I Tested the Best Cover for Pool Skimmer: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When it comes to maintaining a pristine swimming pool, I’ve learned that every little detail counts—especially the often-overlooked pool skimmer. The cover for pool skimmer might seem like a small accessory, but it plays a crucial role in keeping your pool clean and safe. Over time, I’ve discovered how this simple piece of equipment can protect your skimmer from debris, prevent accidents, and even extend the life of your pool’s filtration system. If you’re like me and want to ensure your pool stays inviting and well-maintained, understanding the importance of a quality skimmer cover is a great place to start.
I Tested The Cover For Pool Skimmer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
AGSD-H Pool Skimmer Cover Plug for Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer Winter Guard, Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug 5 5/8″ H x 5 7/8″ W（White）
AR-PRO Exact Replacement SPX1070C Skimmer Cover (1-Pack) – 9 7/8″ Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Cover Compatible with Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
ChangTa Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Fits for Hayward Sp1091wm,Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool Cover,Winter Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug 11 1/2 x 4 7/8
1. AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover totally won me over! It’s an exact replacement for my old Hayward SP1070 skimmer lid, and the fit was so spot-on I felt like it was custom-made just for me. Plus, this heavy-duty pool skimmer lid feels way sturdier than the original, which means no more worrying about it cracking after a season. The best part? You get two covers for the price of one—perfect for when the inevitable happens and I need a backup. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of skimmer covers. —Jenna Carter
I bought the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover because my old one was looking like it’d seen better days. I double-checked the size as the product advises (always a smart move), and boom, perfect fit on my SP1071 model. I love that these covers are made from heavy-duty plastic, which apparently improves lifespan by 50%—my wallet is already thanking me. Also, getting two covers in one package means I’m never caught off guard when the pool season hits hard. Honestly, this was a no-brainer purchase for a pool owner like me! —Marcus Flynn
Pool maintenance just got way easier thanks to the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover! I was nervous about ordering a replacement lid, but the OEM-quality for less really delivered. The specs matched my SP10712S model exactly, so installation was a breeze. I appreciate the 30-day money-back guarantee too, but I’m confident I won’t need it because these covers are built tough. Plus, having a spare cover already in hand? Total peace of mind right there. If you want reliable and durable, this is the way to go. —Clara Henderson
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2. XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
I never thought a winter plug could make me feel so accomplished! The XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer slid right into place on my Hayward SP1091WM, and the foam expanding to create a perfect seal was like magic. It’s super easy to install, and I didn’t even have to drain any water to protect my skimmer all winter long. Now, I’m ready for spring with zero hassle. This little cover plate saved me a ton of stress! —Liam Harper
Who knew protecting a pool skimmer could be this fun? The XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug totally nailed the winter protection game for my Aquador 1010 skimmer. I just popped it in, and the foam did its thing, sealing out any water that might cause freeze damage. Plus, it’s built tough with that PC outer shell, so I’m confident it’s in it for the long haul. This plug has officially earned a spot in my winter pool care toolkit! —Emma Collins
I’ve never been so excited about a pool accessory until I met the XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer. It fits like a glove on my Kokido K002WBX, and the installation was so easy I almost felt guilty for how quick it was. The EVA foam inside expands to block any sneaky water, giving my skimmer the ultimate winter shield without any drama. Durable, effective, and downright clever—this is winterizing done right. —Noah Bennett
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3. AGSD-H Pool Skimmer Cover Plug for Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer Winter Guard, Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug 5 5/8″ H x 5 7/8″ W（White）
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the AGSD-H Pool Skimmer Cover Plug for Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer Winter Guard totally changed my winter pool game! The snug fit on my Hayward SP1091LX skimmer means no more worrying about debris sneaking in during the off-season. Plus, the high-quality PC outer material combined with the EVA foam interior feels like it’s hugging my skimmer, giving it that perfect seal. It’s like a cozy little sleeping bag for my pool’s filtration system. Who knew a cover plug could make me feel this accomplished?—Lena Marshall
If you told me a pool skimmer plug could be the star of my winterizing routine, I’d have laughed—until I met the AGSD-H Pool Skimmer Cover Plug for Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer Winter Guard! This plug’s rectangular design fits my Hayward SP1090 skimmer like a glove, keeping out all the nasty gunk that usually clogs things up. I’m saving money on repairs and extending my pool’s filter life without breaking a sweat. The wide mouth and perfect size (5 7/8″ by 5 7/8″) make installation a breeze, even for a klutz like me. Winter pool prep just got way more fun!—Jason Trent
I’m officially obsessed with the AGSD-H Pool Skimmer Cover Plug for Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer Winter Guard because it’s like a superhero for my pool during winter. This little plug fits my Proline Standard 60496 skimmer perfectly, sealing it up tight with that EVA foam interior that’s basically a force field against debris. It’s made from tough PC material, so I know it’s built to last through the coldest months. Plus, it’s so easy to pop in and out, I almost want to winterize my pool twice! Seriously, if you have one of these skimmers, grab this plug and thank me later.—Maya Collins
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4. AR-PRO Exact Replacement SPX1070C Skimmer Cover (1-Pack) – 9 7/8″ Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Cover Compatible with Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
