Best Pool Brushes in 2022 – Reviewed
Even though pool cleaning chemicals do a good job of keeping a pool clean, they’re only capable of so much. Eventually, the pool owner is going to have to break out their best pool brush and roll up their sleeves to get the walls and floor of their pool nice and clean. Whether or not this is a difficult proposition all depends if the pool owner decided to purchase a cheap, low-quality brush or they purchased one of the better quality brushes available.
We don’t want any of our readers to have to spend more sweat equity on their pool than they need to, so we decided to do some research and find out which brushes were great for pool cleaning and made the job easier, and which one would be better left in the store. The following brushes are the ones that we feel are the best.
Quick Summary of Best Pool Brushes
Reviews
Best Overall: Greenco Heavy-Duty 20-Inch Brush
Having to use a ton of elbow grease to clean a pool is one of the most common complaints among pool owners. It seems like most brushes either aren’t equipped with the bristles needed to adequately cut down algae and grime, or they’re made of cheap plastic that tends to bend when it’s put under stress. Fortunately, this brush from Greenco doesn’t fall into either category. This model not only has an extra-wide 20-inch brush that covers more area than conventional brushes, but these bristles are strong enough for any job.And this brush won’t bend either. That’s because it has an aluminum back. This brush easily clips onto standard pool poles and it has side brushes that are good for cleaning the sides of stairs. Because this brush is made out of durable materials, this brush is going to last a very long time. We’re sure that this brush is going to make pool cleaning a pleasure for just about anyone who uses it, and that’s why we consider it to be the best pool brush around.
- This brush is nice and wide for more effective cleaning.
- It has side bristles that are effective at stair cleaning.
- None.
Best For Vinyl Pools: Milliard 17.5 inch Extra-Wide Nylon Algae Brush
While it’s all fine and good to have a durable pool brush that could scrub just about anything off of a pool’s floor, stairs, and walls. And sometimes what is needed by the consumer is a brush that is gentler on surfaces. The problem with some pool brushes is that they’re tough enough to handle just about any job, but they do it too well and end up scraping up a pool’s walls–particularly if that pool is a vinyl one. That’s why we decided to look for a brush that could clean dirt, grime, and algae out of the pool, but won’t scrape up a vinyl pool’s surfaces.This product from Milliard features a 17.5-inch extra-wide head that covers a lot of surface area but features nylon bristles that won’t scratch vinyl. It has curved edges that get into tight corners and along stairs, and it’s made out of durable ABS plastic. Fortunately, unlike most plastic brushes, this one won’t flex excessively so it is capable of removing dirt and grime. Another thing worth mentioning is that this brush has a handle that’s at 45-degrees, which makes it easier to use while cleaning.
- This brush is good for cleaning vinyl pools.
- It won’t scratch surfaces.
Best For Cleaning Walls: The Wall Whale Classic Pool Brush
Although some people will look at this whale pool brush as something more whimsical than effective, we’re here to state that this piece of equipment does a great job of cleaning pool walls. That’s because this brushes “whale tail” holds the brush against the wall more effectively than what can be accomplished with other pool cleaning brushes. Although we can’t independently verify it, this brush is capable of delivering up to 10-times the wall brushing force of other types of brushes. That alone makes this brush worth a look.The tail on this brush isn’t the only great thing about this brush. Another thing to think about is that this brush is so effective, the pool owner can use it with just one hand. And because this is a standard-sized brush, it can be mounted on any standard pool pole. All of this makes this brush one of the best tools for consumers to have in their pool cleaning arsenal, and it doesn’t cost a whole lot either.
- It’s great for cleaning walls.
- It doesn’t cost a whole lot.
Best For Smaller Pools: Poolmaster 10-Inch Aluminum-Back Algae Brush
When it comes to pool cleaning, not every pool owner needs the biggest pool brush they can get their hands on. Sometimes, the pool owner has a smaller pool that would be difficult to clean with a 17-inch to 20-inch brush. In those instances, the pool owner is probably going to want to buy a smaller brush for cleaning their pool, and we can’t think of any brush better for that job than this small but powerful little model.This brush has a 10-inch head that’s aluminum-backed for durability and is equipped with stainless steel bristles for the ultimate in cleaning power. This brush has a straight body and is capable of really cleaning dirt and algae from gunite pools. What it can’t be used on, however, are vinyl or fiberglass surfaces. If it’s used on those, it will scratch them. For smaller gunite pools, however, this is the ultimate cleaning-brush that’s more than worth a look.
- It’s a great brush for smaller-size pools.
- It’s aluminum backed and has stainless-steel bristles.
- It’s too small for larger pools.
