• Category Archives Information
  • Large Blow Up Pools

    Large-scale blow-up pools are a step up from children’s inflatable pools not just in terms of size. They are also a step up in terms of durability. They can be compared to big pool floats that are certainly toys for the big boys and girls. To ensure the longevity of these pools, the following things should be kept in mind.

    Capacity

    The amount of water is entirely dependent on the chosen size. Typically, a circular pool with a diameter of at least 15 feet and a height of at least 40 inches will have a water capacity of around 5,500 gallons and will fit a minimum of five people up to a maximum of ten people. Much larger oval or rectangular pools will have a length of around 18 feet, a width of around 9 feet and a height of around 40 to 50 inches. Their water capacities are along the lines of 3,000 gallons and will accommodate around the same amount of people as circular pools.

    Installation

    Many blow-up pools advertise their ease of set-up, but even the smallest of these pools require two to three adults to assemble. Furthermore, 10 to 30 minutes must be spent for that set-up, depending on the size. Fortunately, there are many pools that include set-up and maintenance DVDs for people new to the job of assembling the pool correctly. Inflatable portable spas, on the other hand, are much smaller than the smallest blow-up pools and thus will require only one person for assembly.

    Cost

    The cost of blow-up pools is mainly dependent on size. The smallest circular pools come at a suggested retail price of $100 to $200. The largest of the pools – meaning those with lengths or diameters of at least 30 feet – cost at least $1,000.

    Accessories

    Large blow-up pools allow much room for swimming toys and other swimming peripherals. Besides the usual inflatable vests, noodles, board trainers, inner tubes, buoy floats, beach balls, and ride-on animals, things such as rafts and inflatable lounge chairs can be brought into the pools for amplified enjoyment.

    Be Safe

    As with every other body of water, whether natural or man-made, there is always the danger of drowning in large blow-up pools. Parents and guardians should always be on high alert if they have children joining them in adult-sized pools. They should remember that drowning can occur in as little as 15 seconds. Other risks that can be encountered in large blow-up pools include infected water and short circuits that happen when the water pump’s electric current is exposed to water.

    Cleanliness

    To ensure clean water, it is mandatory for the pool water to be treated with chlorine tablets. Floating chlorine dispensers are a good way to treat the water without much fuss. The water must be completely drained if someone urinates or poops in the pool and the pool itself must be treated with disinfectants. As for the risk of short circuits, many pools are equipped with circuit interrupters that shut off the water pumps if ever the currents and the water touch each other.

    Storage

    In matters of space and storage, blow-up pools have a noted advantage due to their nature. The smallest of the pools have a compacted weight of 50 to 100 pounds, making them easy candidates for storage either in the attic or in the garage.

    Cleaning & Maintenance

    Cleaning the pools may be a chore, but it must be done for health and hygienic reasons. Besides the regular chlorination of pool water, there are several maintenance tasks to be done. Some of these maintenance tasks are:
    • Removal of algae
    • Elimination of foam
    • Keeping the water clean
    • Chorine and pH level testing
    • Filter and pump checking
    • Floating and underwater debris clearing

    Apart from the usual cleaning nets and skimmers, there are advanced tools for easier and more effective pool maintenance. They include underwater vacuum cleaners, liquid solar blankets that prevent water evaporation, and even smartphone apps that control various pool maintenance tasks from a distance. For practicality, alkalinity can be controlled by simply pouring baking powder on the pool water.

    Anyone who owns a blow up pool should be knowledgeable about the proper installation, use, and maintenance of their pool. This knowledge will help him make the most of his pool and have lots of fun using it with his family and friends.



  • Kiddie Pools – Fun For The Kids

    Although fun and exciting, vacations and getaways cost money. You’d need to spend a good deal of cash just to fund a weekend at a decent beach with your spouse and two or three kids. Extra costs such as gas, food and emergency items may completely wipe out your savings account. However, there is a pretty good alternative that can save up money and keep the family happy at the same time.

    The blow up kiddie pool was launched back in the time when the inflatable beach ball made its appearance. In 1938, Jonathon DeLonge invented the first design of the beach ball. Originally, it was made in the size of a human hand. Eventually, beach balls grew bigger and then the innovation for other inflatable items came to the picture.

