From splash balls to squirters to noodles to diving rings, there’s a pool toy out there for every child. Finding the perfect one can be difficult since every kid’s swimming abilities are different. We considered price, design, durability, and safety when reviewing pool toys. Based on our research, these are the best pool toys for splish-splashing fun. For cleaning, just simply ring them out and set them out in a well-lit and dry place, and let them dry completely to prevent mold from forming on the inside. Price at time of publication: $15 Price at time of publication: $10 Price at time of publication: $67 As great as this toy is at providing some floating support, Emily Samuel, program director of Safe Kids Worldwide, warns: “It is important for families to keep in mind that swimming aids and toys, such as pool noodles and inflatable water wings, do not help prevent drowning” and should not be used as a replacement for a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for your child. Price at time of publication: $79 Price at time of publication: $15 Price at time of publication: $99 Price at time of publication: $28 Price at time of publication: $7 Price at time of publication: $35 Price at time of publication: $22 Price at time of publication: $15 Price at time of publication: $19 Price at time of publication: $39 Price at time of publication: $15 Price at time of publication: $30 Price at time of publication: $130
What to Look for in Pool Toys
Safety
When you’re looking for a pool toy for your kids, do your due diligence and ensure it hasn’t been recalled and/or there haven’t been reports of major safety issues. Additionally, Emily Samuel, program director of Safe Kids Worldwide, reminds parents and caregivers to invest in “a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket [that is] appropriate for their child’s weight and water activity.” When you’re looking at pool toys, be sure they do not compromise your child’s safety or interfere with their life jacket.
Durability
A lot of outside toys ironically can’t stand up to outdoor weather and quickly fall apart. Consider whether or not you have a place to store pool toys when they’re not in use; if not, invest in high-quality and/or weatherproof products.
Age and Swimming Ability
Brightly colored pool toys can be very appealing to little kids, even if they aren’t quite big or skilled enough to use them yet. Consider your child’s age, size, and swimming ability when you’re looking for fun toys for them. Samuel stresses the importance of teaching children how to swim to ensure safety in the pool. “Every child is different, so enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready," she says. “Consider their age, development, and how often they are around water.”
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. She has personal experience in researching and purchasing a variety of children’s products. Key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include expert advice, age appropriateness, and user reviews.
