Imagine this: the summer sun beats down, and you wish you had a cool escape right in your own yard. Do you think a beautiful pool is only for houses with huge lawns? Think again! Many people believe they need acres of space to enjoy the refreshing fun of a private pool. This is a common frustration for homeowners with smaller yards. It feels like you have to choose between a nice garden and a place to swim.
But what if you could have both? Small backyard pools are becoming incredibly popular solutions. They fit perfectly into tight spaces, offering a splash of luxury without swallowing your entire yard. This post cuts through the confusion of sizes, styles, and installation options for these compact gems. By the end of this guide, you will know exactly which small pool fits your budget and your space.
Ready to stop dreaming and start splashing? Let’s dive into the best ways to transform your little patch of green into a backyard oasis.
Top Small Backyard Pools Recommendations
- SUMMERTIME FUN: Escape the summer heat and help keep your little ones cool with the Intex Rectangular Frame Baby Pool. Great outdoor fun for ages 6 and up
- DESIGN: Easy to assemble, ready for water in 30 minutes; Supported by strong, durable steel frames which are powder-coated for rust resistance and beauty; Rust-resistant frame keeps pool sturdy through many afternoons of splashing
- CONVENIENT DRAINING: Convenient drain plug connects to garden hose so water can be drained away from pool or house area
- INCLUDES: Swimming pool and set up instructions for help with set up and maintenance; Pump, filter, cover, and ladder are not included
- SPECIFICATIONS: Material: Heavy-duty PVC and polyester 3-ply side walls; Ages: 6 and up; Color: Blue; Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.5 x 5.3 x 2.13 feet
- Your baby will have fun splashing their way through summer in this inflatable pool
- 22-gallon water capacity is perfect for kids aged 1-3 years old
- Soft inflatable floor makes for a safe play area
- Walls allow for 6.5 inches of water for a big splash
- Easy to deflate and store when not in use
- Fun Backyard Pool: Create lasting summer memories with the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 10 ft. x 30 in. above ground swimming pool; holds 1,236 gallons of water (90%).
- Durable Metal Frame: The heavy-duty framed pool is constructed with steel that resists corrosion to ensure stability and longevity.
- Easy Setup: FrameLink System joints offer sturdy and secure frame connection; this pool is very simple to set up and to take down for off-season storage, with no additional tools required.
- Tritech Pool Liner: The sturdy 3-layer material is reinforced to offer added strength and puncture resistance over standard PVC pool liners.
- Essentials Included: 330-gallon filter pump with 2 hoses and (1) Type I filter cartridge are included for a simple setup for a great pool day.
- Inflatable pool for kids offers an instant and hassle-free setup, providing fast and cool relief to toddlers from the scorching summer sun within minutes
- Features a captivating 3-D sea life graphic print on the side of the swimming pool, allowing your little ones to spark their imagination as they play pretend and swim with the fish
- Made with a durable plastic material that ensures the blow up pool to last season after season, providing a cost-effective summer entertainment solution for your children
- Includes an easy setup that requires no air inflation, allowing you to maximize the time you spend enjoying the plastic kiddie pool with your children
- Dimensions of the baby pool measure 8 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 1.5 feet tall with a capacity of 539 gallons, making it ideal for accommodating 4-7 people
- 【Family-size Inflatable Pool】: With 120" X 72" X 22" size,SELLOTZ swimming pool with 312 gal water capacity can hold up to 2 adults plus 3-5 kids(Age 3+) to enjoy a splashing pool party in the backyard.This inflatable pool would be a great entertainment for your kids, pet dogs and family.
- 【Safe & Durable Retangular Inflatable Pool】: SELLOTZ swimming pool for kids is made with Phthalate and lead free, Using BPA-free materials that meets the standards of international children’s toys, which is twice thicker than most in the market, reducing the risk of punctures and ensuring a long service life.
- 【Quick and Easy to Use】: The family inflatable pool is easy to set up, you just need to simply spread out on the ground level.The inflatable pool can be inflated in 3-4 minutes by electric pump (not included), built-in 2 curve water valves double the drainage speed.
- 【Sturdy &Stable Pools for Backyard】: Comes with 3 individual air chamber each with double intake and free flow exhaust valve , the swimming pool for adults can withstand extra weight while preventing air leakage. 90° vertical drainpipe of inflatable swimming pool can facilitate the outflow of water, tidying inflatable pool up is no longer an issue.
- 【Great Gift,Swimming Pool and Ball Pit】:SELLOTZ inflatable pool is a great gift for your kids, families, pet dogs and friends. They could not only enjoy the hot summer day time with our inflatable pool in the backyard，but also it would be used as the ball pit indoor when the weather is cool.
- EASY SUMMER FUN: Ready for water in just 30 minutes; Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing this product. Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
- WATER CIRCULATION: Dual suction outlet fittings improve water circulation resulting in better water hygiene and clarity; this pool has a 1,718 gallon capacity
- SUPER-TOUGH: Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
- INNOVATIVE T-JOINT DESIGN: The new innovative T-Joint design makes assembly quick with no tools required so you can have more time to enjoy the pool; Spread out on level ground, preferably on top of the ground cloth, setting the metal frame with the T-joints
- KRYSTAL CLEAR FILTRATION: The included pump filters 530 GPH and incorporates HydroAeration Technology into the cartridge filter pump providing improved circulation and filtration, improved water clarity, and increased negative ions.