    Nowadays, blow up kiddie pools can be found anywhere. Toy stores and outlets offer different kinds of inflatables, such as pool games for kids, kiddie pools and pool aids. Some can hold the entire family and are sized as big as basketball half courts. Humbler ones can hold five or six kids at the most, with enough space for playing games and having a good time.

    What size?

    The perfect size for kiddie pools is a minimum of fifteen feet in any dimension. Although there is no definite size of a kiddie pool, most blow up pools are built with at least fifteen feet dimensions and can hold 200 to 4,000 gallons of water. Of course, the bigger the pool is, the more water you need to fill it up. Just make sure that the kiddie pool is large enough to fit the number of people you intend to have in the pool at the same time. If you have three kids, get a pool that can hold five to seven kids. The depth of the water should not be deeper than 3 feet. Have the kiddie pool set installed by an expert.

    Clean it before use

    Clean the kiddie pool first before using it. Even though it is brand new, it never hurts to clean it beforehand. Get a brush with thick bristles and scrub the set with laundry soap. Make sure to rinse it properly. Fill in with water at just the right amount and have the kids change into proper swimming outfits. This prevents new germs from getting into the pool. Let the kids enjoy the pool but keep a good eye on them at all times.

    Obtain or play some pool games for kids

    Engage the children into pool games for kids such as water relays, beach ball tosses or water rings. Don’t let the games get too rough as some kids might get hurt. If the games get a little too rough, control the goings-on. Rough-housing can lead to more accidents and fights. Remember that while playing in kiddie pools should be fun, it should also be safe. Another safety reminder is to keep smaller babies out of the pool when the bigger kids are playing.

    Put some rules into place

    Set a few rules for the usage of kiddie pools. Do not allow sick children to use the pool. Bacteria from illnesses can spread in water. Have the children shower before stepping into the pool. During pool time, remind the kids to avoid swallowing pool water. Tap water is usually used to fill up kiddie pools and it might not be safe for drinking. Advise the children to be in proper swimming attire while in the kiddie pool. After playing, drain the water from the pool since stagnant water is a good nest for mosquitoes and other insects. Regularly clean the inside of the rubber pool. Leave it out to dry under the sun.

    Ensure safety at all times

    Even though the water is no deeper than 3 feet, drowning may still occur. You might think that the blow up pool is safer because it is right in your backyard. You cannot be too complacent. Your kids can wander off by themselves and use the pool without your supervision. If you do not want to take down your blow up pool just yet, make sure that it is securely covered so the kids, and pets, will not accidentally fall into the water.

    Prevent unwanted mess and dangers

    It is best to be ready with all your swimming accessories. Other than the kiddie toys and swimming aids, you need to have your children’s bath towels ready so they can dry off right away after swimming in the kiddie pools and playing pool games for kids. Make sure that they dry their feet before running around. They might slip and slide with wet feet. Let the kids dry off before going inside the house to prevent them from forming puddles and wet streaks inside the house.



  • Baby Pools – First Swimming Experiences

    baby pools for babies first swimming experiences

    Your baby’s first swimming trip can be a great source of excitement for the entire family. The whole trip, however, is also bound to be punctuated with a few stressful events. The time spent in the car going to the nearest beach might already prove to be a handful. When you get to the beach, you are not likely to just let your little one crawl his way to the water. You will spend a few minutes playing in the sand and splish-splashing in shallow waters. After the picture-taking to document your baby’s first time at the beach, you are likely to find yourself heading for the kiddie pools where you and your baby do not have to deal with strong waves. Truth be told, the only purpose for these outings is to take cute pictures to show off to your friends and relatives. You can have as much fun with your baby in a blow up baby pool right in your own backyard.

    Where to purchase your baby pool?

    Blow up pools can easily be purchased in malls, outlets and online shops. Simply check out our blow up pool reviews here or our shop section to get our recommendations. They also have a variety of accessories and safety items for baby pools. You can check out the different baby pool floats and toddler pool toys. They have different kinds of blow up pools for babies as young as 6 months old. Baby pools come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the age of the children. These are portable pools that can be blown up to the proper size to hold water, much like a regular-sized pool.

