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WATER GREAT TIP

We’re cleaning pros – how to get rid of algae in your paddling pool and keep it clean WITHOUT refilling it

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WITH the summer temperatures only increasing, it’s unsurprising that so many people have gotten their paddling pools out.

Whether for yourself or for your kids, the scorching heat has everyone wanting to take a dip, and with most people not having a swimming pool in their garden, the paddling pool is likely your best option.

Follow these tips and you'll be having summer fun in no time
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Follow these tips and you'll be having summer fun in no timeCredit: Getty

However, while these may be a handy addition to your garden, you may find yourself unsure of the best way to clean these pools.

Luckily, a number of experts have spoken to . giving their tops tips on how to clean your paddling pool.

Keep it clean with a cover

Your best bet for keeping your pool clean is to cover it when it’s not in use. This will prevent insects and other wildlife from getting into the water.

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This can also make the water slightly warmer, which can be great for anyone not wanting to dive into the freezing cold.

While there are plenty of pool covers available to buy online, one savvy parenting pro says she uses a fitted sheet to keep bugs out of her pool.

Scoop up any pool scum

While you may keep the pool covered when not in use, while in use it's inevitable that some debris will find its way into the water.

Using a net is a great way to scoop out anything that gets into your pool. 

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Avoid debris getting into the pool

While you won’t be able to completely avoid this, scheduling garden chores to occur when the pool is covered and not in use can avoid any extra debris falling in.

Don’t mow your lawn just before using the pool, as you may send grass clippings flying, with many ending up in the water.

Try to place your pool away from any overhanging plants or branches, although consider cutting or trimming these if that’s not possible.

Use baking soda to get rid of algae

Cleaning and parenting pro Samantha Davis, from the blog, recommends using baking soda to remove any algae that may form in your pool.

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She says: “Make a paste by adding just a little water until you have a thick measure. Use this to scrub hard to clean parts of the swimming pool. Then, rinse and dry as you would normally.”

You can also use borax in the same way if you don’t have any baking soda in.

Sanitise pool with vinegar

Samantha adds that you can also use vinegar to sanitise the pool, as conventional pool cleaners are not recommended for paddling pools that will be used by children, as they can irritate the skin and cause stinging in eyes.

Instead, consider using vinegar, which Samantha says: “can reduce how often you change the water in your pool.”

Deter bacteria with salt

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'If you need a less costly way of keeping the pool clean – consider using salt,” says Den Hicks, interior designer, and blogger at .

Salt will inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that can breed in water.

He suggests adding granulated salt to the pool water due to its low solubility.

Consider investing in a power washer

Using a pressure washer will ensure that your paddling pool gets a deep clean, as the power of the spray will degrade dirt and debris in no time.

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“Paddling pools are likely to build up with dirt consisting of elements such as mould, fungi, and sunscreen oils which can be arduous to clean,” says Harry Turner, product manager, .

“Using a pressure washer on a low setting can help get the job done quickly and efficiently whilst ensuring dirt is removed.”

Cleaning hacks and tips

Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:

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