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8 Best Pool Covers for Inground Pools in 2026
For inground pools, the best covers are solar blankets, safety covers, and winter covers.
Solar blankets help hold heat and reduce evaporation.
Safety covers add protection and keep debris out.
Winter covers handle harsh weather and long off-seasons.
| BigXwell Solar Pool Cover for In-Ground Pools |  | Best Overall | Size: 16 x 32 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 16 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft |  | Best Value | Size: 32 x 16 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 16 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 28 x 14 ft Rectangle |  | Best for Smaller Pools | Size: 28 x 14 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 16 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft |  | Heavy-Duty Pick | Size: 32 x 16 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 16 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VINGLI 18 FT Pool Solar Cover Reel Set |  | Best Reel Set | Size: 18 ft | Material: Aluminum/stainless steel | Thickness: N/A | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VINGLI 12Mil Rectangular Solar Pool Cover 16’x32 |  | Best Budget Option | Size: 16 x 32 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 12 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 20′ x 40′ Rectangle Solar Pool Cover |  | Best Large Pool Cover | Size: 20 x 40 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: 12 mil | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Doheny’s 4 Year Winter Pool Cover for Inground Pools |  | Best Winter Cover | Size: 20 x 40 ft | Material: Polyethylene (PE) | Thickness: N/A | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BigXwell Solar Pool Cover for In-Ground Pools
Should you want dependable heat retention, the BigXwell Solar Pool Cover stands out as a top all-around pick. You get a 16-mil, 16 x 32-foot rectangle from the Heavy-Duty Insulating series, built with thousands of thermal bubbles that capture sunlight and help keep water warm. It can cut evaporation up to 95%, so you’ll waste less water and won’t need to top off as often. The lightweight PE design installs easily, trims to fit with scissors, and works on inground or above-ground pools, even as weather turns cool.
- Size:16 x 32 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:95% evaporation reduction
- Additional Feature:Cut-to-fit customization
- Additional Feature:Lightweight easy handling
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft
VEVOR’s 32 x 16 ft solar cover gives you strong heat retention and solid value for larger inground pools. You’ll get a 16 mil PE blanket with dense micro bubbles and a dual air layer that helps trap warmth and cut evaporation up to 95%. It’s cuttable, so you can trim it for irregular shapes, and it works for both inground and above-ground pools. The blue and silver design handles daytime heating and nighttime insulation well. You should hand wash it, avoid harsh chemicals, and expect solid durability against sun, stretching, and tearing.
- Size:32 x 16 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Dual air-layer insulation
- Additional Feature:Dense bubble spacing
- Additional Feature:Hand-wash care
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 28 x 14 ft Rectangle
Compact and efficient, this VEVOR 28 x 14 ft solar cover suits smaller pools nicely. You get a 16 mil polyethylene bubble blanket that helps raise water temperature upon 8–15°C while cutting heat loss overnight. It can block up to 95% of evaporation, so you’ll conserve water and trim utility costs. The blue, UV-resistant design stands up to strong sun without fading or warping. You can also cut it to fit different shapes, and it’s easy to roll up, float, and store whenever you’re done. It also keeps leaves and dust out, reducing cleaning time.
- Size:28 x 14 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Raises water 8–15°C
- Additional Feature:UV-resistant finish
- Additional Feature:Foldable roll-up design
VEVOR Solar Pool Cover 32 x 16 ft
For larger inground pools, this heavy-duty pick keeps heat in and evaporation down. You get a 32 x 16 ft, 16-mil polyethylene blanket that floats on the surface and can raise water temperature approximately 8–15°C, depending on conditions. Its tiny-bubble film blocks up to 95% of evaporation, while the thick PE build helps trap warmth overnight. You’ll also cut leaf and dust buildup, which means less skimming and cleanup. It’s UV-resistant, durable, and easy to trim for a custom fit. Whenever you’re done, fold it, store it dry, and use mild soap only.