    Factors to keep in mind

    Materials

    When you go out and buy a baby pool, however, there are certain things you have to keep in mind. The pool that you buy should be safe for your baby to use. They should, therefore, be free of any toxic substances. The same goes for your baby pool floats and other swimming aids. Ask around for more information about the brands that have been approved by consumer bureaus. Ask the sales people for more information about what you are buying.

    Size

    Responsible parents should know the correct size of toddler pool to buy for their little tot. Blow up pools for babies should only be big enough for one toddler. The edges shouldn’t be very high. Keep the water at waist level while the baby is sitting. The floor of the pool should not be slippery, even with water on it. There are types with inflatable floors that make it uneven. This can prevent slipping.

    Depth of Water

    The general depth of water for pools for toddlers is 6 inches. It may vary, depending on the height of the baby. Make sure that the water level is at the minimum – just enough for your toddler to splash about. Keep most of his body out of the water.To prevent the baby from getting antsy and restless, give him a few toddler pool floats and toys to keep him preoccupied.

    Keeping them Entertained

    Some blow up pools have built-in toys and items made especially for toddlers. Among the common pool items are soft water sprinklers, blow up animal toys, water slides, and rubber toys. Just make sure that the pieces of toy sets are not small enough to be swallowed by the child. Keep toys at big pieces, without the detachable items.These accessories can entertain the toddler while staying in the blow up pool.

    Aside from avoiding tantrums and boredom, it can also prevent the child from moving too much inside the pool. He can slip while moving, and land on the pool floor face down.To avoid more accidents, keep the kid entertained.

    Another option for water fun is the blow up water sprinkler set. It can be placed in any part of the backyard to spray water at a good diameter. You and your toddler can play with the water from the sprinklers and run under the gentle sprays.

    Even though the pools and water systems are conveniently and safely situated in your own homes, accidents can still occur. It is best to accompany your child inside the pool, especially kids under two years of age. Statistics say that drowning accidents happen often to kids between ages 1 to 4 and is possible in just 2 inches of water. One parent should accompany the child inside the pool and one parent should survey the scene. Both chaperones must be alert and smart at all times.

    The key is to see your child happy and enjoying himself. Keep in mind that preventing accidents and using safety measures can keep the smile on his face longer.



  • Swimming Aids – Water Wings, Pool Noodles & More

    Summer is the season for swimming. This activity is immensely enjoyed by both children and adults. There are those who love spending time at the beach, hearing the sound of the rolling waves, and feeling the cool sea breeze. Yet, there are those who cannot afford to spend the whole stretch of two months basking in the sun, sand, and salty water of the nearest beach. Some would have to be contented with taking their summer dips in a swimming pool. For a lot of families with smaller children, the most practical way to enjoy summer is to have their own blow up pool. This allows them to be confident that their children will be safe while swimming. With all the swimming aids like water wings, pool noodles and other foam pool floats, swimming in a blow up pool does not have to be less enjoyable.

    A lot of accidents can happen when kids are swimming. They are usually more prone to swimming accidents than grown-ups for the simple reason that they do not have the necessary swimming skills yet. What parents usually do is to put their children in a shallow pool of water. In this case, the depth of the water does not allow the kids to swim at all. Bigger blow up pools are better and give the illusion of being in an actual in-ground pool.

    Fortunately, there are pool items that can help with the safety and precaution of kids. Water wings, pool noodles, and swim rings are swimming aids that children will find easy to use. These are plastic inflatable items that can float on water when filled with air.

    Water Wings – Inflatable armbands

    Water Wings

    Water wings are inflatable ring bands worn on the shoulders or upper arms. This position easily supports most of the weight of the wearer against the pull of the density in the water. With this, the child’s head and neck are above the water line.The air capacity of these aids gives enough buoyancy to keep the wearer afloat as well.

    Inflatable arm bands are inexpensive and easy to find.The material which the water wings are made of is durable and not easily punctured.These are made in general sizes, enough to fit into a regular-sized kid. If the water wings are too big, it can easily slip out of the child’s arms. It is essential to find the correct size. It is important to remember that these swimming aids do not guarantee accident prevention. You cannot leave your children in the pool without adult supervision.

