A pool is a great thing in itself, but with pool toys, there’s never a dull moment in the water.
The problem is:
Whether for adults or children, the choice is huge. The range goes far beyond inflatable animals or balls.
Keeping an overview:
Discover the most popular pool toys from 2024 with BeyondSurfing. You can find out how to recognize good quality products in the following buying guide.
The best pool toy 2024?
Content
In a hurry? Our favorite pool toy:
- Inexpensive
- Small pack size
- Structure
- Adults and children
- Incl. Water polo
- Also suitable for small pools
Pool toy Checklist
- Safety: Never leave children unattended in the water: inflatable pool toys offer no protection against drowning.
- Size: The size of the toy must always be taken into account, as some bathing islands are too large for use in the pool at home.
- Material: The material must be waterproof and robust. Wooden toys are not suitable for use in the pool. Direct sunlight can damage the material of pool toys in the long term.
- Hygiene: If the toy does not dry completely, fungi and bacteria multiply quickly.
Also interesting: The most popular inflatable pools 2024.
These are the top 9 pool toys in 2024
Best cheap pool toys
1. Intex water feature Floating Hoops
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Small pack size
- Structure
- Adults and children
- Incl. Water polo
- Also suitable for small pools
Disadvantages
- Only one color
- Two items must be purchased for a team game
Summary
This inflatable, floating basketball hoop is a great pool toy for adults and children. In colorful orange and green, it is highly visible and reflects on the water.
The ball supplied looks like a real basketball. However, the material is smooth and not rough. The basket floats on the surface of the water after inflation. If you buy two products, you can even play a match.
The product is suitable for both large and small pools. Everyone can make up the rules of the game themselves. The material is robust vinyl.
Conclusion
A toy that brings the whole family together. Get creative and play target throwing or a water basketball match.
If you are not a fan of ball games, you should choose a different product.
Product details
Size: 67 x 55 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 520 g
Customer ratings
Children are enthusiastic about the product. The material can also withstand wild games. If you fill the ball with a little water, it is particularly easy to throw. The toy is also suitable for playing in the lake. Adults can play wild water basketball games with it. Customers recommend the product to others and would buy it again at any time.
Around 12% are neutral about the product, while 9% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The ball is a little light and therefore flies away quickly. The problem is solved by letting some water through the valve into the interior.
FAQ
Best pool toys for children adults
2. ShePretty mermaid set
Advantages
- Large selection of colors
- Incl. Monofin
- Wide range of sizes
- For adults and children
- Training effect
Disadvantages
- Sizes do not always fit
Summary
The mermaid set from FShePretty includes a monofin in addition to the costume. A real eye-catcher for mermaid fans.
Many different colors and sizes appeal to a wide variety of tastes. The costume is made from the same material as swimming trunks. It is resistant to chlorine and sunlight.
The mermaid play set combines design, play and training in one. If you’re having a sporty day, simply take the fin out of the costume and off you go.
Conclusion
If you or your child have always dreamed of feeling like a mermaid in the water, then this set is the perfect choice.
The sizes are not suitable for small children under 8 years of age.
Product details
Size: 110 – 170 | Material: 88 % polyester, 12 % elastane | Weight: N/A
Customer ratings
Predominantly parents of happy daughters praise this set for its quality and beauty. The children have a lot of fun with it and the material can also withstand heavy loads. So you can romp around without any worries.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while only 14% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The seams are not very durable. However, these can easily be mended. A customer complains about the design. He describes that it looks like a cheap print.
FAQ
Best pool toy with skin-friendly material
3. joylink foam water spray gun
Advantages
- For adults and children
- Skin-friendly material
- 4 pieces in a set
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
- Simple operation for young and old
- Floats on the surface in the pool
Disadvantages
- Small water tank
- Only one spray nozzle
Summary
These spray guns water animals from Miotlsy are supplied in a set of 4. Includes two sharks and two crocodiles in green and blue.
The animals are made of soft foam to prevent children from injuring themselves on sharp edges. Even in the event of a fall, nothing can splinter or break. The buoyancy also turns the water pistols into “pool noodles” that provide support when swimming.
Operation is simple. A toy set that is fun for young and old and can be understood without instructions.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a toy for the whole family, this is the set for you. With no less than 4 spray guns, parents and children are ready for a fun water fight.
