How do you inflate pool toys?

Pumps and air compressors are the way to go. "The quickest and easiest way to inflate a pool toy is with an air compressor or electric air pump," says Breyer. You can use a bicycle pump or your lungs, but the process will generally take much longer. Only manually blow into the air inlet if the toy is very small or it’s a last resort option.

How do you repair inflatable pool toys?

Sometimes floaties include patches, sometimes a full repair kit, and sometimes neither. If the latter, pick up a couple backup patches in case of a floatie deflating emergency, which is bound to happen sooner or later. Duct tape can also work, as well as a strong adhesive, like a shoe glue—just make sure whatever you use is waterproof.

How do you clean pool toys?

According to Breyer, pool toys should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry location for maximum durability. "The sun, salt water, and chlorine can wear down a pool toy's materials and cut its life rather short," she explains. First, wash them with warm water and dish soap. Then, Casares says it's best to allow the pool toys to dry completely in the sun for at least four hours in between use.

Where do you store pool toys?

As the summer season comes to an end, you should start thinking about where and how you’ll store your pool toys . First, wash and dry pool toys as outlined above. Next, deflate all of the air out of them, then fold gently so you can stack and store them in airtight containers, like vacuum-sealed bags. (They’ll help keep mold, mildew, and pests from ruining your floaties). Finally, store them away, whether in a garage, basement, or storage closet, until next summer.

The 15 Best Pool Toys of 2023

From pool floats to sporty games, there's a toy for various ways to chill out in the pool and relax.

We conducted hours of research for this roundup, evaluating pool toys on their construction, durability, material, safety features, age recommendations, ease of setup, and cost. Our list includes pool toys designed for people of different interests and ages, from a fun avocado-themed pool float from Amazon to a budget-friendly volleyball game from Intex for competitive play.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look for
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Jasonwell

View On Amazon

What We Like

Large, fast valves for easy inflation
Made of raft-grade non-phthalates material
Fun, dual function design

What We Don't Like

Not for use by children without adult supervision

Our top pick, the Jasonwell Inflatable Avocado Pool Float, boasts a dual-function design, allowing people to lounge and play. This giant raft comes with a 17-inch inflatable beach ball in the shape of a pit. We love that it's made from quality raft-grade non-phthalates material that's not only safe and non-toxic, but durable enough to withstand chlorine, sun, and wild play. Customers also report that the thick, non-phthalates material has a soft skin feel, which is important when you're lounging in nothing but a swimsuit. Jasonwell is a trusted inflatables brand with a chic and trendy aesthetic for pool toys that are guaranteed to make a splash on your social feed as well as in your pool.

We also love how easy it is to inflate and deflate this pool float, should you want to travel with it. The design features large double-bed-type fast valves that make inflation up to five times faster than regular valves. It also comes with a clutch to inflate the tube to really take the headache out of inflating pool toys. When you use a professional-grade pool toy pump—Jasonwell makes a car-powered electric air pump—inflation is a breeze.

Price at time of publish: $33

_{Dimensions: 10.71 x 9.09 x 3.86 inches | Material: Non-Phthalates Material | Age Recommendation: Adult or adult supervision}

Bestway

View On Amazon

What We Like

Color-changing LED lights
Built-in cup holder
Large valves for easy inflation
Comes with repair kit

What We Don't Like

Some customers reported plastic is flimsy

The H2OGO! Swim Bright LED Inflatable Swim Ring Tube is perfect for night swims and after-hour pool parties. It features an LED light that alternates between seven vibrant colors. A battery-operated switch makes using the lights a fun option, and a built-in cup holder allows you to swim with a beverage. The cushioned backrest lets you get into total lounge mode. We love how easily the tube inflates and deflates, with interlocking quick-release valves. Another bonus is the included repair patch in case of emergency or accidental rips and tears.

