechargeable pool vacuum requires no poles, cords, or pesky hoses to clean your pool's surface to a crystalline shine.

Pros: For one thing, this vacuum can clean a decent-sized pool with a single charge. So there’s very little fuss involved. The filter is easy to clean with just a garden hose. And with proper care and lubrication, this little pool vacuum will last you a long time.

Cons: The filter capacity is very small.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a pool vacuum cleaner that you don’t have to hook up to your filter with heavy, bulky hoses, this may be a good choice for you. It holds its charge for a long time and is easy to assemble.

Great for small above-ground pools and spas, this handheld vacuum rips through dirt, debris, and pesky leaves.

Pros: This is a great vacuum for smaller pools because you won’t have to worry about dragging around anything heavy. It keeps its charge for long enough to clean your pool a few times thoroughly. And it’s easy to assemble, even if you’re not very handy.

Cons: It takes a little longer than some larger vacuum options.

Bottom Line: If you want to thoroughly clean your small pool or spa without a clunky, old-fashioned vacuum, go for this one. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and a fantastic value.

Easy to use and easy to clean, this lightweight pool vacuum works just like a household robotic vacuum, only for your pool floors.

Pros: We love how convenient this little vacuum is. It’s totally wireless and can hold a charge for four hours or more. It does an excellent job cleaning the bottom of the pool, even on the edges. All in all, it works as well as similar products that are five times the price.

Cons: This vacuum may release a bit of debris when it’s removed from the pool.

Bottom Line: Here’s a convenient robot vacuum for your pool that won’t break the bank. The wheels are adjustable, so it works on bumpy pools as well as flat and angled pools. And there have been several recent upgrades that make this vacuum even better.

This small but powerful vacuum requires only a simple garden hose to blast leaves and other unwanted debris from the floors of just about any pool.

Pros: This pool vacuum is uniquely designed to use the power of running water to clean your pool. That means no bulky tubes or heavy equipment. It’s lightweight and easy to use. And it’s powerful enough to suck up leaves and other dense debris.

Cons: The bag fills up quickly, so you need to stay on top of it.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an affordable pool vacuum that works well, this is a nice option. It’s small yet powerful and doesn’t use your pool’s filter, so you won’t lose water while you vacuum.

There are many different types of pool vacuum cleaners on the market that work with different kinds of pools: small pools, large pools, above-ground pools, and spas. Pick a pool vacuum cleaner that works best for your pool and needs. Be sure to charge, clean, and lubricate your pool vacuum as needed, and it will keep your pool clean and sparkling!

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