Nothing is more refreshing on a hot summer day than lounging on a float in the pool. With an assortment of pool floats out there, it can be hard to know which ones are worth the money and which aren’t.

This article will help you find the perfect floating device for your pool so that you can enjoy a day in the sun this summer.

We have reviewed all of the best pool floats on the market today so that you don’t have to go through hours of research to find one. We hope this article will save you time, money, and effort because we understand how hard it is to spend your life savings on something only to find out it’s not what you want or need!

Best pool floats

Here is a list of some of the best pool floats on the market today and what they’re good for.

Aqua Campania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner and Tanner Pool Lounger: Best Overall

The Aqua Compania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner and Tanner Pool Lounger is the pool float for you if you want ultimate adaptability. The adult-sized inflatable chair has everything you need, including a drink caddy to enjoy your favorite beverage while relaxing in the sun.   

Flip the upright backrest position to use the chair as a recliner. Nestle the chair into the hole in the float to use as a lounger for relaxing or sunbathing.

Also, this isn’t your normal plastic float. The soft cool weave fabric, a high-quality mesh that helps create a supportive and cooling seat, is used to make the extra buoyant float. It’s also 20% thicker than your regular inflatable. The float is quite portable, despite its size, due to its excellent carry handles.

Intex 30-Inch Transparent Tubes: Best budget pool float

These three-pack inflatable tubes will do the work if you don’t need anything fancy and only need something to sit in or support yourself upon. The trio of tubes, which measure 30 inches in diameter, are appropriate for both children and adults aged eight and up.

The tubes are also easy to inflate and deflate due to their small size, making them ideal for a day at the town pool, the lake, or the beach. They’re still strong enough to support someone weighing more than 100 pounds. Inner seams are smooth, so there’s no scratching, just a comfy spot to float.

SwimWays Baby Spring Float Activity Center with Canopy: Best for toddlers

Regarding children and pools, safety is unquestionably essential, and this pool float provides the best of all worlds in terms of security and enjoyment. The floating activity center looks like a regular baby seat, but it features two leg openings to keep your baby or toddler in a stable sitting posture, about 9 to 24 months. 

Child safety valves and an innerspring for increased stability to protect the float from tipping are also included as safety measures. The raft includes a wide retractable canopy with mesh sides made of UPF 50+ fabric for added comfort. 

The charming octopus attachment also rotates 360 degrees and comes with toys including a squeaker, rattle, stacking rings, and a soft touch star to keep your child entertained. Despite this, the inflatable is simple to store and travel, thanks to the accompanying carry bag.

Swimline UFO Squirter Pool Inflatable Lounge Float: Best for kids

This single-person raft is suitable for youngsters aged 4 and above and offers a lot of entertainment. It’s designed to give lots of engagement, owing to a built-in ray-gun squirt pistol that shoots a continual stream of water while still being perfectly ideal for simply resting and enjoying the water. Water games will undoubtedly keep kids amused for hours!

The inflatable lounger is composed of a robust 12-gauge PVC material to keep it in top form for longer because youngsters may be harsh on their toys, especially while playing outside. Yet, it just takes a few minutes to inflate and even less time if you use an air pump.

Aqua 4-in-1 Monterey Hammock Inflatable Pool Float

This pool float is incredibly adaptable, despite its small size and weight of little under a pound. Adults up to 250 pounds and roughly six feet tall will enjoy everything the basic vinyl and mesh raft offers. It may be used as a hammock, recliner, drifting, or even a workout saddle. 

Despite the breathable mesh fabric, the head and footrests are incredibly buoyant to pleasantly suspend you in the water and curve comfortably to keep you afloat, no matter how you want to use it.

A changeable cushion insert and a folding design that fits in the supplied tote bag are among the many useful features. The float is also machine washable, allowing you to keep it in like-new condition for as long as possible.

Bestway Hydro ForceTropical Breeze Floating Island Raft 

Nothing beats a floating island for pool parties, especially one this useful. Though the 54-pound, 153-by-108-inch float would require a very large pool, the investment is well worth it.

The pool float can comfortably hold up to 6 adults in an array of different seating configurations once inflated. Sit on the exposed-side loungers or a sitting area beneath the retractable, removable sunshade.

One thing is certain: this is one exceptionally comfy way to party in the pool, with extra-wide cushion backrests and built-in cup holders for each participant.

Texas Recreation Pool Floating Mattress

This you’re best to pick if you’re looking for one of the more traditional alternatives available. The two-inch thick mat is made in the U.S.A and closed-cell foam for maximum buoyancy and durability.

