Two siblings splashing in kiddie pool Maksim Kostenko | Adobe Stock

The Best Kiddie Pools for 2021

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

With the unofficial start of summer behind us, it’s time to start planning for those long, hot summer days with the kids. A kiddie pool is a great way to entertain smaller children while keeping them cool at the same time – a win-win situation if you ask me! Just lather on the sunscreen, get your kids in their bathing suits, hats, and water shoes, pull up a chair, and relax while the kids have a blast. There are many styles, sizes, and types of pools to choose from, so we’ve put together some of the best kiddie pools to fit your needs. 

Best Basic Kiddie Pool – Summer Waves 45 Inch Round Plastic Wading Pool

Summer Waves 45 Inch Round Plastic Wading Pool

This no-fuss kiddie pool is just what you need to get the job done. With a 20 gallon capacity, and nearly 5 feet in diameter, it’s perfect for smaller yards, and when you just want your toddlers to be able to cool off, without having to inflate anything. 

Best Kiddie Pool for Babies – Starplay Junior Lagoon Pool/Sandpit

Starplay Junior Lagoon Pool/Sandpit

This pool from Starplay is only 2 and a half feet wide, and is super basic, which is all your baby needs to have fun and cool off. All they need is a sunhat and swim diaper, and they can sit and splash the day away! After the baby has grown out of it, you can fill it with some sand for sensory play! 

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Best Splurge Kiddie Pool with Slide – Little Tikes Slam ‘n Curve Inflatable Water Slide 

Little Tikes Slam 'n Curve Inflatable Water Slide

The only question I have is: why wasn’t this around when I was a kid? This pool has everything needed for an afternoon filled with fun: a slide, a climbing wall, a basketball hoop, and, oh yeah, a pool! Mom and Dad will love the stakes that hold the puncture-proof material in place, as well as the continuous air blower, insuring a full, sturdy structure the entire time it is being used. 

Best Splash Pad – SplashEZ 3-In-1 60” Sprinkler Splash Pad, and Wading Pool for Learning

SplashEZ 3-In-1 60” Sprinkler Splash Pad, and Wading Pool for Learning

Your toddler can learn while playing with this sprinkler splash pad from SplashEZ. The bottom of the pool has letters and animals to look at and learn about while splashing around. Made from BPA-free material, both parents and kids will be happy with this sprinkler splash pad! 

Best Family-Sized Kiddie Pool – Kiticute Above Ground Pool

Kiticute Above Ground Pool

Technically it no longer fits the “kiddie pool” category when the whole family can jump in, but we are still going to deem this the best family-sized kiddie pool. Made from lead-free, BPA-free PVC material, is .4 mm thick, with 3 separate air chambers, and able to hold 310 gallons of water, it has the durability you need. Designed to fit three to five people, your summer is sure to be fun when you buy this pool! 

Related: 21 Best Swimsuits for Moms That’ll Make You Look and Feel Good

Best Plastic Kiddie Pool with Slide – H2O Econo 100 gal. Round Plastic Wading Pool

H2O Econo 100 gal. Round Plastic Wading Pool

If you want basic, but not too basic, this H2O Econo pool with a slide is just what you are looking for. With a non-skid bottom and roll over top, it’s super safe. It holds 100 gallons of water, is made from tough high-density polyethylene, and has a drain plug for easy emptying. Simple, yet satisfying, kids will love playing in this pool! 

Best Portable Kiddie Pool – SunShade Pop Up Pool 

SunShade Pop Up Pool

This pop up pool with a built-in UV-protected canopy is ideal for keeping in the car in case you find yourself out and about wishing you had a pool for your little one. It folds flat, and fits into a carrying case for easy transport and storage, making it the ideal pool to take with you on vacation, to grandparents houses, or even to the beach! 

Best Budget Kiddie Pool with Sprinkler – SEAMAZ Inflatable Sprinkler Pool for Kids

SEAMAZ Inflatable Sprinkler Pool for Kids

Although splashing around in a pool is fun on its own, when you add a sprinkler, it adds an extra element of fun. The SEAMAZ inflatable sprinkler pool has a super cute design, where the elephants trunk acts as the sprinkler. It inflates quickly, and has a hose attachment for continuous sprinkling, all for under $30.

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