We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Shopping Gardening Reviews Pool & Spa Reviews The 14 Best Pool Cleaners of 2024 for Crystal Clear Water All Summer Long, According to Testing These models are easy to use and will keep your pool in good condition all summer. By Jamie Weissman Jamie Weissman Jamie Weissman is a commerce editor for Better Homes & Gardens with over three years' experience in the digital media industry. She covers bedding, pool cleaners, and couches. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process and Veronica Graham Veronica Graham Veronica Graham has been a lifestyle journalist covering everything from parenting to politics to playoff football for nearly 15 years. Her bylines include The Washington Post, Parents, SheKnows, and Family Handyman, and she has accumulated more than 2,000 bylines in her career writing for newspapers and magazines. Veronica holds a degree from The University of Texas at Austin. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on March 11, 2024 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews The Bottom Line Our Testing Process How to Shop Other Pool Cleaners We Tested Your Questions, Answered Who We Are What Is BHG Recommends? Real Simple / 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, the best 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. What We Tested We evaluated 36 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. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner at Amazon ($599) Jump to Review Best Budget: Poolmaster Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum at Amazon ($36) Jump to Review Best Splurge: Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($1,399) Jump to Review Best Pressure-Side: Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($599) Jump to Review Best Pressure-Side for Large Debris: Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($579) Jump to Review Best Suction-Side for Small Debris: Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($398) Jump to Review Best Brush: Lalapool Professional Pool Brush at Amazon ($13) Jump to Review Best Suction Cleaner: Hayward The PoolCleaner Suction Cleaner at Amazon ($429) Jump to Review Best Cordless: Aiper Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($268) Jump to Review Best In-Ground Robotic Cleaner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner at Amazon ($849) Jump to Review Best Overall Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $599 View On Walmart $648 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 4.5/5 Value 5/5 Why You Should Get It We liked that the filter compartment was easy to access and so fine that it even caught pollen and sediment. Keep in Mind The controller had additional buttons and functions that were not applicable to this specific model. Overall, the best pool cleaner is the Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner. We appreciated that the robot came pre-assembled, so it was easy to set up and use. Plus, we felt that the ease of use and price made this pick a great value. The pool cleaner, which can be used in either an above-ground or in-ground pool, is just under 14 pounds. We appreciated that it was lightweight and noted that the built-in handle made it easier to pick up and carry. Our pool is surrounded by a cedar elm tree and bamboo, so we typically have to remove leaves from the pool about once a week. This pool cleaner was able to remove a basket of leaves with each use. Plus, the filter compartment was easy to access and caught pollen and sediment. When it comes to this pool cleaner, we noted that the controller had additional buttons and functions that were not applicable to this specific model, like Bluetooth capabilities. Overall, however, we would recommend the cleaner. How It Performed After Five Months During the testing period, we used this pick about once a week. There's a tree above our pool and there were tons of leaves in our pool, especially during the fall. We found that we had to run the pool cleaner on a few cycles and more often to get our pool totally clean. A small silicone brush on the bottom of the machine fell off during testing, but we were able to glue it back on easily. Overall, we really liked this pool cleaner. If we could make any changes, however, we would have liked a longer cable that's anti-tangle as well. Product Details: Weight: 13.8 pounds | Cable Length: 50 feet | Pool Length: Up to 33 feet | Filter Type: Top load | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground, in-ground Better Homes & Gardens / Hildara Araya Key Terms to Know Robotic Vs. Non-Robotic: A robotic pool cleaner is a pool cleaner that uses software to determine how to clean your pool. A non-robotic pool cleaner includes manual devices, like a brush or net.Above-Ground Pool: An above-ground pool refers to a pool that is not built in to the ground. They're typically made of aluminum or steel and are a less expensive pool option.In-Ground Pool: In-ground pools are pools that are dug in to the ground. They're typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. Best Budget Poolmaster Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum Amazon View On Amazon $36 View On Walmart $36 View On Home Depot $36 Our Ratings Design 3/5 Ease of Use 4/5 Effectiveness 3/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It The model is lightweight and easy for us to use. Keep in Mind 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 the best pool cleaner 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 Best Splurge Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $1,399 View On Walmart $1,399 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Why You Should Get It It features three different types of filters. It’s also gentle, effective, and powerful, according to our testing. Keep in Mind Assembly instructions were not very clear. After testing, we described the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner as gentle, effective, and powerful. It also features three different types of filters, making it the best pool cleaner if you’re able to invest in a model. The pool cleaner is lightweight and easy to move around. The model features a handle at the top which appears to help the robot when it gets stuck on pool stairs. Plus, we appreciated that it has a thicker cord that appears less likely to get tangled. Part of what makes this model one of the best pool cleaners is that it has three different types of filters: bottom-load fine cartridge filters, ultra-fine cartridge filters, and an oversized