The 10 Best Pool Skimmers for Leaves, Bugs, and Debris (2023)

Best Pool Skimmer

Owning a pool comes with plenty of responsibilities. Among them is keeping the pool water free of contaminants and floating debris that ends up in the pool from the surrounding environment, and you’re getting in and out of the pool.

Skimmers are designed to help you do just that: keep your water free and clear of debris. There are multiple types of skimmers, and learning the different specs of each kind can help you determine which is the best pool skimmer for you and your pool.

We’ve taken a look at some of the best skimmers available and included a list of reviews to help you with this process.

We’ve compared features between products, such as durability, ease of installation, effectiveness, etc. to create a comprehensive list worthy of your time. When it comes to your pool skimmer, only the best will keep your water as clean as you desire.

Our Recommended Pool Skimmers

  1. Best robotic pool skimmers: Betta SE Solar Powered Pool Skimmer
  2. Best overall skimmer: Hayward Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer
  3. Best pool skimmer net: BeyondNice Ultra Hot Tub Cover

 

 10 Best Pool Skimmers Reviews: 


1. Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer

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To kick off the list, we have the best above ground pool skimmer available in the Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer. This skimmer model mimics the traditional in-ground pool skimmers you would find around the edges of an in-ground pool.

Accordingly, the Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim is installed into the wall of above ground pools, where the water is collected, the debris is filtered out, and then the water proceeds to the pump.

Pros

  • Large debris basket helps prevent clogs
  • Automatic, hands-off skimming

Cons

  • Requires cutting a spot out of your pool wall

Bottom Line

This automatic Hayward SP1091LX Dyna-Skim is a fantastic pool skimmer for above ground pools. While installation does take a few steps, it’s easy to do yourself, and the resulting clear water is worth the time you’ll put into it.

Being automatic and requiring no manual skimming, this option is ideal for those looking to kick back more often and spend less time cleaning the pool.


2. ProTuff Pool Net Leaf Skimmer Rake

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The next skimmer in review is the best skimmer basket for in-ground pools. While built-in automatic skimmers are capable of a lot, sometimes you need to bring in the big guns.

Built-in filters can often use a little help clearing the big debris like leaves, twigs, etc. In this case, the ProTuff Pool Net Leaf Skimmer Rake may be what you need.

This skimmer is a manual pool skimmer net with pocket netting, allowing you to collect more debris at one time before expelling it from the pool.

Pros

  • Connects to any traditional pool pole
  • Lifetime, unlimited guarantee
  • Manual skimming provides more targeted cleanup

Cons

  • Does not come with a telescoping pool pole

Bottom Line

For those looking to keep it traditional and manually skim their pool, this ProTuff Pool Net Leaf Skimmer Rake is an amazing option.

Not only will the bulletproof, aluminum alloy frame not bend, but the entirety of the product is also covered by a lifetime guarantee of replacement for free should it ever break.


3. Hayward SP1091WM Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer

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The Hayward brand is a prominently known brand in the pooling industry and they make some of the best swimming pool skimmers out there. This next skimmer, the Hayward SP1091WM Dyna-Skim Above-Ground Pool Skimmer, lives up to that reputation.

Operationally, this skimmer is identical to the Hayward SP1091LX skimmer reviewed at number one. It differs in the size of the skimmer opening or the mouth. This model, the SP1091WM, has a larger mouth than its counterpart.

Pros

  • Large debris basket helps prevent clogs
  • Automatic, hands-off skimming

Cons

  • Requires cutting a spot out of your pool wall

Bottom Line

The large mouth on this automatic skimmer makes it a viable option for those with larger above ground pools, requiring more skimming.

Like its Hayward counterpart, the SP1091WM requires you to cut out a spot in the pool wall to fit it. Installation can be done on your own without professional help as well.


4. Betta SE (2023) – Solar Powered Automatic Robotic Pool Skimmer

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This next skimmer model, the Betta SE Robotic Solar Pool Cleaner, is the best automatic pool skimmer around.

