A pool solar cover is essential for extending swimming season, retaining heat, and reducing evaporation. The best options balance durability, UV resistance, and ease of use. The Blue Wave 16×32-ft Rectangle Solar Pool Cover stands out as the overall top pick thanks to its reliable performance and affordability. The BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool Cover offers extra durability for frequent use, while the VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 24 x 12 ft provides versatility for different pool sizes. Choosing the right cover involves balancing cost, size, thickness, and ease of handling. Keep reading for a detailed comparison to find your ideal fit.
Open a free Amazon Business account
Business pricing, bulk buying and tax-exempt orders.
Create a free accountAs an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Thicker covers (16 Mil) generally last longer and retain heat better, but are heavier and harder to handle.
- Size compatibility is critical—measure your pool accurately to avoid buying a cover that’s too small or large.
- UV resistance enhances longevity, especially in sunny climates, preventing premature degradation.
- Bubble design variations affect heat retention—larger bubbles often trap more heat but can be less flexible.
- Price correlates with thickness, size, and durability—investing a bit more often leads to longer-lasting coverage.
| pool solar cover | Size | Color | Thickness | Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Wave 16×32-ft Rectangle S | 16×32 ft | Blue | 12 Mil | Polyethylene |
| BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool | 16×32 ft | Blue | — | PE |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover | 24 x 12 ft | Blue | — | 12 mil PE |
| BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool | 18×9 ft | Blue | 16 Mil | — |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 | 32 x 16 ft | Blue & Black | 16 Mil | PE |
| Intex 28014E Solar Pool Cover | — | Red | — | Polyethylene |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 40 x 20 | 40 x 20 ft | Blue | 16 Mil | PE (Polyethylene) |
| Real Relax 16 Mil Solar Pool C | 16 x 32 ft | — | 16 mil | PE (Polyethylene) |
| In The Swim 16′ x 32′ Premium | 16 x 32 ft | Blue | 12 Mil | Polyethylene |
| VINGLI 12x24ft Solar Pool Cove | 12 x 24 ft | Blue | 12 Mil | Heavy-duty PE |
| Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Poo | 24 ft round | Blue | 12 Mil | — |
| Sun2Solar Solar Pool Cover 16 | 18 x 36 ft | Blue | 16 Mil | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Blue Wave 16×32-ft Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12-Mil Blue
This 16×32 ft Blue Wave solar cover stands out for its balance of durability and effectiveness, making it a solid choice for both above-ground and inground pools. Its 12-mil polyethylene with thermal bubble technology effectively captures and transfers solar heat, often outperforming thinner covers like the VEVOR 32×16 ft, especially in cooler climates. While it offers reliable heat retention and reduces evaporation, it requires careful storage to prevent damage and may need trimming for custom-fit pools. Its durability and 5-year warranty make it a dependable investment, though it’s less effective in heavily overcast conditions compared to thicker or specialized covers.
Pros:- Effective heat retention with thermal bubble technology
- Suitable for both above-ground and inground pools
- Durable 12-mil construction with a 5-year warranty
Cons:- Requires careful storage to prevent damage
- May need trimming for custom pool shapes
- Less effective in very cloudy or overcast conditions
Best for: Pool owners seeking a durable, all-purpose cover that balances cost with performance for various pool types.
Not ideal for: Buyers in consistently cloudy regions or those looking for a cover specifically optimized for maximum heat gain in overcast weather.
- Size:16×32 ft
- Thickness:12 Mil
- Color:Blue
- Material:Polyethylene
- Design:Thermal Bubble Technology
- Compatibility:Above-ground and Inground Pools
- Warranty:5 years
Our verdict“This cover suits pool owners who want a reliable, versatile option with proven durability and decent heat retention across different pool types.”
BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool Cover 16x32ft – 16Mil Blue
This 16 mil thick BigXwell cover offers enhanced durability compared to the thinner Blue Wave, making it ideal for frequent use and harsher weather. Its heavier gauge provides better resistance to tears and punctures, which is a key advantage over lighter options like the VEVOR 24×12 ft. The cover’s ability to reduce water evaporation by up to 95% is especially valuable for conserving resources and maintaining pool temperature. However, its increased thickness makes it slightly heavier, requiring more effort to handle and trim to fit irregular shapes. It’s best suited for pool owners who prioritize long-term durability and water savings, though it depends on adequate sunlight for optimal heating.
Pros:- Enhanced durability with 16-mil thickness
- Reduces evaporation by up to 95%
- Effective in retaining heat and resisting weather damage
Cons:- Heavier and less easy to handle than lighter covers
- Requires manual trimming for irregular pools
- Dependent on sunlight to achieve maximum heating
Best for: Pool owners seeking a tough, long-lasting cover that maximizes water conservation and withstands tough weather conditions.
Not ideal for: Those with smaller, less frequently used pools or owners who prefer lightweight, easy-to-install covers for occasional use.
- Size:16×32 ft
- Mil Thickness:16Mil
- Material:PE
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is perfect for pool owners who want a heavy-duty, long-lasting solution that conserves water and enhances durability, especially in tough weather conditions.”
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover, 24 x 12 ft Rectangle, 12 Mil Bubble Solar Blanket
The VEVOR 24×12 ft cover offers a practical size for smaller pools or those needing a custom-fit solution. Its 12-mil PE material with bubble technology effectively increases water temperature by 8-15°C, extending the swimming season. Compared to larger covers like the BigXwell 16×32 ft, this option is more suitable for irregular or compact pools, though it requires some cutting and fitting. Its durability is solid, but performance drops in cloudy or windy conditions, much like other thin covers. This pick is ideal for pool owners wanting a balance of heat gain and ease of handling, especially if they are comfortable trimming the cover themselves.
Pros:- Increases water temperature significantly
- Reduces evaporation by up to 95%
- Customizable to fit various pool shapes
Cons:- Requires cutting and fitting for irregular pools
- Less effective in overcast or windy conditions
- Dependent on sunlight for optimal heating
Best for: Homeowners with small or irregularly shaped pools looking for an affordable, customizable cover to extend swimming months.
Not ideal for: Owners with large, standard-sized pools who need a cover that covers more area with minimal trimming or adjustments.
- Size:24 x 12 ft
- Material:12 mil PE
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is well-suited for owners needing a customizable, affordable option that extends swimming season for smaller pools.”
BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool Cover 18x9ft – 16Mil Blue
The 18×9 ft BigXwell cover with 16 mil thickness is designed for smaller pools where durability and heat retention matter. Its heavy-duty construction offers superior resistance to tears, making it ideal for frequent use or windy environments. Compared to larger covers like the 32×16 ft VEVOR model, this size is easier to handle and trim, but it covers less area. Its ability to cut down evaporation and extend the swimming season makes it a practical choice for compact pools. However, because it isn’t a powered heating device, it relies entirely on sunlight, which can limit performance in less sunny climates.
Pros:- Heavy-duty 16-mil thickness for durability
- Reduces evaporation and extends pool warmth
- Weather-resistant and easy to customize
Cons:- Limited coverage area due to small size
- No powered heating; depends on sunlight
- Requires manual trimming for fit
Best for: Owners of small to medium pools seeking a durable, weather-resistant cover that is easy to handle and trim for a perfect fit.
Not ideal for: Larger pools or those requiring maximum heat gain in cloudy environments, as it covers less area and depends heavily on sunlight.
- Size:18×9 ft
- Thickness:16 Mil
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover makes the most sense for owners of small pools who need a tough, long-lasting cover that’s easy to manage and trim.”
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft 16 Mil Pool Bubble Cover Blue & Black
This 32×16 ft VEVOR cover with 16 mil thickness offers extensive coverage for larger pools, combining heat retention with water-saving benefits. Its dual-color design features blue and black, which helps absorb and retain heat more efficiently than single-color covers like the Blue Wave. It’s comparable to the BigXwell 16Mil in durability but covers a larger area, making it suitable for bigger pools or multiple smaller pools. The need for trimming remains, much like other covers, and it performs best in sunny conditions. Its large size and high-quality PE material make it a strong contender for those with ample space who want a long-lasting, effective cover.
