There are several brands and styles of swimming pool slides that a buyer can choose from. Which one is right for you depend on the type of pool you have and the look you are going for. Pool slides range anywhere from basic straight models to tightly curved styles. The best way to start your search is to visit any of the websites for the popular manufacturers.

The Inter-Fab G-Force Pool Slide

One of the better-known pool slide companies is Inter-Fab Incorporated. They offer six different styles of slides that range from a thirty-seven inch height to a staggering seventy-seven inch height. The Zoomerang, Whitewater, X-Stream, City 2, and Wild Ride slides feature either straight or slightly curved designs. Their popular G-Force slide is a tightly curved slide that propels the user at a fast rate of speed. Inter-Fab's prices are competitive for the market with the basic Zoomerang running around $830 to the G-Force, which runs for close to $3,300. Inter-Fab's slides get four-star reviews from users based on their durability and style.

The S.R. Smith Vortex Pool Slide

Another popular pool slide manufacturer is S.R. Smith. With eight slides on the market, you can easily find one that fits all of your needs. Like Inter-Fab, S.R. Smith offers both straight and tightly curved styles. Their Big Ride, Cyclone, Turbo Twister, Typhoon, Aqua Blast, Rocket Ride, and Rogue Grand Rapids all fit into their straight slide category. Their Vortex model is curved with either an open or closed plume option. The S.R. Smith slides range from four feet tall to eight feel tall, depending on the model. Prices for these slides run between $1,000 for the basic Cyclone kid-sized slide to an astounding $12,000 for the Vortex. Due to the high cost of the Vortex slide, it is generally recommended only for commercial or high-end residential pools. Whichever model you choose, rest assured that S.R. Smith slides also rank highly with users for their ability to withstand heavy use.

The Intex Pool Slide

For pool owners that cannot or do not want to invest in a pricey pool slide, there is another option. Intex inflatable slides provide the fun of a typical pool slide but without the high price tag. While Intex only offers one style of inflatable slide, the affordable price tag is a worthwhile trade-off for the limited choices. Ringing in at a mere $90, the Intex inflatable pool slide will be enjoyable without breaking the budget. Reviews are mixed on the Intex slide, with the majority of complaints being the eventual loss of air (this is true of inflatable pools as well). Intex provides patches for any damage that may occur during use; however, you will need to decide if the price is low enough to justify purchasing several replacements through the years. Plan your budget to see if it is more cost-effective to make a one-time expenditure of a pricier slide versus the multiple purchases of a cheaper slide.

All three manufacturers provide pool slide options for inground pools, although these pool accessories are tougher to come by for above ground pools. If you have an above ground swimming pool, you will need to contact the company of your choice to inquire about their options. To use many of the slides available you will need to build a deck around your swimming pool (obviously inground swimming pools don't need them).

By taking stock of your budget, the type of pool you own, and the amount of room available, it will be relatively easy to decide which slide is right for your family. Pool slides are a smart investment to increase the worth of your home and to upgrade the enjoyment of your personal swimming pool.  Throw in some pool floats and pool toys and you'll have a regular water park going on!

One of the first things that most people think of in terms of swimming pool accesories are filters and filter pumps. In addition to being vital to the successful operation of a pool (including fiberglass pools), filter pumps represent one of the biggest upfront costs in pool ownership. The size of your pool will dictate the type and price of pump you will need. Those with large pools, measuring more than 24’, may need to invest a few hundred dollars to find the right pump for their needs. Good pumps will keep water moving through the filter, ensuring that the pool stays clean and detritus free. The best quality pumps will last through many seasons of regular use and most pool owners find that the initial investment in a good one is much more cost effective than constantly replacing a pump that is on the lower end of the quality scale.

When purchasing a pump, make sure that it is indicated for use with your pool filters. Each pump will be clearly marked with the number of gallons per hour it can pump as well as the volume of water for which it will be ideally used. Make sure that these numbers are in line with the dimensions of your pool before buying a new pump. It is also important to refer to the box or talk to you pool supply representative about the ideal hose diameter for use with any pump. As water will be flowing through the hoses and pump quickly and with a great deal of force, one must be sure that the seal between the pump and hose is solid.

