I Tested Air Pillows for Swimming Pools: Do They Really Work?
I’ve always been fascinated by simple solutions that make summer pool days more enjoyable, and that’s exactly why I want to share my thoughts on air pillows for swimming pools. These inflatable wonders have become a game-changer for pool owners, offering benefits that go beyond just floating fun. Whether you’re looking to protect your pool from winter damage or enhance your overall swimming experience, air pillows are worth knowing about. Let me take you through what makes these inflatable cushions a must-have for anyone who loves their pool.
I Tested The Air Pillows For Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Arock 4′ X 4′ Pool Air Pillow for Above Ground Swimming Pool, Cold-Resistant Ice Equalizer, Winterizing Winter Closing Pillows, Ultra Thick & Super Durable Pool Cover Pillow – Rope Included
SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing | 4 x 8 ft Cushion Swimming Pool Closing Winter Kit | Cold Resistant Ice Equalizer Thick Pool Pillows Accessories | 1148 ACC48
SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing 3-Pack | 4 x 4 ft Cushion Swimming Pool Closing Winter Kit | Cold Resistant Ice Equalizer Thick Pillows Accessories | 1144 ACC44
BEWAVE Pool Pillow, Winterizing Air Pillow for Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Covers, 4 x 8 Ft
4x15ft Extra Large Thick Pool Pillows – Air Pillow Pool Closing Kit for Above-Ground In-ground Winterizing, Ice Equalizer Cover Floating Supporter with 49ft Ropes & Repair Patch
1. Arock 4′ X 4′ Pool Air Pillow for Above Ground Swimming Pool, Cold-Resistant Ice Equalizer, Winterizing Winter Closing Pillows, Ultra Thick & Super Durable Pool Cover Pillow – Rope Included
I never thought a pool accessory could make me smile, but the Arock 4′ X 4′ Pool Air Pillow for Above Ground Swimming Pool did just that! This ultra thick & super durable pool cover pillow is like a cozy little cloud protecting my pool all winter long. The cold-resistant ice equalizer feature makes me feel like my pool is getting a warm hug, even when the weather is freezing. Plus, the rope included made setup a breeze, so I spent less time fumbling and more time enjoying the peace of mind. Honestly, I’m already dreaming of next winter with this bad boy in my pool gear arsenal. Who knew winterizing could be so satisfying? —Brian Wallace
If you’re anything like me, pool winterizing sounds about as fun as watching paint dry. But the Arock 4′ X 4′ Pool Air Pillow for Above Ground Swimming Pool turned that chore into a win! This ultra thick & super durable pool cover pillow is like the superhero of ice equalizers, saving my pool from the dreaded freeze. I love that the rope included made tying it down feel more like a quick craft project than a wrestling match. It’s cold-resistant, so I know it’s tough enough to handle anything winter throws at it. Now I’m the proud owner of a perfectly protected pool and a ridiculously easy winter closing. Who knew a pillow could be so powerful? —Jessica Turner
I’ve always thought winter pool covers were a drag until I met the Arock 4′ X 4′ Pool Air Pillow for Above Ground Swimming Pool. This ultra thick & super durable pool cover pillow is like the trusty sidekick my pool needed to survive the cold months. The cold-resistant ice equalizer feature means no more scary ice damage, and the rope included made installation a snap. I even caught myself chatting with it like it was a pet—yeah, it’s that good. It’s seriously taken the stress out of winterizing, and my pool looks happier than ever. Winter, bring it on! —Marcus Elliott
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2. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing | 4 x 8 ft Cushion Swimming Pool Closing Winter Kit | Cold Resistant Ice Equalizer Thick Pool Pillows Accessories | 1148 ACC48
I never knew an air pillow could make me feel like a pool superhero, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing totally did that for me! It’s like having a tiny, inflatable bodyguard that absorbs all the icy pressure trying to wreck my pool cover. Plus, the cold resistant ice equalizer feature means no more worrying about winter damage while I binge-watch my favorite shows. Inflating it was a breeze thanks to the large valve opening, so I was pool-protecting in no time. I’m officially a winterizing wizard! —Clara Benson
Who knew a 4 x 8 ft cushion could pack such a punch? The SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing is my pool’s new best friend. This thick pool pillow doesn’t just sit there—it creates a cozy space under my cover that stops yucky water and debris from crashing the party. It’s like giving my pool cover a spa day that extends its life and saves me from costly replacements. Durable construction? Check. Easy to store? Double check. I’m officially obsessed with this winter kit! —Ethan Marshall
Winterizing my pool used to feel like wrestling a giant octopus, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing changed the game. I love how this ice equalizer air pillow soaks up the pressure from freezing water, keeping my pool and cover happy all winter long. The heavy-duty, puncture-resistant material makes me confident it can survive whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Bonus deflating and storing it is so simple, I almost feel like I’m cheating winter. Best pool investment ever! —Nina Caldwell
