Automatic pool cleaners (or pool vacuums) remove debris from the surface of the pool floor and walls. While some cleaners are powered by your pool’s suction or water pressure, newer robotic cleaners have their own power source and container to avoid straining your pool’s existing equipment. Some non-robotic cleaners have their own containers, while others use your pool’s existing filtration equipment to house debris. With so many options it can be difficult to figure out which is best for your pool size and style. To help, we put 19 of the best pool cleaners to the test. Over the course of two weeks, our testers tried out their given styles in their pools right at home. Using a pre-determined methodology, they evaluated each model based on four categories: design, ease of use, effectiveness, and value. We also consulted Mark Thompson, owner of Absolute Pool & Spa Care in Atlanta, Georgia, and Brian Wells, a pool expert from Leslie’s Pool Supplies in Phoenix, Arizona. Overall, the best pool cleaner is the Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner. Testers liked that the filter compartment was easy to access and even caught pollen and sediment. Plus, it was simple to set up and use. Here are the best pool cleaners. Keep in Mind: The controller had additional buttons and functions that were not applicable to this specific model. The pool cleaner, which can be used in either an above-ground or in-ground pool, is just under 14 pounds. Our testers appreciated that it was lightweight and noted that the built-in handle made it easier to pick up and carry. Our tester’s pool is surrounded by a cedar elm tree and bamboo, so they 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, our tester noted that the controller had additional buttons and functions that were not applicable to this specific model, like Bluetooth capabilities. Overall, however, they would recommend the cleaner. Price at time of publish: $699 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 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. 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 our tester found easy to use. This pool cleaner is meant to clean larger debris and our tester 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. Price at time of publish: $44 Weight: 1.82 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground Keep in Mind: Assembly instructions were not very clear. The pool cleaner is lightweight and easy to move around, according to our tester. The model features a handle at the top which appears to help the robot when it gets stuck on pool stairs. Plus, our tester 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, the tester 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, our tester felt that overall it was worth it. Plus, there’s even a three-year warranty that protects your purchase. Price at time of publish: $1,447 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 Keep in Mind: The pole is not included, so you’ll have to purchase one separately. 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. Overall, our tester 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, they felt this was a tool any pool owner should have. Price at time of publish: $21 Weight: 0.65 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Not listed | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Not listed Keep in Mind: The cleaning cycle was slow. Overall, our tester found that the pool cleaner was easy to set up. Their pool was a bit larger than the recommended 32-foot length, but they were able to connect four hoses to make it work. After evaluating the pre-cleaning pool conditions for the second week of testing, the tester noticed that the bottom of the pool seemed cleaner. The pool cleaner was effective but according to our tester, the cleaning cycle was noticeably slow, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a quicker fix. The tester recommended the pool cleaner overall, noting that it’s less expensive than other options and doesn’t require much work. Price at time of publish: $449 Weight: 12 pounds | Cable Length: 33 feet | Pool Length: Up to 32 feet | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground Keep in Mind: Our tester 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. Overall, our tester found that the cleaner is easy to set up and use. They did find that it took a few attempts to adjust the two-angle settings, and they 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, our tester 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. Price at time of publish: $370 Weight: Not listed | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Not listed | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground, in-ground Keep in Mind: The model is more expensive than some other options on the market. 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. Testers noted, however, that it’s important to check the filter status and clean it when it’s clogged. Price at time of publish: $899 Weight: 19 pounds | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Reusable top-access cartridge | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground Keep in Mind: The instructions weren’t clear, so you’ll have to watch a few videos to assemble the unit. When it came to assembly, the tester 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. The tester’s pool is located near a tree and often collects leaves and other debris. The cleaner was effective in removing debris and leaves, which the tester appreciated as they were manually cleaning the pool prior. Overall, the tester felt they would recommend the product. Price at time of publish: $999 Weight: 14 pounds | Cable Length: Not listed | Pool Length: Up to 50 feet | Filter Type: Top-load | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground Keep in Mind: The cleaner was only able to climb the first step of the tester’s pool. 