Price at time of publish: $25

_{Dimensions: 40.94 x 40.94 x 17.72 inches | Material: Plastic | Age Recommendation: 14 and up}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

What We Like

Includes inflatable volleyball and floating net
Comes with repair patch
Affordable price

What We Don't Like

Flimsy net

The Intex Pool Volleyball Set comes with bags to help anchor into place at the bottom of the pool. You'll need to fill the bags with something—most customers report using landscaping rocks. Also included is an inflatable volleyball, as well as a box to store it on your shelf, and a repair kit, in case of any unexpected mishaps. Customers report this pool toy is a total bargain at its price point, and offers hours of fun.

Price at time of publish: $15

_{Dimensions: 94 x 25 x 36 inches | Material: Vinyl | Age Recommendation: 6 and up}

Poolmaster

View On Amazon

What We Like

Adjusts from chaise to fully reclined with rope lever
Built-in arm rests and cup holder
Quality vinyl construction

What We Don't Like

Recommended for adults only

If your idea of water play means catching some rays, the Poolmaster Riviera Wet/Dry Lounge can be enjoyed in two positions: chaise and pool mattress. Simply adjust the rope lever so you can relax however you're most comfortable. Built-in armrests and a cup holder are cool design features that make this the ultimate pool lounger. The durable vinyl construction ensures a sturdy float, and with the use of a pump, inflation is quick and easy. Note that this product has not been child tested for safety, so it's recommended for adult use only.

Price at time of publish: $76

_{Dimensions: 4 x 12 x 11 inches | Material: Vinyl | Age Recommendation: Adult}

GoFloats Inflatable Pool Drink Holders (3 Pack)

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Design prevents tipping
Fun design

What We Don't Like

A bit flimsy

An inflatable drink holder is a pool party game-changer, and these GoFloats mini flamingo rafts come three to a pack. Designed to cradle drinks snuggly to prevent tipping, they also work in hot tubs. Choose from other kitsch pool styles including palm trees, dragons, and cheeseburgers.

Price at time of publish: $8

_{Dimensions: ‎6.57 x 5.24 x 2.32 inches | Material: Plastic | Age Recommendation: Adult}

V Convey

View On Amazon

What We Like

Unique pearl foam float prevents tipping
Non-inflatable construction
Comes with UPF50 plus sun canopy

What We Don't Like

Some customers report the buckles are hard to use

We love the Mambobaby swim trainer for babies to help prevent tipping or flipping. This is a top-rated baby float, notable for its design and superior construction. The outside is fashioned of swimsuit cloth, which makes it soft for baby's gentle skin. Customers report this fabric is durable and easy to dry. The inside is made of the latest tech pearl foam, for improved buoyancy and to prevent tipping. A swim vest, buckles, and crotch strap help baby float either sitting upright or on their bellies, for ultimate swim preparedness.

Price at time of publish: $79

_{Dimensions: ‎19.69 x 18.9 x 5.91 inches | Material: Pearl foam | Age Recommendation: 3 to 24 months}

Swimbobo

View On Amazon

What We Like

Adjustable upgraded safety buckle provides 5 support points
Design prevents flipping
Safety vest included with float
Comes with pump and tube for easy inflation and deflation

What We Don't Like

Customers with active toddlers report some tipping

The Swimbobo baby float allows your toddler to swim safely on his or her belly, for added safety and swim preparedness skills. This float allows for more interaction with the water than other toddler floats. With an upgraded safety buckle secured with five support points, parents report that toddlers can move easily without tipping or flipping over. A safety swim vest keeps the toddler afloat with an inflatable ring for added buoyancy on either side. Additionally, this float comes with a manual pump for easy inflation and a tube for quick deflation.

Price at time of publish: $19

_{Dimensions: 14.06 x 7.64 x 2.8 inches | Material: Polyvinyl Chloride | Age Recommendation: 3 months to three years}

Macy's

View On Walmart

What We Like

Quality, easy-release fin
Fun for boys and girls

What We Don't Like

Only comes in two child-sized and adult sized-options
Only appropriate for advanced swimmers

Calling all mermaid fans, we've got you. The Fin Fun mermaid tail is a fun and flashy way for kids to enjoy the pool, featuring a dazzling, shiny scale texture and monofin that helps swimmers propel through the water faster than traditional strokes. One of the standout design features includes the easy-release fin, for added safety. Rather than strapping to your feet, the monofin stays in place and can be easily released in the water. The tail skin features fade-resistant premium fabric that stretches four ways, and you can choose from different color options. Finding the right size might include a bit of trial and error, as there are only two options for kids and two for adults.