- Size:32 x 16 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:16 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Keeps debris out
- Additional Feature:Soft-brush cleaning
- Additional Feature:Cool, dry storage
VINGLI 18 FT Pool Solar Cover Reel Set
VINGLI’s 18 FT solar cover reel set makes pool cover handling easier for in-ground pools up to 18 feet wide. You can adjust it from 14 to 18 feet, and it fits rectangular, kidney, bean, Marilyn Monroe, oyster, and odd-shaped pools. The aluminum tube, stainless steel bracket, and welded stanchions help resist sagging and rust. You’ll get smooth rolling with the hand crank, lock knob, and sturdy wheels. It’s lightweight, simple to assemble, and one person can manage it. The reel also helps you keep your solar cover clean, warm, and easier to store.
- Size:18 ft
- Material:Aluminum/stainless steel
- Thickness:N/A
- Shape:Adjustable reel
- Pool Type:In-ground/outdoor
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Aluminum reel system
- Additional Feature:Single-hand crank
- Additional Feature:Adjustable 14–18 ft
VINGLI 12Mil Rectangular Solar Pool Cover 16’x32
Need an affordable way to warm and protect your pool? The VINGLI 12Mil Rectangular Solar Pool Cover fits 16′ x 32′ inground or above-ground pools and uses blue polyethylene bubbles to trap solar heat. You’ll extend swim time, cut evaporation, and help keep water cleaner through blocking leaves and debris. Place the bubble side down for best results. Its heavy-duty 12-mil build and welded seams add durability, while the cover can be trimmed for custom shapes. Pair it with a VINGLI reel to make handling easier and faster, and expect bubbles to inflate after sun exposure.
- Size:16 x 32 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:12 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Strong welded seams
- Additional Feature:Bubble-side down use
- Additional Feature:Compatible with reel
20′ x 40′ Rectangle Solar Pool Cover
This 20′ x 40′ solar cover suits large inground pools that need serious heat retention. You get a 12-mil polyethylene blanket that traps warmth, limits nighttime cooling, and can cut evaporation up to 95%. Its blue, solid 20-by-40-foot design also blocks leaves and dirt, so you’ll spend less time cleaning. You can trim it for a custom fit, and it works for inground, above-ground, or irregular pools. Install it manually with bubbles facing down, then store it in a cool, dry place whenever you’re done.
- Size:20 x 40 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:12 mil
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground/above-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Made in USA
- Additional Feature:Trim with scissors
- Additional Feature:Bubbles face down
Doheny’s 4 Year Winter Pool Cover for Inground Pools
Doheny’s commercial-grade economy winter cover fits pool owners who want reliable cold-season protection on a budget. You get a 20′ x 40′ rectangular polyethylene cover with triple-laminated construction and an extra-tight weave that helps resist tearing. Its 5-foot overlap gives you room for water drop and tube placement, while aluminum grommets and stitched water-bag loops around the perimeter help you secure it. The floating, drawstring design keeps setup simple. Water bags aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- Size:20 x 40 ft
- Material:Polyethylene (PE)
- Thickness:N/A
- Shape:Rectangle
- Pool Type:In-ground
- Heat Retention:Yes
- Additional Feature:Triple-laminated construction
- Additional Feature:5-foot overlap
- Additional Feature:Water bag loops
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pool Covers for Inground Pools
If you choose a pool cover for your inground pool, make sure it fits your pool’s size and shape snugly. You’ll also want to compare material thickness, heat retention, and how well the cover cuts evaporation. For long-term value, check its durability and UV resistance too.
Pool Size and Shape
Pool size and shape matter because the cover has to fit the pool’s exact footprint to protect it properly. You should measure the pool’s maximum length and width, or its diameter in case it’s round, then add a few extra feet so the cover can overlap coping or deck anchors. In the event your pool has an irregular layout, freeform edge, or custom curves, choose a cover you can trim or order one made to your precise perimeter measurements. Match the cover’s shape to the pool’s geometry, whether it’s rectangular, oval, round, or kidney-shaped, so you don’t end up with folds or gaps. Also factor in steps, tanning ledges, and built-in spas, and consider how you’ll handle oversized covers safely.