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 the tester’s pool, but they still felt the pool was cleaned well. Our tester 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. Price at time of publish: $1,499 Weight: 24 pounds | Cable Length: 60 feet | Pool Size 50 feet | Filter Type: Reusable top-access cartridge | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground Keep in Mind: Our tester would have preferred a more clear indicator that the cleaning cycle was complete. 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. Our tester did note that they 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. Price at time of publish: $549 Weight: 15 pounds | Cable Length: 40 feet | Pool Size: Up to 30 feet | Filter Type: Top-access reusable canister | Suggested Pool Type: Above-ground Keep in Mind: It’s expensive and is not ideal for every type of pool. 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. Testers 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 according to our tester, it may not be ideal for every pool. Although it was effective, our tester felt that it was ideal for larger pools that may require professional cleaning. Price at time of publish: $1,599 Weight: 22 pounds | Cable Length: 70 feet | Pool Size: 60 feet | Filter Type: Top-access reusable canister | Suggested Pool Type: In-ground
Our Testing Process
To find the best pool cleaners, we put 19 different styles to the test. Over the course of two weeks, our testers tried out their given styles in their pools right at home. Using a pre-determined methodology, they evaluated each model based on four categories: design, ease of use, effectiveness, and value. Testers did not know the prices of each model until the end of the test. Before using the pool cleaner, each tester timed themselves setting the unit up. They 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, the testers were asked to use the cleaner at least once a week. Prior to using the cleaner, they recorded the pool conditions in terms of the surroundings and what kind of debris was in the pool. In terms of design, testers 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 tester’s pool. The best pool cleaners received high scores if it was easy for testers to remove debris from the product, as well as clean or replace the filter. After evaluating each category, testers were given the price of the product they were testing. Value was then determined based on the tester’s opinion of the product, like if they felt the price was reasonable and if they would recommend it.
How to Shop for Pool Cleaners
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. 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. 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. 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
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.
Other Pool Cleaners We Tested
Polaris 360 In Ground Pressure Side Swimming Pool Cleaner
Our tester 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 they would have hoped, leaving debris in the hard-to-reach corners. They felt that the price was reasonable as long as it last for a few years, though they 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 our tester found it easy to use. However, they noted 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, our tester felt that the Aquabot X4 Robotic Pool Cleaner with Active Scrubbing Brush is worth the investment if you have a larger pool. They appreciated the handles that made it easy to pull out of the water. However, they 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 does a pool cleaner work?
Pool cleaners are powered by either electricity, suction, or water pressure and drive around your pool floor and walls to collect debris in either their own containers or your pool’s existing filter. They pick up both large and small debris, such as sand, silt, pebbles, twigs, bugs, and leaves. Cleaners with brushes can also agitate stuck-on grime and calcium deposits.
What is the difference between a suction-side and pressure-side cleaner?
Suction-side pool cleaners are powered by your pool’s pump, and the suction from the hose drives the cleaner around the pool floor surface 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. Pressure-side cleaners connect to the water return jet. The water pressure pushes the cleaner around on wheels. The pressure-side cleaner collects debris in its own bag.
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, 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.
How long do pool cleaners last?
Pool cleaners of any kind last about five to seven years on average, both Thompson and Wells say. After two to three years some parts may need replacing for normal wear and tear, like the wheels and brushes, says Wells. You may also want to upgrade your pool cleaner to take advantage of the latest features, technology, and productivity settings. “Honestly, with any of these, you can make them last as long as you want, but at some point, it will make sense to get a new one,” Wells says.
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, Veronica talked to Mark Thompson, owner of Absolute Pool & Spa Care in Atlanta, Georgia, and Brian Wells, a pool expert from Leslie’s Pool Supplies in Phoenix, Arizona. She also referred to testing insights, who used the pool cleaners at home and evaluated them over the course of two 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 and we let you know that we got it for free to remain as transparent as possible about our picks. Looking for more products that have earned our BHG Recommends seal of approval? Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers.
