Don't miss our holiday offer - up to 50% OFF!
6 Best Solar Covers for Pools That Keep Heat Locked In
If your pool loses heat overnight, a 16 mil cover like the BigXwell or VEVOR could help quickly.
You want a solar blanket that traps warmth, reduces evaporation, and still fits your pool without much hassle.
Some options offer thicker insulation, while others are easier to trim or handle.
Those differences can affect water temperature, chemical use, and season long upkeep in ways you might not expect.
| BigXwell Solar Pool Cover for In-Ground Pools |  | Best for Large Pools | Size: 16 x 32 ft | Thickness: 16 mil | Shape: Rectangle | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Evoio Solar Pool Cover 8 ft Round |  | Best for Small Pools | Size: 8 ft round | Thickness: 12 mil | Shape: Round | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Blue Wave 24-ft Round Solar Pool Cover |  | Best for Round Pools | Size: 24 ft round | Thickness: 8 mil | Shape: Round | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32×16 ft 16 Mil |  | Best Heavy-Duty Cover | Size: 32 x 16 ft | Thickness: 16 mil | Shape: Rectangle | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 28 x 14 ft |  | Best Heat Retention | Size: 28 x 14 ft | Thickness: 16 mil | Shape: Rectangle/trim-to-fit | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft |  | Best Overall | Size: 32 x 16 ft | Thickness: 16 mil | Shape: Rectangle | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BigXwell Solar Pool Cover for In-Ground Pools
BigXwell’s 16 x 32-foot solar cover is a good fit if you have a large in-ground pool. Its 16-mil PE construction uses thousands of thermal bubbles to absorb sunlight, retain heat, and help keep your water warmer on cloudy days and cool nights. It can also reduce evaporation by up to 95%, so you will not need to top off your pool as often. The lightweight design makes installation and removal easy, and you can trim it with scissors for a custom fit. That flexibility also helps it adapt to unusual shapes while improving durability in harsh weather.
- Size:16 x 32 ft
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Material:PE
- Heat Retention:Solar heating
- Evaporation Reduction:95% reduction
- Additional Feature:Trim-to-fit design
- Additional Feature:Harsh-weather durability
- Additional Feature:Lightweight handling
Evoio Solar Pool Cover 8 ft Round
Evoio’s 8 ft round solar cover suits small pools that need quick, efficient warming. You’ll get thousands of bubbles that absorb sunlight, raise water temperature by 6 to 12°C, and help retain warmth overnight. Its 12 MIL construction provides strong tear resistance, water protection, and reliable outdoor use without fading or warping. You can also cut it to fit round, square, or custom shapes. It helps block debris, reduces evaporation by up to 95%, and cuts cleaning time. Use it on above-ground pools, inground pools, spas, or hot tubs season after season for efficient, reusable heat retention.
- Size:8 ft round
- Thickness:12 mil
- Shape:Round
- Material:Heavy-duty PE
- Heat Retention:6–12°C gain
- Evaporation Reduction:95% reduction
- Additional Feature:6–12°C temperature increase
- Additional Feature:Dirt and leaf barrier
- Additional Feature:Wide shape compatibility
Blue Wave 24-ft Round Solar Pool Cover
Blue Wave’s 24-ft Round Solar Blanket is a smart choice if you have a round above-ground pool. You can trim it with scissors for ladders or minor adjustments, as long as your pool stays at 24 feet or under. Its 8 mil thermal bubbles trap solar heat and can raise water temperature by up to 15°F. It also helps reduce evaporation and keeps out leaves, dirt, and pollen. The clear blue surface lets sunlight through, and its weather-resistant construction handles regular use. It also includes a 5-year limited warranty.
- Size:24 ft round
- Thickness:8 mil
- Shape:Round
- Material:Thermal bubble material
- Heat Retention:Up to 15°F gain
- Evaporation Reduction:Reduces evaporation
- Additional Feature:15°F temperature boost
- Additional Feature:5-year limited warranty
- Additional Feature:Fade-resistant material
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32×16 ft 16 Mil
VEVOR’s 16 mil solar blanket is a good choice if you want a durable cover that helps retain heat. It comes in a 32 x 16 ft rectangular sheet made from PE, with dense micro bubbles that absorb sunlight during the day and help hold warmth overnight. It can reduce evaporation by up to 95%, which helps conserve water and lower chemical use. It works for both inground and above ground pools, and you can trim it to fit custom shapes. It is designed for outdoor durability, but you should not leave it in highly acidic or heavily chlorinated water. Hand wash only, and install it manually.
- Size:32 x 16 ft
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Heat Retention:Dual heat retention
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95% reduction
- Additional Feature:Dual air-layer design
- Additional Feature:Slows chemical evaporation
- Additional Feature:Hand-wash only
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 28 x 14 ft
For pool owners who want stronger heat retention, this 28 x 14 ft VEVOR cover is a smart choice. It helps trap daytime warmth and reduce nighttime heat loss, which can raise water temperature by 8 to 15°C in the right conditions. Its thousands of tiny bubbles can block up to 95% of evaporation, helping you save water and lower heating costs. The 16 mil PE material provides durable insulation, resists sun damage, and holds up well over time. It also helps keep out leaves and dust, so you spend less time cleaning. You can trim it to fit inground or aboveground pools.
