If you’re itching to throw on a new bathing suit and cannonball straight into your pool, we’re right there with you. But after we defrost from the winter (and our pools do, too), there’s one very important step to take before that first dive into the water: Pull out the pool cleaner. (You should probably balance your chemicals, too — just saying.)

There are many pool cleaners on the market, from app-controlled robotic pool vacuums to standard brushes, so it’s up to you to decide which cleaner will be the most effective in your pool. To help you out, we tested 23 pool cleaners in all types of pools, from above- and in-ground to rectangular and kidney-bean shaped pools. 14 pool cleaners made the cut — with standouts from Dolphin and impressive power-cleaners from Polaris. 

For a surface that glitters like diamonds and results as hassle-free as can be, here are the top 15 pool cleaners of 2023.

Best Overall — and It's on Sale

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  5/5

• This robotic pool cleaner worked quickly and effectively on our floors and walls to suck up large and small debris

• We were impressed by its fantastic floor tracking and heavily-suctioned grip on the walls

• It’s very lightweight (just 19 pounds!), so it’s easier to transport in and out of the water than other models we tested

Taking care of a pool is no small feat, which is why investing in equipment as nice as the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a game changer for pool upkeep. This robotic cleaner earned a perfect five-star rating. We tested it for months to really ensure its star quality, and it’s only gotten better with time. With its stellar vacuum suction, effortless portability, and easy-to-clean filters, it’s not hard to see why we fell in love with this robotic pool cleaner. One of the standout features of the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is excellent tracking, which made a huge difference in the cleanliness of our pools. Its advanced navigation technology allows the machine to map out the dimensions and angles of your pool’s floor and walls to pick up any and all debris scattered across the bottom. Like a great robot vacuum, it only gets better with more frequent use. After months of testing, we noticed that it seemed to navigate areas of the pool even better than when it was first used, due to a better understanding of the pool’s surface area, making it as intuitive as it is effective. Did we mention that it also has an excellent wall grip? No matter where your debris may be located, the Dolphin is sure to snatch it up.

With a cleaning device that works this effectively, it makes sense that its price tag is a bit high. At $900, this Dolphin is surely an investment. But we think that the performance quality and longevity of this pool cleaner far outweigh the mediocrity of other, less-expensive options that may not last longer than a summer. We can confidently say that if you invest in this pool cleaner, you won’t be disappointed. 

Price at time of publish: $799 (orig. $999) at Amazon

Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches | Weight: 19 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 50 ft | Filter: Twin cartridges | Cleaning time: 2 hours | Smart features: No

• 

  People / Matt Strelecki

• 

  People / Matt Strelecki

Best Brush

Lalapool Professional Pool Brush

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  5/5

• Its snap-on cleaning head connects easily to your everyday skimmer pole

• We were able to deeply clean our pool walls and floors without fear of ripping our liners thanks to its durable, yet non-abrasive bristles

• You can’t beat its ultra-low price point

Sometimes you have to get picky with your pool cleaning, and one of the best ways to ensure your liner gets the five-star treatment is with a tried-and-true brush clean. This 18-inch wall and tile brush is the perfect addition to your maintenance regimen due to its premium nylon bristles, easy snap-on design, and sturdy, rust-proof aluminum material that’s sure to last several seasons and keep your pool sparkling clean for more fun in the sun. We loved how easy it was to snap onto our pre-owned poles, whether from a skimmer or another tool, and the brush was effective on our liners without being abrasive. Its curved edges make it easy to scrub hard-to-reach corners, and the nail-free design removes any concerns of liner rips or tile damage. The best part? It’s only $21. 

You do have to go out and buy a pole (or search for one on your property) if you don’t already have one, as this brush does not come with one. However, we find this to be incredibly helpful (and space-saving) if you already own a detachable skimmer or other extension pole-requiring pool tool because you can have a 2-in-1 product without storing more large tools in your garage or shed. Overall, we felt that an up-close and personal scrub with this brush gave us a stellar clean that we might trust even more than a robot pool cleaner.

