Best Pool Cleaners, According to Months of Testing

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These models are easy to use and will keep your pool in good condition all summer.

In This Article

Better Homes & Gardens / Gabby Rello

Almost nothing beats diving into a swimming pool on a sweltering summer day. However, jumping into a puddle of leaves can quickly spoil that refreshing feeling. Luckily, pool cleaners make it easy to maintain clean waters, so you can swim all season long, whether you're hosting a pool party or taking a solo dip.

The type you choose depends on your specific pool setup, personal preference, and budget.

"Some pool cleaners only remove debris from the pool floor, while others are also able to climb walls, clean steps, and brush pool surfaces up to the waterline," says Alicia Toedter, pool and spa care education and content leader at Leslie’s.

With so many options it can be difficult to figure out which is best for your pool size and style. To help, we put over 30 options to the test at home for two weeks. After the initial testing period, we continued to test the pool cleaners for up to six months. In addition to Toedter, we also consulted Mark Thompson, owner of Absolute Pool & Spa Care, for additional insight.

We evaluated 41 pool cleaners for their design, ease of use, and effectiveness. For more information on how we tested pool cleaners, check out our testing process below.

A compatible app enables customization, and it’s easy to start and take out of the pool.

The cord may not be long enough to handle larger pools.

Our pick for the best overall pool cleaner is the Dolphin Explorer E50 Robotic Pool Cleaner. The double filtration waste basket worked very well, even when dealing with larger quantities of debris. Plus, we thought this pick was quite simple to use and took less than eight minutes to set up.

This option offers customizability, enabling us to choose whether we wanted to clean just the floors, just the walls, or both. The basket was large enough to clean our entire 40 x 20 foot pool before needing to be emptied, and built-in scrubbers were effective at cleaning along the waterline.

When at the waterline, this cleaner was substantially quieter than other pool cleaners. It also held up well. After six months of usage, we were impressed that it hadn’t deteriorated in quality whatsoever.

This model is light enough to drop into the pool with one hand, and once the cleaning was done, the app alerted us. You can also direct it to come to the surface via the app to take it out for even more ease of use.

The only real drawback that we experienced with this pool cleaner was the shorter cord. In testing we felt that it would have benefited by having a cord that was at least 10 feet longer.

After using this pool cleaner twice a week throughout the testing period, we think it's the most efficient model we've ever used. No matter how much debris was collected in our pool, this pool vacuum cleaned it with ease and everything continued to work well. If we could change one thing, we would have liked the power cord to be about 10 feet larger to accommodate a larger pool.

Product Details: Weight: 29 pounds | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Top-load | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

The model is lightweight and easy for us to use.

To use it you need to attach your own hose, which means you need water constantly running. It’s also meant to clean larger debris only.

Whether you have a smaller pool or are in the market for a less expensive option, this Poolmaster Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum is a great budget option to consider. We found it was lightweight and easy to set up and use.

Unlike some other pool cleaners, this model requires you to attach your own hose, which means you need water constantly running. You’ll also need to attach it to a pole, sold separately, and manually guide the wheeled vacuum through the pool, so it’s ideal for smaller pools. Luckily, it’s a lightweight option that we found easy to use.

This pool cleaner is meant to clean larger debris and we found that it was effective in doing just that. After cleaning, it was easy to detach the included mesh bag and remove the leaves and other debris that was collected.

Product Details: Weight: 1.82 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground

It comes assembled, so it’s ready to use when you get it.

The unit is about 20 pounds give or take, so it may not be easy to for all users to use.

The original Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner has been our reigning best splurge pick, so it’s no surprise the 2024 model performed well in our home testing. The pool cleaner proved to be easy to use and effective at cleaning our pool.

We tested this model it in an in-ground pool that’s 16 x 32 feet and up to six feet deep. The pool featured an automatic cover and had ornamental grasses around it. In terms of setup, all we had to do was attach the hose to the power box. The filter was already installed, and it came with additional ones for when we’d need to switch it out.

During testing, we noted that the pool cleaner is fairly heavy and estimated that it’s between 15 and 20 pounds. Though it may be difficult for some to lift this unit, there is a handle that helps make it easier.