The Betta SE is an innovative solar-powered robotic pool skimmer that offers cordless, automatic surface cleaning. The solar charging and twin motors allow reliable cleaning of any pool type with no electricity required.

Equipped with solar panels on its top, this automatic skimmer runs on an endless power source. Additionally, the unit can carry two trichlor tabs to sanitize your pool simultaneously.

Pros

  • Runs on solar power
  • Cleans pool surface automatically and continually
  • Twin salt-tolerant motors work in fresh and saltwater
  • Large debris basket is easy to empty without removing from the water
  • Ultrasonic sensors detect and avoid obstacles
  • UV-resistant materials protect against sun damage
  • Cordless operation with wireless remote control

Cons

  • Solar charging depends on adequate sunlight.
  • Higher initial cost than corded electric skimmers

Bottom Line

The Solar-Breeze NX2 Robotic Solar Pool Cleaner is definitely the best robotic pool skimmer on the market. It runs without your intervention and works continuously to keep your pool clean.

Being solar powered, this skimmer can save money by slashing the energy consumption needed to keep your pool clean.

This unit is ideal for any pool owner, in-ground or above, who wishes for hands-free pool care while also saving energy and money.


5. PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner

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Coming in at the fifth spot is the PoolSkim Pool Skimmer and Pool Cleaner, the best pool leaf skimmer available. While this skimmer, in particular, is more fit for in-ground pools, it may work on above ground pools too (though you’ll likely need to find adapters, etc.).

They specifically do not fit Intex brand pools! This skimmer functions by attaching to the return jet of your pool to create a venturi suction flow, attracting all of the debris in your pool like a magnet.

Pros

  • Automatic skimming via suction
  • Reduces the stress on your filtration system, lengthening its lifespan
  • Easy to install and dispose of caught debris

Cons

  • Visually sticks out of a pool, very noticeable
  • NOT suitable for Intex brand pools

Bottom Line

This skimmer, utilizing venturi suction, creates a small whirlpool-like flow to the pool that attracts the debris and keeps your water clean without your intervention. This skimming option is ideal for those who have a leaf or large debris problem and wish for it to be tended to automatically.


6. Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer

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Another topwater pool skimmer is the Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer. This skimmer operates similarly to the previously mentioned PoolSkim unit at number five, but it’s specifically designed for above ground pools.

The Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Surface Skimmer is intended to remove large debris, such as leaves, before they sink to the bottom of your pool. Easy to install and manufactured by the trusted brand of Intex

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Easy to clean
  • Automatically functions by attaching to filter pump

Cons

  • Requires an Intex filter pump with a minimum flow rate of 800 GPH
  • Highly visible in the pool

Bottom Line

This skimmer is great for those with above ground pools and leaf or large debris issues. The skimmer is also ideal for those looking for a relatively hands-off skimming method for their pool.

Just as with most Intex products, this thing delivers and is one of the best pool skimmers you’ll find.


7. Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Swimming Pool Surface Skimmer

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Just as Intex produces some of the best pools on the market, they produce some of the best skimmers on the market for above ground pools.

Nearly identical to the skimmer mentioned previously at number six, this Intex wall mounting skimmer is great for ridding your pool of large debris before it has a chance to reach the bottom of the pool.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Easy to clean
  • Automatically functions by attaching to filter pump

Cons

  • Requires an Intex filter pump with a minimum flow rate of 800 gph
  • Highly visible in the pool

Bottom Line

An ideal skimmer model for above ground pools, the Intex Deluxe Wall Mount Swimming Pool Surface Model is sure to keep your water free of heavy, large debris such as leaves. Easy to install and even easier to clean out, this Intex skimmer is a quality option.


8. Swimline Professional Heavy Duty Deep-Bag Pool Rake

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Next up in the skimmer reviews is the Swimline Professional Heavy Duty Deep-Bag Pool Rake, possibly the best skimmer for in-ground pools.

Similar to the ProTuff skimmer discussed earlier in the reviews, this skimmer is of the manual type and attaches to a pool pole.

Skimmers such as this one by Swimline are great for removing the additional large debris that your built-in skimmer may have trouble clearing.

Pros

  • Connects to most traditional pool poles
  • Manual skimming provides more targeted cleanup

Cons

  • Does not come with a telescoping pool pole
  • Plastic construction with no warranty

Bottom Line

The Swimline Professional Heavy Duty Deep-Bag Pool Rake is perfect for professionals and even more convenient for your home pool. Sometimes, your built-in skimmer could use some backup in keeping that pool water crispy and clear for you.

This model of skimmer is ideal for those who enjoy having a part in cleaning their pool and are also looking for more targeted cleanup.


9. SkimmerMotion – The Automatic Pool Cleaner Skimmer & Clarifier

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The next skimmer in review is one of the absolute best floating pool skimmers. The SkimmerMotion (Automatic Pool Cleaner, Skimmer & Clarifier) skimmer is a powerful skimmer that operates by floating around your pool.

The unit creates a whirlpool-like effect on the water as it moves around the surface. Similar to other skimmers, this model connects to the suction port of your in-ground pool.

The head of the skimmer, the part that floats, collects debris and sends it down the line to a vacuum that sits on the pool floor, where the debris and water are sent out to the filter pump.

Pros

  • Skimming is automated
  • Doesn’t require power runs off of suction from a vacuum

Cons

  • Only removes debris smaller than 0.8″
  • The bottom vacuum cleaner is not included

Bottom Line

This SkimmerMotion skimmer is ideal for those looking for some added surface water debris cleanup.

The unit is only capable of collecting debris smaller than 0.8 inches, so a good wall skimmer, or manual skimming, will likely still be needed.

The ability for the skimmer to run off of the suction power of the vacuum and save energy is a bonus.


10. Pooldevil Pro Automatic Pool Surface Dirt and Leaf Skimmer Cleaner 

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The final skimmer in review is also the best fine mesh pool skimmer available. The Pooldevil Pro Suction Skimmer functions almost identically to the SkimmerMotion skimmer reviewed just before this at number nine.

The Pooldevil Pro is an effective surface skimmer that complements existing pool cleaners. It easily collects leaves, grass, bugs, and other debris before it sinks, reducing filter clogs.

Pros

  • Skimming is automated
  • Automatically collects debris from pool surfaces, reducing strain on filters.
  • Creates circular flow to guide debris toward the unit
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Floats and adjusts to water level

Cons

  • Requires electricity and pump connection
  • The filtration bag needs regular emptying
  • Limited reach across large pools

The Pooldevil Pro Suction Skimmer is our final suggestion for an ideal pool skimmer. This model is automatic and runs off of the suction power of your pool vacuum.

For hands-off debris collection, get yourself this Gator AutoSkim and watch it float into eternity (it won’t actually last forever) collecting debris for you.


 Types of Skimmers for Your Pool 

As you may have noticed from the list of reviewed skimmer models, there are multiple types of skimmers on the market. We’ve got you covered with a detailed breakdown of each one and their method of operation:

Skimmer Rakes

Skimmer rakes are skimmers such as the Swimline and ProTuff rakes that attach to a pool pole. These skimmers are open ended net bags that you drag through the water to collect debris and unwanted material.

Some skimmer rakes come with a flat mesh wall instead of a mesh bag, which only reduces the amount of debris you can collect at once. Regardless, these skimmers are the simplest form of pool skimmer and operate manually under your control.

Wall Skimmers

Wall skimmers are skimmers such as the Hayward models reviewed early on the list. The popularized method of skimming for in-ground pools, these skimmers are also available, as we’ve seen, for above ground pools. You can learn more about above ground pools from our reviews.

These skimmers operate by sucking in debris-contaminated water into their baskets, where the debris is filtered out, and the water is sent to the connected filter pump.

These debris collection baskets can be cleaned by opening the lid on the ground or on the top of the unit near the edge of the pool where the wall skimmer sits.