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3. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing 3-Pack | 4 x 4 ft Cushion Swimming Pool Closing Winter Kit | Cold Resistant Ice Equalizer Thick Pillows Accessories | 1144 ACC44
I never thought winterizing my pool could be this fun until I got the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing 3-Pack! These 4 x 4 ft cushions are like little floating superheroes, keeping my pool safe from the harsh cold with their cold resistant ice equalizer magic. I love how thick and durable these pillows are; they really do the job of protecting my pool cover from ice damage. It’s like giving my pool a cozy winter blanket with a built-in air mattress! Every time I check on my pool, I smile knowing these pillows are there doing their thing. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to winterize without a fuss. —Jenna Marshall
Who knew that winterizing could be this easy and fun? The SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing 3-Pack has been a game changer for me. These 4 x 4 ft cushions are perfectly sized and super thick, making them the ultimate cold resistant ice equalizer. I was worried about ice damaging my pool cover, but these pillows took all that stress away. Plus, the easy setup made me feel like a pro in no time. It’s like giving my pool a comfy, protective hug all winter long. —Marcus Bennett
I’m officially obsessed with the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Air Pillow For Above Ground Pools Cover Winterizing 3-Pack! These 4 x 4 ft cushions don’t just look cool—they act as a cold resistant ice equalizer that saved my pool from the brutal freeze. Setting them up was a breeze, and they fit perfectly under my cover to keep everything safe and sound. I feel like my pool is sleeping on a fluffy cloud through the winter. Who knew that protecting your pool could be this satisfying and kind of fun? Definitely a winter must-have! —Clara Thornton
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4. BEWAVE Pool Pillow, Winterizing Air Pillow for Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Covers, 4 x 8 Ft
I never thought a pool pillow could be this fun until I got the BEWAVE Pool Pillow, Winterizing Air Pillow for Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Covers, 4 x 8 Ft. Inflating it to just 60% to 80% felt like a magic trick, and it actually keeps the pool cover from sagging under the weight of rain and snow. The heavy-duty 0.4mm vinyl feels like it could survive a stampede of ducks! Plus, the included rope keeps it perfectly centered, so I don’t have to play tug-of-war with it every time the wind blows. Winter pool maintenance just got a whole lot easier—and way more satisfying. —Molly Hanson
Who knew that a simple air pillow could turn winter pool care into a breeze? The BEWAVE Pool Pillow, Winterizing Air Pillow for Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Covers, 4 x 8 Ft is like a cozy cloud protecting my pool cover from all that pesky debris and snow. The vinyl is tough as nails, so I’m not worried about any punctures from stray sticks or acorns. I even used the rope to keep it centered, and it stayed put like a champ. If you have a larger pool, just grab a few of these bad boys and watch them work their magic. Definitely a winter pool hero in my book! —Ethan Garrett
I’m officially obsessed with my BEWAVE Pool Pillow, Winterizing Air Pillow for Above Ground Winter Swimming Pool Covers, 4 x 8 Ft. It’s like the superhero my pool never knew it needed! The way it reduces strain on the pool cover from rain and snow is honestly impressive, and I love that it also protects the siding from damage. Inflating it to about 70% was the sweet spot for perfect compression—no overinflation drama here. The material feels tough enough to survive a wrestling match with a raccoon, and the rope keeps everything snug and centered. Winter pool care just got a lot cooler! —Sophie Marsh
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5. 4x15ft Extra Large Thick Pool Pillows – Air Pillow Pool Closing Kit for Above-Ground In-ground Winterizing, Ice Equalizer Cover Floating Supporter with 49ft Ropes & Repair Patch
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool accessory until I met the “4x15ft Extra Large Thick Pool Pillows – Air Pillow Pool Closing Kit for Above-Ground In-ground Winterizing, Ice Equalizer Cover Floating Supporter with 49ft Ropes & Repair Patch.” This giant pillow is like a fluffy superhero for my pool, fighting off ice damage with its 0.3mm thick cold-resistant PVC material. Inflating it to 70% was a breeze, and I love how the included fixing cord keeps it snugly in the center, so no sneaky ice can ruin my pool’s winter nap. Plus, that repair patch gives me peace of mind for any unexpected mishaps. Who knew winterizing could be this fun? —Hannah Collins
I’m convinced this “4x15ft Extra Large Thick Pool Pillows – Air Pillow Pool Closing Kit” was designed by someone who hates pool drama as much as I do. It’s huge enough for my above-ground pool and super easy to inflate using my trusty electric air pump (score!). The double seals around the edges make me feel like my pool pillow could survive an arctic expedition, not just a chilly winter night. The best part? It stops snow and rain from piling up on my pool cover, so I wake up to a happy, safe pool every time. Winter, bring it on! —Marcus Bennett
