The Best Handheld Pool Vacuums for 2020

Not all pool owners have the luxury of buying expensive equipment for the cleaning and maintenance of their swimming pool. Automatic or robotic pool cleaners may provide the best result in removing dirt in the pool but this cleaning equipment also comes at a hefty price.

For this reason, there are pool owners who rely on the best handheld pool vacuum to do the job in cleaning and removing unwanted debris in their swimming pool. Aside from being affordable, this type of cleaning tool can produce the same result for your pool cleaning maintenance if used properly.

Furthermore, for small swimming pools, hot tubs, spa, and other smaller places, the need for this expensive pool cleaning equipment is not necessary. A small pool vacuum is just enough to do the cleaning and the removal of dirt in the swimming pool.

If you are planning to buy a handheld vacuum for your swimming pool, then this article is perfect for you to read. We will be reviewing ten of the top handheld pool vacuum available including its strengths, weaknesses, and other details. This will help you in selecting the right handheld pool vacuum for your swimming pool.

Best Handheld Pool Vacuum Reviews of 2020

1. Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li Pool and Spa Cleaner

I would say that this first product that we are going to review is one of the most popular hoseless pool vacuums that are available in the market today. It is also safe to say that this product is worth the investment should you decide to give it a try.

This particular handheld pool vacuum works best when used for pool and spa cleaning. I like that it comes with a rechargeable battery where you can use it continuously for up to 60 minutes.

In terms of usage, this handheld pool vacuum can be used without any complicated operating procedure. It comes with a push-button switch where the user can easily turn it on or off during the pool cleaning activity.

I also noticed that this handheld pool vacuum comes with one reusable filter to be used during the cleaning of the swimming pool. The manufacturer has labeled it as an X-treme Multilayer Filter that is useful in capturing a huge volume of trash and smaller debris in your swimming pool.

2. Intex Handheld Rechargeable Vacuum

Intex is one of the top brands when it comes to producing high-quality pool products. So, expect this next product to be one of the best cordless pool vacuum to clean a swimming pool.

This handheld pool vacuum takes pride in its powerful built-in batteries which provides strong suction effect during the clean-up. The effectiveness of any handheld vacuum cleaner depends mainly on the quality of their batteries and this product made sure that it is well-equipped with strong and powerful batteries.

It is also not hard to notice the different accessories you will get when you buy this product. This handheld pool vacuum comes with a 94” telescopic aluminum pole and a pair of brush heads which can be exchangeable when being used.

This product also comes with an adapter that can fit to a much longer and wider telescopic pole if available. Lastly, a USB cable is also included for recharging purposes.

There are also other features that are hard to ignore with this product including its automatic shutoff feature when not underwater. A waterproof switch can also be used to protect the equipment from water penetration during the cleanup.

3. PoolSupplyTown Pool Spa Jacuzzi Pond Mini Jet Vac Vacuum Cleaner

Unlike other handheld pool vacuum we previously reviewed that uses batteries, this product is one of the best manual pool vacuum out there. This particular handheld pool vacuum uses the water supply and the Venturi principle to produce a suction effect to capture dirt in the pool.

I also like the compatibility of this product especially in connecting with a normal garden hose. Furthermore, this pool vacuum can also be used to connect with a normal telescopic pole to provide easy movement during the pool cleaning.

When it comes to its effectiveness, this product works best with spas, ponds, fountains, and small above ground pools. So, if you have one of this type of pool in your home, this product is a good option for you.

Another highlight that I need to emphasize is the product’s easy usage feature. All you have to do is connect the vacuum to the water source and you will have a manual vacuum that cleans all unwanted debris in your pool.

4. Pool Blaster Leaf Vac Pool Vacuum

This is another handheld pool vacuum coming from Water Tech, the maker of the Pool Blaster brand and is popular in producing high-quality pool cleaning equipment and accessories. This particular product is no exemption as it provides several features and benefits to the users.

The Pool Blaster leaf pool vacuum is one of the best battery powered pool vacuum that you can use in the swimming pool. While checking at the product, I immediately notice the high-quality motor which will provide the suction effect of this pool vacuum.

The product also comes with a huge filter bag that will house all the captured leaves, debris, and other dirt during the cleaning. The bag’s quality is excellent as I see it and I think it will last for a long time.

In terms of its usage, this leaf vacuum has an on and off switch that provides comfort to the user while cleaning. This product can also do the pool cleaning non-stop for a maximum of 3 hours.