While cleaning, the unit didn’t make any noise. While it’s intended to run on a three-hour cycle, we would have liked there to be a clearer indication that this unit was done cleaning the pool. Without it, we ended up pulling the pool cleaner out before it was done.

Unlike some other units, this model doesn’t feature any customization beyond how frequently you want it to run. There’s only one speed and one intensity regardless of the level of debris in your pool. We thought the lack of settings and controls actually made this unit easier to use as all we had to do was turn the power button on and let it run.

Overall, we found this pool cleaner to be effective. It cleaned the bottom of our pool well but struggled a bit with the corners. However, we liked that it climbed the walls with its scrubbers and cleaned the water line. The shallow end of our pool also features a bench and while the pool cleaner struggled to clean it at first, it learned our pool layout and improved.

We were able to clean the whole pool before we emptied the filter, which was full of debris like leaves, spiders, worms, small rocks, and sand. Although the pool wasn’t as dirty for subsequent cleanings, we appreciated that the unit has a sensor to indicate when the filter needs to be emptied.

We used this unit on a weekly basis for three months and it remained consistent. We did notice some wear on the roller and wheels, but we didn’t think it was a dealbreaker since that’s to be expected.

During testing, it continued to clean our pool with ease. Although it runs on a three-hour cycle, we found that it cleaned our well completely before the cycle was finished, so we’d often remove it from the water early.

While we would have liked it if there were a mapping feature on this unit, it continued to clean our pool well so we’d still highly recommend this pick.

Product Details: Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Bottom-load fine cartridge filters, ultra-fine cartridge filters, and an oversized fine filter bag | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

It was effective and easy to clean after use.

The cleaning cycle is about three hours, which is longer than some other models.

Those with an in-ground pool will appreciate the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner. While testing this model, we found that it was effective during each cleaning cycle and was easy to clean after each use as well.

We had a professional pool company install this cleaner, and it took them just a few minutes. We felt the installation was straightforward, however, and it would have been easy to do ourselves. Once it was installed, we used the cleaner three times in our pool, which is surrounded by trees and bushes.

The model is easy to use thanks to an accompanying app that lets you choose a cycle from your phone. Each cleaning cycle was efficient, and we felt that it cleaned the pool well each time. It picked up both pollen and pine straw, so we’re confident it could handle a variety of debris.

The cleaning cycle we used was about three hours, which is a bit longer than some other pool cleaners, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a quicker option.

In terms of design, we appreciated that this option was more lightweight than the pool cleaner we were using previously. It was also quiet while it was in use, and we liked that it stopped moving when it was done cleaning. This pool cleaner features a chamber filter bag that fills with debris while it cleans. It hangs outside of the unit, so it’s easy to see when it needs to be cleaned and remove it when necessary.

We ran this model on a schedule throughout the week and it never got stuck or needed assistance, a win when it comes to pool cleaners. We didn't notice any changes in terms of performance and our pool was always clean, including during pollen season. This model ended up replacing the other pool cleaner we were using previously.

Product Details: Weight: 19 pounds | Cable Length: 31 feet | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Bag | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

Better Homes & Gardens / Jennifer Zyman

There’s a tail sweeper that moves debris around so the vacuum can efficiently clean them up.

There’s no built-in handle, which would make it easier to get the cleaner in and out of the pool.

If your pool tends to collect large debris, you can't go wrong with this Polaris model. While testing the Vac-Sweep 360, we felt that it was easy to use and efficient each time.

Setting up the pool cleaner was fairly easy as it came almost fully assembled. All we had to do was attach the bag and the hose to the main motor part of the cleaner. It was also easy to store along with our other pool accessories.

The first time we used the cleaner our pool was fairly clean as we had just installed a new liner. Regardless, the cleaner went over the whole pool fairly well, and the tail sweeper seemed to move any debris around so the vacuum could easily clean it.

The next few times there were leaves and even some worms, each of which was no match for this pool cleaner. The debris was cleaned with ease both times, and we’re confident this pick could handle similar larger debris in the future.

