Keeping a kiddie pool clean is important so kids can swim safely and have fun. Whether you have a small inflatable kiddie pool, a plastic kiddie pool, or a wading pool, clean water is a must. Dirty water in a small pool can quickly become a breeding ground for germs, especially when it’s hot outside.
This guide will show you the best way to take care of your kiddie pool using simple tips. You don’t need fancy tools or harsh chemicals—just a little time and smart steps.
Types of Kiddie Pools
Kiddie pools come in different materials, shapes, and sizes:
- Blow-up pools (inflatable kiddie pools)
- Plastic kiddie pools (hard plastic)
- Foot pools or small inflatable pools
- Shallow areas in above ground pools
Most small kiddie pools hold just a few gallons of water. Larger ones may hold over 100 gallons. The amount of water in your pool helps you know how often to clean and which cleaning methods to use.
Kiddie Pools That Are Easier to Clean
Some pools are harder to clean than others. Make your life easier by picking the right kind.
Look for pools with:
- Smooth shapes with no extra parts
- Built-in drain plug
- Light colors (easier to see dirt)
- Tough plastic or vinyl
- A shape that lets you reach all areas
Avoid pools with attached toys, deep crevices, or rough textures. These are harder to scrub and dry.
Why Keeping Your Kiddie Pool Clean Matters
Clean water keeps kids safe. When water gets dirty, it can:
- Cause skin irritation
- Lead to ear infections
- Spread sickness
- Attract bugs and animals
Pools without a filter pump need more care. They don’t clean themselves like a large pool or hot tub. That’s why regular maintenance is so important.
Daily Tasks to Keep Your Pool Clean
Doing small things each day helps you avoid bigger problems later.
Do these every day:
- Skim the water with a pool skimmer net to remove debris
- Take out toys and rinse them
- Check for cloudy water or bad smells
- Rinse off kids’ dirty feet before swimming
- Cover the entire pool when not in use (use a kiddie pool cover or plastic tarp)
These small steps make a big difference in keeping your small pool healthy.
Weekly Deep Cleaning Steps
Even if your pool looks clean, it’s a good idea to scrub it once a week.
Weekly steps:
- Drain all the water (use a drain plug if your pool has one)
- Scrub the bottom of the pool and sides with mild dish soap or a mix of white vinegar and water
- Rinse with a clean cloth and water from your garden hose
- Let the pool dry in the sun (but not for too long—direct sunlight can hurt some materials)
- Refill with fresh water
For larger pools, using a portable pool vacuum makes this easier.
Water Treatment for Small Pools
Sometimes, using a small amount of chemicals helps your pool stay clean longer.
Best options for kiddie pools:
- Bleach solution:
- Use 1/8 teaspoon per gallon of water
- Mix before adding, then wait 1 hour before swimming
- White vinegar:
- Add 1 cup for every 100 gallons of water
- Safe for small pools and gentle on skin
- Hydrogen peroxide:
- Helps kill germs without harsh smells
- Floating chlorine dispenser:
- Better for larger pools or those used by older kids
Always test chemical levels with a test strip. Your goal is to keep chlorine at 1–3 ppm and your pH level between 7.2 and 7.8.
Using Less Chlorine in Your Pool
Too much chlorine can make kids uncomfortable. Here’s how to use less:
- Clean often so you don’t need strong chemicals
- Use white vinegar for gentle cleaning
- Empty and refill a couple of times each week
- Don’t let water sit still for too long (no stagnant water)
You don’t need as many chemicals in a small kiddie pool as in a public pool or hot tub.
What to Do if a Child Poops in the Pool
Accidents happen. Here’s what to do if poop gets in the pool:
- Get all toys and floats out
- Drain the water completely
- Scrub the whole pool with dish soap or a weak bleach mix
- Rinse very well
- Refill with clean water
This is the best way to avoid germs and keep the pool safe.
How to Store Your Pool Safely
When the pool is not in use, storing it the right way will help it last longer.
Pool storage tips:
- Always drain all the water
- Let it dry fully in indirect sunlight
- Fold it gently to avoid cracks
- Store in a cool, dry place like a shed or closet
If you store your pool while it’s still damp, mold can grow. That’s why drying it fully is so important.
Include the Kids in Pool Cleaning
Helping kids learn about pool safety and cleaning teaches good habits.
Easy ways to teach kids:
- Let them help use a skimmer net
- Show how germs spread (use glitter in water)
- Use test strips together and explain what pH means
- Encourage them for following pool rules
This turns cleaning into a fun activity and helps kids understand why clean water matters.
Other Pool Safety Tips for Kids
Before swimming:
- Wash hands and feet
- Take kids to the bathroom
- Don’t let sick kids swim
- Keep snacks and drinks away from the pool area
While swimming:
- Watch kids at all times
- Remind them not to swallow water
- Use pool floats made for safety
After swimming:
- Skim the water
- Take out and clean toys
- Cover the pool or drain it
Healthy Swimming All Season Long
You don’t need expensive gear to keep your kiddie pool water clean. Just stay consistent.
Healthy pool habits:
- Skim and check water daily
- Scrub and rinse weekly
- Use just enough chemicals when needed
- Cover or empty the pool between uses
These steps make it easy to keep your plastic or inflatable pool water safe without much work.
Reach Out to Experts for Help
Whether you have a foot pool, plastic kiddie pool, or small inflatable pool, taking care of it is simple if you follow a routine.
Want help picking safe tools or products? You’re welcome to contact our team of experts at Integrity Pools. We’re happy to answer any questions or point you to the right resources.
Contacting a professional swimming pool company is a great way to ensure you’re doing pool maintenance properly. Your kids’ health is important, and we know from personal experience how things like chemical balance and water quality can get complex. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Have fun and stay safe!
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