9 Best Pool Cover Cleaning Supplies for Backyard Pools

Watching autumn leaves settle onto a waterlogged pool cover is the ultimate sign that swim season has officially come to a close. Dragging a dirty, heavy cover off the water and shoving it into a dark corner of the shed is a tempting shortcut, but it guarantees a moldy, ruined investment by spring. Equipping yourself with the right cleaning tools now ensures your pool cover survives the off-season and stays ready for many summers to come.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Prep and Clean Your Cover Before Off-Season Storage

Leaving organic debris, pollen, and chemical residue on a pool cover during months of storage is a recipe for disaster. As temperatures fluctuate, trapped moisture and organic matter break down, creating a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and corrosive rot. This biological soup eats away at the cover’s protective coatings, causing dry rot and cracking that destroy its water-blocking integrity.

A dirty cover is also incredibly heavy and difficult to handle. Wet leaves, twigs, and standing water add hundreds of pounds of unnecessary stress to the material, making removal a grueling physical chore that risks tearing the fabric. Cleaning the cover while it is still stretched over the pool, or laid out flat on a clean driveway, saves your back and extends the lifespan of the material.

Taking the time to prep your cover before folding it away means you will not face a smelly, disintegrating mess when warm weather returns. It is much easier to wash off chlorine and algae now than it is to scrub baked-on grime off a stiff, brittle cover in the spring. Investing a small amount of effort today protects your financial investment and ensures a seamless pool reopening next season.

Submersible Cover Pump – Little Giant APCP-1700

Standing water on a solid pool cover is a magnet for mosquitoes, debris, and safety hazards, while also putting immense strain on the cover anchors. A reliable submersible cover pump is essential for draining this accumulated water before you attempt to lift or clean the cover. Without one, you risk dumping gallons of stagnant, dirty water straight into your clean pool water during removal.

The Little Giant APCP-1700 is a powerhouse built specifically for this grueling task. It features an integrated mechanical float switch that automatically activates the pump when water reaches two inches and shuts off when it drops to one inch. Its heavy-duty design prevents clogging from stray leaves, while the 1/3 horsepower motor moves up to 1,745 gallons per hour to clear the cover rapidly.

• Flow Rate: 1,745 GPH at 0 feet of head pressure
• Power Cord Length: 25-foot heavy-duty power cord
• Discharge Connection: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose thread
• Intake Screen: Removable, easy-to-clean intake plate

Water recreation enthusiasts should note that while this pump handles small debris well, large piles of leaves can still block the intake vents. It is best to sweep away thick leaf blankets before turning the pump on to avoid dry-running the motor.

This automatic pump is perfect for pool owners with solid winter covers or safety covers that trap standing water. It is not necessary for those using mesh safety covers, which naturally allow water to drain through into the pool.

Pool Cover Cleaner – Natural Chemistry Cover Cleaner

Standard dish soaps or harsh household detergents can strip the UV-resistant coatings off a pool cover and degrade the stitching. A dedicated, enzyme-based pool cover cleaner is necessary to break down sticky oils, pollen, pine sap, and organic grime without harming the vinyl or mesh material. It also ensures that any residue rinsing into the pool won’t disrupt your water chemistry or cause foaming.

Natural Chemistry Cover Cleaner uses natural, smart enzymes to digest organic waste rather than relying on harsh scrubbing or acidic chemicals. This concentrated liquid formula penetrates deep into the pores of the cover material, lifting embedded dirt and eliminating musty odors at the source. It leaves behind a clean surface that resists sticking when the cover is folded and stored.

• Formula Type: Natural enzyme-based biodegradable liquid
• Container Size: 1-quart (32 oz) spray bottle or pourable concentrate
• Safe Surfaces: Vinyl, mesh, canvas, and winter safety covers

Keep in mind that this cleaner works best when allowed to sit on the damp cover for a few minutes before scrubbing. Do not let it dry completely under direct sunlight, as dry residue can be difficult to rinse clean and may leave a hazy film.

This cleaner is ideal for any pool owner looking to preserve their high-end solid or mesh safety covers for multiple seasons. It is not suited for those looking for an instant, spray-and-forget chemical, as it still requires a light rinse and agitation to lift heavy, baked-on dirt.