The pool cleaner is 14 pounds, so it’s fairly lightweight in comparison to other models. Although we found it easy to use, we would have preferred a built-in handle to help get the cleaner in and out of the pool.

We used this cleaner once a week and noted that it seemed to clean the same spots, so we had to assist it every now and then to ensure it cleaned the whole pool.

Although it didn't clean fine sand or dirt to our liking, we appreciated that it cleaned other debris off the bottom of the pool very well. Although it took a little getting used to and the set up can be time-consuming, we still recommend using it for a cleaning.

Product Details: Weight: 14 pounds | Cable Length: 31 feet | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Bag | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

It efficiently cleaned the bottom of our pool, and we felt it had never looked cleaner.

Assembly took longer than expected because the included instructions were vague. We did separate research to resolve the confusion.

If you need to clean small debris, the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal Pool Cleaner is a reliable choice. It efficiently cleaned the bottom of our pool with ease, and we felt that it had never looked cleaner.

Setting up this pool cleaner took about 45 minutes, which was longer than expected. The included instructions were a bit vague, so we did our own online research to assemble it. Once it was together, we were impressed with how well it was able to clean our pool.

We used this pool cleaner three times and found that it was able to easily clean pollen and other small debris from surrounding trees. We wished the suction had been a bit stronger but were still impressed with how well it cleaned overall.

It’s a lightweight option, and we found that one of the hardest parts about using it was having to carry the hose around. When the hose is attached it’s also more difficult to store, so you’ll want to make sure you have enough space for the unit. It is also worth noting that this pick was also fairly loud in more shallow areas of the pool, which was alarming the first time we heard it.

During testing, we didn't notice any changes to this model in terms of performance. We didn't like that it took quite a long time to setup and disassemble each time and it's a bit bulky, making it harder to store. However, we still thought it was a great pool cleaner overall.

Product Details: Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: 40 feet | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

It has a curved design that allows you to clean corners.

The pole is not included, so you’ll have to purchase one separately.

The Swimming Pool Wall & Tile Brush is less expensive than other styles and is a great choice if you're looking for a manual cleaner. The 18-inch aluminum brush is lightweight and allows you to clean even the smallest areas of your pool.

Unlike other pool cleaners, this option doesn’t require any setup. All you have to do is connect the brush to a pole, though keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase it separately. As you guide it through your pool you’ll appreciate the curved design, which makes it easy to clean the hard-to-reach corners.

The brush has rust-resistant paint, so you won’t have to worry about staying in good shape over time. Plus, the nylon bristles are designed to be durable, but they won’t scratch up your pool.

We noted that the brush was great for cleaning walls and scrubbing the bottom of their pool, but remember it’s not a vacuum, so it won’t necessarily remove debris. However, we felt this was a tool any pool owner should have.

After two months, this brush performed just as well as when we first started using it. Overall, it seemed durable and we though it's a great tool for any pool owner to have handy.

Product Details: Weight: 0.65 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Not listed

It’s an effective cleaner that’s easy to use.

The cleaning cycle was slow.

The Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner is one of our favorite cleaners if you want a simple yet effective option. We appreciated that it was lightweight and that the hose is bright white, so it was easy to see it in the pool.

Overall, we found that the pool cleaner was easy to set up. Their pool was a bit larger than the recommended 32-foot length, but we were able to connect four hoses to make it work. After evaluating the pre-cleaning pool conditions for the second week of testing, we noticed that the bottom of the pool seemed cleaner.

The pool cleaner was effective but the cleaning cycle was noticeably slow, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a quicker fix. We recommend the pool cleaner overall as it’s less expensive than other options and doesn’t require much work.

We didn't notice any changes in performance while using this pool cleaner. Though we loved how well it cleaned our pool, we wish it worked a little quicker. However, it wasn't a dealbreaker as it cleaned our pool well and is less expensive than other options.

Product Details: Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: 33 feet | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

It was effective, easy to operate, and compact.

The instructions weren’t clear, so you’ll have to watch a few videos to assemble the unit.

