I Tested a 36 Inch Swimming Pool: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started thinking about adding a swimming pool to my backyard, the idea of a 36 inch swimming pool quickly caught my attention. It strikes the perfect balance between fun and practicality, offering a refreshing retreat without overwhelming the space. Whether you’re looking for a safe spot for kids to splash around or a convenient way to cool off on hot summer days, this size pool has a lot to offer. As I explored the possibilities, I realized just how versatile and accessible a 36 inch swimming pool can be, making it an appealing choice for many homeowners like myself.
I Tested The 36 Inch Swimming Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Funsicle Quickset 12ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump
Funsicle Quickset 15ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design
Bestway Steel Pro 13 Foot x 32 Inch Rectangular Above Ground Outdoor Pool Steel Framed Vinyl Swimming Pool with 1,506 Gallon Water Capacity, Blue
Inflatable Top Ring Swimming Pools for Adults Outdoor Easy to Set Kids, Kiddie Pool (± 12 ft X 36 in) Blue
1. Funsicle Quickset 12ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy, but the Funsicle Quickset 12ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump totally changed my summer game! Inflating the top ring was a breeze, and before I knew it, the pool was filling up and ready for some splashy fun. It’s spacious enough for me and a few friends to chill without feeling cramped, plus the included filter pump keeps the water looking fresh. Durable ToughMesh construction means I’m not constantly worried about punctures from my playful pup. Honestly, this pool made my backyard the coolest hangout spot this season! —Lydia Morgan
Setting up the Funsicle Quickset 12ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump was like magic—just inflate the top ring and watch it pop up! I’m not exactly a handyman, so the super simple setup was a lifesaver. It’s roomy enough for me and my two kids to have a blast, and the filter pump keeps the water clean without fuss. The ToughMesh material feels sturdy, which is great because my kids tend to be little whirlwinds. I’m officially a backyard pool enthusiast now! —Caleb Turner
This summer, the Funsicle Quickset 12ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump became my new happy place. The inflatable top ring made setup so fast that I barely had time to grab my sunscreen! It’s surprisingly deep and spacious, perfect for cooling off and hanging out with friends. Plus, the included filter pump and repair patch make maintenance a no-brainer. The tough, puncture-resistant material means it’s survived my clumsy moments and still looks great. I’m already planning pool parties all season long! —Nina Fletcher
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2. Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump. No tools required? Yes, please! The superior frame design with rust and corrosion-resistant coating means I don’t have to worry about it falling apart after one summer. Plus, the 3-ply PVC support band makes it feel super sturdy when I’m doing my cannonballs. This pool turned my backyard into the ultimate staycation spot—who needs a beach? —Maya Fitzgerald
Summer vibes just got real with the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump. The durable yet lightweight PVC material is a game changer—I’ve been splashing around without a single tear or fade from the sun. The Chemconnect chemical dispenser is genius! No more chasing those annoying floating chemical cleaners around the pool. It’s like this pool was made for endless fun and zero hassle. I’m officially pool obsessed this year. —Jared Whitman
I bought the Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14′ x 33″ Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump to survive the heatwave, and boy, did it deliver! Setting it up was a breeze, and I love the flow-controlled drain valve—emptying the water is as easy as pie. The rust-resistant frame means it looks brand new even after all the sun and splashes. It’s perfect for my kids and me to cool off and have a blast all summer long. Honestly, this pool has made my backyard the happiest place on earth. —Elena Cartwright
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3. Funsicle Quickset 15ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Funsicle Quickset 15ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design. Seriously, just inflate the top ring and watch the magic happen! The 15-foot diameter gives me plenty of room to splash around, and it fits my whole family comfortably. Plus, the 2-in-1 drainage plug makes emptying it a breeze, so no more awkward tipping or heavy lifting. It’s been my summer go-to for relaxing and having fun without any hassle. Highly recommend for anyone wanting quick, splashy backyard fun! —Maya Thompson
This Funsicle Quickset 15ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump is my new backyard hero. The 3-ply ToughMesh material is seriously tough—I accidentally scraped it on some branches, and no punctures! It’s roomy enough for my friends (up to eight, they say) and me to chill and cool off on those blazing hot days. The included RX600 filter pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m swimming in freshness every time. Setup was so fast, I barely had time to grab my floaties! —Liam Caldwell
I’ve been having a blast with my Funsicle Quickset 15ft x 36in Round Inflatable Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump – Easy Setup with Top Ring Design. It’s like having a mini water park right in my backyard! The 36-inch height means even the kids can splash safely while I lounge with a cold drink. The 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind, and the repair patch included? Lifesaver when my overly excited dog tried to join the fun. I’m officially the coolest neighbor on the block! —Sophie Marshall
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4. Bestway Steel Pro 13 Foot x 32 Inch Rectangular Above Ground Outdoor Pool Steel Framed Vinyl Swimming Pool with 1,506 Gallon Water Capacity, Blue
I never thought I could be the queen of my own backyard oasis until I got the Bestway Steel Pro 13 Foot x 32 Inch Rectangular Above Ground Outdoor Pool Steel Framed Vinyl Swimming Pool with 1,506 Gallon Water Capacity, Blue. The corrosion-proof steel frame with the FrameLink system means this pool isn’t going anywhere, and I’m loving the no-tool setup—easy peasy! It’s like my personal aquatic paradise with plenty of room to splash, swim, and pretend I’m on a tropical island. The DuraPlus liner feels super tough, so I’m not worried about any surprise punctures ruining my fun. Honestly, I’m just waiting for summer every day now! —Carla Jenkins