    Pool Noodles – Foam Pool Floats

    Pool Noodles

    Pool noodles are another type of foam pool floats. Pool noodles are hollow cylindrical items made of polyethylene foam. These are used by kids and adults alike when swimming. It can be a floating device, although the weight it can keep afloat is slightly lighter than those of water wings. It is mostly used for swimming lessons because it helps people use their arms and legs for swimming. Most people use this accessory for water games. It has a more recreational side to it. Synchronized swimmers and water fitness trainers sometimes make use of the pool noodle in their routines. Some lifeguards also use it for rescue. It can help keep you afloat, but you have to work with it by using your legs to kick and keep yourself above the water’s surface.

    Swim Rings Also Known As Rubber Rings

    Swim Ring

    Swim rings are the universal pool accessory. Swim rings are big enough to fit people of all ages and the amount of air it can carry is significantly more than other floating devices. Swim rings can easily keep both children and adults afloat. All the wearer has to do is to lean on the top surface of the swim ring, using it as a support for the weight. The buoyancy presses against the density of the water, but since more air capacity is required, swim rings can keep most of the upper part of your body afloat.

    Aside from being a safety measure, water wings, pool noodles, and other inflatable items could also be tools used in learning how to swim. Even though there is much promise in these floatation devices, it cannot save lives or decrease drowning statistics. People should be extra careful in areas with pools, lakes and beaches. Summer is enjoyed by everyone, but the real happiness in the season is spending it with special people without any accidents.



  • Essentials of a Blow Up Pool

    Pool parties in the summer and hot days are fun, especially for kids who want something other than riding their bicycle around the neighborhood or playing with their toys. However, it can be a bit of a hassle to go to a beach or resort where there are a lot of people. Community pools are mostly crowded and private pools can be a bit expensive.

    However, there’s still a way to enjoy swimming without the hassle of crowds or expensive fees. Blow up pools are more affordable and convenient for people who just want to enjoy lounging in a pool in their backyard. It’s a great idea for families who can’t afford to maintain a pool or families who do not have enough space for a big pool.

    Blow up pools come in different shapes an sizes. Families can choose which one will fit in their yard and which one is big enough for them to enjoy. There are kiddie blow up pools and those that are big and deep enough for adults to enjoy.

    Blow up pools are easy to maintain and use, as long as one has the right tools and essential equipments. It’s also easier to maintain and clean compared to swimming pools. Here’s a list of essential tools and materials in maintaining a blow up pool.

    Pool Pumps

    One of the most important tools in maintaining a blow up pool are pool pumps. There are several types of pool pumps that one can use to pump air into the blow up pool like Intex pool pumps, leaf blower, vacuum or bicycle pump. Intex pool pumps come in different varieties such as electric powered or battery powered. These specialized pumps are simply connected to the air duct of the blow up pool and then air is pumped into the pool.

    Those who don’t have Intex pool pumps can improvise by using a leaf blower, vacuum, or bicycle pump. A vacuum cleaner with a reverse switch or an exhaust is one of the best alternatives to a pool pump. In case there’s no vacuum cleaner with reverse switch available, other alternatives can be used. When using a bicycle pump, leaf blower and even a hair blower, take a funnel and attach it to the hose. For the hair blower, put the air setting in the cool level to prevent pumping heated air to the blow up pool. Secure the funnel with duct tape and connect it to the air duct of the blow up pool. Then, start pumping air into it.

    Pool Covers / Mats

    Aside from Intex pool pumps, pool covers are also needed to maintain blow up pools that are kept blown up instead of put into storage. There are two types of pool covers, one for covering the ground and the other one for covering the pool. The ground cover is intended to protect the underside of the pools from sharp objects such as pebbles, stones and thorns that may damage the pool. Choose aground cover that is big enough for the pool and thick enough to prevent objects from piercing or damaging the pool.

    The pool cover is used to keep the water in the pool clean when not in use. This is essential when one intends to use the blow up pool for a couple of days without draining the water and repumping air into the blow up pool. A pool cover can be made of tarp, synthetic fabric or plastic covers. It also comes in different shapes and sizes to cover different types of pools.

    Pool Net / Skimmer

    Handheld skimmer nets or fishing nets are also needed to keep the pool clean and free of particles. It is intended to remove dirt, debris, and toys from the pool. Use this to clean the water after using the pool.