Among the more common above ground swimming pool accessories is a pool’s ladder. Though some many consider the ladder an afterthought, poorly designed ladders can cause slips and falls and may be prone to cracking. This cracking can not only injure pool users, but it may also puncture the side of the pool, leading to a costly and time consuming repair. If you are looking for a replacement ladder, find one that features a metal frame with plastic steps. This will reduce the chances of a potentially damaging crack, while ensuring that those climbing into and out of the pool will not slip. Most ladders are priced at less than $100. To find one that fits your above ground swimming pool, one must only know the height of the pool’s walls.  Don't forget the pool ladders that go inside inground swimming pools as well and help people climb out of the water.

All pool owners should consider making a small investment in a pool cover. For just a few dollars, good swimming pool covers will help keep your pool leaf free and reduce the amount of algae growth (there are pool liners that also help fight algae growth).  Solar pool covers can even help you save energy.  The Intex swimming pool accessories line is a great source for low cost pool covers that are extremely durable and easy to put on when you are done using your pool for the day. For those with smaller pools, less than $20 will buy a pool cover with a drawstring closure. This closure ensures that your cover will remain in place throughout the night and there is no need to worry about your cover blowing off, even during summer storms.  Between the pool filters and a solid cover, pool maintenance should be fairly easy.   However, if you are lazy, you can always buy an automatic pool cleaner, or you can just hire a professional pool service to take care of your pool.  Pool fencing is a requirement in many states, and is something you must make sure you have as well.

In addition to all the functional swimming pool accessories, most pool stores also carry sundry fun items that may be added to any pool. Both above ground and inground pools are made more enjoyable with the addition of a floating swimming pool accessory or two, such as a raft, lights, a floating fountain. or other pool floats. Plastic “swimming” fish are a fun, inexpensive way to encourage children to learn to swim, while adding rafts will encourage the adults in the house to spend more time lounging in the pool. These pool toys are generally available anywhere that filters, pumps, and cleaning supplies are sold, and are a low cost way to exponentially increase your enjoyment of the pool.

For non-functional (or "fun") swimming pools accessories, try pool floats.

The right swimming pool accessories will make pool ownership more fun and less of a chore. With the number of reputable manufacturers now offering complete lines of accessories, there is no need to continue to battle your poorly functioning filter or that hard to manage pool cover.

Functional Pool Accessories

These pool accessories should be purchased as soon as you get a new pool. Most of the necessary inground pool accessories can be purchased through the dealer who sold and installed the pool, but pool owners will still be given options to choose from. As far as above ground swimming pool accessories, they are often sold separately from the pool itself. If you are pursuing self-installation, considering speaking with the pool and spa dealer from whom you bought the pool for guidance and specific recommendations.

A pool filter is probably one of the most important aspects of a well-run pool. Regardless of the type of pool in your yard, it is so important that you own a filter and a filter pump that is capable of handling the full volume of a pool’s water. Each pool filter will vary in the number of gallons per hour it pumps and the amount of water it can handle. Do not be tempted to get a smaller filter than your pool requires in order to save money. These pool filters will be unable to keep the water as clean as it should be and may burn out prematurely.

Another vital pool accessory (or a better word is requirement!) is  pool fencing.  This will keep neighbors and animals away, as well as small children who may fall in!  A pool fence is a requirement in most parts of the US, so be sure to buy one for your pool.

Another important accessory for all pools is safe and sturdy ladders or steps. Inground swimming pools make it is possible so that your steps were built into the pool itself. If this is the case, there is no need to invest in an additional ladder unless you would like to add another entry point. For those with above ground pools, ladders are a pool accessory of great importance. A good ladder will be slip resistant and will fit comfortably over the side of your pool. If your ladder does not fit correctly, it may cause damage to the pool’s walls or liner.

