Pool floats need to be cleaned regularly. Cleaning is a necessary task that you have to carry out for several reasons. One of them is that chemicals often used in pool water treatment can spoil your summer toy. Another advantage is the washing protects the fabric from wear and tear. Also, this habit inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and mold in the inflatable.
Some people question how to clean pool floats. So, in this article, we'll see how to get this quite one-of-a-kind task done.
Cleaning Pool Floats: Best Methods
So, you wonder how to clean pool floats. Before discussing the best way to clean pool floats, we have some helpful advice: always deflate your float to clean it. You will avoid drilling holes, even unintentionally, and the process will go much more smoothly. Also, check out to use a soft sponge or dustcloth.
Now that you know the key tip of deflation and have rolled up your sleeves choose one method below and get it done! Let’s find out the best way to clean pool floats together.
Soap and Water
Stop searching for special products to understand how to clean pool toys or floats. Standard dishwashing soap and warm water are good enough for this job. First, fill a bucket with 1/ 4 soap and 3/ 4 water. Second, mix those two. Use a sponge to rub the float right now gently. Finished? Not yet. Remember to take all the soap off.
A precious tip to this method (and any other): It's a good idea to wipe away any dirt after you finish. Statins (sunscreen, food, beverage, etc.) must be removed for effective cleaning.
Vinegar and Water
Let's say you don't have dishwashing soap in the house: that's not an excuse to keep your pool float dirty. Go to the kitchen and catch the vinegar. It would help if you found a spray bottle, too – find it in the laundry or garden.
So, mix one part white vinegar and two parts water in the bottle. Ready? Spritz the float all over at first. To scrub off, use a sponge. Always a soft one. And, finally, rinse it – consider using a hose to make this process easier and, why not, fun.
Baking Soda and Water
For this one, you must mix the cleaning with water like the other methods above. If you choose this manner, put 1 quart of warm water with 1/ 4 a cup of baking soda in a bucket, mix it and, voilà, rub all the inflatable. After that, drain the solution of your little joy summer with water.
Bleach and Water
At this point, you earlier understand how to clean pool floats. No secrets to this method. Again, take a bucket, mix a tablespoon of bleach with water, and carefully rub down the float. Rinse it very well at the end.
Important! In all these methods, always let the inflatable dry very well, ideally in the sun, before using it again or storing it.
Cleaning Pool Floats Based on Type
Pool floats come in different materials, each requiring specific care to ensure longevity and hygiene. Proper cleaning methods tailored to the material can make a significant difference.
Let's explore how to clean two common types of pool floats: vinyl and foam.
How to Clean Vinyl Pool Floats
Vinyl pool floats are a popular choice due to their durability and comfort. Keeping them clean ensures a longer lifespan and a more enjoyable pool experience. Here's our step-by-step guide on how to clean vinyl pool floats:
- Rinse Off Surface Debris: Start by hosing down the vinyl float to remove any loose dirt or debris. This initial rinse helps prevent scratching during the cleaning process.
- Prepare a Mild Soapy Solution: Mix a gentle soap or detergent with water in a bucket. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the vinyl. Stir the solution until it forms a soapy mixture.
- Use a Soft Brush or Sponge: Dip a soft brush or sponge into the soapy solution. Gently scrub the surface of the vinyl float, paying extra attention to any stained or dirty areas. Avoid using abrasive tools to prevent damage.
- Focus on Seams and Crevices: Vinyl pool floats often have seams and crevices where dirt can accumulate. Use a brush or sponge to clean these hard-to-reach areas thoroughly.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once you've scrubbed the entire surface, rinse the vinyl float with a water hose. Ensure that all soap residues are washed away to prevent skin irritation and maintain the integrity of the material.
- Dry Completely: Towel-dry the vinyl float thoroughly before storing it. Proper drying prevents mold growth and ensures the float is ready for use the next time you hit the pool.
How to Clean Foam Pool Floats
Foam pool floats are comfortable and lightweight, but they require specific care to maintain their quality. Follow these steps to clean your foam pool floats effectively:
- Remove Loose Debris: Shake off or remove loose debris from the foam float. This initial step prevents dirt from settling into the foam during cleaning.
- Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution: Create a solution using a gentle soap or detergent and water. Ensure the soap is suitable for foam materials to avoid damage. Mix the solution in a bucket.
- Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy solution. Gently wipe down the entire surface of the foam float, applying light pressure to remove any dirt or stains.
- Address Stubborn Stains Carefully: For stubborn stains, use a soft brush or cloth with a bit more pressure. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as foam is delicate and can tear if mishandled.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the foam float with a water hose, making sure to remove all soap residues. Thorough rinsing is crucial to prevent skin irritation and maintain the foam's structural integrity.
- Air Dry in a Shaded Area: Allow the foam float to air dry in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can damage the foam material. Ensure the float is completely dry before storage.
By following these cleaning methods, you'll ensure that both your vinyl and foam pool floats stay in excellent condition, providing comfort and enjoyment throughout the swimming season.
How To Take Care of Your Pool Floats: Best Practices
Most floats can be solid and resistant enough to hold on the entire summer, but if you take care of them, they will last for years and years. So, check these recommendations on how to keep pool floats clean and safe:
- Don't leave floats in the sun too long. Prolonged exposure to the sun's rays can fade and crack your pool floats. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight when not in use.
- Keep your float clean. After reading this article, you already know how to clean a pool float.
- If your pool float has a hole, repair it as soon as possible. Don't freak out; learn how to patch a pool float.
- Learn how to blow up inflatables and be careful during the deflate process.
FAQs on Pool Floats Cleaning
How to clean pool floats is a common question, so inflatable owners and party planners care about making their inflatables last as long as possible. Once this question has been answered, let's focus on two common questions: washing frequency and how to store it.
How often should you clean your pool floats?
Ideally, cleaning up your inflatable after day use is the best practice. But if this frequency is not possible, wash the pool floats three or four times for the session.
How do you store pool floats for the winter?
If you wonder how to store pool floats, you should choose a good, safe and clean place. So, you should put the pool floats in a box or a plastic bag to avoid problems with pets or bugs, for example. Make sure your thing is absolutely dry before storage.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning up your pool float is not a hard task. As you can see, this job improves the life quality of your summer toy and makes your friends and family happy. Now that you know how to clean pool floats, you have nothing to worry about; enjoy your holidays!
Final comment: Keep in mind that you shouldn't try to reinvent the wheel! Some cleaning products (chemical or natural ones) can spoil and even corrode your beloved float.
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