10 Best Non-Inflatable Kiddie Pools of 2024 (Intex, VISTOP, and More)

Some pools are completely rigid; some pools give way a little; some can be disassembled and rolled up. They’ve all got pros and cons, so let’s go through them.

You'll definitely want to measure the space in your yard that will house your kiddie pool before you purchase. While there are no set sizes experts recommend for kiddie pools, it's a good idea to bear in mind that your child will grow. If you have a little one who is going through a growth spurt, aiming for a larger-sized pool is a good idea. 

However, if your child is still a toddler, it may be better to err on the side of caution and buy a smaller-sized pool for the time being. Even if you keep your little one under full supervision while they're in the pool, drowning is especially a risk for children ages one to three. 

When you're filling your kiddie pool, keep in mind that the best water depth for toddlers is around one foot of water. Children older than that will benefit from up to two feet of water. 

When looking for something portable, material and size are your main focal points. The larger the pool's material, the harder it will be to move the pool around as needed. A pool that's easier to move will also be easier to clean.

Folding tubs and vinyl pools are the most portable. However, you need to be mindful of how you pack them during transport to avoid rips. Keep them in a box or a safe spot in the car. We also recommend laying down a tarp or towels before setting these pools up.

Vinyl lining pools can compact down, though they often have the most parts involved in setup. More parts and complicated construction create more opportunities to lose parts, effectively ruining your pool. We recommend taking extra care when bringing a vinyl pool along on a road trip.

Hard plastic pools are the safest to move around in terms of durability. Their issue is one of size and shape. Still, it's entirely possible to bring a smaller hard plastic pool along on the roof of a larger car or strapped to the back of a camper. In these cases, hard plastic pools are ideal for a road trip or on an adventure to the beach.

The CDC warns that it's necessary to clean your kiddie pool each time that you use it. This is because, unlike public pools, a kiddie pool doesn't have filters or special water formulas to keep germs from thriving. 

Since you have to clean your pool often, we recommend looking for one that's easy to empty or has a drain installed in it. This will make cleaning a breeze and will keep your kids safe from viruses and bacteria. 

While it may be tempting, all experts advise strictly against trying to add chlorine or other chemicals to your pool. Instead of chlorine, use soapy water to clean the pool! 

Non-inflatable kiddie pools might come with extra features such as a cover, a canopy, a slide, an umbrella, a sprinkler, or toys. A cover keeps your pool water clean and free of dirt when not in use. 

An umbrella or a canopy will give your kid protection from the sun. A sprinkler, a slide, and toys will keep your child preoccupied and engaged for a long time.