These inground pool ladders are a great and simple accessory to add to your pool.

The last vital swimming pool accessory is the pool cover. Some owners choose to cover their pool anytime that it is not in use, while others only add the cover if they are going out of town or at the end of the season.  Some pool covers are good for a specific season, such as solar pool covers. Make sure to find one that fits snugly around or over your pool. Inground pool liners may be attached to rollers, which make covering a pool of any size easy. For those who are looking for above ground covers, the Intex pool accessories line features an easy to use, drawstring cover that can be secured by one person. When shopping for swimming pool covers, those with an above ground pool may want to use the same supplier for their pool liners as well. Though liners can be expensive, making an investment in a good one at the start will lessen the chance of leaks and reduce the need for repairs.

An automatic pool cleaner, while extremely convenient, I would not consider as necessary as the other accessories mentioned.  The pool can still be cleaned the old fashion way, by brushing the sides and picking out the leaves and debris with nets manually.  Still though, if you have the money, there are some great ones available.  You may also consider hiring a professional pool service to maintain your pool.

Fun Pool Accessories

If you have already stocked up on the necessary functional pools accessories, you can begin to consider all the fun accessories on offer from leading pool supply brands. For those with large inground pools, fountains and other landscaping features will add personality and make every swim feel like a vacation. Fountains are available in styles that are either anchored within the pool or free floating. When making your decision, keep in mind that those that must be anchored may require professional installation.

Look at this really cool waterfall coming from the terrace.

There are also a number of products that double as inground and above ground swimming pool accessories. In most cases, floating fountains may be used in any pool. Heaters are a great way to extend your swimming season for those in temperate climates, and many are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. In addition to these mechanical options, swimming pools accessories such as basic rafts, decals, and swimming pool slides can be cheap, easy ways to increase your enjoyment of a home pool.  And don't forget about all the simple pool toys and pool floats you can purchase including balls, goggles, foam noodles, etc.  Bigger isn't always better: sometimes the best pool accessories are the simple ones.

Pool fountains are a simple and inexpensive way to give your pool a more elegant look.

Whatever your goals for your pool, pool accessories are a necessary investment for all pool owners. There are carried by all pool supply stores, and can be found through a number of online dealers as well.  The right pool accessories will go a long way in making your pool your favorite vacation destination.

Over the years there have been a ton of different pools toys that have tried to make room for themselves in the chlorine treated waters, but there are three in particular that have become essential pool accessories to any pool.  What are they you ask?  The inflatable raft, the floating basketball hoop, and the foam noodle are required to either be in the pool before you get in or should at least be within arms reach once you’ve cannon-balled.

One of the Classic Inflatable Pool Toys: The Inflatable Raft

Floating pool toys for adults!

Swimming pool toys are usually designed around some sort of game but the inflatable raft needs no silly rule set to be one of the greatest pool toys around. As opposed to all of those pool toys for kids, the inflatable raft is designed with the Mommy’s and Daddy’s in mind. While your kids swim about splashing each other in the shallow end you can rest easy floating idly in the deeper waters on your inflatable raft or other similar pool floats.

You can find all sorts of inflatable raft models at your neighborhood pool supplies store. They’ve got your basic mattress style raft, your crocodile themed rafts, rafts with handle bars, rafts with canopies…all sorts of different styles. Not only can you catch some Z’s out on the serene waters with this inflatable pool toy but you can even use it to make some massive waves. Stand up in the shallow end and vigorously push and pull the inflatable raft underneath the water to create a wave pool effect for everyone in the pool.

Nothing Beats a Good Game of Water Basketball

A basketball hoop is one of many cool pool toys!

After a while it can get kind of dull just swimming around in a pool. It’s a lot more fun when you have a bunch of people with you and can get some sort of game going. The floating basketball hoop makes a perfect pool toy for the sports minded pool-goer.