    Keeping water clean and bacteria free

    Pool sanitizers or bleach is also needed to keep the water of the pool clean and free from harmful bacterias. Bleach can also be used in sanitizing the pool water. Pour the suggested amount of bleach or pool sanitizer in the water after using the pool.

    Maintaining a blow up pool is easier than people might think as long as they have the right tools and equipment. With this kind of pool right in your own backyard, you do not have to make plans to go to the local swimming pool for a quick refreshing dip.

    Pool Access

    Sometimes access to a blow up pool is easy as stepping over the side, however it is important to note who may use the pool. Children and toddlers love to play in an outdoor pool and having the right kind of access into the pool is important, specifically in relation to health and safety. Even though you have easy access to the pool others may not that, is one of the biggest thinking factors you must imply when having pool parties – the guest of the party.

    Pool ladders and steps can be bought for larger pools and sometimes small ones, or even some pools may have an attached inflatable step for easy access. Access is really an essential to any blow up pool as it is the highest cause of injuries! Check out our article on safety for more information : Safety of blow up pools



  • Blow up Pool Add-On Ideas

    Inflatable pools are common and enjoyable investments for families that spend a lot of time outside, and even individuals. And most of us remember just how enjoyable these pools can be — almost all of us spent a lot of time with them as children — and, when it comes time to invest in one for the kids, often, we like to go all out. This, of course, means we don’t stop when we buy the pool: We need accessories, as well. Let’s take a look at some of the most important add-ons that people like to invest in for their inflatable pools.

    Pool Steps and Ladders

    Considering most people who use inflatable pools are relatively small, youngsters that they are, it’s often a good idea to invest in pool steps, pool ladders, or some sort of step for it. This way, you’ll be able to ensure anyone coming up to it won’t have to awkwardly slide their legs over the edge of the pool, or risk falling out when they try to exit the pool because they’re too short to get their legs to the ground when they try to step out. So, pool steps and ladders are a great safety investment as well as a nice accessory.

    Above ground pool steps are a great way to ensure that people can all enjoy the pool, regardless of height or stature, and ensure everyone will remain safe!

    Intex Pool ladder for safe and easy access
    Intex Pool Ladder
    Sturdy A frame designed ladder for access out and in of any blow up pool reaching a max of 36″. Built for durability with weather resistant coating this pool ladder is sure to last many uses…Read More

    Showers

    Another awesome add-on for an inflatable pool is a shower head attachment. These, of course, don’t necessarily end up being used for soapy showers — they’re there just to give you a place to stand under water and enjoy yourself a little more, because, hey, who doesn’t enjoy water falling from the sky when you’re in a pool? You can find shower attachments that run a tube through the water in the pool and up a pole, to which the shower head is attached, and proceeds to pull the water through the shower head and feed it right back into the pool, but from overhead!

    These are a whole lot of fun for the kids, and even adults can enjoy themselves standing under them — the water is nice and soothing, really — and they’re relatively inexpensive, to boot.

    Inflatable Pool Slides

    Now, since you’ve gone and bought an inflatable pool, why not go and buy an inflatable pool slide? There are a variety of such slides available, ranging from relatively small, slip ‘n’ slide style devices that you can set up on a ramp into the pool — and which are a whole ton of fun, by the way — to inflatable slides that attach to the pool itself and are as tall as 8’ or higher. It’s like bringing the water park right into your backyard, and who doesn’t want to have one of those on hand all the time?

    You have to remember that setting up an inflatable pool slide takes some time, as does taking it down, so it’s important to make sure you’re willing to go through this trouble every time you use it before you buy one.

    Mats

    Another important accessory is a mat to lie under the pool. These come in all sorts of sizes, but are typically designed with a sort of rubber that allows you to maintain a good grip on the ground, even with bare and wet feet. This is a crucial safety feature, as most injuries that happen around inflatable pools are due to people slipping on the ground, not due to drowning or anything so dramatic as that.

    Water Wings and Paddle Boards

    These aren’t add-ons for the pool, exactly, but they’re good toys to have around whenever you setup the pool. You never know when the kids are going to need water wings, which are an important safety item, and paddle boards are always a blast for kids, who never seem to grow out of the kicks they get submerging them and shooting them out of the water. Definitely invest in a few of these if you have an inflatable pool, and consider water balls and frisbees as well!