Pros:- Large coverage area for big pools
- Effective heat retention with dual-color design
- Durable PE material resistant to weather damage
Cons:- Requires trimming for irregular shapes
- Heavy to handle without assistance
- Less effective in highly shaded or cloudy weather
Best for: Owners of large inground or above-ground pools who need extensive coverage with strong heat retention and durability.
Not ideal for: Pool owners with small or irregular pools that require less coverage, as it may be difficult to handle and trim properly.
- Size:32 x 16 ft
- Thickness:16 Mil
- Color:Blue & Black
- Material:PE
Our verdict“This cover suits large pool owners seeking a durable, high-performance solution with extensive coverage and excellent heat retention.”
Intex 28014E Solar Pool Cover for 16ft Round Above Ground Pools
This cover is a straightforward solution optimized specifically for 16-foot round above ground pools, making it ideal for owners of similar-sized pools who want a simple, effective way to reduce evaporation and debris. Its bright red color ensures high visibility, but it may fade over time, and the fit is limited to perfectly round pools, unlike more adaptable options like the VEVOR 40×20 ft cover. Compared to larger, more customizable covers, this model excels in ease of use but sacrifices versatility. It’s a strong choice for those seeking a quick install and reliable evaporation reduction without the need for trimming or adjustments. The material is durable enough for seasonal use, yet its color may fade with prolonged sun exposure, and it’s not suitable for irregularly shaped pools.
Pros:- Simple to install and use without complicated setup
- Reduces water evaporation by up to 95%, saving water and chemicals
- Keeps leaves and debris out effectively
Cons:- Limited to 16-foot round pools, reducing flexibility
- Color may fade, affecting appearance over time
- Less effective on pools with irregular shapes
Best for: Owners of standard 16-foot round above ground pools seeking an easy, affordable cover
Not ideal for: Owners with irregularly shaped pools or those looking for a cover that adapts to multiple pool sizes
- Compatibility:16-foot round pools
- Material:Polyethylene
- Color:Red
- Dimensions:Fits 16 ft round pools
Our verdict“This cover is ideal for owners of standard round pools who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness.”
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 40 x 20 ft, 16 Mil Rectangle Solar Blanket Blue
The VEVOR 40×20 ft cover provides a generous size for larger or irregular pools, standing out for its durability and capacity to extend your swimming season. Its 16-mil thickness offers better heat retention and durability than thinner covers like the 12-mil In The Swim model, but the need to cut it to size can be challenging for users unfamiliar with DIY adjustments. While its size and strength make it suitable for custom installations, it’s less convenient for owners of smaller pools who don’t want to deal with cutting. Compared with the Intex cover, it offers more flexibility for different pool shapes but requires more effort upfront. This makes it a good pick for those willing to invest time in customization to get a perfect fit and maximize heat retention.
Pros:- Large size suitable for bigger or custom-shaped pools
- Highly durable, resistant to sun and tearing
- Effective at extending swimming season by increasing water temperature
Cons:- Requires cutting for proper fit, which can be tricky
- Less effective in very windy conditions due to larger surface area
- Initial setup involves manual customization
Best for: Homeowners with larger or irregularly shaped pools who want a durable, customizable cover
Not ideal for: Pool owners seeking a ready-to-use, no-cut solution for smaller, round pools
- Size:40 x 20 ft
- Thickness:16 Mil
- Material:PE (Polyethylene)
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is best for owners of larger pools who don’t mind some DIY work to achieve perfect fit and durability.”
