Owning a pool is a fantastic way to enjoy your home, but it also comes with responsibilities—especially when it comes to safety and maintenance. One of the biggest questions pool owners face is: should you choose a safety cover or a standard cover? At first glance, they might seem similar. But when it comes to protection, durability, and peace of mind, the differences matter—a lot.
Whether you’re closing your pool for winter or just looking to protect it during off days, choosing the right cover can help prevent accidents, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the life of your pool. Let’s break down the comparison to help you decide what’s best for your pool and your priorities.
What Is a Standard Pool Cover?
A standard pool cover (also known as a tarp or winter cover) is a lightweight sheet, usually made of vinyl or polyethylene, stretched over the pool and held in place with water bags or clips.
Pros:
-
Low cost upfront
-
Simple to install
-
Provides basic debris protection
Cons:
-
Not designed to support weight (unsafe for kids or pets)
-
Can sag and collect water, leading to algae growth
-
Less durable and prone to tearing
Standard covers work best if you’re focused strictly on keeping leaves and debris out and are okay with doing more maintenance yourself.
What Is a Pool Safety Cover?
A safety cover is designed with strength and protection in mind. Made from reinforced mesh or solid vinyl and anchored securely to the deck, it can support the weight of children, pets, or even adults—making it a lifesaver in more ways than one.
Types of Safety Covers:
-
Mesh safety covers – Lightweight, allow water to drain through, but block debris and UV rays.
-
Solid safety covers – Heavier, block all sunlight and contaminants, but may need a pump for water accumulation.
Pros:
-
Offers strong protection against accidental drowning
-
Reduces maintenance by blocking sunlight (which prevents algae)
-
Long-lasting and durable (often 10–15 years)
Cons:
-
Higher initial cost
-
Requires professional installation in many cases
-
Takes slightly more effort to remove and reinstall
If safety is a major concern—or you want a low-maintenance, long-term solution—this is the clear winner.
Key Differences: Safety vs. Standard Covers
| Feature | Safety Cover | Standard Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Prevents drowning, supports weight | Not safe for children or pets |
| Durability | 10–15 years | 1–3 years |
| Installation | Anchored with hardware | Held by water bags or clips |
| Debris Protection | High | Moderate |
| UV/Algae Protection | Excellent (especially solid covers) | Limited |
| Cost | $$$ | $ |
While the cost of a safety cover is higher, many pool owners consider it an investment—especially if young kids or animals are around.
Which Cover Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Choose a standard pool cover if:
-
You’re on a tight budget
-
You don’t have kids or pets to worry about
-
You’re okay doing a bit more maintenance
Choose a pool safety cover if:
-
You want top-tier protection and peace of mind
-
You have children, pets, or frequent guests
-
You want to minimize algae, debris, and clean-up costs
Conclusion
In the debate between pool safety covers vs. standard covers, the answer boils down to one word: protection. If your goal is simply to keep leaves out, a standard cover may suffice. But if you’re looking to protect your family, reduce maintenance, and preserve your investment, a pool safety cover is the smarter, safer choice.
No matter what you choose, having a pool cover of some kind is far better than none. So assess your pool’s needs, weigh your options, and invest in the right cover for your peace of mind.