  • Cleaning And Maintenance Of Large Blow Up Pools

    Cleaning And Maintenance Of Large Blow Up Pools

    Blow up pools aren’t just for little kids any longer.

    In fact, more and more of adults are purchasing oversized (almost gigantic, even) blow up pools on an annual basis and setting themselves up for summertime fun without the headache and hassle of building an above ground pool or the expense of putting in an in ground pool.

    Unfortunately, too many people out there think that they can get away without cleaning or maintaining their blow up pools. For whatever reason, they forget that their blow up pool is going to require the same kind of maintenance and upkeep that any other pool would – at least if you want to keep your pool looking clean, crystal-clear, and make sure that it is comfortable and safe to swim in for everyone.

    Luckily, with this quick guide, you should have absolutely no trouble whatsoever cleaning and maintaining your blow up pool. Just follow along with the information below, and you will be all right!

    Why it’s so important to clean and maintain your blow up pools

    First of all, you have to understand why it is so important to clean and maintain your blow up pool before you get started.

    Most people understand that stagnant water is anything but healthy, especially once it begins to turn green. Water that just sits and super heats in the sun is always going to deal with bacteria “activating”, creating an unsafe environment (and unpleasant environment) to swim around in.

    Secondly, you’re going to want to know that your pool is going to last for many summers to come – something that just won’t happen unless you are serious about your upkeep and maintenance. You need to install the right pool filters and use a high quality pool vacuum to make sure that everything is on the “up and up”, giving you crystal-clear water that you and everyone else can enjoy.

    The best way to streamline your cleaning and maintenance process

    The easiest way to streamline your cleaning and maintenance process (outside of investing in the right pool filters and pool vacuum) is to do regular maintenance at least a couple of times a week, and an overhaul every week on a specific day considering you are leaving it out and not putting it into storage.

    Going around and skimming your pool for debris or anything else that may have dropped into it every couple of days is going to guarantee that your pool stays clear and fresh, and vacuuming it out or clearing the pool filters at least once a week every single week will help to make sure that the water always stays perfect for swimming.

    Yes, this is going to take a bit of a time commitment, but if you lock into a regular routine you won’t have to worry about the headache and hassle that comes from not taking care of your pool maintenance for a while.

    Essential tools you’ll want to use when cleaning and maintaining your inflatable pool

    The tools that you are going to want to have on hand when tackling your pool cleaning or pool maintenance routine include (but certainly aren’t limited to)

    • Pool nets – Perfect for fishing out debris and other objects without having to get wet
    • A pool vacuum – Sucks up all kinds of “gunk” at the bottom of your pool
    • Attachments and brushes for your vacuum – Really lets you scrub your pool with no extra effort
    • Multiple pool filters – One is usually good enough, but multiple filters guarantee clean and clear water for swimming
    • Chlorine tablets – The easiest way to hit a perfect pH balance in your water
    • Pool thermometer – Lets you know when it’s time to kick on the heat pump or pullout the solar heater

    If you have all of that essential equipment on hand (but especially the pool filters in the pool vacuum), your pool is going to look fantastic all summer long and you’ll never have to worry about shutting things down for a week or more just to get the water back up to safe levels.

    Owning a pool (even in inflatable one) is going to involve a bit of a time commitment. However, if you keep things up regularly, and set a schedule as outlined above, it’s not going to be all that difficult to keep your pool running without a lot of headache or hassle.



  • Proper Pool Storage is the Best Way to Preserve Your Favorite Summer Past-Time

    Making a Splash this Summer

    pool storage

    Summertime is here and nothing beats cooling off in a pool. Whether you’re providing hours of enjoyment for your toddler, older children or all the kids in the neighborhood or just using it for yourself or your pet for a quick cooling off from the hot summer sun, pools are the perfect respite from the sweltering heat of summer. Here are a few tips on how to increase your pool’s longevity and shelf life.

    Increase the Longevity of Your Pool from Season to Season

    Equally as important as the pool itself is how you store the pool. Proper pool and pool toy storage are key in preservation for future use. If you’re using a larger pool, a pool cover may be a good option for keeping bugs and small animals out in addition to using it as a safety measure for any children wandering around the pool area unsupervised. Pool covers can be purchased for hybrid or larger pools and are made of canvas or other durable materials for maximum security. Small pools should not be kept with water and should be drained at the end of the day or use.

