Swimming pools are a summer staple. There was a time when your only pool choices were the standard underground, above ground and the small kiddie pools. For most of us, underground pools were too expensive, the above ground pools were difficult to build and take down and we all out grew the kiddie pools.

Then, some genius decided to create a swimming pool that was inflatable. These weren’t only affordable, but were a breeze to set up. You just inflate it and fill it with water. They also come in various depths and sizes, bringing swimming pools to the everyday man. While these have been a boon for the average Joe, these pools have a few pitfalls.

1. Punctures. The biggest problem about an inflatable pool is what happens when you spring a leak. All it takes is a plastic pool toy and an overzealous child to ruin your dreams of avoiding the summer swelter. They make patch kits, but the water has to drain first before using them and sometimes finding the leak is the hardest part.

2. Chemical Damage. All pools, regardless of how they are made, require regular upkeep and cleaning. Pools suffer from algae, bacteria and need chlorination and other chemicals to keep the water safe for everyone. Some of these chemicals can damage the lining of the swimming pool and, over time, create holes and leaks. But there are chemicals created specifically for inflatable pools to avoid this problem.

3. City Ordinances. When a person builds a large below- or above-ground pool, they sometimes need to have a permit from the city. It’s no different than building on a porch or patio. With the advent of inflatable pools, people were constructing these major inflatable additions to their home and, while they are dismantled at the end of the summer, some cities and towns have required a permit for any inflatable pool above a certain size and depth. You don’t want to end up constructing your pool and then get a visit from the local police officer, so be sure to check with your city before setting up your inflatable pool.

There is no doubt that pools are a fun part of summer, but before you decide on buying an inflatable pool, weigh the pros and cons. It may just be easier to visit the local pool than take care of the inflatable variety.

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For the pool-dwellers:   Check out this affordable Splash Volleyball Game for $29.99 at PoolSupplies.com (complete with ball and net) for the next family pool party or barbeque.  Get everyone in on the game, and get a great workout too!  Just make sure no little kiddies get trampled in all the excitement—designate one adult to be the “lifeguard” for the day, or just the game.  Make sure you pass the duty around—it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep the children safe!

For the beach-bummers:  I’ve always called them “boogie boards”, but the traditional name would be “Bodyboards”.  No matter what you call them, an investment in a good board is totally worth it!  Bodyboards are much easier to learn, use and travel with than surfboards, and often are much less expensive.  Make sure you buy a good quality bodyboard, though, because the cheap foam or plastic ones barely do more than float.  If you’re really in the mood for speed, check out the Turbo IV PP Model Bodyboard 42” starting at $199.99.  A little on the pricey side, but this board has everything you could ever want.  Leash not included, but available at additional price.

And for the lake-lovers:  We know what’s important.  Lakes are for barbeques and outdoor drinking fun.  Check out this fun little invention: a Stowable Floating Cooler!  With extra stability so you don’t lose your drink, this Cooler can hold up to 18 cans of beer!  At only $26.99, there’s no reason not to test it out.   Cooler comes with built-in carry bag and detachable shoulder strap.  Not recommended for the beach, where waves could tip the precious cargo overboard.  Enjoy!

No matter what waterway suits your fancy, there are plenty of aquatic toys to enjoy.  Plenty fine ways to combine comfort, safety and exercise—and why not cool off with a little floatable drink stand as your reward?

Find at Smarter.com:  Shop for more coolers and ice chests.
Discounts on pool toys & games.

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Nothing quenches the scorching heat like soaking in a cool pool! When I was a child I could literally spend hours upon hours in a swimming pool. Looking back I can’t even recall what I would do per say – float, imagine, play? But as an adult there are only two things I enjoy doing poolside, and that is drinking and lounging with a drink in my hand.

Which is why I now see the brilliance in purchasing quality poolside furnishings. Take for example the Maravilla Pool and Patio lounge chair, the functional curves of the polyform floatation arms provide stand alone support for patio seating and exceptionally stable water lounging.

The jacquard fabric provides the best combination of superior strength, quality appearance and, multi-season all –weather use.

Designed to support over 250 pounds, this luxury lounge features a fully cushioned seating area with dacron filled pillow, built in drink holders and stainless steel hardware. 

This is truly an awesome lounge chair, serves as floaty, lounge chair or tanning deck chair!

Price – $289.99

To purchase or shop for the Maravilla Pool and Patio Lounge Chair, click here.

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Super fun and cute! Ours didn’t have one of these handy dandy shade covers so your in luck and you can buy the better version.

The Sun Shade Inflatable Pool retails for $24.99 (you save $5.00 off the original price) the shade part is removable in the event you would like to expose your kids to some good old vitamin D, but if they are the color of snow like me and my family then I suggest leaving the shade up.

To purchase or shop for the Sun Shade Inflatable Pool, click here.  

Related posts:

1. Holiday Decor Deal – Inflatable Santa or Inflatable Gift Boxes
2. The Pitfalls of Inflatable Pools
3. Summer Deals – Pool and Patio Lounge Chair