For above-ground pools, the Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner is effective, easy to operate, and compact. We also appreciated the rollers, which make it easy for the cleaner to navigate the pool. Plus, the cleaner even straightened out the pool’s liner a bit in the process, an unexpected benefit.

When it came to assembly, we noted that the box was a bit heavy, but everything was neatly organized inside. The instructions weren’t clear, however, they included suggested videos that made setup easier to manage.

Our pool is located near a tree and often collects leaves and other debris. The cleaner was effective in removing debris and leaves, which we appreciated as we were manually cleaning the pool prior.

We thought this was a practical and efficient pool cleaner and we appreciated how well it cleaned our pool. It got the job done without requiring manual labor, so there wasn't much we'd change about it. If we had to pick one thing, however, we would have loved if it folded up to make storage easier.

Product Details: Weight: 14 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Top-load | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground

Better Homes & Gardens / Michael Navarro

It’s compact, lightweight, and simple to assemble.

We would have preferred a more clear indicator that the cleaning cycle was complete.

If you have an above-ground pool, consider the Polaris 7000 Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner. The unit is compact, lightweight, and simple to assemble. Plus, it’s less expensive than other options and will clean the entire pool in about an hour.

The cleaner has a brush on the front that'll work to scrub grime. After the cleaning cycle is finished, you'll appreciate the three-liter canister that has a transparent top, so you'll be able to tell when it needs to be emptied.

We did note that we would have preferred a more clear indicator that the cleaning cycle was complete, as opposed to the small red light that turns off.

When it comes to robotic cleaners, they typically won't climb the walls of an above-ground pool because the 90-degree angle where the floor meets the wall is too sharp. The Polaris 7000, however, will clean the floors as well as the cove of an above-ground pool—which is a weighted, sloping circle around the pool floor that keeps the liner from getting air pockets.

After testing this pick for four months, we didn't notice any significant performance or mechanical issues. However, we did note that the debris collection department wasn't cleaning out as easily as it once had and more and more small debris had to be removed by hand.

Besides this change, we appreciated that this was a set and forget device that was easy to use. Though we would have liked if there was an accompanying app that alerted us when the cleaning cycle was over, we'd still recommend this pool cleaner.

Product Details: Weight: 15 pounds | Cable Length: 40 feet | Pool Size: Up to 30 feet | Filter Type: Top-access reusable canister | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground

The wheeled design can sit upright, making it a space-saving design. We also felt the control panel was easy to use.

It's expensive and is not ideal for every type of pool.

If your pool tends to gather larger pieces of debris, it's worth trying the Polaris VRX iQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner, our pick for the best robotic pool cleaner for large debris. Ideal for in-ground pools, the cleaner has a large filter and four-wheel drive, so you'll be able to keep the pool clean easily.

The Polaris VRX iQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner is an app-controlled model that's compatible with many pool shapes and surface types. In addition to a custom cleaning mode, the cleaner offers four pre-set options to choose from: Smart Cycle, Quick Clean, Deep Clean, Waterline Only, and Custom. Through the iAquaLink app, you'll be able to choose between each mode, as well as schedule cleaning cycles, and target specific cleaning areas.

The cleaner features a five-liter filter basket, which is larger than some other options on the market. It also has four-wheel drive, which will help the cleaner navigate the larger debris you want to be removed. Plus, through the app, you'll be able to drive the unit around your pool, ensuring it doesn't miss a leaf, branch, or other objects.

We appreciated that the wheeled design can sit upright, making it a space-saving design. When it's done cleaning, you'll be able to store it in the included wheeled caddy, whether you’re placing it on your deck or in a storage shed.

It's worth noting that the VRX iQ+ is more expensive than other options, and it may not be ideal for every pool. Although it was effective, we felt that it was ideal for larger pools that may require professional cleaning.

We didn't run into any issues while testing this pool cleaner. We liked that it worked with an app, so it was easy to use and we were notified when it was done cleaning. Overall, we'd recommend it to anyone who has a large pool and struggles to thoroughly clean the bottom.