Price at time of publish: $13.59 (orig. $18.99)

Dimensions: 17 x 5.3 x 1.7 inches | Weight: 0.65 lbs. | Pool size: Not applicable | Filter: None | Cleaning time: Not applicable | Cleaning frequency: Not applicable | Smart features: None

Best Budget

Poolwhale Pool & Spa Vacuum

Our Ratings

• Design

  3/5

• Ease of Use

  4/5

• Effectiveness

  3/5

• Value

  4/5

• This considerably less-expensive pick had surprisingly strong suction; it picked up pieces of debris that weren’t even visible to the naked eye

• Its filter can hold an impressive amount of debris

• It’s incredibly easy to assemble — simply snap the pole onto the cleaner head

• You do have to get wet with this one — its stick attachment requires in-water cleaning, almost like vacuuming a room

• It’s a bit hard to empty the snap-shut debris bag

If you’re of the mindset that the best cleaning jobs are accomplished by hand, then you’ll fall in love with the PoolWhale Pool Vacuum Jet. This stick vacuum pool cleaner is easy to assemble and can be attached to a pole you already own or the one that comes with it: Simply attach the cleaner to the pole, connect your garden hose, and it’s ready to go. It includes a heavy-duty vacuum bag that sucks up every last stick and piece of debris on your pool’s floor — even small specks of clutter that we hadn’t noticed before cleaning. All this to say, we got a stellar clean for a smaller-sized pool with this affordable vacuum pool cleaner.

We do think that it would be a tougher job to clean larger pools with this stick, as it has a smaller reach and you have to be in the water to clean larger and deeper pools — though if you're cleaning a standard spa or inflatable hot tub, this isn't an issue. If you’re willing to put in the extra legwork, this budget-friendly option is not only softer on your account balance, but it’s a thorough cleaning tool, as well. Just be sure to take time to clean out the vacuum bag afterward; it’s so effective that it can be hard to clean out, due to all of the gunk it just picked up from your pool’s floor.

Price at time of publish: $24.99 (orig. $28.99)

Dimensions: 4.72 x 10.43 x 47.24 inches | Weight: 1.25 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 25 ft | Filter: Not applicable | Cleaning time: 20 mins | Smart features: None

Best Robotic

Aiper Seagull Pro Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  4.8/5

• Ease of Use

  4.8/5

• Effectiveness

  4.8/5

• Value

  4.5/5

• This cleaner came completely assembled, which made the process incredibly smooth from the get-go

• Extremely easy to store due to the lack of cords and hoses

• Its cordless design and whisper-quiet workings are the icing on the cake

• It’s hard to tell where to attach the retrieval hook when it’s nighttime or in the deep end because it’s not clearly marked

• We wish it had an app so we could control its movements or cleaning mode and check the battery level

Let’s face it, having and maintaining a pool is a hassle in and of itself, so the least your pool vacuum can do is effectively clean it (bonus points if it’s hands-off). That’s why we loved the intuitive, sleek, and incredibly smart Aiper Seagull Pro — a cordless, robotic pool cleaner that ate up our pool’s miscellaneous debris in a quick and effective fashion. The machine came completely assembled, which was our first indicator that this cleaner was going to be one of our best (and easiest to use) models yet. After a quick 90-minute charge and a drop in the water, we tested out its three cleaning modes (auto-mode, floor and wall cleaning combined, floor only, and wall only), and watched as the Seagull learned the layout of our pool more and more with each use. 

While we do wish this cleaner came with a bluetooth app to provide more control functionality, we appreciate its natural intuitiveness (and the space it saves on our phones). We also loved how easy it was to store in our garage due to its cordless design. While we love its sleek look, we would like to see a bit more of an obvious indication of the retrieval arm location, because it’s hard to hook onto our poles at nighttime or while it's in the deep end in order to pull it out of the water. However, this super smart robotic pool cleaner knows to pull over to the side when it's low on battery, so you won’t have a pool cleaner stranded in the middle of the deep end. Overall, we loved this robotic pool cleaner for its stellar cleans and unbeatable convenience. Truly, all we had to do was drop it in and take it out. (A pool owner’s dream come true.) 

