There’s something undeniably poetic about a beautifully kept pool glistening beneath the morning sun. It’s not just water contained by stone, tile, or PVC—it’s a promise of refreshment on a blistering afternoon, a reflecting mirror for cloud dances, and let’s face it, a backyard statement of serenity or sophistication. But behind that shimmer and sparkle is a quiet labour of love, and more often than not, a collection of practical tools discreetly doing their part just beneath the surface—sometimes literally.
As someone who’s spent countless hours coaxing wayward leaves out of the deep end and battling the sneaky advance of green algae, I’ve learned that having the right equipment isn’t a luxury—it’s survival. If you’re new to pool ownership or simply want to elevate your maintenance game, I’ll walk you through the essentials—tried and tested companions in my own little aquatic adventures.
The Always-Ready Pool Skimmer Net
Before you even think about pumps and chemicals, start with your skimmer net—your first line of defence against nature’s daily offerings. Whether it’s windblown leaves or a curious feather that’s wandered too far, a sturdy leaf skimmer is indispensable.
Opt for one with a fine mesh and an extendable telescopic pole. The fine mesh will catch not just leaves but also bugs and pollen—tiny debris most nets neglect. On early summer mornings, I take an almost meditative pleasure in skimming the surface, catching the night’s remnants before the water fully wakes to the day. It’s a quiet ritual that connects you to your pool more closely than you might expect.
Telescopic Pole – The Unsung Hero
Speaking of poles, if your skimmer net doesn’t come with a good telescopic pole, you’ll want to invest in one. It should feel strong but not heavy, well-balanced, and easily adjustable. The best part? It’s a multi-tool base—you’ll use it for skimming, brushing, and vacuuming. Like a garden spade that fits perfectly in your hand, this will become your trusted extension of effort.
Pool Brush – For That Just-Scrubbed Shine
If you’ve ever discovered a slimy film creeping around your pool’s walls or steps (often where your feet casually rest when you’re floating lazily), you know why a pool brush is essential. Brushing weekly helps prevent algae and calcium build-up. I recommend a brush with nylon bristles for vinyl and fibreglass pools; for concrete surfaces, a brush with stainless steel bristles will handle stubborn grime without mercy.
Pro tip? Brush just before you vacuum or run the filtration system. That way, all those tiny particles you’ve dislodged don’t get the chance to settle back into place—it’s like shaking the rug before you vacuum the room.
Manual Pool Vacuum – For Detail-Oriented Owners
There’s a nostalgic satisfaction in manual pool vacuuming—like mowing a lawn with perfect diagonal lines. If you’re someone who enjoys getting involved in your backyard maintenance, a manual vacuum provides intimate knowledge of your pool’s condition. You’ll spot areas where water isn’t circulating well or where debris naturally gathers.
Look for a vacuum head with weighted edges (to stay down at the bottom) and wheels or brushes that suit your pool’s surface. You’ll need a vacuum hose and a vac plate if using it through the skimmer—make sure all fittings match your system. It might seem fiddly the first time, but once you’ve done it a couple of times, it’s almost second nature.
Automatic Pool Cleaner – Time-Saving and Clever
If your schedule’s tight or your patience short, an automatic pool cleaner is worth its weight in gold. These gadgets range from simple suction-side cleaners to smart robotic models that map your pool’s layout and scrub with algorithmic precision. Some even have Bluetooth connectivity and mobile apps—you can practically clean your pool while sipping lemonade from your deck chair.
Personally, I’ve found robotic cleaners especially impressive during the high season when the pool sees more activity. They can be set on timers, manage themselves around obstacles, and reach deep corners. Think of them as your pool’s little Roomba—with gills.
Water Testing Kit – Chemistry in the Garden
A pool isn’t just a body of water; it’s a delicate ecosystem. And just like with your garden soil, balance is everything. Keeping your pool’s pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness in check ensures safety, clarity, and comfort. A reliable testing kit—drop-based or digital—is non-negotiable.
Test a few times a week during summer and after rainstorms or heavy swimming days. I keep mine in a small wooden box near the outdoor sink—close enough to encourage regular checks, and always dry.
Pool Shock – The Deep Clean
No matter how meticulous you are, there comes a day—usually after a spirited pool party or an unexpected thunderstorm—when your water turns cloudy or takes on a faintly green hue. That’s when it’s time to shock your pool. Pool shock is a highly concentrated chlorine treatment that kills bacteria and algae blooms.
Handle with gloves, follow the dosage instructions meticulously, and add it at dusk when sunlight won’t burn it off too quickly. The morning after? There’s a certain satisfaction watching the water go from swampy to sparkling as the sun rises. It’s chemistry, yes, but it feels a little like magic.
Floating Chlorine Dispenser – Gentle Guardian
If you prefer a more passive approach to chlorine maintenance, a floating dispenser can work wonders. Simply add slow-dissolve chlorine tablets and let it orbit gently across the pool surface, keeping the water sanitised between major treatments. It’s poetic really—a tiny lighthouse bobbing across your backyard lagoon.
Just remember to remove it before swimming sessions, especially with kids in the pool, and check the device weekly to restock tablets or adjust flow settings.
Pool Cover – Not Just for Winter
Many see pool covers as seasonal accessories, but they can offer year-round benefits. During summer, a lightweight solar cover can help retain heat and reduce water evaporation. In spring and autumn, mesh safety covers keep out heavier debris and provide peace of mind around children and pets.
An unassuming hero, the pool cover saves on energy, chemicals, and skimming time. The only downside? You’ll miss your morning ritual of leaf-catching… though your coffee may taste better without the extra step.
Storage and Organisation – The Hidden Essential
Don’t underestimate the peace of mind that comes from a tidy equipment area. Whether you install wall hooks for poles, a lockable deck box for chemicals, or a compact shed near the pump house, storing everything properly prolongs equipment life and makes maintenance less chore and more charm.
In my garden, I’ve repurposed an old potting bench into a poolside workstation—complete with drawers for test kits, a shelf for spare chemicals, and enough room to stow away brushes and hoses. There’s practicality in order, and a certain rustic elegance in woven baskets full of skimmers and timers.
The Tools Shape the Experience
Maintaining a pool isn’t about spotless water for the sake of aesthetics—it’s about stewardship. Like tending a perennial border or pruning a wisteria, you get out what you put in. With the right equipment at hand, you don’t just have a pool—you have a living, breathing part of your outdoor life that reflects care, routine, and even joy.
So, take a look at your current setup. Is your skimmer frayed? Your vacuum outdated? Your test kit from the last decade? Maybe this year is your chance to upgrade—not just your gear, but the entire relationship you have with your outdoor oasis.
After all, the water won’t thank you… but those long, laughter-filled swims on golden afternoons? They’ll feel all the sweeter for it.