Pool Scrub Brush – Lalapool 18-Inch Wall Brush

Loosening stubborn pollen, bird droppings, and algae from a massive pool cover requires physical agitation, but using the wrong brush can cause catastrophic damage. Wire brushes or stiff-bristled utility brooms will easily snag, tear, or wear down the cover fabric. A wide, soft-bristled pool wall brush provides the perfect balance of scrubbing power and gentle contact to clean large surface areas quickly.

The Lalapool 18-Inch Wall Brush stands out because of its durable aluminum-reinforced back and heavy-duty plastic frame. The curved edges allow you to sweep smoothly along the folds and seams of the cover without digging into the fabric. Its premium poly bristles are soft enough to prevent scratching or tearing the vinyl, yet stiff enough to scrub away baked-on organic buildup.

• Brush Width: 18 inches
• Bristle Material: High-density poly bristles
• Connection Type: Standard EZ-clip connection for telescopic poles
• Frame Construction: Aluminum-reinforced back with heavy-duty ABS plastic

When using this brush, apply moderate, even pressure rather than pressing down with all your weight. Let the brush bristles and your cleaner do the work, and ensure the brush head is securely clipped to your pole to prevent it from slipping off mid-scrub.

This brush is a must-have for anyone cleaning large solid vinyl covers or mesh safety covers stretched over the pool. It is not the right tool for tight, hard-to-reach corners or step wells, which may require a smaller, hand-held detail brush.

Telescopic Pole – JED Pool Tools 50-560-16 Professional

Walking out onto a wet, slippery pool cover is incredibly dangerous and can easily damage the cover or the pool coping. A professional telescopic pole allows you to reach the very center of the pool cover safely from the dry safety of the pool deck. It acts as the backbone for your scrub brushes, skimming nets, and squeegees, giving you the leverage needed to clean efficiently.

The JED Pool Tools 50-560-16 Professional pole is engineered to handle heavy-duty loads without bending or snapping under pressure. Constructed from 1.2mm thick anodized aluminum, this commercial-grade pole features an external cam lock that secures the telescoping sections firmly in place. It extends from 8 feet to 16 feet, providing more than enough reach for standard backyard pools.

• Length Range: 8 feet to 16 feet (two-piece design)
• Material: 1.2mm anodized commercial-grade aluminum
• Locking Mechanism: Heavy-duty external locking cam
• Compatibility: Standard 1-1/4 inch inner diameter connection

Be aware that a fully extended 16-foot pole can feel heavy and awkward to maneuver when wet. Always maintain a wide, stable stance on the pool deck, and periodically rinse any pool chemicals or grit out of the locking cam to keep it operating smoothly.

This pole is ideal for pool owners with medium-to-large in-ground pools who need maximum reach and durability. It is overkill for small above-ground pools, where a shorter, lighter, and more economical 8-to-12 foot pole would suffice.

Heavy Duty Leaf Rake – ProTuff Pool Net Leaf Rake

Before you can wash or pump a pool cover, you must remove the heavy layers of wet leaves, twigs, and acorns that accumulate over autumn. Standard skim nets are too shallow and flimsy to handle this heavy debris, often bending or tearing instantly. A heavy-duty, deep-pocket leaf rake allows you to scoop up pounds of wet debris from the cover surface without damaging the fabric.

The ProTuff Pool Net Leaf Rake is legendary for its indestructible construction and lifetime warranty. It features a super-strong, aluminum alloy frame wrapped in a protective plastic coating to prevent scratching. The deep bag is made from double-stitched nylon mesh that resists punctures, while the leading edge is angled to scoop up debris smoothly from flat surfaces.

• Frame Size: 19-inch wide mouth
• Bag Depth: 18-inch deep-pocket design
• Bag Material: 120-micron nylon mesh (highly puncture-resistant)
• Connection: V-clip system compatible with standard poles

Because this rake holds a massive amount of debris, it can become incredibly heavy when fully loaded with wet leaves. To protect your telescopic pole and your back, lift the rake using a hand-over-hand vertical motion rather than trying to lever a heavy load horizontally out of the water.

This leaf rake is perfect for pool owners surrounded by heavy deciduous trees like oaks or maples that drop large volumes of leaves. It is not necessary if your pool area is completely clear of trees, where a basic shallow skimmer would handle occasional wind-blown debris.