Price at time of publish: $659 with coupon (orig. $999)

Dimensions: 19.6 x 18.43 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 20.9 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 3,200 ft | Filter: Basket | Cleaning time: 180 minutes | Cleaning frequency: Weekly | Smart features: Auto-parking, quick water release, one-switch activation, three cleaning modes (auto mode, floor only, wall only)

Best Pressure

Polaris Vac-Sweep Pressure Inground Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  5/5

• This cleaner was extremely effective at cleaning our pool’s floor and surface, despite the constant debris flying into it

• It works well on all surfaces of your pool, including pool floors, walls, and stairs

• This model was very easy to clean and maintain due to its small size

If you're contemplating suction and pressure-side pool cleaners, our tester’s pool maintenance team collectively called this pressure cleaner “the only model worth using,” — which is pretty high praise. It took us mere seconds to set up thanks to its straightforward instructions, setting the scene for what would be an easy, breezy clean. This top-performer runs on a continuous schedule and cleaned the dirty in-ground pool we tested it in in just 3 hours, but we kept it in the water pretty consistently because of the constant debris flying off of our backyard flora and fauna. Despite this environmental challenge, this Polaris model left our pool floors, stairs, and walls sparkling clean with each and every run.

We also appreciated its small, lightweight design (only 20 by 23 inches and a little over six pounds). This made it easy to take apart and clean, as the filter bag needs to be emptied and rinsed out after it fills up with the leaves, dirt, and other various particles from your pool. But don’t be fooled by its petite frame — this pressure-side cleaner is small, but mighty. We wish it did a little more in terms of scrubbing our surfaces, but it’s just not that type of cleaner (so if you’re looking for a scrubbing superstar, we’d suggest something else on this list). But for a pressure pool vacuum, this was our favorite.

Price at time of publish: $599

Dimensions: 20 x 23 x 10 in. | Weight: 6.20 lbs. | Pool size: Not listed | Filter: Bag | Cleaning time: 3 hours | Cleaning frequency: Constant | Smart features: None

Best Design

Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  4.5/5

• Value

  5/5

• With its fully-assembled arrival and intuitive navigation, this model was very easy to operate

• We love its sleek, stingray-like design

• When we ran into issues with the machine about six months into use, the customer service team was wonderful in setting us up with a solution

Pools are hard enough to maintain, so the machine doing the maintenance shouldn’t add to the stress. From unboxing to the first drop into the water, it took less than three minutes to get the pre-assembled Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner ready to go. We loved the design of this pool cleaner for its sleek, stingray-like look, and its comprehensive functions were impressive, too. After a few cleaning sessions, we were able to easily remove the filter, empty it out, and click it back into place with no problem. You can move the machine in and out of the water effortlessly thanks to its quick water-release function. Its scrubbers are not to be overlooked, either. They worked diligently to brush every surface and collect the pollen, leaves, and other debris that had scattered around the pool. 

If you’re a fan of no-frills machinery, then you’ll love how minimalistic this cleaner is. There’s no display of confusing buttons to press and program, because you can simply plug in the pool vacuum, push a button, and drop the cleaner into the water for an enhanced clean. However, after six months of consistent use the vacuum did stop working, but the customer service experience made up for it. Dolphin offered to fix the issue immediately and sent the return label so that the process was completely paid for — making this a happy ending in our book.

Price at time of publish: $649

Dimensions: 16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches | Weight: 13.8 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 33 ft | Filter: Fine filter basket | Cleaning time: 2 hours | Smart features: None

Best Wall-Climbing

Hayward The PoolCleaner Suction Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  4/5

• Effectiveness

  4.5/5

• Value

  4/5

• The machine’s uniquely strong tire treads give the wheels extra grip in order to effectively climb and clean the walls

• Its self-pivoting wheels make sure that you never have to reach in and redirect a confused machine

• Its smart steering works well in both small and large pools, as well as curved and rectangular shaped pools