The floating basketball hoop can sit in the deep end of the pool and float around as the players struggle to make baskets with their tiny basketball. The game can be played like a water polo game as in water there is no such thing as dribbling. If you’re a dunk fan you can make some pretty cool moves on the floating hoop because it isn’t very far above the water.  You can also do some fun horse games, with "shooting while jumping into the pool shots," etc.

Water basketball can be played with any number of people. Just divide everyone into two teams and then start racking up the points. The hoop is even a great pool toy if you’re all by yourself in the pool. You can practice free throws from one end of the pool and then swim over to get your missed shots.  Of all swimming pools toys, if you have a big group of people, forget playing Marco Polo - get yourself a water basketball hoop!

Foam Noodle Fight!

The foam noodle is a fun baby pool toy!

Of all the baby pool toys, the foam noodle is one of the best.  They are soft and bendy, and lots of fun!  They definitely won't keep even a baby afloat, but they are certainly fun for kids because all kinds of games can be made with them.  Most kids (especially the boys) end up using them as weapons.  With foam noodles its ok though, because they are so soft.

Horseplay can be dangerous in inground pools but if you play it safe and just use foam noodles as swords you can have a lot of fun whacking each other around and splashing about. Throw in a couple water guns and you’ll feel like you’re having a wet and wild war!  This swimming pool toy is sure to entertain you and your kids for hours.

Not all pool floats are made equal; some are much higher quality and will last much longer despite the harsh swimming pool chemicals they will be exposed to. As you begin to browse around your neighborhood pool supplies store you will quickly find that there are a ton of pool float options available to you. Pool floats tend to range in quality from the ridiculous and awful (cough, foam noodle, cough) to the expensive and luxurious.  Ok, ok, foam noodles are fun for the kids.

Choosing the right kind of pool float for your pool will require you to balance your desires with your budget, so it is important to know what to look for.

To Float or Not to Float

Some cheap pool floats toys.

Be honest, the only reason you want to buy a pool float is to float around and do nothing all day. You want to exude lazy relaxation when you’re in the pool. You have no intention of using your pool float to splash people or make waves, you just want to sit back and enjoy the beautiful weather. So why would you buy a pool float that can’t support your weight?

The first question you have to ask yourself when you’re out buying a pool float is: Will this pool float be able to hold me above water? You have to be honest with yourself about your weight and you have to be careful to pick a swimming pool float that will stay on the surface of the water and not dip underneath it.

There are a few types of inflatable pool floats that will keep just about anyone above water but the heavier you are, the larger your pool float has to be. A floating pool chair is generally a good choice over the regular foam pool float if you’re worried about falling into the water. Floating pool chairs are generally made of special material that has much better buoyancy than your average pool float.

Will Your Pool Float Keep its Shape?

Pool floats lounges work for kids and adults!

The biggest concern when buying any pool accessories is durability. Pool toys, especially pool floats, are designed to get wet but extended use in the pool is going to wear just about anything out. The cheaper the pool floats, the more likely they will develop damaging holes and tears as you use it. The more beat up your pool float gets the harder time it will have staying above water and a pool float that doesn’t float is no good at all.

To ensure that you won’t be duct taping your inflatable pool float after the first couple days of using it, you can invest in a foam pool float. Foam is a porous material that doesn’t require you to blow it up in order to float on top of the water. Foam pool floats are generally more durable as well so they will last longer.

What Kind of Accessories Does Your Pool Float Have?

There are many colorful pool toys and floats to choose from.

There’s nothing better than an ice cold beer out in the middle of the pool. Pool floats are great because they will often come equipped with different accessories to add to the pleasure of relaxing out in open water (including *drum roll please* - a cup holder!  There also many other fun pool floats including inflatable keg floats, pool floats with umbrella stands built in, baby pool floats that attach your own pool float, and others!  There is even an inflatable pool float trampoline!  The list of fun pool floats for your swimming pool is endless.

Note about the baby pool float: NEVER trust any of these types of floats to keep your baby safe.