Real Relax 16 Mil Solar Pool Cover, 16 x 32 ft Rectangle Bubble Blanket
The Real Relax 16 Mil cover offers impressive heat retention and evaporation reduction, making it a smart choice for those aiming to extend their swimming season without high costs. Its thick 16-mil PE material stands out from thinner options like the 12-mil In The Swim cover, providing extra durability. Easy to customize with scissors, it’s well-suited for pools of various sizes but lacks detailed installation instructions, which might leave some users unsure about trimming or placement. Compared to the VINGLI, it emphasizes heat retention more strongly, but the need for trimming and careful handling can be a drawback. This cover suits pool owners seeking a robust, customizable option that balances cost and performance.
Pros:- Excellent for heat retention, reducing heating costs
- Helps prevent debris from entering the pool
- Easily cut and customized for different pool sizes
Cons:- Requires trimming for irregular pools, which may be challenging
- Durability depends on proper handling during installation
- Lacks explicit installation instructions
Best for: Pool owners wanting a durable, heat-efficient cover they can trim to fit irregular shapes
Not ideal for: Beginners or those who prefer a fully ready-to-use cover without trimming
- Size:16 x 32 ft
- Material:PE (Polyethylene)
- Thickness:16 mil
Our verdict“This cover is suitable for owners who want high heat retention and are comfortable with trimming for a custom fit.”
In The Swim 16′ x 32′ Premium Blue Rectangle Solar Pool Cover 12 Mil
This 12-mil cover emphasizes durability and chemical savings, making it suitable for seasonal use and for pools where a sturdy cover is desired. Its heavier 12-mil thickness provides better resistance to tears than thinner options like the VINGLI, but it requires manual trimming, which might be cumbersome for some users. Compared with the Real Relax cover, it’s less thick but easier to handle for those familiar with trimming. While it’s a reliable, long-lasting choice, its need for precise cutting and potential for seasonal replacement might deter those seeking a more plug-and-play solution. It’s best for pool owners prioritizing durability over immediate customization ease.
Pros:- Heavy-duty, thick material for long-lasting use
- Helps retain heat and reduce evaporation
- Minimizes chemical usage and extends pool life
Cons:- Requires manual trimming for a perfect fit
- May need replacement after a season of heavy use
- Less flexible for irregular pool shapes without trimming
Best for: Owners seeking a durable, heavy-duty cover that extends the swimming season and saves on chemicals
Not ideal for: Users unwilling to trim or replace seasonal covers regularly
- Size:16 x 32 ft
- Material:Polyethylene
- Thickness:12 Mil
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is a solid choice for durability-focused owners who don’t mind trimming for a custom fit and seasonal replacement.”
VINGLI 12x24ft Solar Pool Cover 12mil Rectangle Blue
The VINGLI 12×24 ft cover offers a practical solution for smaller or irregular pools, with a focus on ease of customization and long-lasting design. Its 12-mil thickness balances durability with flexibility, and the welded seams add strength over time. It excels at retaining heat and reducing evaporation, helping to extend swimming seasons. However, the bubble side must face down during use, which can cause initial confusion, and it may require additional equipment like a reel for ease of handling. Compared with larger covers like the VEVOR, it’s more manageable for small pools, but the need to carefully position it during installation can be less straightforward.
Pros:- Easy to cut and customize to fit irregular shapes
- Durable welded seams ensure long-lasting use
- Retains heat effectively to extend swimming season
Cons:- Bubble side must face down during use, which may be confusing
- May require additional equipment like a cover reel
- Normal bubble deflation can occur before sun exposure
Best for: Owners of small or irregularly shaped pools seeking an easy-to-cut, durable cover
Not ideal for: Owners of large, rectangular pools who prefer larger covers with minimal trimming
- Size:12 x 24 ft
- Material:Heavy-duty PE
- Thickness:12 Mil
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is ideal for smaller or irregular pools where ease of fitting and durability are priorities.”
Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Pool Solar Cover, 12 Mil, Heat Retaining
This Sun2Solar Blue 24 ft Round Solar Cover stands out for its balance of performance and ease of use, making it ideal for those with standard round pools. It effectively raises water temperature by up to 15 degrees and retains heat overnight, similar to the larger 16 Mil options like the BigXwell Heavy-Duty Cover, but its thinner 12 Mil design makes it slightly less durable over long seasons. Compared with thicker covers, it may require more careful handling to prevent tears, yet it offers excellent evaporation reduction and debris prevention. It’s best suited to pool owners seeking straightforward installation without the need for custom trimming, though its performance depends on ample sunlight. The need for trimming for custom-fit pools and reliance on sunlight are notable tradeoffs, but overall, this cover delivers reliable heat retention for its size and price.
Pros:- Increases water temperature by up to 15 degrees for warmer swimming sessions
- Retains heat overnight, reducing energy costs
- Cuts evaporation by up to 95%, conserving water and chemicals
- Prevents debris entry, keeping pool cleaner
Cons:- Requires trimming for a perfect fit, which can be inconvenient
- Limited to 24 ft round pools, not suitable for irregular shapes
- Performance heavily depends on sunlight exposure
Best for: Pool owners with a 24-foot round above-ground or in-ground pool seeking an affordable, reliable heat and evaporation solution.
Not ideal for: Owners with irregularly shaped or larger pools that require a more durable or larger cover, or those expecting harsh weather that could damage thinner material.
- Size:24 ft round
- Thickness:12 Mil
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This cover is a solid choice for standard round pool owners wanting easy installation and efficient heat retention without extra durability concerns.”
Sun2Solar Solar Pool Cover 16 Mil 18 x 36 Ft Blue
Compared with the 12 Mil Sun2Solar option, this 16 Mil Sun2Solar Cover offers increased durability and better resistance to wear, making it ideal for pool owners who want a longer-lasting solution. Its larger size of 18 x 36 feet allows it to fit a range of pools without trimming, unlike the more size-specific 24 ft round cover. It helps elevate water temperature by up to 15°F and reduces evaporation by 95%, similar to the thinner model, but with enhanced resistance to sun damage thanks to its thicker resin construction. While it’s easier to place without trimming, it requires proper positioning to maximize efficiency. It’s a good pick for those seeking a durable, versatile cover that extends pool season but may need replacement after several seasons depending on exposure and usage.
Pros:- Raises water temperature by up to 15°F
- Reduces water evaporation by up to 95%
- Durable and resistant to sun damage for longer lifespan
- Fits various pool shapes without modification
Cons:- Requires proper placement for maximum effectiveness
- May need replacement after several seasons depending on climate
- Limited color options reduce aesthetic choices
Best for: Pool owners with larger or irregularly shaped pools who prioritize durability and flexible sizing.
Not ideal for: Owners with small, perfectly round pools or those on a tight budget, as this model is larger and more expensive.
- Thickness:16 Mil
- Size:18 x 36 ft
- Color:Blue
Our verdict“This thicker, larger cover is better suited for owners seeking a durable, versatile option that can handle different pool shapes and conditions.”
How We Picked
We evaluated each pool solar cover based on key factors that matter to everyday users: performance in heat retention, durability, ease of use, size accuracy, and overall value. We prioritized products with proven UV resistance and good reviews for longevity. The ranking reflects a combination of these performance metrics, along with price considerations and versatility for different pool sizes and types. Our goal was to identify options that offer the best balance of quality and value, helping consumers make informed decisions suited to their pool setup and usage habits.Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Solar Cover
Choosing the right pool solar cover involves more than just picking the largest or thickest option. Several factors influence how well a cover will perform and how long it will last. Understanding these considerations can prevent common mistakes like overpaying for unnecessary features or buying a cover that doesn’t fit your pool. Here are the main factors to keep in mind.Size and Shape Compatibility
Accurately measure your pool before purchasing a solar cover. Using a cover that’s too small won’t provide adequate coverage, leading to heat loss and evaporation. Conversely, a cover that’s too large may be cumbersome to handle and could cause wind issues. Many covers come in standard sizes, but custom-fit options are available for irregular shapes. Always check the product dimensions carefully and consider extra margin for easier handling.