The float is also triple-dipped in a vinyl coating that is resistant to cracking, fading, and peeling in both saltwater and chlorinated pools. The mat also has the added benefit of being exceptionally quick to dry and wipe clean.

Intex Unicorn Inflatable Ride-On Pool Float 

This time, we look at the Intex Unicorn Inflatable Ride-On Pool Floats, which Intex has put a lot of money on. It’s a cute and entertaining unit that’s perfect for summer fun.

Your float will survive for decades because it is composed of high-quality vinyl and robust raft-grade phthalates-free material. It also includes two large, easy-to-grasp grips. A repair patch is also included with the float to help you address any leaks.

This item is wonderful for lounging on and makes a terrific addition to your swimming pool because of its enormous size. It’s also incredibly inexpensive—you won’t have to spend a fortune on it.

GoFloats Giant Inflatable Pool Floats

This pink flamingo is enormous. The GoFloats Giant Inflatable Pool Float is made of superior raft-grade vinyl and should withstand severe handling. The float includes a closed valve system for quick inflation and deflation. 

You may use a hairdryer, air pump, or air compressor to air it up. When completely inflated, its extra-large surface can handle 400 pounds and measures 114 inches by 55 inches by 47 inches. For easy transport, the float comes with a handy storage bag. A dragon, a bull, or a swan are some floating animals available at GoFloats.

Types of pool floats

There are several types of floats available nowadays. You can choose from the following types, depending on your needs:

  • Classic: This style resembles a mattress and allows you to rest and lie down. It’s constructed of foam or inflatable material.
  • Double user: This is perfect for two persons who want to sit next to each other or even face each other.
  • Family floats: These floats are generally shaped like a doughnut and support many people facing the center with their feet in the water.
  • Toy floats: These are fun designs that come in various animal shapes, such as tigers, swans, and fish, and food shapes, such as avocado, pretzels, watermelon, and pizza. The possibilities are limitless.
  • Lounge floats: When you want to sunbathe, relax, or spend the afternoon reading on the water, lounge pool floats are a popular choice. Some floats maintain you above the water, while others allow you to float with part of your body beneath the surface. Models featuring a backrest, armrests, drink containers, and even motorization is available. Backrests on certain models may be adjusted from upright to fully reclined. Many need inflation, while others are composed of plastic foam and designed like a patio chair with foam for flotation. The grade of the float material varies, providing varying levels of protection against sun damage, punctures, and mildew.
  • Hammock floats: Similar to lounge floats, hammock floats are more minimalistic and allow for more water contact. The armrests and footrests are either inflatable or foam, providing buoyancy to the float. Hammock floats have a mesh body that allows for complete immersion in the water. For added comfort, the mesh surface cradles your body. Some designs support floaters from the head to the knees, while others provide full-body support. When not in use, roll them up for simple storage. In addition, hammock floats take up less pool area than standard lounge floats.
  • Themed pool floats: Adding liveliness and character to a pool party, themed pool floats are fun for both youngsters and adults. You may choose a variety of interesting themes to customize a party, including animals, cuisine, and other novelty floats. Rafts and tubes exist in various forms and sizes, ranging from one to twelve people. Mini-floats are available for carrying food and refreshments or playing in-pool volleyball. Because themed pool floats are inflatable, you’ll need an air source like a hairdryer or a pump to inflate them. When your visitors become a bit rowdy, floats made of raft-grade vinyl will keep your rafts and tubes puncture-free.
  • Baby floats: This type is available in various forms and styles. The floats are usually labeled according to age and weight. Many come with a sunshade cover that can be adjusted or removed. It’s critical to select the appropriate size for your kid and to follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper use.

Some baby floats are more prone to capsize than others, so be sure the one you choose provides enough support to keep your kid in the suggested posture while keeping their face out of the water. 

Although baby floats allow your children to explore the water, they should never be left alone in them. Choose a float with UV protection, suitable belts and fasteners, and safety valves, and always keep your youngster within arm’s reach.

Pool floats: Tips and tricks

Pool floats may be used for relaxing aquatic activities that the whole family will enjoy. Here are a few pointers to keep your family safe while still keeping your floats in great shape:

  • Accidents can be avoided by strictly following safety rules. Never leap on or off pool floats to avoid impacts on hard surfaces to avoid head and other body injuries. A pool float is not a replacement for a life jacket or other flotation equipment.
  • Floats should be deflated, cleaned, and dry before being stored in a dry spot throughout winter.
  • Always have an air pump and a repair kit in case of a leak or a tear.