Garden Hose Nozzle – Spraytec Heavy Duty Metal Nozzle

Once you have scrubbed your pool cover with cleaner, you need a powerful, controlled stream of water to blast away the loosened grime and rinse the soap away. Pressure washers are often too intense and can easily slice through vinyl or degrade safety cover stitching. A heavy-duty garden hose nozzle provides the ideal balance of high pressure and adjustable spray patterns to rinse the cover safely and thoroughly.

The Spraytec Heavy Duty Metal Nozzle is built to withstand rugged outdoor use without cracking or leaking. Made from a solid metal body with a baked enamel finish, this nozzle is much more durable than cheap plastic alternatives. It offers 9 adjustable spray patterns, including a powerful “jet” for blasting stuck mud and a wide “shower” for rinsing off soap suds over large areas.

• Material: Solid metal construction with rubberized grip
• Spray Patterns: 9 distinct spray settings (Jet, Shower, Flat, Mist, etc.)
• Flow Control: Ergonomic rear trigger with lock-on clip
• Inlet: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose connection with rubber washers

Make sure to use the trigger lock-on clip during long rinsing sessions to prevent hand fatigue. Always check that the internal rubber washer is seated correctly before screwing it onto your hose to prevent annoying leaks and pressure loss at the connection point.

This nozzle is excellent for any homeowner who wants a durable, multi-pattern sprayer for seasonal pool prep and general yard maintenance. It is not suitable for those looking for a lightweight, plastic nozzle or those who require ultra-high pressure that only a dedicated pressure washer can provide.

Cordless Leaf Blower – EGO Power+ LB5302 3-Speed

Raking wet leaves off a pool cover is tiring, but clearing dry leaves and debris before they get wet is far easier. A cordless leaf blower is the ultimate tool for clearing dry leaves, twigs, and pine needles off the cover quickly without having to touch the surface. It is also highly effective for blowing away pooling water droplets after washing, significantly speeding up the drying process.

The EGO Power+ LB5302 delivers gas-like power without the hassle of fuel, cords, or exhaust fumes around your pool. Driven by a high-efficiency brushless motor and a 56V Arc Lithium battery, it blasts out up to 530 CFM of air volume at speeds up to 110 MPH. The variable-speed dial and turbo button give you precise control, allowing you to gently clear light debris or blast away heavy wet leaves.

• Air Volume: 530 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
• Max Air Velocity: 110 MPH
• Battery: 56V 2.5 Ah Arc Lithium battery and charger included
• Run Time: Up to 75 minutes on low setting

Keep in mind that while this blower is incredibly powerful, using the “turbo” button constantly will drain the battery in about 10 to 15 minutes. Use the lower speed settings for general debris clearing, and save the turbo blasts for stubborn, wet patches of leaves.

This cordless blower is perfect for pool owners who want a fast, lightweight, and quiet tool to clear their cover and pool deck daily. It is not ideal for those with massive properties who require hours of continuous run time, where a commercial gas-powered backpack blower might be necessary.

Wet Dry Vacuum – Shop-Vac 5-Gallon 2.0 Peak HP

No matter how well you brush and rinse your cover, small puddles of dirty water and fine silt always collect in the low spots and folds as you fold it up. A wet-dry vacuum is the secret weapon for sucking up these last remnants of dirty water, fine sand, and wet muck before they can cause mold during storage. It allows you to dry the seams and heavy-duty straps completely, ensuring no moisture is trapped inside the folds.

The Shop-Vac 5-Gallon 2.0 Peak HP vacuum strikes the perfect balance between portable utility and suction power. Its compact, lightweight tank is easy to carry around the pool deck, while the 2.0 peak horsepower motor quickly lifts water and wet debris out of the cover’s crevices. The plastic tank is rust-resistant, and the onboard accessory storage keeps your attachments within reach.

• Tank Capacity: 5 Gallons
• Motor Power: 2.0 Peak HP
• Hose Size: 1-1/4 inch diameter by 6-foot length
• Filter Type: Foam sleeve for wet pick-up, cartridge filter for dry debris

Before sucking up water, you must remove the paper dry filter and install the foam sleeve to prevent damaging the motor. Additionally, remember to clean out the tank and hose after use, as trapped organic pool muck will quickly create a foul odor if left inside a closed vacuum tank.