Product Details: Weight: 22 pounds | Cable Length: 70 feet | Pool Size: 60 feet | Filter Type: Top-access reusable canister | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

It can clean the tiles on your pool above the waterline.

It can be heavy and hard to get out of the water.

If you’re looking for a pool cleaner that can get to the harder to reach places, our pick is Aiper’s Scuba S1. This model has added traction that enables it to climb walls with angles as steep as 105 degrees.

This pool cleaner not only impressed us for its ability to clean walls, but because it was also able to clean the tiles above the water line as well, which is uncommon for pool cleaners. It charged in just two hours and didn’t miss any spots, even tackling a unique bump up seat at the end of the pool.

It’s so effective that we were amazed at the amount of debris it collected, especially the debris we hadn’t even seen previously. When it came time to charge it, this pool cleaner was full on battery again in just two hours.

While this machine can buff and polish the floor and walls of your pool, it won’t be able to skim the surface like some other models can. It’s also heavy, which can make it difficult to get out of water. Fortunately, it features the ability to return to where it started.

Product Details: Weight: 26 pounds | Cable Length: Cordless | Pool Length: Up to 1,600 square feet | Filter Type: Top-load | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground or above-ground

It is lightweight and requires minimal effort to use.

It won’t work for cleaning the walls or stairs of your pool.

WYBOT’s Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is less expensive than other options and easy to operate. In our experience, it was able to clean the entire bottom of a 30x12 foot pool before the filter needed to be cleaned.

We noted that this pick didn’t make any sounds while cleaning. It ran itself and never got stuck in our pool. Plus, it was able to pick up a range of debris, like dirt, pebbles, and a small piece of plastic.

This light pool cleaner only weighs 8.8 pounds and comes with a handle on it. The purchase also includes hooks that can screw onto a standard pool skimmer to help easily pull it out of the water. When it came time to clean the filter, it was as easy as taking the filter out and spraying it with water.

Smart navigation technology ensures a thorough clean by making the cleaner turn once it hits a wall. A downside to this option is that it’s only suitable for cleaning the bottom of the pool, so pool owners that are looking to have their walls or stairs cleaned may want to consider a different model.

Product Details: Weight: 8.8 pounds | Cable Length: No cable | Pool Length: Up to 861 square feet | Filter Type: Fine filter | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground and above ground pools

Finer particles like sand can be channeled and picked up by the double helix brush.

It may not be able to clean your stairs.

If you live in an area that is prone to finer particles, like sand, the Freedom Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner from Polaris is the best pool cleaner for your needs. Using its dual filters, we were impressed by its ability to pick up tiny grains of sand and small mulch, working well to eliminate debris that we couldn’t even see.

This option is also very easy to take out of the water, climbing to the waterline on its own at the end of the cycle, and alerting us by a compatible app. We did appreciate that we didn’t have to use the app to completely control it, we could still turn it on with a slider switch on the machine as well.

Instead of wheels, it uses tracks that offer excellent gripping, working well to clean our walls as well as the bottom of the pool. It features a double helix brush that helps to clean better by channeling dirt toward the vacuum portion while scrubbing the pool. In our experience, this worked particularly well for cleaning pollen off of the tiles.

When not in use, this option proved to be compact for storage. Users should be aware that it didn’t work for cleaning our stairs because it sensed that it was leaving the water.

Product Details: Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: Cordless | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Transparent filtration canister | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground

Overall, the best pool cleaner is the Dolphin Explorer E50 Robotic Pool Cleaner. We liked that the app made it easy to customize settings. Plus, it was easy to use as well as remove from the pool after cleanings.

To find the best pool cleaners, we put a variety of different styles to the test. Over the course of two weeks, we tried out their given styles in their pools right at home. We evaluated each model based on four categories: design, ease of use, effectiveness, and value. We did not know the prices of each model until the end of the test.

Before using the pool cleaner, we timed ourselves setting the unit up. We followed the instructions that came with each pool cleaner, not including any charging time a battery-operated unit needed. Then, over the course of two weeks, we used the cleaner at least once a week. Prior to using the cleaner, we recorded the pool conditions in terms of the surroundings and what kind of debris was in the pool.