Buyer’s guide for the best pool float

Here, you’ll see some of the traits of high-quality floats and lounges. Taking these items into account will guarantee that you acquire the greatest model available.

Materials

One of the first things you’ll want to consider is the float’s construction. You should look for a model constructed of high-quality vinyl or PVC. It will be more durable and less likely to leak due to this.

A raft’s weight limit should be increased by using high-quality material. All of these elements must be taken into account.

Features

Another thing to think about is the features that your float offers. Some types have drink and paddle holders, while others include amenities such as a cloth outer covering or a drawstring bag to store the float after usage.

You might also want to look for versions with quick-fill and quick-release valves, which help inflate and deflate these floats faster.

Weight capacity

Another factor to consider is the float’s weight capacity. Some are intended for a single individual, while others are intended for numerous people at the same time. Regardless of the option you pick, make sure to verify the floater’s weight limitations. You don’t want to purchase one that can’t support your weight or your pals’ combined weight.

Brand

You should strive to get a well-known brand. There are a variety of float manufacturers that produce high-quality floats. Some of the most known names are Intex, Go Floats, Swimline, and Aqua Leisure. Be wary of knockoffs from unknown manufacturers that produce low-cost, low-quality floats.

Style

The last thing you should consider is whether you want a simple design, such as a water hammock, or a unique one. There are various novelty designs today—everything from inflated pieces of fruit to cartoon figures to animals.

Choose a style that appeals to you or that you believe would impress your friends. Remember that you’ll be stuck with whatever design you select for a long time, so choose wisely.

Air chambers

Multiple air chambers are one of the finest qualities of a float. You’ll need to inflate various compartments of your float if it has many chambers. While it may take a few minutes, the peace of mind is priceless. If one chamber appears while you are in your pool, for example, you will still be able to use the other chambers and travel to a safe surface.

Holder for cups

During the sweltering summer months, all you need to do is rest. When you join a pool or go out on a lake, you shouldn’t have to hold your drink or even have the choice of carrying one.

When lounging in your pool, having a convenient cup holder guarantees that you can carry your drink.

Portability

Because you may have a lot of items with you when you go to the pool or the beach, you should choose a float that is simple to carry. Make sure the kind you choose is lightweight and easy to deflate when you’re on the road.

It’s also crucial to choose a model that’s simple to inflate. For example, choosing a type that can be inflated with a hand pump or hairdryer will allow you to inflate it as soon as you arrive at your pool. Avoid such float that demands a vehicle or electric pump to inflate entirely.

Support

Since floats were first created for kids’ usage, you must check that your model is long enough to support your body entirely. This usually entails a more durable construction and cushions that allow you to rest your body while in the pool thoroughly.

Kit for patch repair

Another thing to think about is whether or not the model you wish to buy includes a patch repair kit. This will extend the life of your float by allowing you to repair any punctures readily. Furthermore, having a repair kit will ensure you have a good time with your summer float.

FAQs

What is the best way to clean my pool float?

Cleaning a pool float is a simple chore, but you should take your time to ensure that it is well sanitized. This ensures security, especially if your children are using it. When cleaning your float, make sure it’s inflated.

Is it possible to employ a pool float as a life-saving device?

A float should not be used as a life-saving device. Life-saving equipment is designed to support a large amount of weight when used in the water. Floats are designed to guarantee that you have a good time while swimming in your pool. They cannot support a lot of weight.

What is the finest pool float to purchase?

The greatest model should include all of the characteristics you desire in a pool float. It should also be inexpensive and long-lasting.

Where should I look for the best pool floats?

So far, all the floats we’ve discussed are among the best on the market. We’ve done a lot of study on these gears.

When it comes to cleaning my pool floats, what should I use?

The filth on the pool floats may be cleaned with water and soap. Make sure you don’t scrape them with your hands.

What is the best way to keep a pool floating?

Clean your float first, then let it air dry. You may now keep it in your garage or storage space when it has dried.

Conclusions

The Aqua Campania Ultimate 2-in-1 Recliner and Tanner is the best pool float overall. It’s a highly adaptable inflatable that enables you to rest in the pool in a flat or seated position.

The Intex Transparent Tubes are a more economical, practical solution for day vacations.

They come in a pack of three and are simple to inflate and deflate. If you’re looking for the most fun and playful, then the Gofloats has a ton of different varieties to choose from. Unicorn, Flamingo, fire dragon, and so on. Check these Gofloats out.

Last update on 2024-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.