This compact vacuum is ideal for pool owners who need a highly portable tool to detail and dry their covers during the folding process. It is not the right choice for draining large pools of standing water, which should be handled by a high-capacity submersible pump.

Cover Protectant – BioGuard Stow Away Cleaner

Even after washing and drying your cover, storing it in a dark, humid environment like a shed or garage leaves it vulnerable to biological growth and pest damage. A dedicated cover protectant acts as an invisible shield, preventing mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors from developing on the stored material. It also keeps vinyl covers supple, preventing them from sticking together, cracking, or dry-rotting over the winter.

BioGuard Stow Away Cleaner is a dual-action formula that cleans and protects in one simple application. It is specifically designed to prevent mildew growth on covers stored wet or dry, while also neutralizing odors. Its specialized conditioning agents preserve vinyl, canvas, and safety covers, ensuring they remain soft, flexible, and easy to unfold when spring arrives.

• Formula Type: Liquid cleaner and protectant concentrate
• Container Size: 1-quart (32 oz) bottle
• Safe Surfaces: Vinyl, plastic, canvas, and mesh covers

For best results, apply this product to both sides of the cover before folding it. While it can be applied to a damp cover, ensuring the cover is as dry as possible before storage will maximize the protectant’s effectiveness and prevent any mold from getting a foothold.

This protectant is essential for anyone storing their pool cover in a humid shed, garage, or outdoor deck box where temperature swings occur. It is not necessary for pool owners who use their covers year-round or store them in climate-controlled indoor spaces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing and Drying Your Cover

Preparing your cover begins with clearing off all standing water and large debris while the cover is still secured over the pool. Use your submersible pump to drain any water, and gently skim away leaves with your heavy-duty leaf rake. Once the heavy lifting is done, unsecure the cover and carefully drag it onto a clean, flat surface, like a driveway or a smooth patch of lawn, to avoid puncturing the material on rocks or sharp edges.

Wet the cover thoroughly with your garden hose, then apply your specialized cover cleaner evenly across the surface. Use your 18-inch pool wall brush attached to the telescopic pole to scrub the material in long, overlapping strokes, paying close attention to seams, folds, and strap attachment points where dirt accumulates. Once scrubbed, rinse the entire cover meticulously with your hose nozzle, starting from one end and pushing all the dirty water and soap suds off the edge.

Drying is the most critical step to prevent mold and mildew growth during storage. Flip the cover over to dry the underside, using a leaf blower to blast away pooling water and speed up evaporation. For stubborn damp spots around straps and heavy seams, use your wet-dry vacuum to suck up trapped moisture before letting the sun finish the job. Never fold a wet cover, as even a small amount of trapped moisture can ruin the material over several months of storage.

How to Properly Store Your Clean Pool Cover for Winter

Once your cover is clean, treated with protectant, and bone dry, fold it loosely using an accordion-style fold. Avoid folding it with sharp, tight creases, which can weaken the vinyl or mesh over time and lead to permanent cracks along the fold lines. Roll the folded cover into a neat cylinder to keep it compact and easy to transport to its winter home.

Rodents are the single biggest threat to stored pool covers. Mice and rats love to chew through vinyl and mesh to create warm winter nests, turning an expensive cover into Swiss cheese by spring. To prevent this, store your folded cover inside a heavy-duty, sealable plastic storage tub or a dedicated cover bag rather than leaving it exposed on a shelf or the floor of your shed.

Finally, choose a cool, dry storage location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid storing the cover directly on a concrete floor, which can draw moisture up into the storage container. Elevating the container on a shelf or pallet keeps it safe from dampness and ensures your cover remains in pristine condition, ready for an easy installation when the warm weather returns.

Taking the time to properly clean, dry, and store your pool cover is a small investment that yields massive returns in the form of a longer-lasting cover and a cleaner pool opening. With the right set of tools in your garage, this seasonal chore transforms from a dreaded hassle into a quick, satisfying weekend project. Keep your gear protected, store it smart, and you will be ready to dive back into crystal-clear water the moment summer arrives.