5. Water Tech Pool Blaster Catfish Li Pool and Spa Cleaner

In any battery powered pool vacuum reviews, this specific product is always on the list because of its efficiency and special features. Again, this product is manufactured by Water Tech, an industry leader in making pool cleaning equipment and accessories.

This particular product takes pride in being independent of using the filter system or the water source to make it work. All you have to do is turn it on and it starts to clean the swimming pool immediately.

What I like best about this handheld pool vacuum is its overall weight. Its lightweight feature will help the pool cleaner to move around the swimming pool with ease.

Another feature that I will highlight is its ability to be connected with a telescopic pole which will provide easy maneuvering and movement during the cleanup. Furthermore, the cleaning can be done without the hustle of connecting unnecessary hoses or even pumps as this product works independently.

This handheld pool vacuum also comes with a rechargeable battery and a reusable filter bag. This filter bag is durable and strong enough to accommodate loads of unwanted trash in the swimming pool.

6. Poolmaster Big Sucker Swimming Pool Leaf Vacuum

This product is one of those handheld pool vacuum cleaners that were designed to capture large amounts of leaves and other unwanted trash in your swimming pool. This product is intended for pool owners who have a bigger swimming pool in their home.

Upon looking at the product, you will immediately notice the large opening of the vacuum which is approximately 15 inches in diameter. This was done to accommodate loads of trash and garbage in your pool.

I also like the 4 wheels attach at the bottom of the vacuum which allows the pool cleaner to maneuver the vacuum with ease around the pool. There are also 8 different water nozzles at the bottom with will create a strong suction effect to capture the dirt during the cleanup.

As an added bonus, it also comes with a reusable bag that is responsible for accommodating all the trash as it is being captured by the vacuum.

I also like that it can be attached by a telescopic pool in order to move around the pool easily. The pole, however, is sold separately but will greatly help in your pool cleaning activity if used.

7. Water Tech Pool Blaster Aqua Broom Pool and Spa Cleaner

This product is one of those cordless pool vacuum cleaners that takes pride in its affordability and effectivity. Powered by batteries, these handheld pool vacuum can work independently without being attached to a garden hose or a cord.

This product also comes with an easy to operate feature particularly the twisting on and off switch. When it comes to its operation, this pool vacuum can work non-stop for up to 3 hours.

With regards to its design, this is a wand-type pool cleaner that can clean any type of pool or spa. Although this vacuum is cordless, it will still let you connect to a telescopic pole for easy maneuvering and moving around the pool during the cleanup.

Upon purchasing this product, you will also get a durable and reusable filter bag to be used during the pool cleaning activity. As an added bonus, you will also get 2 pieces of disposable microfilter bags that can be used in your future cleaning activity.

8. Aura Paradise Power Spa Vacuum

The next product that we are going to review is another self-sufficient and independent handheld pool vacuum. This is a nice pool cleaning tool that does not rely on batteries, electricity, or even water source to start working.

If you take a look at this pool vacuum, you will immediately notice its simplicity. The vacuum is being attached by a telescopic pole that can be expanded up to 7 feet. This pole will be your handle in maneuvering and moving around the swimming pool during the cleanup.

In terms of concept, I am amazed at how this pool vacuum works effectively in cleaning the swimming pool. The user will only submerge the vacuum underwater, and the suction effect will then capture all the debris found in the pool.

The cleaner will then pull the vacuum out after approximately 15 seconds to remove the debris in the vacuum. Then repeat the entire process again until you clean all the parts in the pool. This vacuum can pick up smaller debris, sand, small rocks, marble, and other similar things.

9. Poolmaster AIR Vinyl Liner Swimming Pool Vacuum

If you are looking for a specialized handheld vacuum for your vinyl liner pools, then this product is what you need. This handheld pool vacuum will be connected to a water source to create the suction effect from two adjustable air-relief valves inside to capture all unwanted debris in your swimming pool.

What I like about this pool vacuum is the brushes located around its perimeter. These brushes will help to unfasten or loosen all the dirt and debris that has attached in the vinyl pool. I felt that this brushed is the difference-maker in terms of providing the best result of your pool cleaning activity.

Another feature that caught my attention is the quality of the handle attached in the vacuum. This handle is assembled with a tension spring to help the vacuum submerged in the pool flooring properly.

Furthermore, the adaptor of the hose comes with a swivel-function feature which helps in having a no-kink pool cleaning activity. This will also provide additional comfort to the pool cleaner during the cleanup.

10. GAME Manual Handheld Swimming Pool and Spa Vacuum Cleaner

Last but definitely not the least, this next product is good in cleaning small debris and minor spot cleaning in your swimming pool. This is another handheld pool vacuum that takes pride in being independent by not using batteries or pump to start operating.