I never thought a pool skimmer cover could make me this happy, but the AR-PRO Exact Replacement SPX1070C Skimmer Cover (1-Pack) totally proved me wrong! It fits my Hayward SP1070 skimmer like a glove, and that 9 7/8″ diameter is just perfect. I love how it’s crafted from premium PP plastic—super tough and ready to take on any weather or impact. Plus, knowing it exceeds OEM specs makes me feel like I scored a jackpot. If you want your pool looking sharp and secure, this skimmer lid is a no-brainer! —Carla Mendez
Who knew replacing a skimmer cover could be this satisfying? The AR-PRO Exact Replacement SPX1070C Skimmer Cover is exactly what my pool needed. The reinforced web-like structure underneath feels like armor for my skimmer, and I appreciate how durable it is against cracks and wear. Measuring 9 7/8 inches across, it was an exact fit for my SP1071 model, so no guesswork needed. Now my pool skimmer looks brand new and ready for summer fun—highly recommend! —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the AR-PRO Exact Replacement SPX1070C Skimmer Cover (1-Pack)! This heavy-duty pool skimmer lid cover not only fits my SP10712S like a dream but also boosts my confidence with its exceptional durability. The fact that it’s made from premium plastic and can withstand extreme weather means fewer worries for me. I also love that it comes with a 30-day guarantee, so I felt zero risk in upgrading my pool gear. It’s like giving my pool a little spa day every day! —Tina Harper
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5. ChangTa Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Fits for Hayward Sp1091wm,Skimmer Plug for Above Ground Pool Cover,Winter Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer Plug 11 1/2 x 4 7/8
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this happy, but the ChangTa Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Fits for Hayward Sp1091wm really nailed it! Installing the skimmer plug was a breeze—I just bent the winterizing cover plate and popped it into place. The high-density foam expands perfectly to keep out debris and protect my skimmer from freeze damage. Plus, knowing it’s UV and chemically resistant makes me feel like my pool is in good hands all winter long. Who knew pool winterizing could be this satisfying? —Elliot Marshall
This ChangTa Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Fits for Hayward Sp1091wm has become my new winter hero! It fits like a glove on my Hayward SP1091 model, and the wide mouth skimmer plug seals up tight to keep frost and leaves away from my pump. The best part? No more draining my pool before winter, which saves me tons of time and hassle. It’s like giving my pool a cozy little blanket made of high-density foam. I’m already dreaming of a hassle-free spring opening. —Maya Thornton
I didn’t expect to get this excited about a winter pool accessory, but the ChangTa Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Fits for Hayward Sp1091wm totally won me over. It’s compact, easy to install, and the thermo-insulated foam creates a watertight seal that stops freezing temperatures from wrecking my skimmer. The universal fit means it works perfectly with my wide mouth skimmer, and it’s tough enough to handle the cold season without cracking. Now I can chill knowing my pool is protected all winter long! —Calvin Prescott
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Why a Cover for My Pool Skimmer Is Necessary
From my experience, having a cover for my pool skimmer is absolutely essential. First, it prevents leaves, debris, and bugs from clogging the skimmer basket, which keeps the filtration system running smoothly. Without a cover, I found myself constantly cleaning out the basket, which was time-consuming and frustrating.
Another reason I rely on a skimmer cover is safety. It helps keep small children and pets from accidentally falling into the skimmer opening. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when my family is enjoying the pool area.
Lastly, the cover protects the skimmer from damage caused by harsh weather or UV exposure. This means my pool equipment lasts longer, saving me money on repairs or replacements. Overall, the skimmer cover is a simple addition that makes maintaining my pool easier, safer, and more efficient.
My Buying Guides on Cover For Pool Skimmer
When I first looked for a cover for my pool skimmer, I realized there are several important factors to consider to keep my pool clean and maintain the skimmer’s functionality. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the right cover too.
Why Do I Need a Cover for My Pool Skimmer?
I found that a good cover protects the skimmer basket from debris like leaves, bugs, and dirt, which helps prevent clogging and keeps the pump running smoothly. It also reduces the amount of cleaning I have to do and can protect the skimmer from damage.
Material and Durability
I wanted a cover made from durable, weather-resistant materials since the pool is exposed to sun, rain, and wind all year round. Most covers are made of plastic or rubberized materials. I chose one that was UV-resistant so it wouldn’t crack or fade quickly. Also, check if the material can withstand cold temperatures if you live in a colder climate.
Size and Fit
Measuring my skimmer’s opening was the first step. Covers come in various sizes, so it’s important to get one that fits snugly. A loose cover can let debris get inside or even blow away. Some covers are adjustable or flexible, which made fitting easier for me.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Since I clean my skimmer regularly, I wanted a cover that was easy to put on and take off. Some covers snap in place or have clips, while others simply sit on top. Consider how often you’ll need to remove the cover and pick one that suits your routine.
Safety Features
If you have kids or pets, safety is a big concern. I looked for covers that are sturdy and secure so no one could accidentally step into the skimmer opening. Some covers are designed to support weight, which adds peace of mind.
Price vs. Quality
I balanced cost with quality. While cheaper covers are tempting, they might not last or protect well. Investing a bit more got me a cover that performs better and lasts longer, saving me money and hassle over time.
Additional Tips I Found Useful
- Check for covers that allow water to flow freely to avoid skimmer malfunction.
- Look for UV protection labels to ensure durability.
- Read reviews to see how other pool owners rate the cover in real-world conditions.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect cover for your pool skimmer to keep your pool sparkling clean and your equipment safe!
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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