In terms of design, we evaluated if the pool cleaner was ergonomically designed and comfortable to use. A pool cleaner received a higher score if it had features like a handle or caddy. Ease of use was evaluated based on if the unit came to set up, as well as how easy it was to assemble.

A pool cleaner’s effectiveness was scored based on how well it removed debris from each our pool. The cleaners received high scores if it was easy for us to remove debris from the product, as well as clean or replace the filter.

After evaluating each category, we were given the price of the product we were testing. Value was then determined based on our opinion of the product, like if we felt the price was reasonable and if we would recommend it.

Better Homes & Gardens / Ashley Craiger

The three main types of automatic pool cleaners are robotic, suction-side, and pressure-side. Robotic cleaners run on electricity and bypass your pool's filtration equipment. They use computer navigation to reach all areas of the pool and can be programmed to clean for a specified amount of time or just in a section of the pool.

Suction-side and pressure-side pool cleaners are powered by your pool's existing pump motor. Suction-side pool cleaners connect to the skimmer or a dedicated suction to suck up dirt and debris. The suction moves the cleaner around the pool at random.

They can drive on wheels, bristles, or a rubber disc. Some pools have dedicated ports for suction-side cleaners, or they can connect to the skimmer. If you're looking for a suction-side cleaner and you have small debris, we highly recommend the Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pleated Seal Pool Cleaner.

A pressure-side cleaner is connected to the water return jet; the pressure pushes the cleaner around the pool, at random. Both of these pool cleaners will run as long as the pump motor is running and can take up to six hours to cover an average-sized in-ground pool, which is about 16 feet by 32 feet. After testing, the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner was our favorite pressure-side cleaner.

A suction-side pool cleaner is typically better for finer debris, while a pressure-side pool cleaner is better for the bigger stuff, according to Thompson.

Robotic cleaners have reusable containers within them, either cartridges or baskets you clean out periodically. Suction-side pool cleaners collect debris in your pool's skimmer or filter basket. You have to keep a close eye on those because if they get too clogged, your motor will have to work harder and may burn out. If you want to protect your motor, a leaf canister attached to the hose of the suction-side pool cleaner will keep the larger stuff away from your existing filter basket.

Pressure-side pool cleaners have their own reusable collection bags. It can be handy to have an extra one on hand so you can clean out a full one without missing a cleaning cycle. "Pressure-side pool cleaners have more moving parts than suction-side pool cleaners, which can mean more maintenance and repairs," Thompson says.

When choosing a pool cleaner, you'll want to make sure you're considering the type of pool you have. Most automatic pool cleaners are compatible with all in-ground pool shapes, sizes, and surface materials. Just be careful if your pool is lined with vinyl.

If there are bubbles, tears, or rocks in the liner, the pool cleaner can create further damage—and many cleaners have exceptions for damaged vinyl in their warranties. There are pool cleaners (robotic, suction-side, and pressure-side) available that are designed specifically for pools with vinyl linings.

"Most robotic cleaners for in-ground pools provide coverage of the floor, walls, and waterline on all types of pool surfaces, but above-ground pool cleaners usually only clean the floor and cove," says Toedter.

Several pool cleaners we tested can work in both in-ground and above-ground pools, but if you have an above-ground pool, we recommend the Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner.

According to Toedter, the size of your pool is an important consideration when choosing a pool cleaner as well.

"Even if you’re shopping for a battery-powered robotic cleaner that isn’t restricted by cord length, the battery can only power the cleaner for so long in a cleaning cycle. Thus, it’s important to choose a cleaner that can handle your pool size. Check the cleaner specifications to find the maximum recommended pool length," she says.

When we tested the Zodiac MX6 In-Ground Suction Side Pool Cleaner, we were impressed with how it was able to clean algae and sediment. We also liked that it was lightweight and had an integrated handle, so it was easy to get into the pool. However, we would have preferred the unit to have a memory feature as it left some areas clean and other areas dirty.