What I like most about this product is it is cordless and battery-less, so it is easy to hold and carry while doing the cleaning activity. This handheld pool vacuum also produces a suction effect using a pump-action to capture small debris in your pool.

Upon purchase of the product, you will also get a wide end nozzle which serves as the entrance of the debris when captured by the vacuum. In addition, there is also a brush to add the effectiveness of the vacuum in the cleaning session.

What to Look for When Buying a Handheld Pool Vacuum

To own a swimming pool is not just about the fun and the laughter you shared in the place. In fact, pool owners are constantly facing the tough challenge of cleaning and maintaining the swimming pool.

For this reason, there are some who are keeping all necessary cleaning equipment to keep their pool clean and sparkling including a handheld pool vacuum. But what factors do pool owners need to consider when buying a handheld pool vacuum? The list below will help you.

Quality – For me, this is the most important thing to look before choosing a handheld vacuum. It is a must to choose a brand or a product that is manufactured with the highest quality of materials. This factor will largely determine the performance of the vacuum in its role of cleaning and maintaining the swimming pool.

Brand – Another factor to look for before buying a handheld vacuum is the brand. With the increasing demand for pool cleaning equipment through the years, more and more companies are manufacturing pool cleaning equipment which makes it more difficult to choose the best product for the swimming pool.

As the pool owner, it is your obligation to do your due diligence and personal research in finding the best brands there is in the market. Take time to read customer reviews, feedback, and other vital information to you in choosing the best brand of your swimming pool.

Needs – Selecting your next handheld pool vacuum will also be depending on the type of needs of your swimming pool. If you need something to be used as the primary equipment of your pool cleaning activity, then choose a brand that comes with a bigger vacuum and has the ability to clean large volumes of dirt and debris.

There are other handheld pool vacuums that can be used as a supporting or supplementary tool equipment for your pool cleaning and maintenance. These type of pool vacuums are smaller and works best with on-the-spot cleaning and minor cleaning activities.

Type of your pool – What type of pool you owned will directly influence on what type of pool vacuum you will purchase. The reason behind is that there are handheld pool vacuums that work best on a bigger or wider swimming pool.

There are also other products that is manufactured to meet the demands of small swimming pool, spa, hot tubs, fountain, and other similar places. The type of swimming pool you own will play a major role in choosing the next handheld vacuum you will purchase.

Type of power source – Another factor to look for when buying a handheld pool vacuum is the type of power source that it needs during its operation. If you are a pool owner who like battery-operated vacuums due to its power, then look for the best rechargeable pool vacuum that is available in the market today.

Meanwhile, if you do not like a battery-type vacuum because of leakage tendency, then choose those pump or water source powered vacuum for your swimming pool. If you do not like battery-powered nor pump-powered vacuum, then you can select those independent type handheld pool vacuum for your swimming pool.

There are so many different types of handheld pool vacuum out there and you must choose the handheld pool vacuum that meets the demand of your own swimming pool.

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is a handheld vacuum?

A handheld pool vacuum is another type of pool cleaning equipment needed for your pool cleaning and maintenance. As the name implies, this one needed the cleaner’s guidance using the hands in maneuvering and moving around the pool during the cleaning activity. This type of pool vacuum is completely different from a robotic or automatic pool vacuum that does not need human interference for the majority of the pool cleaning session.

Handheld pool vacuums come in different sizes and different types depending on the cleaning needs of a particular swimming pool. There are handheld pool vacuums that are manufactured to be used for bigger and wider swimming pools. These are other pool vacuums that are specially designed to be used in small swimming pools, hot tubs, spa, fountains, and other similar places.

All handheld pool vacuums can also be differentiated with the type of power it needs to make it work. There are handheld pool vacuums that need a battery in its operation while there are others that need a pump or a water source to make it work.

Meanwhile, there are small handheld pool vacuums that are considered independent or stand-alone in terms of its operation. This pool vacuum does not need battery and other power sources to make it work while relying on simple science and a proven concept in creating a suction effect in cleaning debris in the swimming pool.

In terms of its price, a handheld pool vacuum is more affordable compared to robotic or automatic pool vacuums. This type of vacuums is usually preferred by pool owners who are following a certain budget in its pool cleaning and maintenance.

How does it work?

Different types of handheld pool vacuum offer different processes in its operation in cleaning the dirt and debris in the swimming pool. For battery-powered pool vacuum, there are some which start the cleaning and the suction when submerged underwater and then halts when it is not in the pool water.

