Unlike the popular in-ground pool, you set up the above-ground pool on a flat surface above the earth. Kid-friendly above-ground pools are often recommended because they are easy to set up, and you can easily monitor your kids when swimming.
Kids rarely mistakenly fall into this type of pool because it has walls, and you can remove the ladder. But it is still essential to ensure that an adult is present before letting your children begin swimming.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that drowning injuries spiked by 17 percent in 2021. For many parents, getting an above-ground pool is the best way to mitigate the hazards associated with drowning injuries.
But which pool is the best? Struggling to identify one? Fret not because, as a pool specialist, I aim to help parents select the best pools for their children.
I will present the five above-ground pools for kids in 2024 in this article. Read to the end because I will answer some often-asked questions about selecting the best above-ground pool for your kids.
What Are Above-Ground Pools?
Above-ground pools sit on the ground, allowing you to move them after dismantling. However, some models are partially in the ground. Since no excavation is required, installing the pool is more manageable and takes less time. The above-ground swimming pool’s exposed sides make installing and dismantling quicker.
Because above-ground pools are typically circular or oval, your options are limited. The advantage is that you can buy the size you require for now and upgrade when you need a larger pool. The most popular materials for above-ground pools are aluminum, resin, steel, or a combination of the three materials.
Reviewing 5 of the Best Above-Ground Pools for Kids
The first step in reducing additional deaths from pool-related accidents is to select kid-friendly above-ground pools. Most parents, however, need help locating and choosing a safe pool for their kids. Based on research, suggestions, reviews, and personal testing, I’ll share my list of the top five above-ground pools for kids with you.
Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center
The Inflatable Intex Rainbow Ring play center includes a pool and a play area. Kids between the ages of 3 and 7 can use it. An extra little pool gives your kids extra room to play. Once you inflate it, the pool will measure 15.98(L) x 15.98(W) x 5.51(H) inches. The Intex Rainbow Ring outperforms all other above-ground pools with features for kids.
The pool has six plastic balls, an inflatable ring toss game, and a water slide. Add other kid-friendly playthings— a water sprayer aids in keeping your youngsters cool during a hot sunny day – and you will know why it’s first on my list. The wading pool holds 175 liters of water with a depth of 8 inches (20 cm), while the main pool holds 206 liters of 5.5 inches (14 cm).
I am not the only one who thinks this is a great pool. Writing a review on Amazon, Franzi agrees: “This pool is perfect. It’s beautiful and has lots of cool features.”
Pros
- With its many accessories, the pool doubles as a play area.
- It has two pools, one for your toddler and another for the older kids.
Cons
- You’ll need to purchase a pump separately.
Amazon.com: Intex Rainbow Ring Inflatable Play Center, 117" X 76" X 53", For Ages 2+ : Toys & Games
Bestway 8′ x 20″ Above Ground Kids Round Swimming Pool
The Bestway 8′ x 20″ Pool has a steel frame that resists corrosion and a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) canopy. It’s ideal for kids of all ages. Your children are shielded from the blazing sun as they enjoy the pool by the UV-shaded top canopy.
The pool has a built-in mister to connect to your garden hose to keep your youngsters cool. It features a 446L water capacity and a sturdy 3-ply liner that resists punctures from occurring.
Sarah and her girls also love this pool, and she shares her review “Easy to assemble (1 adult), and so far, it has been super sturdy. ”
Pros
- The walls have fruit designs in bright colors, which kids find attractive.
- There is a heavy-duty repair patch included.
- The pool features a built-in sprayer and a drain hole.
Cons
- Compared to other above-ground pools, this pool is shallow.
- You have to buy a water pump separately.
Spend your summer splashing in the water with the 446-gallon above-ground pool with colorful fruit designs on the exterior.
Summer Waves Above-Ground Inflatable Pool
Having a small yard doesn’t mean you can’t set up a pool for your kids. Summer Waves Above-Ground Inflatable Pool will fit well in your small yard. Its circumference is 10 feet and a depth of 2.5 feet, making it large enough for a few children to play.
The pool has a sturdy triple-layer PVC with inner mesh side walls made of polyester to withstand wear and tear. The pool’s 15-foot diameter allows it to fit in your yard while still providing room for people to move around. It’s among the best easy-to-install above-ground pools for kids in the market.
In her Amazon review, Karen recommends this pool as a great buy: “ It’s well made, and the filter pump is a good one. Set up was easy, and the pool filled quickly.” Karen Seale.
Pros
- It has a filter pump and cartridge to maintain cold, pleasant pool water.
- The pool comes with a handy quick-release drain plug.
- The pool does not require ample storage space.
Cons
- Only one or two kids can have fun in the pool comfortably.
Designed with an inflatable top ring, the pool rises as it fills for quick and effortless setup. This pool features stylish wicker print that matches your outdoor furniture, while the helpful filtration system will help keep your pool clean and sparkling.
Sunallin Inflatable Swimming Pool
Sunallin Inflatable is among the best above-ground pools for kids in 2024. The pool includes three separate air chambers, each with a double intake and free-flow exhaust valve. These qualities allow it to handle added weight while preventing air leaks.
The Sunallin Inflatable is easy to set up and also deflate. If you use an electric pump, it takes one minute to fill each air chamber. The pool has quality 0.4mm PVC material, 50% thicker than standard pool materials, to lower the risk of punctures.