If you have trees, plants, or mulch around your pool, then you know how hard it is to keep the bottom of your pool — and your pool walls — pristine. The Hayward Poolvergnuegen Pool Cleaner is the one for the job, as this machine will suck up even the smallest of debris that you can’t quite spot in the rippling water. Despite its medium size, we liked how lightweight it was, and the machine itself is white, so it always stands out clearly in the water (a.k.a. you can tell if it’s getting stuck, which it hasn’t). But to us, its standout feature was its super strong treads, as the cleaner’s high-grip tires made this model stand out from the rest when it came to wall-climbing abilities and navigation. Though the pool we tested it in was a little larger than recommended (it’s best for in-ground pools up to 16 by 32 feet), we still think it did a phenomenal job vacuuming up debris like dirt, sand, and leaves. 

Another perk of this machine is the self-adjusting turbine, which can sift through large debris and alternate between three adjustable suction levels, even if it encounters clogs or larger messes. We did, however, notice that this cleaning process took a lot longer than others we’d experienced in the past with different pool cleaners, but we didn’t mind the extra time, thanks to the glittering results. We can assume it would have been more time-efficient in a smaller pool, but we still were left with a pristine liner in our 20 by 40 foot testing pool. Because of its wall-climbing abilities and deep water compatibility, we’d recommend this for people with in-ground pools over above-ground.

Price at time of publish: $429

Dimensions: 40.4 x 13.6 x 11.9 inches | Weight: 4.9 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 32 ft | Filter: None | Cleaning time: 7 hours | Cleaning frequency: Not listed | Smart features: None

Best Suction

Pentair Kreepy Krauly Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  4/5

• Ease of Use

  4.5/5

• Effectiveness

  4.5/5

• Value

  5/5

• This model left the floors of our pools looking better than they ever had before

• It’s so lightweight that we could lift it out of the pool with one hand

• The cleaner effectively removed salt and chlorine stains

If you’re looking for a pool vac with some major cleaning power, then this is the one for you. The Pentair Kreepy Krauly left our pools looking more crystal-clear than ever before, and it’s all thanks to the superior suction that its pleated seal provides. We were blown away by how easily it mowed through high-debris areas, sucking up large leaves and even salt and chlorine stains with ease (yes, its suction is that strong). It was easy to extract this cleaner out of the pool with just one hand after every use because of its light, 15-pound weight, which makes it easy for anyone in the family to take care of. Plus, it’s pretty low maintenance, as it’s practically one big piece (almost looking like a household vacuum) instead of a more compact machine with complicated parts.

Because it’s a little less fanciful than some of the other winners, it takes a bit more time to set up this one than some of the more expensive options on this list. While others are more drop-and-go, this one took us about 15 minutes to set up each time we went to use it. But then again, there are trade-offs when it comes to price versus convenience. We also want to note that since this one connected to the pump, we noticed a bit of wear and tear after routinely using this model. However, this can happen with suction pool cleaners, and we didn’t want to dock points for its more elaborate setup due to its considerably lower price when compared to our other contesters. For suction like no other, the Kreppy Krauly can do the heavy lifting (or should we say, crawling) for you.

Price at time of publish: $329.99 (orig. $378.17)

Dimensions: 42 x 16.5 x 7.5 in. | Weight: 15 lbs. | Pool size: Not listed | Filter: Not listed | Cleaning time: 1 hour | Cleaning frequency: Not listed | Smart features: None

• 

  People / Rob Roszkowski

• 

  People / Rob Roszkowski

Best Corded

Polaris Above Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  4/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  4/5

• Value

  3/5

• This machine was super easy to set up: Simply attach the hose to the control panel and power it on

• Its super-strong suction was able to effectively rid our pool of visible algae

• The hose is tangle-proof, slipping and sliding past loops in the water to avoid knots

• This machine is definitely on the expensive side of things, but still isn’t nearly as high as some of the other picks on this list

• There’s no blinking light or app notification to let you know that the cleaning cycle has been completed

You’re going to want a pool cleaner that can weather the storm (literally), and that’s exactly what we found in the Polaris 7000 Robotic Pool Cleaner. This machine is best for above-ground pools and includes a 40-foot cord that can service a pool up to 30 feet in size, which is a total win in our book (and backyards). We found this pool cleaner to be incredibly easy to operate since it came nearly ready to be dropped in the water — we just attached the hose and let it go. It’s also super easy to remove the filter with a press of the release button, which we had to do once the cleaner ran through the pool’s post-storm algae-ridden water (which it sucked up so effectively that it was visible to the eye in rippling water). 