There are also others which have an on-and-off switch which can be used by the pool cleaner in starting the operation of the vacuum.

Meanwhile, there are handheld pool vacuums which use a water source such as a pump and implement the Venturi principle in creating the suction effect in capturing the dirt in the swimming pool. We have reviewed at least two of this type of vacuum in the article and this type of vacuum cleaner works best when removing a large volume of trash in the swimming pool.

For the independent and self-sufficient pool vacuum, the operation is relatively easy. Since it does not have a battery or a garden hose, all you have to do is submerged the vacuum underwater to start the cleaning of the swimming pool.

In maneuvering and moving the swimming pool during the cleanup, most of the handheld pool vacuums can be attached with a telescopic pole. This pole will provide comfort to the pool cleaner in guiding and moving the vacuum to the different parts of the swimming pool.

What are the different types of handheld pool vacuums?

Choosing the right handheld pool vacuums largely depends on the needs of the swimming pool and the amount of trash that needs to be clean on a regular basis. For the information of the pool owners, the lists are the different types of pool vacuums you can consider for your swimming pool.

• Battery-Powered Handheld Pool Vacuum – this type of handheld pool vacuum uses the battery as its power source to start its operation. Battery-powered pool vacuum provides great results to any pool cleaning activity due to its strong suction effect. This type of vacuum can usually do the cleaning activity for 2 to 3 hours depending on the brand and the quality of the battery.

Meanwhile, there are a few minor issues that you need to know with this type of handheld pool vacuum. One of these issues is the complaint on leakage where the pool water comes inside the vacuum and damaged the whole product.

• Rechargeable Battery Powered Handheld Pool Vacuum – This is basically similar to battery- powered handheld pool vacuum, the only difference is its battery is rechargeable. This type of vacuum usually comes with a charger which can be used to recharge the battery once it is out of power.

In terms of effectivity, the results are almost identical compared to their battery-powered counterparts. This type of vacuum can also do its work continuously for up to 2 to 3 hours.

• Pump or Water Powered Handheld Pool Vacuum – This type of handheld pool vacuum uses a pump or a water source in order to start its operation. A garden hose is usually connected to the vacuum and the pressure from the water creates a suction effect that absorbs all dirt and debris in the swimming pool.

This type of pool vacuum is poplar among pool owners who wants to simplify its pool cleaning activity. Also, this type of handheld pool vacuum is best used in cleaning a much larger and wider swimming pool.

• Independent or Self-Sufficient Handheld Pool Vacuum – These handheld pool vacuums are generally small in size, cordless, and does not have the other attachments found in other vacuums. These type of handheld pool vacuums is usually used to support or supplement the much larger pool vacuum.

In terms of its effectivity, this type of vacuum can clean small dirt particles, sand, marbles, and other small things found in the swimming pool. Furthermore, an independent pool vacuum is best used for minor cleaning activities and on-the-spot-cleaning.

Why do you need a handheld pool vacuum?

The presence of a handheld pool vacuum is important as a part of the overall cleaning and maintenance plan of a swimming pool. The benefits that you can get from using a handheld pool vacuum is listed below:

Cleaning and Maintenance – A handheld pool vacuum plays an important part of your pool cleaning and maintenance. Different types of handheld pool vacuum offer varying functions depending on the type of vacuum you have.

Some are used to function as primary cleaning equipment for your pool cleaning activity while others can be used as the supporting tool in making your pool clean and sparkling.

On-the-spot cleaning – There are cases where you need to clean or pick up small debris submerged in the swimming pool immediately. A handheld pool vacuum works best in this type of minor cleaning activity where the cleaning is unplanned and needs to be done right away.

Affordability – This is the most obvious benefit of using a handheld pool vacuum in the pool cleaning and maintenance. While the popularity of robotic and automatic pool vacuum cleaners has increased over the years, these types of vacuums are much more expensive compared to its manual counterpart particularly the handheld pool vacuum.

In terms of being economical, a handheld pool vacuum is the best option for pool owners who are looking for affordable cleaning equipment for their pool cleaning and maintenance. All you need is to work harder and exert a lot of effort to achieved the same result produced by the more expensive pool vacuum cleaners.

Supporting tool – Another benefit of using a handheld pool vacuum is it can be added to your pool cleaning activity to increase productivity or augment the results. After a large-scale cleaning activity, a handheld pool vacuum will be an important tool for spot cleaning or maintaining the cleanliness of the swimming pool until the next major cleanup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most trusted handheld pool vacuum brands?