- Size:28 x 14 ft
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle/trim-to-fit
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Heat Retention:8–15°C gain
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95% reduction
- Additional Feature:8–15°C temperature gain
- Additional Feature:Reduces cleaning frequency
- Additional Feature:Tear-resistant PE build
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft
The VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft stands out as a strong all-around choice for larger pools. It includes a 16 mil polyethylene blanket that floats easily, fits inground or above-ground pools, and can be trimmed for odd shapes. Its bubble film can reduce evaporation by up to 95% and raise water temperature by 8 to 15°C, so you waste less water and swim longer. The thick blue cover also blocks debris, resists fading, and helps retain heat overnight. Clean it gently, then store it dry when not in use.
- Size:32 x 16 ft
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Heat Retention:8–15°C gain
- Evaporation Reduction:Up to 95% reduction
- Additional Feature:Pull-on installation
- Additional Feature:Soft brush cleaning
- Additional Feature:Cool dry storage
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Cover for Pool
When choosing a solar cover for your pool, start by considering your pool’s shape and size so you get the best fit. You should also compare thickness, durability, heat retention, and evaporation control to evaluate performance. If your pool has an unusual shape, check whether the cover can be trimmed easily for a snug fit.
Pool Shape And Size
Sizing your solar cover starts with the pool itself. Measure the maximum length, width, or diameter, then add a few inches for overlap so the cover reaches every edge and is easier to handle. Match the cover’s shape to your pool for the best fit: use rectangular covers for straight sided pools, round covers for circular pools, and trim to fit styles whenever you are coping with an unusual outline. If you have ladders, skimmers, or built in features, map out small cuts or allow slight overlap so the cover lies flat without blocking equipment. Bigger pools can benefit from a cover that is a bit larger and easier to manage across more surface area. If wind hits your pool hard, choose securement options to help keep the cover from lifting.
Thickness And Durability
Once you’ve matched the cover to your pool’s shape and size, thickness is the next major factor. You’ll usually get better puncture and tear resistance with a thicker cover, especially in the 12 to 16 mil range. That extra material also helps the cover last longer, so you will not need to replace it as often. Thicker covers tend to have higher tensile and tear strength, which matters if you move them on and off frequently or deal with windy conditions. They can weigh more, though, so you may find them harder to handle manually. Do not judge durability by thickness alone. Look for quality polyethylene and strong UV stabilization, since poor materials can deteriorate prematurely even when they are fairly thick.
Heat Retention Power
Heat retention depends on more than just whether a cover fits. You also need to consider how well it traps warmth after the sun goes down. A thicker cover, around 16 mil, usually insulates better than a thin film, so you will lose less heat overnight. Pay attention to bubble design too. Dense, tightly packed bubbles create more air pockets and hold warmth more effectively. Color matters as well. Clear or blue translucent covers let in more sunlight for heating, while darker or reflective surfaces can hold that heat longer. For the best results, choose a cover with a snug fit that reaches every edge. If you want even stronger performance, look for dual-layer construction, since multiple air layers enhance thermal resistance and keep your pool warmer longer.
Evaporation Control
Evaporation control is one of the biggest reasons to use a solar cover, since a quality one can cut water loss by as much as 95% and help you avoid frequent refills. You will also save on chemicals because less water escapes overnight. Choose a thicker cover with dense bubbles, since it creates a stronger barrier against vapor loss. Look for UV resistant polyethylene, which holds up better under sun exposure and keeps working longer without cracking or thinning. You should also care for the cover well: rinse off debris, avoid sharp edges, and store it out of direct sun whenever you are not using it. Whenever you protect the cover’s surface, you preserve its structure and keep evaporation control strong season after season.
Fit And Trimability
A solar cover only works well if it fits your pool properly, so size and trimability matter just as much as material. Choose a cover that is slightly larger than your pool so you can trim it to a snug fit. That helps prevent gaps that let heat escape and water evaporate. Look for trim to fit or cuttable labels, and make sure you can safely cut the cover with scissors without damaging the bubbles or voiding the warranty. If your pool has an irregular shape, ladders, or fittings, plan your cuts first and leave extra material for overlap or anchoring flaps. Thicker 12 to 16 mil covers can be harder to handle, so use a stable surface and get help. After trimming, round the edges or seal them with UV resistant tape.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Solar Covers Reduce Water Evaporation?
A solar cover reduces evaporation by forming a barrier over your pool, which limits wind and sunlight from carrying water vapor away. It also helps trap heat, so less water is lost overall.
Can Solar Covers Help Lower Pool Heating Costs?
Yes, solar covers can help lower pool heating costs because they trap warmth, reduce evaporation, and limit heat loss overnight. As a result, you can run your heater less often, save energy, and keep your pool more comfortable.
Do Solar Covers Work With Saltwater Pools?
Yes, you can use solar covers on saltwater pools, and they will float on the surface to help trap heat. Rinse them regularly, because salt can wear them down faster than fresh water.
How Long Does a Solar Pool Cover Usually Last?
You’ll usually get 3 to 7 years from a solar pool cover, depending on sun exposure, chemical balance, handling, and storage. If you care for it well, you can often extend its life longer.
Should I Trim a Solar Cover to Fit My Pool?
Yes, you should trim a solar cover to fit your pool if needed. It will help retain heat, reduce drifting, and make setup easier. Measure carefully, cut slowly, and leave a little extra for a snug, secure seal.