We noticed that as it came to the higher points of the wall, we could see the water’s surface start to quiver under the powerful suction of this vacuum. And we can’t forget about the tangle-proof cord, a lifesaver in any pool. After many claims of tangle-resistant hoses, we can truly say that this one stayed in its lane and avoided knots at all times — a must-have for above-ground pool owners. While we wished it was a little less expensive and had a better indicator for when the cleaning cycle was complete (it just stops moving and flashes a small red light), we think this is an impressive corded model.

Price at time of publish: $749.99

Dimensions: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Pool size: Not listed | Filter: Canister | Cleaning time: 1 hour | Cleaning frequency: Not listed | Smart features: None

Best Cordless

Aiper Seagull 1000 Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  4/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  4/5

• Value

  4/5

• Easy setup and storage

• Compared to other $900 and higher options, the price of this machine is fairly reasonable

• Its wide, dual-paneled suction doors collect everything from larger debris to barely-visible insects and dirt granules

The Aiper Seagull 1000 is sharply designed, compact, and cordless, which is amazing for easy usage and storage. We loved that its smaller design allowed us to use the pool without it getting in the way, making the experience much more enjoyable (especially without a pesky cord snaking its way through the water).

It sucked up an impressive amount of debris from the floor and parked itself near the wall when it was done, making it an easy and intuitive cleaning experience. You may be wondering how you’re supposed to remove a cordless pool vacuum from the pool, but the answer is simple — you simply pull on the floating handle to bring it out of the water once it’s done cleaning. We do advise people with flat pools to use this particular model over those with deep and shallow ends, as the device tends to get stuck in the deep end and not attempt to ascend up the slope if it’s running low on battery. 

But for the price, great suction power, and intuitive cleaning process, we think this model is an excellent pick.

Price at time of publish: $389.99

Dimensions: 15.16 x 14.37 x 7.68 inches | Weight: 15.27 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 35 ft above ground, up to 50 ft in-ground | Filter: Easy-clean cartridge | Cleaning time: 90 minutes | Cleaning frequency: Not listed | Smart features: Robotic cleaning

Best App-Controlled

Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  4/5

• It’s super easy to extract this machine from the water thanks to its thick top handle

• The cleaner comes with a helpful app with effective WiFi communication that handles everything from cleaning frequency to cleaning style

• Its three powerful scrub brushes work diligently on both the floors and walls

• Clocking in at $1,500, this model is definitely one of our more expensive machines on our list

• We saw a bit of a struggle on the stairs, so we had to give the cleaner a boost to get an effective cleaning

Dolphin continues to be a winner for us throughout this testing process. This time, the Nautilus CC Supreme takes the cake for superior app-controlled capabilities. It can be tedious to babysit your pool cleaner, but this smart machine was a true winner for us, thanks to its high-quality cleans, intuitive, app-friendly interface, and hands-off experience. 

We saw major gunk removed from the bottom of our pools thanks to the robot’s three powerful scrub brushes, and we loved how easy it was to control everything from the cleaning schedule to the type of clean (spot treatment, wall scrubbing, etc), all from the MyDolphin Plus App. For a super-sparkly clean, we suggest the enhanced automatic cleaning program.

We did notice that the ‘bot had some trouble navigating the stairs and only made it up one step, but with a little bit of guidance, it was able to get the job done. While this robot pool cleaner surely isn’t cheap, we think it’s well worth the extra change thanks to how much time you would save either manually cleaning the pool or rushing home to get the pool beautiful before your backyard bash. Simply activate the vacuum via your app from the office, grocery store, or wherever you may be for a sparkling blue surface upon arrival.

