"9 Pool Cleaning Hacks: Tips and Tricks to Save Time and Effort"

Mark Larm Apr 20, 2023
10 People Read
Helping home owners clean their own swimming pools.

"9 Pool Cleaning Hacks: Tips and Tricks to Save Time and Effort"

If you’re a pool owner, you know that cleaning your pool can be a hassle. The thought of brushing every inch of it can make you want to run for the hills. But fear not, fellow pool enthusiasts! I’ve compiled a list of pool cleaning hacks that will save you time and effort, and hopefully even make you laugh. 

  1. Skimmer Socks

Skimmer socks are the unsung heroes of pool cleaning. They slip over your skimmer basket and collect all the debris before it has a chance to clog up your filter. Please remember, they are not a set it and forget it problem solver. If you don’t clean or replace them frequently they will work in reverse and clog, blocking your circulation. Not only do they save you time by reducing the frequency of filter cleanings, but they also prevent you from having to stick your hand into a basket full of soggy leaves and dead bugs. Plus, they make great conversation starters at pool parties. “Oh, these? They’re my skimmer socks. No big deal.”

  1. Tennis Ball Trick

If you’ve ever left a tennis ball in the pool, you’ve probably noticed that it absorbs a lot of the oils and sunscreen that can cloud up your water. Well, here’s a hack: intentionally leave a few tennis balls in the pool and one in the skimmer, and let them do their thing. Not only will they keep your water clear, but they’ll also provide endless entertainment as your doe tries to catch them. Keep reading for another Tennis Ball hack.

  1. Leaf Blower

Yes, pool maintenance starts with keeping the deck clean. Organic waste and leaves carry in tannins, phosphates and plain ugliness. Not only does it only take a slight breeze but kids running around the deck getting in and out of the pool brings it in also. Want proof, just look at the top step of the pool and notice that it is darker than the rest of the pool because their little feet are getting cleaned off by grinding the dirt in the plaster.

So make it easy on yourself and get a battery powered leaf blower. Why spend hours manually sweeping your pool deck when you can just blow the leaves away? A leaf blower is a quick and easy way to get rid of debris and dust and pollen. Plus, it’s a great workout for your arms. Who needs a gym membership when you have a leaf blower? I do recommend getting one with at least 20v and make sure it comes with two batteries. You’ll thank me later.

  1. Robotic Pool Cleaners

If you really want to up your pool cleaning game, invest in a robotic pool cleaner. These little robots will do all the work for you, scrubbing every inch of your pool and walls while you sip on a margarita. Sue, they can be a bit pricey, but think of it as an investment in your future happiness. And if anyone questions your spending, just tell them you’re supporting the robot uprising. 

  1. Enlist the Kids

If you have kids, put them to work! Nothing builds character like having to scrub a pool. Plus, it’s a great way to teach them responsibility and the value of hard work. And if they complain, just remind them that you could have gotten them a pet instead. In fact, if you have an older kid who wants a $500 video game you can give them a regular pool maintenance schedule and earn it.

  1. Use a Pool Cover

One of the easiest ways to cut down on cleaning time is to use a pool cover. Not only does it keep debris out of your pool, but it also prevents evaporation and keeps your water warm. Plus, it makes your pool look like it’s straight out of a magazine. Just be sure to clean the cover regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup. How about using that leaf blower on it.

  1. Maintain Proper Chemical Levels

Maintaining the proper chemical levels in your pool is crucial for keeping it clean and healthy. If your chemicals are off, you’ll have to spend more time and effort cleaning your pool. Invest in a good test kit and check your levels regularly. And if you're not sure how to adjust your chemicals, sign up at www.happypools.org for a one month hands-on complete course. 

  1. Use a Tennis Ball to Clean Your Waterline

Now that we know it’s good to leave a few tennis balls in the pool, let’s grab one once in a while and put it to another good use. If your waterline is looking a bit grimy, try using a tennis ball to clean it. Simply rub the ball along the waterline, and the fuzzy texture will pick up any dirt or grime. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose old tennis balls that are too flat to play with. Don’t forget to rinse them off with fresh water once in a while to keep them clean and working. 

  1. Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Tile

If your tile is looking a bit worse for wear, try using baking soda to clean it. While you’re out enjoying your pool grab that  tennis ball and shake a little Baking Soda on it and scrub away. It’s best to check your PH levels first because Baking Soda will raise your PH. Don’t worry if your PH is already a little high, pour a little vinegar on the tennis ball and get back to a quick clean while lowering your PH.

That’s that, I hope it helped. I pray that you have years of healthy, happy fun in the sun with your sparkling clean swimming pool. If you want to get the right tool the first time visit www.ElitePoolCare.com where I put links to only the pool cleaning equipment that I use and recommend.

 You can also see my training videos at   YouTube@HappyPools