Thickness and Durability
Solar covers typically range from 12 to 16 Mil in thickness. Thicker covers tend to last longer, resist tears better, and trap heat more effectively. However, they are also heavier and more difficult to manipulate, especially for one person. If you have a smaller or less accessible pool, a 12 Mil cover might suffice, but for frequent use or colder climates, a 16 Mil cover provides better longevity and performance. Balance your budget with expected use to choose the appropriate thickness.
Material and UV Resistance
The quality of the material impacts how long the cover will last in the sun. UV-resistant options prevent degradation from prolonged sun exposure, maintaining flexibility and opacity over seasons. Cheaper covers may fade or become brittle quickly, reducing their effectiveness. Investing in UV protection adds to the longevity of your cover, saving money in the long run and maintaining heat retention capabilities.
Bubble Design and Heat Retention
The design of the bubbles influences how well the cover traps heat. Larger bubbles generally have more air space, improving insulation, but can be less flexible and harder to fold. Smaller bubbles are more flexible and easier to handle but may offer slightly less heat retention. Consider your climate and how often you’ll need to remove or reposition the cover when evaluating bubble size and design.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Handles, color, and material flexibility affect how easily you can put on, remove, and store your solar cover. Light, flexible covers with integrated handles simplify handling, especially for larger sizes. Darker colors absorb more heat but may overheat and degrade faster if not UV-stabilized. Regular cleaning and careful storage are necessary to extend the lifespan, so choose a cover that suits your physical capability and maintenance routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size solar cover to buy for my pool?
To determine the right size, measure your pool’s length, width, and depth accurately. For rectangular pools, measure the exact dimensions, and add a small margin (around 6 inches) on each side for easier handling. For round pools, measure the diameter and select a cover that matches or slightly exceeds that size. Matching the cover size to your pool ensures maximum coverage, which is essential for effective heat retention and water conservation.
Is thicker always better for a pool solar cover?
While thicker covers (16 Mil) generally last longer and insulate better, they are also heavier and more difficult to handle, especially for one person. Thinner covers (12 Mil) can be easier to manage but may wear out faster and provide slightly less heat retention. The choice depends on your usage frequency, physical ability, and climate. For frequent use and colder weather, investing in a thicker cover makes more sense, but for occasional use, a thinner one could suffice.
Can I leave my solar cover on the pool year-round?
Leaving your solar cover on year-round can protect it from environmental damage, but it may also trap moisture underneath, promoting mold or algae if not cleaned regularly. During harsh winter conditions or when the pool isn’t in use, consider removing the cover to prevent damage from wind or debris. For year-round protection, ensure the cover is clean and dry before storing it properly, and check it periodically for signs of wear.
How much does a good pool solar cover cost?
Prices vary based on size, thickness, and material quality, typically ranging from $50 to over $200. Thicker, larger, or UV-resistant covers tend to cost more but offer longer service life and better insulation. Balancing your budget with your pool size and usage frequency helps determine the best value. Spending a little more upfront on a quality cover can reduce replacement costs over time.
What are common mistakes to avoid when choosing a solar cover?
One common mistake is selecting a cover that doesn’t fit your pool’s dimensions, which reduces effectiveness. Overlooking UV resistance can lead to premature degradation, especially in sunny climates. Additionally, ignoring thickness and material quality can result in shorter lifespan and poorer insulation. Lastly, choosing a cover without considering ease of handling might make regular use inconvenient, discouraging consistent use.
Conclusion
For most pool owners seeking a reliable and versatile option, the Blue Wave 16×32-ft Rectangle Solar Pool Cover offers excellent value and performance, making it the best overall pick. Those prioritizing durability and frequent use might prefer the BigXwell Heavy-Duty Solar Pool Cover, which stands out for longevity. If you have a smaller or round pool, the Intex Solar Pool Cover for 16ft Pools is simple and effective for beginners. For premium performance and maximum heat retention, investing in thicker, UV-resistant covers like the Sun2Solar 16 Mil 18×36 ft makes sense. Ultimately, choosing the right cover depends on your pool size, climate, and how often you plan to use it.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