Pros
- Its construction material contains no lead or BPA.
- Efficient valves that make the setup process and deflation easy.
- It has colorful, interesting sidewalls that create a fun atmosphere for kids.
Cons
- If you don’t place the pool on a grassy area of the lawn, you’ll need to use some form of cushion under it to prevent injuries.
Inspired by the colors of the ocean and waves, Sunallin designed this inflatable swimming pool to bring back the feeling of having a summer vacation without the comfort of your home.
INTEX 26363EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above-Ground Swimming Pool Set
I recommend the Ultra XTR Deluxe if you want an even bigger, more sturdy above-ground pool to fit multiple kids and adults. The pool can hold 8,000 gallons of water. It has a specially crafted locking system and a galvanized steel frame that improves stability, quality, and durability.
A sand filter pump, a removable ladder, a pool cover to keep debris out, and a ground cover cloth are just a few of the pool’s extras. Not to mention, powder coating on both the inside and outside improves rust resistance.
Thomas Morfeld enjoys the pool with his grandson and gives his review: “This is our 2nd Intex pool. “Myself and my 12-year-old grandson had the pool up and filling in just over an hour. Kids loving it, and so am I. Good purchase”…….Thomas Morfeld.
Pros
- Puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC material makes the pool.
- The UV inhibitors incorporated in its joints make it weather resistant.
- You don’t need locking pins or additional equipment when setting up because the frame parts snap together.
Cons
- To set up the pool, you’ll need a few people.
Indulge in the ultimate swimming experience with our largest Ultra XTR Frame pools.
How to Choose the Best Above-Ground Pool for Kids
Choosing the best above-ground pool for kids should be easy. You should consider a few factors to avoid making a wrong choice. I highlight them below:
Cost
When on a limited budget, the most affordable above-ground pools for kids are the inflatable ones. They are less expensive to maintain and don’t require filters or chemicals. Only between usage do you need to empty, clean, and refill. Inflatable pools are perfect if you have small kids below 7.
Pool size and shape
Measure your available space before determining which pool is best for your kids. The most common above-ground pool sizes are square, rectangle, oval, or circular. Leave a space of two to three feet all around the pool. Oval pools need more structural support, and round pools don’t have seams, so keep that in mind.
Material
The most safe-above-ground pools for kids are steel-framed. The steel framework supports a larger and deeper pool. Unfortunately, standard steel will rust unless the frames are powder-coated or galvanized.
Installation
Consider how much time you want to spend installing an above-ground pool. Inflatable swimming pools are the easiest above-ground pools to set up and take down. You can easily set up inflatable pools by yourself with an electric pump.
Conclusion
The best above-ground pools for kids guarantee you can watch your children swimming. Because the pool walls are higher and you can put away the ladder, the chances of your kids unintentionally falling into the pool are extremely low. A few pools offer shade structures that shield your children from the sun. Additionally, above-ground pools are not as deep as those inground.
However, ensure that an adult is always present when your kids swim. Additionally, you can order the pools online.
FAQs
What is the best type of pool for kids?
Above-ground pools are the most suitable type for kids. Additionally, they are simple to set up, eliminating the potential hassle of onsite construction, which might endanger your kids. As the water area is smaller, above-ground pools for kids simplify surveillance.
Are above-ground pools safe for kids?
Kid-friendly above-ground pools are safe. Additionally, they are easier to clean and don’t pose a significant risk of your kids accidentally falling in. Their walls won’t become slippery from the water residue if you clean, dry, and store them away. Your youngsters won’t slip and fall if you choose a pool with firm floor grips. The best above-ground pools for kids have less water capacity than in-ground ones. Check the edges to make sure they won’t hurt the children as well.
What is the most durable above-ground pool?
Steel or sturdy plastic constructs the most durable ground pools. The polyvinyl chloride used to make the inflatable above-ground pools is prone to tearing and ripping. The steel and plastic ones can survive for up to six years.
What is the best size above-ground pool for a family of 6?
A family of six would require an above-ground pool that is 18 x 36 feet. Apart from the number of people, the pool size will depend on how you use it. Your pool’s length should be greater than its width if you plan to swim laps in it. You’ll need a larger pool if you want to dive in. At least nine feet should be the depth. The size of the pool increases as the depth increases.
What is a good pool depth for kids?
For toddlers, a depth of 2 feet is ideal. However, it would be best to go with a 3.5 to 4 ft depth because your toddlers will outgrow it quickly, and you might have older kids. You can buy a smaller pool for the toddlers to learn wading and swimming.
What size pool do I need for a family of 5?
For a family of 5, I recommend a pool at least 16 x 32ft in size. But keep in mind that before making a decision, you must take other considerations into account. Can you accommodate the pool in your backyard? That ought to be the first question. The yard needs to be larger with room for movement if you want a 36ft pool. Your budget will also determine the pool size. Larger pools cost more money and have higher maintenance costs.
Raoul Lobo is a seasoned expert in the realm of home appliances and environmental comfort. As a prominent author at TemperatureMaster.com, Raoul’s passion and expertise shine through in his insightful articles and guides. With years of hands-on experience, he has become a trusted source for readers seeking advice on pools, washers, dryers, and a wide range of other appliances.