    Reduce Damage with Proper Pool Storage

    Covering your pool or storing it also minimizes any damage such as fading, cracking or puncturing that can occur from high winds, rain or other inclement weather, in addition to falling branches from trees. It is also a good idea to store pool toys as well. How many times have you re-purchased balls, sliding boards and other items because they either were swept up by the wind or magically sprouted legs and mysteriously “walked away.” Pool storage along with storing pool toys is also a good preventative measure for theft.

    Check Size to Determine Which Method is Best

    If you have a small, lightweight pool, simply empty out the water and carry it into your storage area, whether it be a free-standing shed or a room you’ve dedicated in your home for outdoor items. If you have an inflatable pool, depending on the size, you can deflate it, fold it and place it in either a storage bin or another storage area. (This works best with small to medium sized pools). However, if you have a larger pool that requires an air pump and an extended timeframe to inflate, a pool cover is probably the best choice for both convenience as well as pool maintenance and keeping the pool in the best condition possible for future immediate as well as for long-term use.

    Make Sure You Don’t Forget the Toys and other Pool Accessories

    Pool toys, depending on the size and whether they are inflatable, are best stored in either a durable free standing storage bin or shed, preferably with easy access to the pool so they’re not damaged by dragging them along concrete (the same applies for pools- avoidance of hard or sharp surfaces is key in pool storage preservation.) Also, the less exposure to excessive heat is best with some pools, to avoid fading or in some cases, with plastic pools, melting. (This is also true with pool toys.)

    Have Fun this Summer but Remember Protection is Key

    Fun in the sun with a pool is the best way to cool off and enjoy all the benefits that come with summer. Whether you’re sitting poolside watching the kids swim or want to use it for yourself as a quick way to unwind and relax after a long day, or if you’re looking for a quick cool off method for your pet, a pool is ideal. Just as you protect yourself from sun exposure and other elements, your pool requires the same type of care and treatment. Be certain to take all precautionary measures to protect your pool from anything that can cause damage to it, from rough weather to theft to roughhousing after hours from unwanted visitors that sometimes come in the form of children or small critters. Also make sure whichever storage units you use, be it a shed or a free-standing bin or a storage room inside your house, are properly covered to maintain and prolong the life of your pool for months, and in some cases, years, to come.



  • Safety with Blow Up Pools

    Ah, blow up pools. One of the most pleasant memories of youth is, without a doubt, enjoying these awesome contraptions in summertime, back in the days when we were too young to swim in even the shallows of the pool and feared the deep end with everything in us capable of being afraid. Now, when it’s time to buy a blow up pool for the kids, the niece, or, really, for whatever reason, although we as adults can still join in the fun — our job as parents is now to ensure the kids at play can play safely. Let’s talk about some things to keep in mind when chaperoning.

    Safety with Blow Up Pools

    Children and Things Children Do: Gotta Keep an Eye Peeled

    At least one eye, though it’s best, of course, to keep both on the action. Children have a tendency to roughhouse with one another, which is, of course, all in good fun, but can obviously be less than pleasant for the smaller child — if there’s a big size difference between them — and is sometimes a little rougher than is called for. In these cases, kids will try to make sure they only misbehave when your back is turned, and usually children on the receiving end aren’t going to rush up to you as soon as they’re safe to whine about their playmate.

    As such, it’s critical that you keep your eye on the kids at all times, so they don’t get involved in any nasty antics that you aren’t seeing.

    Entry, Exit, and Access Issues

    Oftentimes, the biggest problems with inflatable pools aren’t with the water, but injuries suffered when people try to get in or out of them. The most basic problem is slipping — obviously, pools and the areas around them are typically wet places, so it’s easy to lose your balance. A lot of the time, this means slipping into the pool, which, fortunately, isn’t so big a deal, unless you slip and fall into someone. If, however, you slip on the way out, the leg still in the water might get caught on the wall of the pool, and you’ll be in for a nasty fall that could leave you with a bump on the head or scratched-up arms. So, it’s best to make sure that the area around the pool is as dry as possible (not so easy to focus on), and that people only enter and exit the pool deliberately (much easier to ensure). For more safety on any pool that is of height it is quite important that you acquire pool ladders or steps that allow for better access in and out of the pool. Although like stated above these attachments can and will get wet at times so safety of these attachments is also important.