Price at time of publish: $1,499 (orig. $1,699)

Dimensions: 10.3 x 16.1 x 16.7 inches | Weight: 24.63 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 50 ft | Filter: Twin cartridges | Cleaning time: 2.5 hours | Cleaning frequency: Customizable scheduling | Smart features: WiFi, in-app control, advanced weekly scheduling, cycle selector, delayed start, remote steering, full-filter indicator

• 

  People / Julee Evans

• 

  People / Julee Evans

Best Above-Ground Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  4/5

• At 14 pounds, this is one of our lightest options

• Its rubber tracks provide high-traction grip, ensuring a strong clean from its active scrubbing brush

• Equipped with smart navigation, this one easily mapped out the structure of our pool for consistently effective cleans

Above-ground pools are often cleaned manually, but the Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner is specifically designed to lessen the physical stress of above-ground pool upkeep for you. It’s incredibly lightweight at only 14 pounds, so it’s easy to lift in and out of the pool, and we were impressed with the super-grip rubber tracks that made this cleaning process a breeze. From floor and wall scrubbing to surface-level cleans, this robot effectively rid our pools of everything from leaves, dirt, and worms (gross, we know) and left us with crystal clear water.

Once we noticed how clean our pools were after using this machine (and how the cord never got tangled!), it made its heftier price tag more digestible. While the instructions were a bit vague at first, a few tutorial videos helped straighten everything out. We’ve found ourselves recommending this pool cleaner to friends, because, let’s face it, pool maintenance is not cheap — so you might as well invest in a quality cleaning machine now to prevent costs down the line.

Price at time of publish: $639 (orig. $679)

Dimensions: 22.44 x 17.8 x 13 inches | Weight: 14 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 30 ft | Filter: Top-load filter cartridge | Cleaning time: 3 hours | Cleaning frequency: Not applicable | Smart features: CleverClean smart navigation

Best for Large Pools

Polaris VRX iQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  4/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  4/5

• Value

  3/5

• Its compact design makes this model easy to store in your garage or shed

• Ideal for large pools, this cleaner includes smart navigation and targeted spot cleaning

• You can control specialized cleaning cycles right from your phone via its mobile app

If you have a large pool, we have two questions for you: Can we come over, and why don’t you own the Polaris VRXIQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner yet? This pool cleaning powerhouse is fantastic for backyard oases that are up to 60 feet long and can accomplish big cleans thanks to a 70-foot cable and an app-operated interface that allows you to steer, schedule, and spot-clean all from your phone. 

We were impressed by the amount of algae and other pieces of debris that this Polaris cleaner was able to eradicate in two hours of cleaning, and we liked the amount of cleaning options that we could select for the robot pool cleaner at any given time — from specialized cleaning cycles for floor, walls, steps, and waterline to smart mapping, enhanced scheduling, and more. The device was super easy to pull out of the water thanks to its front handle, and it has top-level access to its mighty filter, so you can easily remove and replace the filter as needed.

While we’ve established that quality pool cleaners are generally expensive, it still doesn’t shake the sting of a high price tag. Though this cleaner comes at a hefty price, we do think it’s worth the investment for someone with a large, in-ground pool that doesn’t want to, or isn’t physically able to put much energy into a manual clean (especially in a pool of this size). 

Price at time of publish: $1,649

Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 19 inches | Weight: Not listed | Pool size: Up to 60 ft | Filter: Extra-large all-purpose filter cartridge | Cleaning time: 2 hours | Cleaning frequency: Customizable schedule | Smart features: WiFi connectivity, in-app remote control, targeted spot cleaning, schedule programming, full-filter alert 

Best Investment

Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner

Our Ratings

• Design

  5/5

• Ease of Use

  5/5

• Effectiveness

  5/5

• Value

  4.5/5

• This splurge-worthy pool cleaner packs some serious suction, effectively cleaning pools up to 50 feet

• Due to its smart navigation system, all you need to do is drop this vacuum in the water and let it go to work

• Changing its ultra-fine filter cartridge is quite quick and efficient

The Dolphin pool cleaners continue to be winners in our books, and the Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner is our favorite for those looking to invest in a long-lasting (and long-warrantied) robotic vacuum. This model features dual scrubbing brushes, three fine filter options, and scheduling software that makes this extravagant pool cleaner rise above the rest. We particularly found favor with the simplicity of this model. There’s no Bluetooth connectivity, so you simply plug it in and watch it go. You can kick back and relax while the machine’s CleverClean technology maps out the dimensions of your pool and leaves the area sparkling.