Those who like to dive for their toys will not be satisfied with the strong buoyancy of this product.
Product details
Size: 33.8 x 21.6 x 6 cm | Material: Foam | Weight: 385 g
Customer ratings
Customers are satisfied and have already had fun pool days with this product. The multi-piece set ensures that the whole family is catered for. The guns spray very far. The product is ideal for children’s hands. The soft material prevents injuries. Delivery is quick and uncomplicated. Most customers recommend the product to others.
Around 5% are neutral about the product, while 19% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One buyer broke all 4 guns after a few days. The rubber on the nozzle has slipped off. This means that water pressure can no longer be built up.
FAQ
Further highlights
4. Intex Flamingo toy mount
Advantages
- Different sizes
- Two air chambers
- Handles
- Free repair patches
- Also suitable for very heavy users
- For several people
Disadvantages
- A little bulky when inflated
- Cannot be inflated without an air pump
Summary
This Intex mount comes in a flamingo design. There are two different sizes. The smaller one is suitable for children or an adult. The larger one is almost a floating island and offers space for two adults. However, it only fits in large pools.
The material is robust vinyl. The colors are radiant and do not fade. Two handles on the sides help you to get out of the pool.
The smaller model can be inflated with the mouth. The larger one must be built up using a standard pump. Instructions are printed on the product.
Conclusion
This product combines high quality and comfort. It is suitable for adults and children alike.
If you are looking for a handy floating animal for a small pool, you should choose a different product.
Product details
Size: 142 x 137 x 97 cm or 218 x 211 x 136 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 4 kg
Customer ratings
One customer bought 5 sets at once because everyone in the family was so enthusiastic. The seams have a high-quality finish and no sharp edges. You can relax and sunbathe on it. The small version is suitable for children: under supervision, of course. One customer even uses the product as a boat when fishing on the river. The material is very durable and the price-performance ratio is excellent.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 6% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
A customer complains about fading color. He had left the toy in the sun permanently. There were a few cases where a used product was delivered and had to be exchanged.
FAQ
5. Bassalo Cup Ball
Advantages
- Playable on land and in the pool
- Waterproof with buoyancy
- Robust material
- Small pack size
- Extra light
- For young and old
Disadvantages
- For two players only
- Technique must be practiced
Summary
Bassalo is a pool toy with a difference. Rackets are replaced by long cups. A rubber ball is thrown out of it and caught again in the partner’s cup.
The set includes 2 cups, the corresponding ball and instructions for use. The material is robust polypropylene. It is chlorine and UV resistant, making it ideal for the pool.
It can be played on land or in the pool. If several sets are available, it is also possible to play in teams. The cups and the ball always float on the surface.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a wind and weather toy for the whole family, this is the product for you. The cups can also be used for sandcastles on vacation.
The technique of the game is still a little too complicated for children under 6.
Product details
Size: cup length 25 cm | material: UV-resistant polypropylene | weight: 222 g
Customer ratings
The material is of very high quality and robust. It brings joy to the whole family. The cups even train eye-hand coordination and can therefore help with children’s development. It’s great for playing in the pool. The toy does not sink to the bottom. It’s also great to take with you on vacation. The children use them to build sandcastles on the beach.
Around 0% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
6. intex riding animal Whale
Advantages
- To sit on
- Cute design
- With handles
- Two air chambers
- Free repair patches
- Tilt-proof due to fins
Disadvantages
- Only for children up to 40 kg
- Not for sunbathing
Summary
This Orca whale from Intex is not only extra large, it is also very stable. Two fins on the sides ensure a stable hold. So the child can really ride on it: without tipping over.
The two handles provide additional support. The material is so robust that even wild rodeo games are no problem. The manufacturer has printed additional safety instructions: The mount is not a flotation aid.
Robust vinyl and welded seams are soft on the skin. The design is particularly child-friendly and features loving details. The printed face even has eyelashes.
Conclusion
Anyone looking for a large and stable water animal for their child will be delighted with this one. The children love the product and even light adults + can sit on it.
Heavier adults and sun worshippers should opt for another product with a reclining surface.
Product details
Size: 9.5 x 25.4 x 22.9 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 1.36 kg
Customer ratings
Children love this whale. Smaller children can even sit on it in pairs without it tipping over. The material is very robust and ideal for romping around. On land, the Orca can also be used as a seat. Some parents also like to get on their backs and paddle through the pool with their feet.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Inflation is not possible without an air pump. The warning labels are too large and not all customers like the look of them. The seam unfortunately leaks quickly, but can be mended.