The popularity of pool cleaning equipment in the previous years has increased the demand for the product in the market. Because of this, more and more companies are offering different types of pool vacuums including handheld pool vacuums to the consumers.

While choosing the right vacuum cleaners for your swimming pool can be influenced by different factors, there are brands that have proven to manufacture high-quality handheld pool-vacuum to its customers. These brands include Water Tech, Intex, Pool Supply, Pool Blaster, and Pool Master.

We have reviewed some of the handheld pool vacuum cleaners that these brands are offering. We personally hand-picked these products due to its high-quality and effectiveness in cleaning the swimming pool.

How to install and used?

The process of installation and usage of a handheld pool vacuum usually differs depending on the brand and the type of vacuum you have. The most important thing to do is to follow the guidelines that are usually provided together with the product.

In terms of usage, the overall operation of a particular pool vacuum brand largely depends on the type of product that is in your position. A battery-powered handheld vacuum operates differently compared to a pump-powered vacuum. The same goes for the independent or self-sufficient pool vacuum which also has a different way of operation.

How to care and maintain?

Caring and maintaining a particular handheld vacuum also depends on the type of product that is in your position. However, caring and maintaining your pool vacuum brand should be the same before and after use.

Clean the whole pool vacuum and start it by disassembling all the parts. It is a must for you to remove all the dirt and other debris that cling on any parts of the vacuum after the cleaning activity.

After removing, wash the whole vacuum with water and clean it thoroughly. Let it dry and store in a place where it is safe and secured. Repeat the process after every pool cleaning session to make your vacuum last for a long time.

What is the warranty?

The warranty of a particular handheld pool vacuum depends on the manufacturer of the product. Every company offers different terms and coverage to its warranty service.

The most important thing to do before buying is to know the terms of the warranty of the product. By knowing the warranty, it will protect in case you will encounter problems related to the products such as factory defects, malfunction, and other related problems.

Where to buy?

There are a lot of places where you can buy the handheld pool vacuum of your choice. This type of product is available in any specialized retail store near your area.

The handheld pool vacuum can also be purchased online. There are a lot of online stores such as Amazon, eBay, Alibaba, Rakuten, among others where you can buy your preferred handheld pool vacuum.

There are also other companies and manufacturers who have set up their own online stores for the benefit of their customers. Always make sure to deal with authorized retailers in buying a particular product. This will protect you from buying fake and counterfeit products which is now rampant in the online world.

What is the return-and-exchange policy?

Same with the terms of the warranty, the return and exchange policy of each product depends on the company or manufacturer of the handheld pool vacuum. Again, it is important for you to know this particular policy just in case you will get a defective or damaged product upon purchase.

This will also protect if you encounter any problem related to the product and its brand. It can also be used if and when you change your mind and choose another brand instead of the original choice that you have purchased.

How often does a pool owner vacuum his swimming pool?

As a standard role, vacuuming your pool weekly is good as it maintains the cleanliness and the clarity of the pool water for a long time. However, if you notice visible debris in the swimming pool, it is advisable to remove it immediately.

There is where the importance of a handheld pool vacuum comes in. This cleaning tool is your best weapon for spot-on cleaning and other minor cleaning activities that can be done in the swimming pool.

How does vacuuming help in algae prevention?

I don’t think vacuuming alone can solve the perennial problem of having algae in your swimming pool. However, doing the vacuum regularly can help the pool sanitizers in terms of killing and removing algae away from your swimming pool.

Regular vacuuming can also help in the prevention of this small plant-based organism from growing and multiplying in the swimming pool. Please remember that removing debris and other unwanted dirt, you are also discouraging all these organisms from growing in your swimming pool.

Furthermore, regular vacuuming will also help in keeping the water clear and assists in maintaining the overall cleanliness in the swimming pool. Regular vacuuming is important as it brings a lot of benefits in keeping the swimming pool clean and healthy.

Conclusion

We have reviewed 10 of the best handheld pool vacuums that are available in the market today. These products were personally handpicked because we believed that these products have the best in terms of quality and effectiveness. Furthermore, the selection was based on customer reviews, feedbacks, and personal experience in using the list of handheld pool vacuum we feature.

Choosing or selecting the right handheld pool vacuum is a difficult thing to do with the presence of several brands in the market today. We certainly hope that our review and the other information provided has help you in making the right decision in choosing the best for your swimming pool.

John Wilbert

Hi, I am John Wilbert. I used to work as a pool cleaning officer at Havard, and I understand all the problems that swimming pools encounter every day. So I want to share my experience to help you use the pool safely and cleanly.