fine filter bag. After a cleaning cycle, a red light indicates when it’s time to change the filter. After unboxing the pool cleaner, we felt that the setup was easy as the mesh bag filter was already in place. However, the included instructions were not clear, nor was there a user manual. Although it’s a splurge, we felt that overall it was worth it. Plus, there’s even a three-year warranty that protects your purchase. How It Performed After Two Months This pool cleaner shouldn't be used in water colder than 43°F and our pool is unheated, so we used it through August and September before we stopped using it. That being said, we didn't notice any changes throughout testing in terms of performance. We liked that it was easy to use, cleaned well, and that we could relax while the pool cleaner did its job. Product Details: Weight: 36.6 pounds | 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 Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Best Pressure-Side Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $599 View On Walmart $599 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 5/5 Why You Should Get It It was effective and easy to clean after use. Keep in Mind 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. How It Performed After Six Months 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 Best Pressure-Side for Large Debris Polaris Vac-Sweep 360 Pressure Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $579 View On Target $579 View On Walmart $579 Our Ratings Setup 4.5/5 Design 4.8/5 Ease of Use 4.8/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It There’s a tail sweeper that moves debris around so the vacuum can efficiently clean them up. Keep in Mind 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, the best pool cleaner is 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. How It Performed After Six Months 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 Best Suction-Side for Small Debris Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $398 View On Walmart $398 Our Ratings Design 4/5 Ease of Use 4.5/5 Effectiveness 4.5/5 Value 5/5 Why You Should Get It It efficiently cleaned the bottom of our pool, and we felt it had never looked cleaner. Keep in Mind 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 the best pool cleaner. 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. How It Performed After Six Months 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 Best Brush Lalapool Professional Pool Brush Amazon View On Amazon $13 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 5/5 Why You Should Get It It has a curved design that allows you to clean corners. Keep in Mind 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 the best pool cleaner if you don’t mind a manual style. 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. How It Performed After Two Months 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 Best Suction Cleaner Hayward The PoolCleaner Suction Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $429 View On Walmart $429 View On Poolsupplyunlimited.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 4/5 Effectiveness 4.5/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It It’s an effective cleaner that’s easy to use. Keep in Mind The cleaning cycle was slow. The Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner is the best pool cleaner 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. How It Performed After One Month 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 Better Homes & Gardens / Michael Navarro Best Cordless Aiper Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $268 View On Lesliespool.com $390 Our Ratings Design 4/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 4/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It The unit is compact, so you can be in the pool with it while it clean without it getting in the way. Keep in Mind We felt that the removal cord was too short, which made it harder to get it out of the pool. It also lingers in the deep end, so you have to be mindful of ensuring it cleans the whole pool. Many of the best pool cleaners are corded, but this Aiper model separates itself from the pack with a wireless, compact style. The Seagull 1000 Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is easy to use, and we found that you can even be in the pool with it while it cleans without it getting in the way. Overall, we found that the cleaner is easy to set up and use. We did find that it took a few attempts to adjust the two-angle settings, and we would have appreciated more clear instructions to help. Before using the pool cleaner for the first time, the tested pool had a build-up of sediment on the bottom. After 90 minutes and a few filter empties later, we found that nearly everything had been cleaned out of the pool. The following week, the pool water was clear and had less sediment than it did the first week. How It Performed After Two Months The pool cleaner continued to perform well, though we did notice that it has trouble getting out of the deep end of the pool when the battery is running low. Though we thought it may be better suited for a shallow pool, we still thought it was a great option and appreciated how easy it was to use. Product Details: Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground, in-ground Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Best In-Ground Robotic Cleaner Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $849 View On Walmart $799 Why You Should Get It It has dual scrub brushes and is compatible with all pool shapes and surfaces. It can climb walls, so it'll be able to capture different kinds of debris. Plus, it has a built-in handle that makes it easy to grip and transport if needed. Keep in Mind The model is more expensive than some other options on the market. No matter your pool shape, style, and surface material, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner is sure to get the job done. The best pool cleaner for in-ground pools is compatible with various pool shapes and has a brushing system that cleans walls and floors. The model has two brushes, one at the top and the other on the bottom, each of which will collect ultra-fine dirt and dust particles as well as catch things like leaves and pebbles. The robot is also able to scale both the walls and the floor, so you don't have to break out your net. One of the best parts about the cleaner is that it is a true set-and-forget robot. To use it, all you have to do is press one button, place it in the pool, and let it do its job—within