While we found it very easy to operate and cart around this pool cleaner, we did think it was a bit hard to figure out how to program and control the machine due to confusing paper instructions, but it turns out that it’s as simple as dropping it in the water and letting it learn your pool. With its twist-resistant cord, gentle yet effective scrubbers, and smart navigation, this investment piece is well worth the money for a sparkling-clean in-ground pool.

Price at time of publish: $1,297 (orig. $1,499)

Dimensions: 23.15 x 19.2 x 13.8 inches | Weight: 22 lbs. | Pool size: Up to 50 ft | Filter: Bottom-load fine cartridge filter, ultra-fine cartridge filter, oversized fine filter bag | Cleaning time: 3 hours | Smart features: CleverClean algorithm

Things to Consider Before Buying A Pool Cleaner

Pool Type

You want to pick the right pool cleaner for your specific pool type, so take into account the size, level, depth, and shape of your pool. Some pool cleaners are best suited for smaller pools, which are typically up to 30 feet in length, while other pool cleaners are made for larger pools that can range up to 60 feet. Whether or not your pool is in-ground or above ground will also determine which cleaners are best for you. (You don’t want a wall-climbing cleaning robot in an above-ground pool.)

A manual cleaning tool, like the Swimming Pool Wall & Tile Brush, is typically intended for an above-ground pool, as in-ground pools are usually too physically taxing to clean yourself. Robotic vacuums like the Polaris VRXIQ+ Robotic Pool Cleaner are perfect for in-ground pools, thanks to features like smart mapping and advanced cleaning cycles (helpful for deep and shallow ends), but certain robotic cleaners like the Dolphin Escape Robotic Above Ground Pool Cleaner can get the job done for simpler, even-bottomed above-ground pools, as well.

Filtration System

“Pool cleaners work in conjunction with your pool's filtration system, so make sure to choose a pool cleaner that is compatible with your pool's filtration system and can easily connect to it,” says Martina Genao, director of operations at Emergency Plumbing Squad in Brooklyn, New York. Most cleaners need to be attached to your pool’s filter in order to work properly — the only exception being a robotic pool cleaner, which you can plug into an electrical plug (or charge) and set into the water.

There are three types of filters that home pools can include: sand, diatomaceous earth, and cartridge. Sand filters are among the oldest (and most affordable) models, sifting water through grains of sand to trap large debris from the water. Diatomaceous earth, or DE, absorbs water impurities at a molecular level, keeping your pool extremely clean of dirt and other contaminants (but still not exempt from the need of a pool cleaner). Cartridge filters are another common modern-day filter, acting as the middleman price- and performance-wise for sand and DE, and these filters are fairly common for in-ground pools.

Function

In the age of technology, it’s no surprise that our pool cleaners can do almost as much as our computers. While we have several robotic pool cleaners on this list that can do everything from self-scheduled cleaning cycles to advanced spot treatments, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner takes the cake on functionality. This model possesses “plenty of useful features including some advanced autonomy settings” according to Leonard Ang, CEO of iPropertyManagement Leasing. Examples include smart navigation or floor mapping, tangle-free cords, weekly schedulers, smartphone apps or connectivity, specialized cleaning treatments (i.e. surface cleans, wall scrubbing, floor), and more.

When to Buy

Though you will use it at the same time as your other summer essentials, there’s no specific time you need to buy a pool cleaner. We’d suggest purchasing one in the spring in order to have your pool cleaner ready to use once the cover has come off the pool for the summer (and the chemicals have been balanced, of course).

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for sales; however, if you live in a year-round pool climate (and if so, we envy you), then ideal times to buy include Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day, and other holidays, to get the most bang for your buck on a new pool cleaner. 