FAQ
7. drink floatie – 15 pieces
Advantages
- 15 items in one set
- Various designs
- Keep drinks reliably on top
- Also suitable as a bath toy
- Non-toxic material
- For the bathtub, pool or beach
Disadvantages
- Lose air quickly
- Not for glass bottles
Summary
This set of small floating animals is an eye-catcher. The customer can choose from different designs: Flamingos, unicorns, swans or palm trees – everyone gets their money’s worth.
The product can be used either as a drink holder in the pool or as a creative water toy. Children can let Barbies ride on it or simply play with it. Of course, you can also do this in the bathtub.
The material is robust PVC with welded seams. This makes it soft on the skin. It is free from plasticizers. No pump is required to set up the animals, they are simply inflated by mouth.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a pool toy for your child or that little something extra for the next pool party, this is the product for you.
The floating animals are too small to hold on to or even sit on. Pay attention to the size information.
Product details
Size: 18 x 17.4 x 4.4 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 118 g
Customer ratings
The cup holders are also great for holding dolls in the bath. The children love playing with it. Small and large glasses are held well on the water surface. The small bathing animals can simply be inflated with the mouth. The price-performance ratio is very good.
Around 19% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer describes that he was unable to inflate the product. The air simply came out of the valve again. The colors do not look like the product pictures. Some items were delivered defective.
FAQ
8. Joyin diving set with 30 parts
Advantages
- Free bag
- 30 parts in one set
- Inexpensive
- Quick-drying material
- Toy with lots of details
- Radiant colors
Disadvantages
- Not environmentally friendly
- Pool diving rings sink slowly
Summary
The extensive diving set from Joyin includes 30 different pool toys:
- 6 pool diving rings
- 4 torpedoes
- 5 diving sticks
- 3 swimming fish
- 3 diving balls
- 2 squid and 2 octopus
- 5 treasures
All set components are brightly colored. They are clearly visible underwater. Due to their light weight, they sink slowly to the bottom of the pool and children can try to catch them on the way.
The manufacturer supplies a practical carrying bag. All toys can be stored and carried in it. The fabric is breathable, which allows the material to dry.
Conclusion
This large set is ideal for anyone looking for lots of variety for creative diving games. All the pieces can be hidden in the pool and the children can search for them.
The pool diving rings are not suitable for training for the swimming badge. They are too light for that.
Product details
Size: N/A | Material: Plastic | Weight: 821 g
Customer ratings
The products all look high quality. This makes playing particularly varied and the children are very motivated to dive. Due to the many components in the set, the price-performance ratio is excellent. The mesh pocket is practical and allows the material to dry. This prevents mold.
Around 6% are neutral about the product, while 2% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
According to one customer, not all toys sink as advertised.
FAQ
9. intex water swimming ring penguin
Advantages
- Ideal for children between 3 and 6 years old
- Durable
- Free from plasticizers
- Rear opening makes it easier to put on
- Land and water toys
- Buoyancy aid
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for adults
- No mount
Summary
This penguin swimming ring is ideal for small children who want to join you in the pool. It playfully encourages swimming and splashing around. However, a supervisor must never be absent.
The ring is open at the back so that the children can slip into the ring from behind. This means that older children can put the product on without having to dive.
The material is hard-wearing vinyl with welded seams. The swimming ring has cute fins and a detailed penguin face with a yellow beak.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a floating animal for small children in the pool, this product is the ideal combination of swimming aid and bathing animal.
Older children cannot use the ring. You prefer to get a different product.
Product details
Size: 24.6 x 15.8 x 2 cm | Material: Vinyl | Weight: 181 g
Customer ratings
The design is cute and the children like it very much. The production smell disappears quickly after unpacking. The opening at the back is very practical. Children are encouraged to have fun in the water and feel safe. They can slip into the buoyancy aid without help. The colors do not fade.
Around 16% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The floating tire quickly loses air pressure. One child had balance problems with it and often fell over. The product does not provide protection against drowning – therefore only use under supervision.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular pool toys
(**Last update 2024-12-03)
Buy pool toys:
How to make the right decision
Pool toys turn your own pool in the garden into a fun water park. There are inflatable floating animals for animal lovers, various rings or torpedoes for divers and floating rings for sun worshippers.