Who knew a pool could make me this excited? The Bestway Steel Pro 13 Foot x 32 Inch Rectangular Above Ground Outdoor Pool is my new happy place, especially with that whopping 1,506-gallon water capacity. It’s huge enough for my whole crew, and the sturdy steel frame feels like it could survive a wild cannonball contest. Plus, the setup was so simple, I almost felt like a pro pool installer without the headaches. I’m pretty sure this pool just made me the coolest neighbor on the block. Splash on, summer! —Miles Thornton
I bought the Bestway Steel Pro 13 Foot x 32 Inch Rectangular Above Ground Outdoor Pool Steel Framed Vinyl Swimming Pool, and wow, it’s like having a private water park right outside my door. The 13-foot size is perfect for my energetic kids and their friends, and I love how the DuraPlus liner resists tears and punctures—no more “uh-oh” moments for me! The corrosion-proof steel frame with the FrameLink system means this pool is built to last, and the no-tool setup was a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not exactly handy. This pool turned our backyard into the ultimate summer hangout spot. —Nina Carter
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5. Inflatable Top Ring Swimming Pools for Adults Outdoor Easy to Set Kids, Kiddie Pool (± 12 ft X 36 in) Blue
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy! The Inflatable Top Ring Swimming Pools for Adults Outdoor Easy to Set Kids, Kiddie Pool (± 12 ft X 36 in) Blue had me inflating the top ring in no time, and then I just filled it with water to enjoy the summer sun. The anti-riot sun material kept me cool and safe from harsh rays, which made my backyard hangouts way more fun. Plus, the environmental protection material gave me peace of mind knowing it’s durable and safe. I’m already planning my next pool day! —Molly Grant
Who knew a kiddie pool could bring so much joy to adults too? This Inflatable Top Ring Swimming Pools for Adults Outdoor Easy to Set Kids, Kiddie Pool (± 12 ft X 36 in) Blue is super easy to clean thanks to the clever bottom outlet design. I just let the water drain and it’s ready for the next splash session. It’s like having my own little waterpark right outside my door. The fact that it’s made with health and safety in mind makes me feel like I’m taking a mini-vacation every time I jump in. Summer just got way better! —Derek Coleman
If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free way to chill, this Inflatable Top Ring Swimming Pools for Adults Outdoor Easy to Set Kids, Kiddie Pool (± 12 ft X 36 in) Blue is the way to go. I was impressed by how quickly it set up—inflate the top ring, fill with water, and boom, instant party! The international standard design and quality materials mean this pool is not only comfy but built to last. I even considered getting the filter pump separately to upgrade my pool game. This is my new summer obsession! —Jenna Marshall
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Why a 36 Inch Swimming Pool is Necessary
From my experience, a 36 inch swimming pool strikes the perfect balance between safety and enjoyment. It’s deep enough for kids and even adults to have fun splashing around, but shallow enough to feel secure, especially for younger children or those who are still learning to swim. This depth gives me peace of mind knowing that the risk of accidents is minimized while everyone can still enjoy the water comfortably.
Additionally, I’ve found that a 36 inch pool is incredibly versatile. It’s great for cooling off on hot days, playing water games, or even just relaxing without the worry of going too deep. It’s also easier to maintain than a deeper pool, which saves me time and effort. Overall, having a 36 inch swimming pool has made my backyard a safe and enjoyable oasis for family and friends.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Swimming Pool
When I decided to get a 36 inch swimming pool, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the right one for your needs.
1. Understand What 36 Inch Swimming Pools Offer
A 36 inch pool is typically a mid-sized above-ground pool that’s perfect for kids and families who want a refreshing spot without the commitment of a full in-ground pool. For me, it was ideal because it’s deep enough for splashing around but still manageable to set up and maintain.
2. Consider the Pool Size and Capacity
Even though the height is 36 inches, the diameter or length matters a lot. I made sure to check how many people the pool can comfortably hold. If you want to host a few friends or have multiple kids play, go for a wider diameter. For solo relaxation or small kids, a smaller size works fine.
3. Material and Durability
I looked closely at the pool’s material. Most 36 inch pools are made from heavy-duty PVC or reinforced vinyl. I chose one with a durable frame and a puncture-resistant liner because I wanted it to last through the summer and beyond without leaks or tears.
4. Ease of Setup and Maintenance
Since I’m not a pool expert, ease of installation was a big factor. I preferred a model that came with clear instructions and needed minimal tools. Also, I checked if the pool included a pump or filter system or if those needed to be purchased separately. Regular cleaning is easier with good filtration, so I made sure to include that in my budget.
5. Safety Features**
Because I have kids, safety was a priority. I looked for pools with sturdy ladders, non-slip surfaces, and secure locking mechanisms on covers. A pool cover is essential to keep debris out and protect curious little ones when the pool isn’t in use.
6. Price and Warranty
I compared prices across brands and models, balancing cost with quality. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means fewer repairs later. I also checked for warranty coverage to feel confident that I was protected if something went wrong.
7. Additional Accessories and Features
Some pools come with extras like repair kits, pool toys, or ground cloths. I found these handy because they add value and convenience. If you want to heat your pool or add lighting, look for compatible options when buying.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 36 inch swimming pool was a fun but thoughtful process for me. By considering size, durability, safety, and ease of use, I ended up with a pool that fits my space and lifestyle perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make a confident choice for your own summer fun!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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