two hours your pool will be clean. There are three settings to dictate how often you want the pool cleaner to run, so you can choose between every day, every other day, or every third day. We, however, that it’s important to check the filter status and clean it when it’s clogged. How It Performed After Four Months Over time, we thought that this pool cleaner got better at mapping out the pool and not missing any spots. It was also easy to use and we felt that it saved us hours of cleaning the pool ourselves. Though it's an investment, we thought it was well worth the splurge. Product Details: Weight: 19 pounds | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Reusable top-access cartridge | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Best Above-Ground Robotic Cleaner Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $679 View On Walmart $729 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It It was effective, easy to operate, and compact. Keep in Mind The instructions weren’t clear, so you’ll have to watch a few videos to assemble the unit. The best pool cleaner for above-ground pools is this Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner. We found that the 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. How It Performed After Three Months 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 / Anna Knief Best Robotic for Fine Debris Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner Amazon View On Amazon $1,499 Our Ratings Design 5/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 5/5 Value 4/5 Why You Should Get It It has a dedicated waterline scrubbing mode and three brushes that will thoroughly clean your pool. Keep in Mind The cleaner was only able to climb the first step of our pool. For the best pool cleaner for fine debris that may be hard to clean, consider the Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme. The unit's waterline mode is a must for protecting decorative tiles around the pool perimeter and keeping them clean. The CC Supreme will spend about two hours scrubbing away, including the waterline and grime that can form calcium deposits that discolor your tile and grout—that includes dirt and dust, as well as sunscreen and your body's natural oils. The cleaner was only able to climb the first step of our pool, but we still felt the pool was cleaned well. We liked that the accompanying app allows you to monitor the cleaning cycle status, as well as when the filters need to be changed. Unlike some other designs, the model has a third brush in the center that rotates faster than the other two, so it's good for breaking up sticky goop. The filter, which has two sections for fine and ultra-fine debris, can be accessed from the top, so it's easy to clean out between uses. How It Performed After Two Months We didn't experience any issues during testing and appreciated that the machine was efficient and user-friendly. If we could change one thing, we would have liked if there manual steering on the app responded faster. Overall, we found this model to be worth the investment. Product Details: Weight: 24 pounds | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Size 50 feet | Filter Type: Reusable top-access cartridge | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Best Robotic for Large Debris Polaris Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner Leslie's View On Lesliespool.com Our Ratings Design 4/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 4/5 Value 3/5 Why You Should Get It It’s compact, lightweight, and simple to assemble. Keep in Mind 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. How It Performed After Four Months 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 Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Best Smart Features Polaris VRX iQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner Leslie's View On Amazon $1,647 View On Walmart $1,647 View On Lesliespool.com $1,649 Our Ratings Design 4/5 Ease of Use 5/5 Effectiveness 4/5 Value 3/5 Why You Should Get It The wheeled design can sit upright, making it a space-saving design. We also felt the control panel was easy to use. Keep in Mind 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. How It Performed After Three Months 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 Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief Better Homes & Gardens / Anna Knief The Bottom Line Overall, the best pool cleaner is the Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner. The pool cleaner is effective, and we liked that the filter compartment was easy to access. Plus, the filter is so fine that it even caught pollen and sediment. Our Testing Process 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 best pool 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 / Anna Knief What to Know About Pool Cleaners Before Shopping Cleaner Type 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. Filtration Method 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. Pool Type 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, the best pool cleaner we tested was the Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner. Pool Size 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. Other Pool Cleaners We Tested Zodiac MX6 In-Ground Suction Side Pool Cleaner 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. Polaris 360 In Ground Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner 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. Aiper Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner The Aiper Cordless Automatic Pool Cleaner is less expensive than some of the best pool cleaners, 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. Aquabot X4 Robotic Pool Cleaner with Active Scrubbing Brush 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. Your Questions, Answered How much can I expect to spend on a pool cleaner? 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. How often will I use a pool cleaner? 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. What size pool cleaner do I need? 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. How should I store a pool cleaner? 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. How long do pool cleaners last? 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. Who We Are 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 the last two years. 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. What Is BHG Recommends? 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. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit