Best Pool Covers & Ground Cloths in the UK: Your Practical Buyers' Guide and Where to Shop

Why choosing the right pool cover matters

If you own a garden pool, a good cover is like a trusty hat — it keeps debris out, locks heat in, and protects against accidents. Whether you want to keep your water tidy through autumn leaves or preserve warmth between swims, the cover makes a huge difference. Think of it as the unsung hero that saves you hours of scrubbing, pounds on heating, and the headache of algae battles.

Common types of pool covers explained

Not all pool covers do the same job. Some are sunshine-loving, others are heavy-duty bodyguards. Knowing the main types helps you match the cover to your pool’s shape, size, and how you use it.

Solar covers (bubble covers)

Solar covers look like a bubble wrap sheet and act like a blanket for your water. They trap warmth from sunlight and reduce evaporation, which can cut heating costs. They come in different thicknesses measured in mil — common choices are 6 mil or 12 mil — and are ideal for seasonal use on round, oval, or rectangular pools up to typical garden sizes, like 12 ft by 24 ft or 16 ft by 32 ft pools.

Winter covers

Winter covers are built to withstand leaves, rain, and ice. These are often heavier and may be made from tough polyethylene or reinforced materials. They’re meant to sit on the pool for months and keep out large debris while allowing water to pass through or drain off, depending on the design.

Safety covers

Safety covers are the bodyguards of the group — usually made from sturdy mesh or solid vinyl that can support weight and prevent accidental falls into the pool. They’re anchored to the deck and are a must if children or pets frequently roam the garden. Thickness and anchoring systems vary, so check product specs when comparing options.

Ground cloths and underlays

Ground cloths sit beneath inflatable or framed pools to protect the liner from punctures and damp ground. They’re simple but essential — imagine putting a blanket down before you set a picnic blanket; the ground cloth is that protective layer. Materials range from thin woven sheets to thicker, more cushioned underlays. For portable pools, choose an underlay sized to be slightly larger than your pool base, typically by 1 ft to 2 ft around the perimeter.

How to measure your pool like a pro

Measuring sounds boring, but get it right and the cover fits without fuss. Use a tape measure in feet and inches. Measure the longest length and the widest width, and for round pools measure diameter across the centre. Add an extra 1 ft to 2 ft on each side if you want the cover tucked under or secured to a frame. For odd shapes, sketch the pool and take several measurements so you can choose a cover that can be trimmed or customised.

Top UK retailers where you can buy pool covers and ground cloths

The UK market mixes big-box DIY names with specialist pool shops. Each has strengths: big stores offer convenience and returns, while specialists give tailored advice and custom sizes. Here’s a look at reliable places to shop, what they typically stock, and when to choose each.

B&Q — easy one-stop DIY shopping

B&Q carries a range of seasonal and basic pool covers, including solar bubble covers and underlays. If you’re fitting a common-sized frame pool or topping up accessories, B&Q is convenient and often stocked at local branches. They’re a solid choice for straightforward purchases like a 12 ft round solar cover or a protective ground sheet.

Screwfix — tools and tougher accessories

Screwfix isn’t just for drills. They also stock heavy-duty tarpaulins and specialist fasteners that pair well with safety covers and winter tarps. If you’re rigging an anchor system or need the right clips and bolts for a solid fix, Screwfix has the hardware you’ll want.

Wickes — value and practical supplies

Wickes offers a sensible range of pool accessories aimed at homeowners who want practical gear without the premium price tag. Look here for ground cloths, basic winter covers, and some solar covers suitable for medium-sized garden pools. Wickes can be a good balance between price and quality.

Homebase — seasonal variety and convenience

Homebase often stocks seasonal pool items including bubble covers and underlays. They’re handy if you want to see options in-store and pick up supplies the same day. Expect common sizes and easy-to-install accessories rather than full bespoke solutions.

Argos and The Range — affordable options and fast delivery

Argos and The Range cater to budget-focused buyers and typically have a selection of branded and generic covers for inflatable and framed pools. They’re great if you want an affordable solar cover or a ground cloth quickly, especially for smaller pools like 8 ft to 15 ft diameters.

Amazon UK and eBay — huge choice, read reviews carefully

These marketplaces list everything from cheap solar blankets to specialist safety covers. You’ll find multiple brands and sizes, and buyer reviews can help sort quality from hype. Be careful to check material thickness in mils and the seller’s reputation — a bargain might be a nuisance if the cover tears or doesn’t fit.

Specialist pool retailers (Poolstore UK, Liner suppliers)

For custom sizes and professional-grade covers, specialist retailers are the best bet. They can produce reinforced safety covers, bespoke solar blankets cut to your pool’s exact dimensions, and heavy-duty winter tarps. Expect higher quality and longer warranties, which makes them worth the extra spend if you have a permanently installed pool or an unusual shape.

Materials and thickness: what to look for

Material matters. Solar covers are often made from UV-stabilised polyethylene with bubble insulation. Winter and safety covers might use reinforced vinyl or woven polyethylene. Thickness for solar blankets is commonly quoted in mil — 6 mil for light use, 12 mil for better heat retention and durability. For safety covers, focus less on mil and more on weave strength and anchoring system.

Installation tips that save time and frustration

Don’t wrestle a wet cover alone. Install with a friend or use an automatic reel for solar covers — reels make covering and uncovering a one-person job and extend the life of the blanket. For safety covers, follow the anchor layout precisely and tighten evenly to prevent water pooling. For ground cloths, clear sharp stones and roots first and consider laying sand or a smooth sheet beneath for extra protection.

Maintenance and extending the life of your cover

A little care goes a long way. Rinse off chlorine and salt with fresh water to avoid material breakdown. Store solar covers out of direct sunlight in a shaded area when not in use, and fold them loosely to prevent creases. For winter covers, remove heavy snow promptly and clear leaves to avoid sagging. For ground cloths, check periodically for wear and patch small tears before they grow.

Cost expectations and how to save money

Prices vary widely. Expect basic solar covers for small pools to start at modest prices, while custom safety covers and heavy-duty winter tarps will cost significantly more. To save, measure carefully and buy the right size first time — trimming a cover is cheaper than replacing one that’s worn out fast. Shop sales at big DIY stores during spring and autumn, and consider second-hand options on marketplaces for short-term pools, but be wary of heavily worn goods.

Eco-friendly choices and recycling tips

Choose UV-stabilised, durable covers to reduce how often you replace them — longevity is green. When a cover reaches the end of its life, check with local recycling centres for plastics recycling programmes that accept polyethylene or vinyl. Some specialist suppliers offer take-back or recycling options for used covers, so ask when you buy.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don’t buy solely by price. Thin, cheap covers can tear quickly and cost more in the long run. Avoid guessing sizes; always measure in feet and inches. Don’t skimp on anchors for safety covers — a few quality anchors are worth their weight in peace of mind. Finally, don’t store covers wet; that invites mould and shortens life.

When to choose specialists over big chains

If your pool has an unusual shape, fixed surround, or you want a certified safety cover, go specialist. Custom covers, certified anchoring systems, and warranties come from experienced pool suppliers. For quick fixes, basic solar covers, or accessories, big chains and online marketplaces are fine — they’re fast and often cheaper for standard sizes like 12 ft, 16 ft, or 24 ft pools.

Wrap-up: match your needs to the right cover

At the end of the day, the best pool cover is the one that fits your pool, matches your budget, and does the job you need — whether that’s saving heat, keeping out leaves, or preventing accidents. Measure carefully in feet and inches, consider material and thickness in mils where applicable, and pick a retailer that fits your need for convenience or custom quality. A smart purchase now saves time, money, and hassle later — and keeps your pool looking inviting all season.

Conclusion: Choosing the right pool cover and ground cloth in the UK is a mix of practical choices and a little forward planning. From big-box stores for convenience to specialists for custom solutions, there’s an option that fits every pool owner. Think about how you use the pool, measure accurately, and balance cost with durability. With the right cover in place, you’ll enjoy cleaner water, lower running costs, and fewer headaches when the leaves start to fall.