Material Thickness
Material thickness plays a big role in how well a pool cover performs and how long it lasts. You’ll usually see solar and thermal covers rated around 12 to 16 mil, while winter or commercial covers can be even thicker. A thicker cover resists tearing, punctures, stretching, and UV wear better, so it can hold up longer under sun and chemicals. But added thickness also means more weight and stiffness, which can make handling harder and could call for a reel or other aid. Since thicker materials cost more, you should balance durability, ease of use, and budget whenever choosing the right mil rating for your pool.
Heat Retention Performance
Heat retention performance depends on how well a cover traps warmth and stops it from escaping overnight. You’ll usually get better insulation from thicker covers, especially solar blankets in the 12 to 16 mil range. Bubble-film designs work well because their tiny air pockets create a thermal barrier that absorbs sunlight during the day and slows heat loss after dark. Should you want even more protection, choose a cover with reflective or opaque layers, since they reduce radiant cooling better than clear film alone. Just as crucial, make sure the cover fits tightly and covers the entire surface. Any gap leaves warm water exposed, and that can erase much of the benefit, regardless of how durable or thick the material is.
Evaporation Reduction
Beyond holding in warmth, a good inground pool cover also cuts evaporation, which can reduce water loss via up to about 95% and lower how often you need to top off the pool. You’ll notice the biggest payoff whenever wind, heat, or dry air would otherwise pull water from the surface. A solid or bubble-style cover works best because it creates a continuous barrier that blocks vapor escape better than partial or mesh designs. Whenever you keep the cover snug and use it consistently, you help stop overnight and off-season losses before they add up. You’ll also protect dissolved chlorine and other chemicals, so you won’t need to rebalance or refill as often. That means less water waste, lower bills, and simpler maintenance generally for your pool.
Durability and UV Resistance
Whenever you’re comparing inground pool covers, durability and UV resistance should be near the top of your list. You’ll want multi-layer polyethylene or laminated materials, ideally 12–16 mil or thicker, because they resist tearing and hold up longer. UV-stabilized or UV-resistant formulations matter too; without them, sunlight can fade the cover, make it brittle, and eventually cause cracking. Check tensile and tear strength ratings whenever possible, since higher numbers usually mean better resistance to wind, rough handling, and debris abrasion. Reinforced edges, welded seams, and grommeted hems also help reduce weak spots and premature failure. In case you live in a hot, high-UV climate, expect faster wear and choose a heavier-duty cover so you won’t replace it as often.
Installation and Fit
Once you’ve narrowed your options based on durability and UV resistance, make sure the cover will actually fit and function on your inground pool. Measure the pool’s maximum length and width, including steps and coves, then add 2–5% overlap so you get full edge coverage and enough room for anchoring. Match the cover’s shape to your pool’s contours, or pick one you can trim safely with scissors without weakening it. For inground setups, confirm whether the cover floats or secures to deck anchors or grommets, and check that the spacing, usually every 3–5 feet, lines up with your hardware. Also consider thickness and flexibility: thicker covers resist wear, but thinner ones conform better around curves. Finally, plan how you’ll deploy and retrieve it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Measure My Pool for a Custom Cover?
Measure your pool’s length and width at the widest points, then record any steps, spas, or corners. You’ll want accurate shape sketches and diagonal measurements so a custom cover fits snugly and safely.
Can Pool Covers Be Used With Automatic Pool Cleaners?
Yes, you can use some pool covers with automatic pool cleaners, but you’ll need to remove the cover initially or choose a cleaner-compatible design, because most covers block cleaner movement and access.
How Often Should I Replace a Pool Cover?
You should replace your pool cover every 5 to 10 years, though quality and use matter; don’t wait for leaks or sagging, because worn covers cost more. Inspect yours yearly for tears, fading, and stretched straps.
Do Pool Covers Work in Windy Climates?
Yes, you can use pool covers in windy climates, but you’ll need a secure fit, strong anchors, and regular checks. Choose a wind-rated cover, or gusts can lift, damage, or blow it loose.
Are Pool Cover Warranties Transferable?
Usually, you can transfer a pool cover warranty, but you’ll need the original paperwork. For example, should you sell your home, the new owner might inherit coverage only provided that you register the transfer promptly.