How We Tested Pool Cleaners

In order to find you the best pool cleaner for your home, we tested one batch of 23 popular pool cleaners, a group of seven robotic cleaners, and five manual cleaners in a variety of pool types. Each tester received a different machine at their pool-clad homes, and then began to test them over the course of six months (or as long as the weather was pool-friendly).

We started by timing how long it took to get each cleaner completely assembled (or maybe it came ready to go — we took pleasant note of that, too). Then, we tested each model at least once a week according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and we recorded our observations on the pool’s conditions before and after a cleaning cycle for several months. 

For robotic machines, each cycle was timed on a stopwatch, which we recorded and later compared to the length of cleaning time the cleaner’s product description promises. After this, we took note of how easy it was to empty and clean the machine or brush, filter included (if it had one). Each model was then rated on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being the poorest-performing rating and 5 being the best, based on design, ease of use, effectiveness, and value. We also took into account if we ran into any major issues like breakdowns during the trial period, which affected the products’ overall scores in the end.

Besides hands-on testing, we also did our own research to connect with experts on what should and shouldn’t be tolerated when it comes to pool cleaner performance, and we took that into account when analyzing our best-performers from the bunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long should a pool cleaner last?

  Your pool cleaner should be a source of dependability, but like all things, they ultimately have a shelf life. “It depends on how much they are used,” says Dr. Claudia Duncan, owner and CEO of Professional Pool Management. “Pool cleaners run on a clock, so they generally have a set lifetime or number of hours that they are able to run for.” 

  However, she says that they should generally run for a couple of years, give or take, depending on how many months you use it out of the year. Pools in a warmer climate can be utilized year-round, which may shorten the life of your cleaner due to such frequent use.

• How much does a pool cleaner cost?

  Pool cleaners are typically a heavy lift price-wise, no matter what — pools are just an expensive investment. However, there are ways to keep your pool sparkling clean without feeling like you’re spending a fortune. The PoolWhale Portable Pool Vacuum Jet Underwater Cleaner was a budget-friendly favorite of ours, coming in at a cool $49 (and even better if you can score it on sale). Manual options like the Swimming Pool Wall & Tile Brush will always be a more affordable option as well, as these standalone brushes are a more involved, yet cost-effective option for cleaning above-ground pools or DIY spot-treatment services. 

  But in most cases, pool cleaners can range anywhere from $400 to $700, with our most expensive (yet highly recommended) option costing $1,450. Keep in mind that sometimes important appliances like pool cleaners are worth the investment, as pricier options usually include the best features and are the safest for every pool, whether they be lined, tiled, or include other flooring materials. Plus, it will be more expensive to replace a ripped liner than to acquire a new cleaner.

• What are the different types of pool cleaners?

  “There are several types of pool cleaners, including suction-side, pressure-side, robotic, and manual pool cleaners,” says Genao. Each includes different features and advantages, whether it be better prices or smart features. Suction, pressure, and manual pool cleaners will usually attach to a filter, unless they are stick brushes, whereas robotic cleaners can be plugged into an electrical outlet or charged, and then set free to roam your pool.

• What are the most popular brands of pool cleaners?

  There are many different brands of pool cleaners on the market, but we’ve included some of the most highly-rated, searched, and positively-reviewed cleaners out there today. Top companies include Dolphin, Hayward, and Polaris for their standout pool cleaners and years-long stories of success, but there are many other brands to choose from that may have pool cleaners at a better price for your needs.

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Alyssa Brascia is commerce writer for PEOPLE with a background in lifestyle writing — spanning everything from beauty to home. She has previously contributed to Real Simple, where she researched and wrote home content, and she currently covers household, fashion, and beauty items for PEOPLE. 

For this piece, she analyzed the insights given by our testers as they tried several pool cleaners (both manual and robotic) at home for up to six months, coming back with their thoughts and opinions on each product. She also interviewed Martina Genao, director of operations at Emergency Plumbing Squad in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Claudia Duncan, owner and CEO of Professional Pool Management, and Leonard Ang, CEO of iPropertyManagement Leasing, for expert opinions on what to look for (and avoid) when searching for an effective pool cleaner.

What Is People Tested? 

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase. 

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