A backyard pool is one of the best features a family home can have — it’s a space where kids learn to swim, parents unwind, and everyone comes together to enjoy warm weather, school holidays and weekends. But having a pool is just the beginning. The right accessories can take your pool from a simple swimming spot to a lively, inviting hub that your whole family will want to use again and again.
Whether you’re trying to keep the little ones entertained, encourage safe water play, or create a more relaxing space for the adults, pool accessories can make a noticeable difference. Some are designed for fun, others for safety or convenience, but together they help you make the most of every minute spent outside.
Here are the essential pool accessories that can make family time more enjoyable, safe, and easy to manage.
1. Pool Toys and Games for All Ages
Let’s start with the obvious: toys and games. A few simple, age-appropriate items can transform your pool into an aquatic playground. The trick is to choose toys that appeal to a wide range of ages and swimming abilities so no one feels left out.
Popular family-friendly options include:
- Inflatable rings and loungers for relaxing or floating about
- Dive toys that sink slowly for swim practice and underwater games
- Beach balls and water basketball sets for team play
- Pool noodles — cheap, versatile and endlessly entertaining
- Floating games like ring toss or ping pong
For younger kids, foam toys and floating animals offer safe, low-risk fun. For older children and teens, more challenging games keep them active and engaged. Be sure to keep everything stored in a safe, dry place when not in use to avoid clutter and prevent mould.
2. Shade Solutions for Sun-Safe Fun
Australia’s sun can be harsh, especially in summer. While sunscreen and hats are important, adding built-in shade over your pool area is one of the best ways to protect your family during long afternoons outside.
Some top shade solutions include:
- Cantilever umbrellas or tilting umbrellas for flexible coverage
- Pergolas or shade sails over seating and shallow areas
- Retractable awnings that can be adjusted based on sun angle
A shaded area lets you extend pool time without worrying about sunburn, overheating, or glare. It also gives kids a break from direct sun while still staying close to the action.
3. Safety Gear That Provides Peace of Mind
Pool safety is vital for any family, especially with young children or less confident swimmers. The right accessories can help you maintain a secure environment while still allowing everyone to enjoy the water.
Some of the most useful safety accessories include:
- Pool alarms that sound when someone enters the water unexpectedly
- Life vests or swim floaties for young or learning swimmers
- Non-slip mats on surrounding tiles or decked areas
- A safety pool cover to secure the pool when not in use
- Rescue equipment such as a reaching pole and flotation ring
These accessories should never replace supervision or fencing, but they do add an extra layer of protection, especially during high-use times like birthday parties or family barbecues.
4. Comfort Enhancements for Parents and Guests
While kids might be happy splashing around for hours, adults often prefer a more relaxing poolside experience. Including accessories that prioritise comfort makes your pool space feel more like a resort — and encourages everyone to spend time together outdoors.
Some comfort-boosting ideas include:
- Reclining deck chairs or sun loungers with cushions
- Side tables for drinks, books, or snacks
- Outdoor rugs or artificial turf to soften walking areas
- Bluetooth speakers for background music or family singalongs
- Towel racks or hanging hooks for drying out between swims
Creating an atmosphere that’s both fun and relaxing ensures that family pool time isn’t just for kids — it becomes a shared space where everyone can unwind.
5. Pool Lighting for Evening Use
Adding lighting to your new fibreglass pool installation brisbane and surrounding area extends the time you can spend enjoying the space. It also creates a completely different atmosphere — think warm summer evenings with family and friends, the kids having a quiet swim before bed, or a late-night dip under the stars.
Types of lighting to consider:
- LED underwater pool lights that change colours or patterns
- Pathway lights around the edge of the pool or garden
- String lights or lanterns for a cosy, decorative touch
- Solar garden lights for an energy-efficient option
Lighting also improves safety after sunset by highlighting edges, steps, and walkways.
6. A Pool Cleaner That Saves You Time
Nothing puts a dampener on pool time like having to scoop out leaves, vacuum debris or scrub tiles before every swim. A pool cleaner might not sound exciting, but it’s one of the best accessories for making family pool time more enjoyable — simply because it saves you from the chores.
Depending on your setup and budget, you can choose from:
- Robotic pool cleaners — fully automated and highly effective
- Suction cleaners — connect to your pool’s filter system
- Pressure cleaners — good for larger pools or heavy use
The less time you spend cleaning, the more time you can spend relaxing or playing with your kids.
7. Floating Storage or Caddies
Families with children know how quickly pool toys can take over the space. Floating storage containers or side caddies help keep your pool area tidy and organised. Some even float in the water, making it easy for kids to grab and return toys during play.
Look for mesh bins that drain easily and won’t trap water. This prevents mildew and makes clean-up fast — a small touch that makes a big difference at the end of a busy day.
8. Heater or Solar Blanket for Year-Round Use
If you want to make the most of your pool in cooler months, a pool heater or solar blanket is worth considering. Families often find that their pool gets less use during the shoulder seasons simply because the water is too cold. A heater lets you extend your swim season and enjoy the space year-round.
Solar blankets are a more budget-friendly option that help trap warmth and reduce evaporation, while heat pumps provide steady, efficient temperature control — especially when paired with a cover.
Final Thought
A pool is more than just a home feature — it’s a gathering place, a teaching ground, a playground, and a haven for relaxation. The right accessories enhance that experience by making the space safer, more engaging, and easier to manage.
By choosing quality items suited to your family’s age range, lifestyle and interests, you’ll get more from your pool investment and spend less time worrying about clean-up, safety, or keeping everyone entertained.
Whether it’s inflatable toys for the kids, lighting for evening swims, or a shady nook where parents can unwind, these small additions go a long way toward turning your pool into the best part of your home.
