Inflatable pools are the perfect ingredient for a warm summer’s day and getting the kids active. A small inflatable children’s pool comes without a filter pump, but still requires simple upkeep to ensure to keep the pool and water safe and clean. There are a few basic maintenance tricks and essential instruments needed to keep your pool in the finestcondition, to make sure the water is ready for swimming for your youngsters.

1.       Cleaning small pools

Blow-up pools suited for children are small and easy enough to be emptied and cleaned after each use. Once drained, it is advised to thoroughly wipe down the empty pool to ensure any bacteria that may have been sitting in the pool is eradicated. After cleaning, dry the inside with a towel to eliminate the possibility of dirt, such as algae or mould, growing.

2.       Sanitising larger pools

Larger pools are trickier to drain, clean and refill each time they are used; it just simply isn’t practical. However, to keep the water safe, it is worth adding some chlorine to avoid the build-up of bacteria. You can easily purchase swimming pool chemicals online, or even use a simple floating chlorine dispenser to ensure the water is at optimum cleanliness whilst in use all summer long. A floating chlorine dispenser aids in keeping the water stable, as it consistently releases small amounts of the chemical safely into the pool. You can take the dispenser out when your child is playing in the pool, to stop it obstructing the fun, and then drop it back in the pool in between swims.  Just make sure you shower to remove all chlorine residue from you after each use.

3.       Buy a pool cleaning net

One of the most basic pieces of equipment in your pool maintenance kit is a standard leaf skimmer net, which is perfect for retrieving any debris that has fallen in, such as grass, insects, leaves or direct.

4.       Cover it

If you prefer keeping water in the pool for a couple of days, it is advised to cover the pool over when it is not in use, to avoid swarms of mosquitos and keep debris at bay. Some pools come equipped with their own covers, however, if your pool doesn’t, you can set a plastic tarpaulin sheet over the top – just tuck the ends under the pool, or weigh the edges down with heavy objects, such as bricks.

5.       Before swimming…

It is important to ensure all pool users have a shower before entering the pool to help prevent any potentially harmful germs, from getting into the pool water. If children are feeling unwell, particularly if they have an upset stomach, it is advised to keep them out of the pool to prevent the spread of germs and illness to others using the pool. Before stepping foot into the pool, warm the water up by pouring in a bucket, or two, of warm water from the kitchen sink or kettle.