Price at time of publish: $70

_{Dimensions: N/A | Material: Polyester and Neoprene | Age Recommendation: 14 and up}

Intex River Run Sport Lounge Inflatable Water Float

Academy Sports + Outdoors

View On Walmart View On Academy.com

What We Like

Durable material suitable for rafting
Two built-in cup holders
Two sturdy handles
Comes with repair patch

What We Don't Like

Large enough for only one adult user

When it comes to quality tubes, the Intex River Run is the best of the best. It’s super spacious with a built-in backrest so you can cruise in absolute comfort. The raft-quality material makes this tube extra durable, able to withstand hours of wild play. We love that the tube is fashioned with a mesh bottom to keep you cool when temperatures rise. Two heavy-duty handles make grip easy, and two built-in cup holders add to the comfort.

Price at time of publish: $90

_{Dimensions: 12 x 4.13 x 14 inches | Material: PVC Vinyl | Age Recommendation: 14 years and up}

Millard

View On Amazon

What We Like

Quality, tear-resistant material
Multiple uses
Included cup holders

What We Don't Like

May not be suitable for large dogs

Dog lovers, let your furry friends enjoy the pool with toys of their own. This safety-certified Millard float is made with durable, tear-resistant material to withstand claws, though some customers report that it works best for smaller, less active dogs. As an added bonus, you can flip the float over after your dog is done using it and use the float to serve poolside drinks. Find five cup holders on the reverse side: talk about a pop-up bar.

Price at time of publish: $40

_{Dimensions: ‎15 x 12 x 5 inches | Material: Vinyl | Age Recommendation: N/A}

Jasonwell Giant Inflatable Unicorn Pool Float

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Made with raft-grade non-phthalates material
Large, fast valves for easy inflation
Large enough to fit two adult users
Comes with carrying bag

What We Don't Like

Not for use by children without adult supervision

No pool toy collection is complete without a unicorn float, and this Jasonwell model boasts superior construction and fabulous style. We love that it's built large enough for up to two adults to fit and float. Raft-grade non-phthalates material adds to the float's durability, making it able to withstand rough play. Large, fast valves make for easy inflation, and the float comes with a carrying bag for easy transport.

Price at time of publish: $60

_{Dimensions: ‎13.66 x 10.35 x 5.31 inches | Material: Non-phthalates material | Age Recommendation: 14 years and up}

FUNBOY

View On Funboy.com

What We Like

Large size
Fun design
Multiple uses

What We Don't Like

Pricey for a beach ball

Check out FUNBOY's collaboration with Barbie for beautifully designed pool toys in the iconic pink colorway. We love this option because a beach ball is a pool must-have. The 20-inch oversized beach ball features a funky pink and orange design with the famous Barbie logo on the side. Grab a few for a fun backyard party or photoshoot.

Price at time of publish: $16

_{Dimensions: 20 x 20 inches | Material: Not Listed | Age Recommendation: 14 years and up}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Melissaanddoug.com

What We Like

Multiple ways to play
Adorable design
Great for toddlers

What We Don't Like

Small fish get lost easily

Spend hours in the sun with little ones catching fish and racing sharks with this play set from Melissa & Doug. The ocean-themed toy comes with two shark nets and six colorful fish. Try to catch the fish with the net before they sink to the bottom of the pool. We also love this option for bath time or in a shallow kiddie pool. While the toy offers a clear direction to foster fine motor skills, imaginative kids will find hundreds of ways to play.

Price at time of publish: $28

_{Dimensions: ‎13 x 5 x 15 inches | Material: Not Listed | Age Recommendation: 6-8 years and up}

ZHFUYS

View On Amazon

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Comes in a pack of four
Great for experienced swimmers

What We Don't Like

Can get lost easily

More experienced swimmers can practice diving underwater with these budget-friendly diving toys available on Amazon. The 4-pack of colorful sharks appear to swim through the water as they make their way to the bottom of the pool. Little ones then have to find the sneaky sharks in an engaging game of hide and seek. Little ones can also enjoy the sharks in a shallow kiddie pool.