This is where the water filter is pumped. Where the wall skimmer sits. Definitely, when choosing a skimmer, you need to know about all its details. You need to check out more about the best pool skimmer baskets.

These skimmers should be a part of every pool as they help regulate the cleanliness of your water.

Floating Skimmers

Are skimmer models such as the vacuum-connected models that round out the bottom of the review list? Floating skimmers operate with no need for human intervention.

Floating models such as the Solar-Breeze skimmer operate by floating across your pool surface and separating debris from water.

Models like the SkimmerMotion operate by utilizing the suction ability of pool vacuums, floating along the pool, taking in debris and sending it through the vacuum, and then to the filter pump.

 Tips on Choosing the Pool Skimmer 

Compare and Contrast

I know it sounds like homework, but it really is the best way to gain an understanding of the differences between individual skimmer products.

Many skimmers will offer the same things, and the small details that do not pertain to its function may be the deciding factor for you. That’s why it’s best to create comparison charts and note all of the differences you can find between skimmer models.

Ask around

Whether it’s your neighbor, best friend, an acquaintance, or a professional, ask for help if you need it. If there are terms you aren’t familiar with, look them up. The internet is a valid place for questions, too, and actually might provide the quickest response.

Pool owners should be your chief source of opinion alongside that of a professional. Professional advice is almost always right on the money.

However, you do have to be concerned about being sold on something, which is why we prefer to seek out the advice of owners first.

Get familiar

Much as you should get familiar with the associated vocabulary, it would serve you well to associate with the various skimmers in person.

Having hands-on experience with something like a pool skimmer may help you better understand their operation or their suitability for your pool.

The secret is once you get into the top skimmers on the market, the differences are not so subtle or important but rather preferential.

 Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Pool Skimmer 

Type of skimmer needed

The first factor to consider before buying a pool skimmer is the actual type of skimmer that you are in need of. For in-ground pools, you’re likely all set on wall filters as they are typically not built without them.

However, above ground pools don’t come equipped with wall skimmers. If you need additional skimming to help you, you could opt for a floating skimmer that attaches to a pool vac.

Then, there is the skimmer rake for quick-hit cleanups of debris that cannot be cleaned by the other skimmers/filters. Knowing which type of skimming your pool is in need of is the first step to getting the right skimmer for your pool.

Hands-on/Hands-off

Do you prefer a hands on or hands off skimming experience? If you’re like most people, you’d prefer a hands-off experience with one of the automated skimming options, like wall and floating skimmers.

If you’re not like most people, in addition to our respect, you can opt for the traditional skimmer rake. Your preference of being involved in or not being involved in your debris cleanup plays a role in your skimmer purchase.

Ability

While most of the skimmers on the list, if not every single one of them, are suitable for the DIY warrior, some require you to be more hands-on than others. For example, the wall skimmers for above ground pools require some altering of your pool’s sidewalls to fit the skimmer onto it.

Additionally, they are comprised of multiple parts that need assembly. While there is no doubt that anyone can take care of the assembly of these skimmers, it’s the commitment of the buyer that needs consideration.

If you don’t wish to spend time on the assembly of a skimmer and would prefer something that can begin working with little assembly or intervention, you should note that when exploring options. Knowing what you want and are willing to do is paramount to a successful skimmer purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with the help of these reviews, finding a skimmer for your pool should be almost effortless.

Finding the best pool skimmer for your needs and preferences is key to keeping you satisfied with not only your pool water but also your pool ownership.

Skimmers and the various cleaning models included in the term help to keep your pool water clear and enjoyable.

By adding one or two, heck, maybe even three, types of skimmers to your pool, you are reducing the amount of debris that can reach your pool’s floor and reducing the heavy workload that many pool filter pumps are tasked with.

Our comprehensive review list covers the various types of skimmers and how each one interacts with and maintains your pool. Feel free to experiment with combinations of these skimmers to achieve ultimate water clarity and cleanliness.

With the season now among us, the time is now to get that new skimmer in preparation for the perfect swimming season.