Does the dream of a backyard oasis feel impossible because your yard is small? Many homeowners think a pool is only for sprawling estates. You see those huge, sparkling pools in magazines, and your tiny patch of grass just laughs back at you. It’s frustrating when space limits your fun!
Choosing the right pool for a compact area presents real challenges. You worry about fitting anything substantial without sacrificing your entire patio. Will it look cramped? Can you even afford a smaller option that still feels luxurious? These are the common worries that stop people from diving in.
But stop worrying! This guide is here to show you that amazing backyard swimming is absolutely achievable, no matter your square footage. We will explore the best compact pool styles, smart placement tips, and clever designs that maximize enjoyment in minimal space. Get ready to transform that little corner into your favorite summer escape.
Top Swimming Pools For Small Backyards Recommendations
- 【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.
- Compact and fun-filled miniature Intex pool allows your children to either practice swimming or just have fun splashing around; Recommended for ages 3 and up
- Made with strong and durable vinyl materials, resisting rips and tears for the mini pool to last season after season while offering the benefit of safety
- Includes foam-padded horizontal beams that provide comfort to your children, ensuring an enjoyable and pleasant experience as they splash and play on the small pool
- Features an easy-to-use drain plug that allows you to quickly drain and take down the kids pool after use, simplifying the process of daily maintenance
- Plastic pool measures 48 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 12 inches tall, ideally sized to fit in your backyard and provides the right space for your little ones to cool off
- 58 x 13 Inches
- Constructed from durable vinyl
- Kids can beat the heat in the Sunset Glow inflatable pool
- The 13 inch walls of this pool are formed by three colorful rings
- Polish (Publication Language)
- Portable Foldable Kiddie Pool Dog Pool--- This pet pool kids pool is foldable, easy to store and it is easy to transport with you and your dog wherever you go. It can be used as doggie pool, kiddie pool, kids pool, wading pool, pet dog bath tub ball pit outdoor dog water toys etc. Great whelping pool! Perfect for whelping, you can use this pool as a whelping box for your dog and her babies.
- Simple to Set Up --- No need of inflation, quick setup.
- Easy to Drain with Lower Drain Hole --- With bottom/side lower drain hole, it is much easier to drain and refresh water than the competition. Perfect plastic pool for backyard outside
- Extra Hose Connector Included --- Do not want the yard/grass get flooded? Simply connect a garden hose and easy to drain.
- Lightweight Compact and Durable --- The pool is made of large plastic boards inside. Built to last long and less hassle to drain, clean and store.
- Portable Foldable Kiddie Pool Dog Pool--- This pet pool kids pool is foldable, easy to store and it is easy to transport with you and your dog wherever you go. It can be used as doggie pool, kiddie pool, kids pool, wading pool, pet dog bath tub ball pit outdoor dog water toys etc. Great whelping pool! Perfect for whelping, you can use this pool as a whelping box for your dog and her babies.
- Simple to Set Up --- No need of inflation, quick setup.
- Easy to Drain with Lower Drain Hole --- With bottom/side lower drain hole, it is much easier to drain and refresh water than the competition. Perfect plastic pool for backyard outside
- Extra Hose Connector Included --- Do not want the yard/grass get flooded? Simply connect a garden hose and easy to drain.
- Lightweight Compact and Durable --- The pool is made of large plastic boards inside. Built to last long and less hassle to drain, clean and store.
- Easy Summer Fun: Ready for water in just 30 minutes; spread out on level ground, preferably on top of the ground cloth, setting the metal frame with our innovative composite T-joint design makes assembly quick and easy
- The Perfect Size: This rectangular pool measures 7 feet by 5 feet with a 24-inch depth; holding up to 483 gallons of water; this above-ground splash pool is just right to play and have summer fun while escaping the heat outside
- Super Tough: Made with puncture-proof 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
- Maximum Flow: Equipped with dual suction outlet fittings that improve water circulation for healthier water; Intex pump sold separately; check out our other pump items to find the perfect pump for any budget
- Safety, Quality, and Value: For over 50 years, Intex designs, builds, and tests all its products to the highest standards with safety as the first order of business; our affordable and innovative products are built to last, just like the memories made by the people who use them
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your Perfect Small Backyard Pool
Dreaming of a cool dip without a huge yard? Small backyard pools are a fantastic solution. This guide helps you choose the best one for your space and needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on features that maximize fun and fit your area. Size is the biggest factor, but don’t forget these:
- Depth: Shallow pools (under 4 feet) are great for lounging and cooling off. Deeper options (4-5 feet) allow for light swimming or floating.