We noted that the Polaris 360 In Ground Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner took them quite a bit of time to set it up. It didn’t clean their pool as well as we would have hoped, leaving debris in the hard-to-reach corners. We felt that the price was reasonable as long as it lasts for a few years, though we felt that the lightweight, plastic feel didn’t seem long-lasting.

The Aiper Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner is less expensive than other pool cleaners on the market, and we found it easy to use. However, we felt that the pool cleaner seemed to move too fast to clean anything. It appeared to shuffle the debris around rather than clean it up. It also wouldn’t go on stairs and instead goes back and forth on the pool floor.

Overall, we felt that the Aquabot X4 Robotic Pool Cleaner with Active Scrubbing Brush is worth the investment if you have a larger pool. We appreciated the handles that made it easy to pull out of the water. However, we found the program panel confusing to use, which may have contributed to how effective the unit was at cleaning the pool.

Better Homes & Gardens / Matt Strelecki

Pool cleaners are offered at a variety of price points and it varies based on brand and type. A manual option, like the Swimming Pool Wall & Tile Brush, is a less expensive option. Though it's effective, it'll require more manual labor than other options. If you're able to invest in a robotic option, we recommend the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner. Though it's a splurge, we found that it was gentle, effective, and easy to use.

According to Toedter, pool owners typically run their pool cleaners for 2-3 hours a day during the swimming season. The amount of time depends on a few factors, like size of the pool, type of cleaner, how often the pool is used, environmental factors, and the pool water chemistry.

"When your pool is filled with dirt, plant matter, and other debris, it can be a struggle to keep your pool safely sanitized, and may leave your pool vulnerable to organic stains. Rather than manually skimming, brushing, and vacuuming the pool on a daily basis, pool cleaners can help streamline pool care to remove this debris and keep the pool clean," she explains.

However, she notes that there are other maintenance factors to consider beyond just relying on the pool cleaner. "As part of a weekly maintenance routine, it’s important for pool owners to test and balance their pool water to prevent stains, scale, corrosive damage, unhealthy water, and issues with algae growth," says Toedter.

Almost all-size pool cleaners will work in an average-sized in-ground pool, which is about 32 to 36 feet long. For robotic and non-robotic cleaners, you want a hose or cable longer than your pool for ease of movement.

Robotic pool cleaners can weigh anywhere from 20 to 30 pounds, more or less, and sometimes the caddy costs extra, so consider how often and how far you will haul it when choosing a size. We suggest looking for an ergonomic design to make transporting it more comfortable.

If you're looking for a more lightweight option, consider our best overall pick, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner, which is 13.8 pounds, or the Poolmaster Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum, our best budget pick, which is 1.82 pounds.

Although leaving a pool cleaner in the pool may seem like the most convenient option, Toedter cautions against it for several reasons. For starters, exposure to elements, chemical imbalances, and high chlorine levels can damage the unit over time. Plus, pool cleaner's cords can also pose a hazard to some swimmers.

During the summer season, she recommends pool owners store it somewhere that's out of direct sunlight but still easy to access, like a shed or garage shelf. Once you've closed up your pool for the season, be sure that the unit is clean and dry before storing it in a non-freezing area, like a garage or basement.

Pool cleaners of any kind last about five to seven years on average, says Thompson. After two to three years some parts may need replacing for normal wear and tear, like the wheels and brushes. You may also want to upgrade your pool cleaner to take advantage of the latest features, technology, and productivity settings.

We tested several picks at home for six months, including the Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner, and found that they held up well and continued to function as expected.

Better Homes & Gardens / Roxanne Allen

This article was written by Jamie Weissman, a commerce editor for Better Homes & Gardens, and Veronica Graham, a freelance writer, who has been writing about home, automotive, and lawn and garden products for over two years. This article was updated by Jack Byram, a freelance writer who has been writing for BHG since 2023.

To create this list, we spoke with Mark Thompson, owner of Absolute Pool & Spa Care in Atlanta, and Alicia Toedter, pool and spa care education and content leader at Leslie’s, for additional insight. We also referred to insights from testers who used the pool cleaners at home for several weeks.

Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they're worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn't an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.