Price at time of publish: $6

_{Dimensions: ‎5.91 x 3.94 x 1.57 inches | Material: Not Listed | Age Recommendation: 3 years and up}

frontgate

View On Frontgate

What We Like

Fun color options
Extremely durable
Nonslip grip

What We Don't Like

Very pricey for a noodle

This is not your ordinary pool noodle. If you have a bit more dough to spend on pool toys this year, consider this elevated noodle from Frontgate. The 46-inch noodle resists sun, salt water, and chlorine to stay vibrant for years and years. The wavy texture ensures a non-slip grip, while the large sized increases your comfort as you float for hours on end.

Price at time of publish: $79

Dimensions: ‎7.5 x 46 inches | Material: Vinyl-dipped foam | Age Recommendation: Not Listed

Recommended Age

When it comes to water play, safety is paramount. "First and foremost, families should look for toys that are age-appropriate and safe for kids to play with in the pool," says Jackie Breyer, Editorial Director at The Toy Insider. "When shopping for a party or get-together, keep in mind the ages of your guests and look for pool toys that are safe, durable, and fun for everyone." She also says to pay attention to age recommendations—"And if no age is listed, it is likely not safety-approved for kids."

Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, founder and CEO of Modern Mommy Doc and the Modern Mamas Club, says that whether your kiddos are just getting used to putting their toes in the water or are experienced swimmers, babies, toddlers, and young children should never be left unattended [during water play]. "Kids can drown in as little as one inch of water, so always closely supervise water play," she says.

Durability

Pool toys get put through the wringer. They’re jumped on, inflated, delated, and thrown around both in and out of the water. Breyer explains that you should look for durable materials in selecting your pool toys. "Look for UV-resistant PVC materials," she says. "The sun can dry out and fade pool toys, leaving them cracked, peeling, and unsafe over time."

The occasional hole or rip is inevitable, but to stave off the sadness of watching your pool toy deflate in front of your eyes, buy one made of durable, thick vinyl.

Repair Kits

There’s always an imminent threat of rips when it comes to pool toys. To spare yourself the hassle of another pool toy biting the dust, purchase one with backup patches or a repair kit—or have the forethought to purchase these things separately. That way, no pool party is ruined.

FAQ

How do you inflate pool toys?

Pumps and air compressors are the way to go. "The quickest and easiest way to inflate a pool toy is with an air compressor or electric air pump," says Breyer. You can use a bicycle pump or your lungs, but the process will generally take much longer. Only manually blow into the air inlet if the toy is very small or it’s a last resort option.
How do you repair inflatable pool toys?

Sometimes floaties include patches, sometimes a full repair kit, and sometimes neither. If the latter, pick up a couple backup patches in case of a floatie deflating emergency, which is bound to happen sooner or later. Duct tape can also work, as well as a strong adhesive, like a shoe glue—just make sure whatever you use is waterproof.
How do you clean pool toys?

According to Breyer, pool toys should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry location for maximum durability. "The sun, salt water, and chlorine can wear down a pool toy's materials and cut its life rather short," she explains. First, wash them with warm water and dish soap. Then, Casares says it's best to allow the pool toys to dry completely in the sun for at least four hours in between use.
Where do you store pool toys?

As the summer season comes to an end, you should start thinking about where and how you’ll store your pool toys. First, wash and dry pool toys as outlined above. Next, deflate all of the air out of them, then fold gently so you can stack and store them in airtight containers, like vacuum-sealed bags. (They’ll help keep mold, mildew, and pests from ruining your floaties). Finally, store them away, whether in a garage, basement, or storage closet, until next summer.

This article was written and researched by Jill Di Donato, a product reviewer, lifestyle editor, and copywriter with over 15 years of experience writing for publications like Byrdie, HuffPost, and the Los Angeles Times.

Additional input was also provided by Jackie Breyer, Editorial Director, The Toy Insider and Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, the founder and CEO of Modern Mommy Doc and the Modern Mamas Club.