- 2 air-cushioned backrests and comfortable seats for extra comfort 2-in-1 valve for easy inflation/deflation
- Made with durable & puncture-resistant materials Includes drain plug for easy drainage of water
- Deflated Size:117" x 107" Inflated size:120" x 110" x 18" (26"H with backrest)
- Includes repair patch
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Small Backyard Pools
Dreaming of a cool dip on a hot day but think your yard is too small? Think again! Small backyard pools, often called plunge pools or cocktail pools, offer a refreshing escape without needing acres of land. This guide helps you choose the best one for your space and budget.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a small pool, certain features make a big difference in how much you enjoy it.
Size and Depth
- Footprint: Measure your space carefully. Small pools often range from 8×12 feet up to 15×20 feet.
- Depth: Most small pools are deeper than they are long, often 5 to 7 feet deep. This allows for comfortable standing and floating, even if you cannot swim laps.
Accessibility and Entry
- Entry Steps: Look for built-in steps or wide ledges. These make getting in and out safe and easy, especially for kids or older adults.
- Seating: Some models include built-in benches or tanning ledges. These areas are great for relaxing, not just swimming.
Filtration and Heating
- Filtration System: A good pump and filter system keeps the water clean. Small pools need powerful, efficient equipment to handle the smaller water volume quickly.
- Heating Options: If you want to swim early in spring or late in fall, a heater is a must. Check if the pool is compatible with electric heat pumps or gas heaters.
2. Important Materials Matter
The material your pool is made from affects its cost, how long it lasts, and how much upkeep it needs.
Fiberglass
These pools are pre-formed shells. They are very smooth, which means algae struggles to stick to the surface. Fiberglass pools are quick to install. Quality is generally high because they are made in a factory.
Vinyl Liner Pools (Small Versions)
These are built using a supportive wall structure (steel or polymer) covered by a vinyl liner. They are often the most budget-friendly option initially. The quality depends heavily on the thickness of the liner; thicker liners last longer.
Concrete/Gunite (Small Custom Builds)
Concrete allows for any custom shape you can dream up. These are the most durable and expensive option. High-quality concrete work ensures a strong structure that resists cracking over time.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all small pools are created equal. Pay attention to these details.
Quality Boosters
- Plumbing Layout: Good plumbing design ensures water circulates evenly throughout the entire pool, preventing “dead spots” where water sits still.
- Shell Thickness (Fiberglass): Thicker fiberglass shells resist flexing and cracking better.
- Warranty: A long warranty on the structure shows the manufacturer trusts their product quality.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Liners (Vinyl): Very thin liners tear easily and need frequent replacement.
- Poor Surface Finish (Concrete): Rough or poorly applied plaster on concrete pools can scratch swimmers and harbor more dirt.
- Cheap Pumps: Using undersized or low-quality pumps means your water stays dirty longer, reducing your enjoyment.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *how* you plan to use your small pool.
Cooling Off and Entertaining
For many, a small pool is perfect for cooling down after yard work or hosting a small gathering. If you host often, make sure there is adequate surrounding deck space for chairs.
Low-Impact Exercise
If you want gentle exercise, consider a model that accommodates swim jets. These jets shoot a steady stream of water, allowing you to swim in place against the current. This feature turns a small pool into a great workout station.
Maintenance Load
Smaller pools require less chemical balancing overall, but they can heat up much faster in the sun. You must check the water chemistry more frequently, especially in summer. User-friendly automated cleaning systems greatly improve the daily experience.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Small Backyard Pools
Q: How much space do I really need for a small pool?
A: You need enough space for the pool itself, plus about three feet of patio or deck space around the edges for walking and equipment access. Measure twice!
Q: Are small pools cheaper than large ones?
A: Yes, generally they are cheaper to buy and install. However, heating costs can sometimes be higher per gallon of water because the volume is smaller and heats up fast.
Q: Can I swim laps in a small backyard pool?
A: Standard lap swimming is usually impossible. However, pools equipped with counter-current swim jets let you swim in place for a good workout.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a small pool?
A: Fiberglass and concrete pools can last 25 to 50 years with proper care. Vinyl liner pools usually last 10 to 20 years before the liner needs replacing.
Q: Do small pools require special permits?
A: In most areas, yes. Any permanent body of water over a certain depth requires a permit for safety reasons. Check with your local city or county office.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: Fiberglass shells can be installed in just a few days once the hole is ready. Custom concrete pools take several weeks to build and cure.
Q: Is the water colder in a small pool?
A: Yes. Because there is less water volume, the temperature changes more quickly. This means it gets hot fast in the sun, but it also loses heat quickly at night.
Q: What maintenance is different for a small pool?
A: You use fewer chemicals overall, but you must test the water balance more often. Algae control is very important because the water volume is small.
Q: Can I get a small pool with a salt water system?
A: Absolutely. Salt water systems work very well in small pools and often result in softer-feeling water, which many users prefer.
Q: What if my yard is on a slope?
A: Sloping yards require more excavation and retaining walls to create a level base. This adds to the installation cost, so get quotes from installers experienced with difficult terrain.