The advantages and disadvantages of pool toys?
- Wipeable
- More fun in the water
- Resistant to child saliva or rain
- Robust material
- Introduces swimming in a playful way
- Brings momentum to every summer party
- Encourages children to practise diving
- Inflatable toys are great for sunbathing
- Heat and moisture provide a breeding ground for bacteria
- Natural toys made of wood are unsuitable
- Chlorine in the pool attacks any material in the long term
What you need to consider when buying pool toys
When looking for the best pool toy, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Material
- Valves
- Cleaning
- Age group
Pro tip: There are also pool toys that can be used in the water and on land. BeyondSurfing recommends the Bassalo Cup game from the top 10.
The material of pool toys
The more layers the material has, the more resistant it is to damage. At the same time, however, this also makes it more difficult.
- Pool toys especially for children:
Children should only get their hands on material that is free of harmful substances. The play material should be easy to grasp and suitable for small children’s hands.
- For inflatable toys:
Almost all inflatable models are made of materials such as PVC or vinyl, usually 240 to 360 µm thick.
The material must always be able to withstand sunlight. Nevertheless, it should be stored in the shade after use.
You can find information about quality seals for products free of harmful substances at the consumer advice center.
Valves for inflatable toys
There are special safety valves on bathing animals or floating tires. They prevent air from escaping as soon as they are opened. The air can only escape when pressure is applied to the valve.
But this also has disadvantages:
Some customers describe that inflation becomes more difficult with safety valves. Then we recommend using an air pump.
Cleaning pool toys
The shape and size of the toy influences how easy it is to clean. The larger, the more space for bacteria. The more irregular the shape, the more difficult it is to clean thoroughly.
Why is this important?
Small children also put their toys in their mouths, urinate in the pool and adults also bring dirt with them. Germs and bacteria collect on the surface of water toys in particular. This is favored by humidity and heat in summer.
The solution:
Pool toys with clear shapes that are cleaned regularly protect the health of young and old.
The age category
There are so many different exciting pool toys. But what interests one person is not necessarily a hit for another.
Think about it beforehand:
- Who should play with the toy?
- Can the person already dive/throw/swim?
- For inflatable toys: how heavy is the person?
- How many people want to play at the same time?
Products can then be included or excluded based on the answers collected.
Water toy tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test
Consumer Reports has published a test by the NRW consumer advice center. It points out that plasticizers can be found in many water toys.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected in some samples. These are suspected of causing cancer.
Tests by TÜV Rheinland have found unacceptably high levels of harmful substances in floating animals. Of the 88 products tested, 29 were found to be faulty.
Öko Test carried out a test of 16 pool mattresses. This classifies particularly soft, inflatable products as dangerous because they often contain plasticizers.
The following tips can help you to recognize a harmless product:
| Indicator | Handling |
|---|---|
| Odor | Check the toy before you buy it: if it smells unpleasant or chemical, send it back to the manufacturer. |
| Labeling | When buying, give preference to products with seals of approval or labels such as “phthalate-free” or “free from harmful plasticizers”. |
| Utilization | If possible, children should not be able to swallow any parts. If they are not pool diving rings, the toy must have buoyancy. Otherwise it will simply get lost in the pool. |
| Pollutants | Do not buy products labeled with PVC (polyvinyl chloride). You can recognize the material by the recycling triangle with the number 3 and a “PVC” label. Give preference to products with TÜV/CE seals. |
Well-known brands and manufacturers
The best-known and most popular pool toy brands & manufacturers include
- Intex
- Bestway
Here you can rely on experience and quality.
Some children have so much fun with pool toys that they want to live in the pool
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about pool toys
What is the best pool toy?
- Water polo baskets
- Mermaid fins
- Spray guns
- Floating animals
Where can I buy pool toys?
How expensive are good pool toys?
From what age are pool toys suitable?
Are there also pool toys for adults?
Conclusion: The most popular pool toys reviewed
If you make a well-considered purchase decision, you will enjoy it for a long time and not experience any nasty surprises.
The best for last:
BeyondSurfing has presented the most popular pool toys from 2024. Our comparison and buying guide will save you time and money when making your choice.
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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