How to Get Your Swimming Pool Ready for Summer 2020

With everything that’s been going on in 2020, there’s always the swimming pool to usher in some much-needed tranquility!

Now that summer is in full swing, you might need to spruce up your pool area with fresh accessories and maintenance that’s fast and easy.

Read on for creative ways to have your pool summer-ready in no time!

Start with a list of pool supplies

Whether your pool tools have been collecting dust in the shed or lying around exposed to the elements, now’s a good time to see what works and what needs to be replaced.

Here are some important products to consider for your list.

• Skimmer
• Water test kit
• Vacuum
• Pool brush 
• Pool chemicals

Are there eco-friendly pool products I should use?

Absolutely! You can completely switch to an all-natural water treatment system to make your pool chlorine-free. 

These special cleaners utilize the power of enzymes and other natural ingredients to thoroughly cleanse the water and keep surfaces free of unsightly stains.

To save energy and reduce cleaning time, invest in a pool cover if you don’t already have one.

A pool cover makes a huge impact, from saving hundreds of gallons of water to cutting down on pump use.

In 2008 it was estimated that pool pumps in the U.S. are responsible for 10 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. That’s the equivalent of 1.3 million cars!

Pool pumps guzzle electricity! Most pool technicians will advise running the pump 6 to 12 hours per day to thoroughly filter water, but honestly, you can cut that time in half to reserve energy.

Most pool debris floats on top of the water, so by skimming your pool each day and covering it at night, you can rely less on your pump.

If you want to completely redo your swimming pool, there are natural swimming pool designs that filter and balance the water using special plants. 

Now, you’re ready to clean your pool

Cleaning your pool doesn’t have to be a complicated affair.

After taking note of your inventory and making the necessary product purchases, it’s time to get it sparkling like a sapphire.

First and foremost, DO NOT DRAIN your pool unless you absolutely have to. This is a time consuming and potentially expensive endeavor, so try other cleaning methods first before pulling the plug.

Start by checking the filter and removing trapped debris. 

If you have a sand filter, initiate a backwash to clean the sand. Then, scrub the pool surfaces with your brush. If your water level has gone down over winter, refill it to a substantial level. 

To eliminate algae and bacteria, shock the pool with your chemicals. 

This is an important step because it will oxidize residual chlorine and take care of any chemical problems. Your pool will be clean after the shock is administered.

The water should be looking quite inviting by now! Get out your test kit to test the water and ensure the PH is balanced.

Add some cool pool decorations

Before you dive in, get your pool ready for summer parties and guests! There are several budget-friendly DIY ideas to give your pool area a makeover. Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Decorative stones & pebbles

The best thing about garden pebbles and stones is how versatile they are. They are specially tempered to withstand extreme temperatures, are all-natural, and they require virtually no assembly. 

Landscaping pebbles look stunning in pool areas, giving off an earthy, zen vibe. Contrast with different colors, like using white pebbles and black pebbles. 

You can even build a garden path with pebbles or design a unique poolside pebble mosaic. 

Bring the beach to your backyard by layering smooth pebbles over an area of your pool for lounging.

Poolside fire pit

Enjoy a night dip and a glowing fire by setting up a gas-powered fire pit in your pool area. 

You can add whimsical accents by filling the pit with colorful fire glass and adding weather-resistant patio furniture. The decorative ideas are endless!

Gas-powered fire pits are ideal, because there is little to no assembly or clean up required. 

Clean burning gas ensures your guests can swim without choking on smoke and you don’t have to deal with dangerous burning wood logs.

Outdoor shower

It’s easy to build a DIY outdoor shower, adding a luxurious touch to your backyard setting. 

Outdoor showers don’t have to be boring, either. 

You can create your own tropical sanctuary to enjoy a relaxing shower in nature.

Install pebble tile flooring for a minimalistic design that’s easy to maintain. Pebble shower tiles are smooth and soothing when stood upon, so you can enjoy a foot massage while showering!

Surround the shower with plants for more privacy, such as ferns, Jasmine vines, or elephant ears.

You can keep it rustic with wood plank walls or add a tin roof. Let your imagination run wild with your pool decorating ideas!