Best Value: Lalapool 18-Inch Swimming Pool Wall & Floor Brush
The last brush that we would like to introduce to our readers is this one from Lalapool. This brush has made it on our list because it’s a decent-quality brush that doesn’t cost a whole lot of money. While it might not be as durable as more expensive name-brand brushes, it’s more than durable to clean walls and floors for quite some time. It has an 18-inch brush that has a polished aluminum back so that it doesn’t bend too easily, and it has nylon bristles that do a great job of removing grime and algae. All things being equal, this is a quality brush that’s more than worth its price-tag.
- This is an inexpensive pool brush.
- This model isn’t as durable as more expensive brushes.
Pool Brush Guide
The more you use a swimming pool, the dirtier it can get. Even in the colder months, debris can build up so even a vacuum finds it difficult to remove without a little encouragement. To make your pool look its best, it is a good idea to invest in a quality pool brush. There is more to understand about the better products than just bristles and pole length.
To help make this decision an easy one, we have created the following buyer’s guide.
What To Look For In A Pool Brush?
Bristles
We mentioned it already so we’d better start with it, bristles are important to how well the pool brush can work. For a tougher scrub, it is best to consider a steel or aluminum brushes. These make it easier to remove tough, stuck-on dirt.
Otherwise, a lot of people go for plastic or nylon bristles. These are a little kinder on the lining and are fine for most people’s needs. For a concrete pool, the steel and aluminum bristles are fine, for vinyl, they are more likely to scratch the lining.
Pole Length
Again this is important. You will need to match it to the size of your pool to make sure it can reach those tough places near the middle and most have an extendable pole. This gives you more control so when debris needs a little more encouragement to move, you can use more force.
Durability
Although they might be so well suited to above ground pools, steel bristles are going to last longer than the other types of pool brush.
Having said that you should still expect to get many years of use out of plastic and nylon pool brushes. These products might be more susceptible to shedding but if you buy from a reputable brand, this is going to be less of an issue.
Width
The width of the brush head is going to either save you time or cost you more of it. As you are pushing it around the bottom of the pool, the more coverage you get from the brush head, the fewer strokes you will need.
A standard width seems to be around 18 inches, but anything less than this might mean you have to spend a fair bit longer brushing the pool.
The Right fit For Your Pool
Pool brushes come in different shapes and sizes, much like swimming pools. This is why it is important to find one that is appropriate for yours.
If you have a rectangular pool then most brushes are fine but if your has curves then consider a brush with a curved head.
Why Brush A Pool?
Although it might seem like a simple process, there is some method behind brushing your pool efficiently. Unless you scrub your pool, the scale can start to form and settle on the bottom. Unless you scrub them away, they will expand.
Another reason to brush your pool is to remove stains and prevent them from worsening. Everything from dirt to oils from sunscreen can cause your lining to stain and it is best to remove it before it worsens.
Getting rid of algae is another common reasons and you will really start to notice when this build-up. All these could be forming underneath the surface without you realizing it. The problems start small but they get more difficult to remove if you leave them.
When To Brush A Swimming Pool
Brushing your pool isn’t an everyday necessity but there are certain times when it shouldn’t be put off any longer.
To stop debris and algae from building up, it is a good idea to brush the sides when you notice the first signs of green patches around your pool. Also, when you use a pool shock, it is a good time to give the sides and bottom a scrub. Because the chemicals in a pool will not be able to effectively get rid of all algae and bacteria alone, you can help to get things moving by scrubbing the pool.
also, after you have plastered the pool, a lot of dust will be left behind. This is why it is important to brush your pool every day for a couple of weeks to make sure you get rid of it all.
Should I Brush A Pool Before Vacuuming?
Before you vacuum, it is a good idea to brush debris and algae off the pool walls and floor. Vacuuming after will ensure any particles and debris is taken away and don’t settle on the bottom.
How Often Should I Brush My Pool?
Although it can be done once a week and the pool should still be fine, it is a good idea to do it twice, especially if you vacuum twice a week. Usually, it won’t take 10 minutes to do you’ll find that it doesn’t take much out of your day to keep your pool in top condition all year round.
How To Brush A Pool?
The first thing to remember is if you have an extendable pole, make it as short as possible for the walls so you have greater control, then extend it for the pool floor.
Work at the shallow end first then brush the debris towards the drain in the deep end. Always keep your back straight as you brush.
How To Take Care Of A Pool Brush
There are certain things you can do to extend the lifespan of a pool brush and it all starts with storage. The temptation is to leave it outside near the pool but the elements will soon cause it to deteriorate and can cause damage.
It is a good idea to store it in the case it comes in and places it in your pool cupboard or outbuilding. This should ensure you get the maximum number of years out of the pool brush but when the bristles start to fray and become worn (usually around 5 years), it is a good idea to replace it.