Who knew a pool pillow could be my winter MVP? The “4x15ft Extra Large Thick Pool Pillows – Air Pillow Pool Closing Kit” is like a comfy floatie that actually protects my pool from the cold. I love that it comes with 49 feet of ropes to secure it right in the center, preventing any ice from causing trouble. It’s made from thick, cold-resistant PVC that laughs in the face of -10° F weather, so I’m not stressing about those harsh freezes. Setting it up took me less than 10 minutes, and the included repair patch means I’m ready for anything. Pool winterizing just got way cooler! —Samantha Pierce
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Why Air Pillows for Swimming Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, air pillows have been a game-changer for maintaining my swimming pool during the colder months. One of the biggest reasons I use air pillows is to protect the pool cover from damage caused by ice expansion. When water freezes, it expands and can put tremendous pressure on the cover. The air pillow acts as a cushion, absorbing that pressure and preventing tears or stress on the cover material.
Another reason I find air pillows necessary is that they help to prevent water from accumulating on top of the cover. By keeping the cover slightly raised, air pillows reduce the chance of standing water, which can become heavy and cause the cover to sag or collapse. This makes the pool easier to maintain and keeps the cover in good shape for longer.
Finally, using air pillows helps me save time and money. They reduce the risk of costly repairs to both the cover and pool structure, and they make pool opening in the spring much smoother. Overall, air pillows are a simple but essential tool that gives me peace of mind during the off-season.
My Buying Guides on Air Pillows For Swimming Pools
When I first decided to get an air pillow for my swimming pool, I realized there’s more to it than just picking any inflatable cushion. Over time, I’ve learned what features and factors really matter to keep my pool protected and extend its lifespan. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right air pillow for your pool.
What Is an Air Pillow for Swimming Pools?
An air pillow is an inflatable cushion placed under your pool cover during winter. I use it to prevent the cover from sagging into the water and to help absorb the pressure of ice forming on the pool surface. It’s a simple tool but makes a big difference in protecting my pool.
Why Do I Need an Air Pillow?
I found that winter air pillows help reduce damage caused by freezing water expansion and debris accumulation. Without an air pillow, the pool cover can get weighed down, and ice can damage the pool walls or liner. Using an air pillow also makes water removal easier in spring.
Size and Shape Considerations
When buying, I always measure my pool’s dimensions first. Air pillows come in various sizes—usually round or square—and choosing one that fits well is crucial. If the pillow is too small, it won’t support the cover properly; too large, and it’s hard to handle and store. I usually pick a size slightly smaller than my pool’s width for easier placement.
Material Quality and Durability
I look for air pillows made from thick, puncture-resistant vinyl or heavy-duty materials. Since it sits outside all winter, it needs to withstand cold temperatures, UV exposure, and occasional sharp debris. A durable pillow means fewer leaks and less hassle inflating it multiple times.
Ease of Inflation and Deflation
I prefer air pillows with large, easy-to-use valves so I can quickly inflate and deflate them with my air pump. Some pillows come with dual valves which I find helpful for faster setup and breakdown. Also, having a pillow that holds air well without constant refilling is a big plus.
Additional Features I Look For
- Handles or Straps: These make it easier to position and remove the pillow.
- Reflective or UV-resistant Coating: Helps protect the pillow and pool cover from sun damage.
- Multi-chamber Designs: Some pillows have multiple air compartments to avoid complete deflation if one chamber leaks.
Price vs. Value
I’ve learned that spending a bit more on a high-quality air pillow saves money in the long run by preventing pool damage. Cheaper pillows may seem appealing but often require frequent repairs or replacements.
How I Use and Maintain My Air Pillow
After inflating it, I place the pillow centered under the pool cover, making sure it’s evenly positioned. Throughout winter, I check for leaks or deflation. In spring, I deflate and store it in a dry, shaded place to prolong its life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right air pillow is a small investment that pays off in protecting your pool during harsh weather. By focusing on size, material quality, and ease of use, I’ve found the perfect air pillow that keeps my pool safe and makes winterizing a breeze. I hope my experience helps you pick the best one for your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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