    Now, it sort of goes without saying, but it’s also important that no one dives into the pool; cannonball; or otherwise jump in. This is a sure fire way to slam your head or butt into the ground, which, while covered in water, is probably not going to treat you so well when you hit with full force. So only step into inflatable pools, and only step out. No jumping.

    Stability & Installation

    Stability and installation are very closely related concepts with respect to blow up pools. You have to be 100% sure you’re setting up your pool on flat, solid ground. Setting up on a grade is a good way to keep the water sloshing to one side, which puts stress on the pool itself. Over time, this can result in weakening of the material on the stressed side, or even sliding of the pool! As long as you install it on dry, flat ground, however, you won’t have a problem with stability. One way to increase stability as well as keeping the pool bottom more clean and damage free is to put some sort of cover down.

    Storage

    Ah, storage. This isn’t so hard. Every time the pool is not in use — and we mean every time; no leaving it out overnight unless you keep the cleaning and maintenance of the pool up to scratch, and ensure no children will manage to access the pool! – you should empty it (duh), deflate it, fold it carefully, and store it somewhere away from heat or sharp objects to ensure the integrity of the material.

    Water Wings!

    Water wings are great for younger children playing in the pool. We recommend them for all young kids and toddlers, as, even though inflatable pools are never very deep, one can still be submerged and suffer from water in the lungs or even drowning in severe cases, and water wings are an easy way to prevent that, and at a low price, to boot.

    Remember safety comes first and you can never be too safe! Even when you have water wings, floats and the right sized pool for your kids there is always a risk of your child getting hurt. Supervision of toddlers and kids is always essential with any blow up pool no matter how safe they offer to be!



  • What To Look For When Buying An Inflatable Pool

    What To Look For When Buying An Inflatable Pool

    There’s no better way to beat the summertime heat and then purchasing an inflatable pool for your backyard.

    Whether you decide to go with a small kiddie pool, one just a bit larger, or a full-blown pool that could fit several adults comfortably makes little difference with many factors to look out for. You’re going to find that there are a lot of different options out there on the market today, and you’ll need to make sure that you have selected the right one for your needs.

    Obviously, everyone will be looking for different things in an inflatable pool for their backyard. However, you can streamline the process significantly just by paying attention to the details included below.

    Ready to get started?

    Size considerations

    The first (and probably the most obvious) detail that you are going to want to figure out is how large or small of an inflatable pool you’re looking for in the first place.

    As mentioned above, some people are going to be able to get away with a tiny little kiddie pool for their little ones and maybe their pets, while others will want to use their new inflatable pool just like they would any other inground or above ground set up.

    You’re going to find endless options, so you’ll want to narrow things down by size if you can.

    How does it inflate?

    Secondly, you’re going to want to really think about how this inflatable pool is going to get inflated.

    Smaller sized pools aren’t going to be all that difficult to inflate with nothing more than your lungs, but larger pools – especially those that are rivaling “traditional” backyard pool setups – will require you to have an electric or manual pump on hand.

    If speed is of the essence, you’re going to want to have an air compressor on hand, and we want to make sure that your inflatable pool can handle the rapidfire airflow one of these machines can produce. The last thing you want is to burst your pool before you even get a chance to fill it up and enjoy it – which can happen quite easily if you are absent-minded with your air compressor.

    What is it made out of?

    Finally, the construction material used for your inflatable pool is an absolutely essential detail to pay attention to. Most inexpensive inflatable pools out there are made up of synthetic plastic like materials, with a handful of them being slightly more expensive options being made out of rubber.

    However, new synthetics and almost nylon like materials are being used to create stronger and bigger inflatable pools that hold their shape and can take a beating. These pools will definitely give you the best “bang for your buck”.

    If you paid attention to all of the information above, you should have absolutely no trouble whatsoever getting your hands on the best inflatable pool just in time for a bit of summertime fun. Best of luck, and I hope you get the chance to beat the heat with one of these options!