- Filtration System: A good filter keeps your water clean. Look for systems rated for the pool’s volume. Cartridge filters are often easier for small pools.
- Entry and Exit: Consider built-in steps or wide ladders. These make getting in and out much safer, especially for kids.
- Heating Options: If you want to swim outside of summer heat, check if the pool supports an electric or solar heater.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Pool quality directly affects how long it lasts and how much work you do. High-quality materials mean less hassle later.
Improving Quality:
- Stronger frame materials (like rust-proof aluminum or heavy-duty steel).
- Thicker liner material (measured in mils) resists punctures.
- Good warranties show the manufacturer trusts their product.
Reducing Quality (Watch Outs):
- Thin plastic frames that might warp in the sun.
- Cheap pumps that wear out quickly or struggle to move enough water.
- Flimsy liners that tear easily when bumped.
2. Important Materials Matter
Small pools mostly come in three main types, each using different materials.
Above-Ground Frame Pools (Metal Frame):
These use a strong metal frame that supports a heavy-duty vinyl liner. The metal poles are often coated to stop rust. They offer a good balance of strength and portability.
Inflatable/Easy Set Pools:
These use thick PVC or vinyl. They are very easy to set up and take down. They are best for seasonal use, not year-round commitment.
Small Fiberglass or Acrylic Pools (Often called Plunge Pools):
These are pre-formed, rigid shells. They are the highest quality and last the longest. Installation is more complex, often requiring digging or a concrete pad.
3. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the pool. This changes what you should buy.
Cooling Off & Lounging:
If you just want to sit in the water on a hot day, a round or rectangular pool around 8 to 12 feet wide works well. Shallow depths are perfect here.
Family Fun/Light Play:
If kids will play, look for slightly deeper pools (3 to 4 feet) with good safety features like secure ladder locks. Ensure the surrounding deck space is clear.
Fitness/Hydrotherapy:
Some small pools include swim jets or current generators. These let you swim in place. They are usually deeper and cost more, but they offer real exercise in a small footprint.
Always check local rules about fencing or covers, even for small pools. Safety first!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Small Backyard Pools
Q: How small is “small backyard”?
A: Generally, a small pool fits in yards under 300 square feet. Look for models that measure 8 feet by 15 feet or smaller.
Q: Do small pools require a permit?
A: This depends on your town. Always check local building codes. Some areas require permits for any water deeper than 18 inches.
Q: Can I put a small pool on a patio?
A: You can, but you must check the weight limit of your patio first. Water is very heavy! Inflatable or soft-sided pools are usually better for patios than rigid framed pools.
Q: How long does it take to set up an easy set pool?
A: Most inflatable or simple frame pools take between one and four hours to inflate or assemble, plus the time it takes to fill with water.
Q: What is the minimum maintenance for a small pool?
A: You must run the filter daily and test the water chemistry (pH and chlorine) a few times a week. This prevents algae growth.
Q: Are small pools expensive to run?
A: The biggest running cost is the electricity for the pump and filter. Solar covers can reduce heating costs significantly.
Q: Can I drain a small pool myself?
A: Yes, most small pools can be drained using the drain plug. Make sure you drain the water onto your lawn or into a sanitary sewer, not into storm drains.
Q: What is the best shape for a narrow yard?
A: Rectangular or oval shapes use space more efficiently than round pools in narrow or oddly shaped areas.
Q: How deep should a pool be for an adult to cool off?
A: A depth of 30 to 36 inches is usually enough for an adult to sit comfortably and cool down.
Q: Do I need a cover when the pool is not in use?
A: Yes. A cover keeps out debris, reduces water evaporation, and improves safety by preventing accidental falls.