How Do I Keep My Pool Cover Clean

Rinse your pool cover regularly with a garden hose and clean it with a mild detergent to prevent buildup of dirt and debris.

Remove Debris Regularly Remove Debris Regularly

One of the easiest ways to keep your pool cover clean is by removing debris as soon as possible. Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on the cover and cause mold or algae to grow if left for too long. Regularly clearing off debris prevents buildup and keeps the cover in great condition.

How to remove debris:

• Use a soft-bristle broom or leaf blower to remove dry debris.
  

• Avoid using sharp tools that could tear or damage the cover.
  

• Use a pool cover pump or a small hand pump to remove any standing water.
  

Removing debris every few days or after a storm will help prevent dirt from becoming embedded in the cover material.

Wash the Cover Periodically Wash the Cover Periodically

While debris removal is essential, it’s also important to wash the pool cover periodically to remove dirt, oils, and algae. Cleaning the cover with the right materials helps prevent buildup that can cause premature wear and tear.

How to wash your pool cover:

• Use a mild dish soap or a specially formulated pool cover cleaner.
  

• Mix the soap with warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the cover.
  

• Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the cover material.
  

• Clean the cover when it’s dry or when it’s fully extended to ensure even cleaning.
  

Washing your pool cover every few weeks or monthly will keep it fresh and extend its lifespan.

Rinse After Pool Use Rinse After Pool Use

After using the pool, it’s a good idea to rinse the cover with water to remove any chlorine, oils, or chemicals that may have dripped onto the cover. This is especially important after the pool has been used by swimmers wearing sunscreen or lotions.

How to rinse the pool cover:

• Use a garden hose to spray down the entire surface of the cover.
  

• If needed, use a soft brush to gently scrub areas with built-up debris or grime.
  

• Make sure the cover is dry before closing the pool to prevent water pooling on the cover.
  

Rinsing off chemicals and oils after every pool session can help maintain the cover’s appearance and prevent chemical buildup.

Prevent Algae Growth Prevent Algae Growth

Algae can quickly grow on a damp pool cover if it’s not maintained properly. Algae thrive in moist, warm environments, which makes pool covers an ideal location for growth. To prevent algae from growing, it’s important to keep the cover dry and clean.

How to prevent algae growth:

• Clean the cover regularly to remove any algae spores.
  

• If algae does start to grow, use a pool cover cleaner with an algae-fighting ingredient.
  

• Make sure the cover is fully dry before storing it, as dampness can encourage algae growth.
  

• If possible, store the cover in a cool, dry area during the off-season.
  

Taking these steps will help keep your pool cover free from algae buildup and ensure it stays in good shape for years to come.

Store the Cover Properly Store the Cover Properly

Proper storage of your pool cover is crucial when it’s not in use. Storing the cover incorrectly can cause it to become dirty, moldy, or damaged. Whether you’re storing it during the offseason or when you temporarily remove it, taking care to store the cover properly will help maintain its integrity.

How to store your pool cover:

• Clean and dry the cover thoroughly before storage.
  

• Fold the cover neatly or roll it up carefully to avoid wrinkles or damage.
  

• Store the cover in a dry, cool place, such as a storage shed or garage, to prevent exposure to the elements.
  

• If possible, keep the cover in a storage bag designed for pool covers to protect it from dirt and dust.
  

Storing the cover properly will help preserve its material and keep it clean when you need it.

Inspect the Cover Regularly Inspect the Cover Regularly

Regular inspections are key to keeping your pool cover in good condition. By checking the cover regularly, you can identify any potential issues early on, such as tears, holes, or wear spots. Catching problems early will help you avoid more expensive repairs or replacements down the road.

How to inspect the cover:

• Check the cover for any signs of wear, such as rips or frayed edges.
  

• Inspect the straps and fasteners to ensure they’re secure and undamaged.
  

• Look for areas where the cover may be sagging or losing tension, which could lead to damage.
  

• Clean the area where the cover attaches to the pool to prevent dirt buildup.
  

Performing a visual inspection every few weeks will help catch any issues before they worsen.

Maintain the Pool Water Chemistry Maintain the Pool Water Chemistry

Maintaining the proper water chemistry in your pool can also help keep your pool cover clean. Balanced pool water reduces the likelihood of chemical buildup on the cover and minimizes the potential for staining.

How to maintain proper pool chemistry:

• Test the water regularly to ensure the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels are within the recommended range.
  

• Adjust water chemistry as needed to maintain clean, clear water.
  

• Use pool water clarifiers and algaecides as needed to keep the pool water clear.
  

Properly balanced pool water will reduce the amount of residue left on the cover and help prevent any chemical reactions that could cause staining.

Use a Pool Cover Cleaner Solution Use a Pool Cover Cleaner Solution

A pool cover cleaner solution is designed to clean your cover thoroughly without damaging the material. These solutions can help remove stubborn stains, dirt, and chemicals, keeping your cover looking new. It’s an easy and effective way to clean your pool cover and protect it from wear.

How to use a pool cover cleaner:

• Apply the cleaner directly to the surface of the cover.
  

• Use a soft brush to gently scrub the surface, paying attention to any stains or buildup.
  

• Rinse the cover thoroughly with water after cleaning.
  

• Allow the cover to dry completely before storing or re-covering your pool.
  

Using a pool cover cleaner solution once a season will keep the cover in top condition and make the cleaning process much easier.

Avoid Using Abrasive Materials Avoid Using Abrasive Materials

When cleaning your pool cover, it’s important to avoid using abrasive materials that could damage the surface of the cover. Harsh cleaning tools can cause small tears or weaken the fabric, reducing the lifespan of your pool cover.

Materials to avoid:

• Steel wool or wire brushes.
  

• Rough scrubbing pads.
  

• Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia.
  

Safe alternatives:

• Soft sponges or cloths.
  

• Mild pool cover cleaner solutions.
  

• A hose with a gentle spray nozzle.
  

Taking care not to use abrasive materials will ensure your pool cover remains intact and functional for many years.