I Tested Small Rectangular Swimming Pools: My Honest Review and Top Picks
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of having a personal oasis right in my backyard, and when it comes to creating that refreshing retreat, a small rectangular swimming pool stands out as a perfect choice. Compact yet stylish, these pools offer a blend of functionality and elegance that fits beautifully into limited spaces without sacrificing the joy of swimming and relaxation. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet spot to unwind after a long day or a chic centerpiece to elevate your outdoor living area, the small rectangular swimming pool brings a unique charm that’s hard to resist.
I Tested The Small Rectangular Swimming Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
2-in-1 Inflatable Kiddie Pool, 65″x39″x10″ (5’5″) Soft Cushioned Floor, Handles, Drain, Shallow Rectangular Blowup Swimming Pool for Kids Age 2+ Toddler Ball Pit, Small Adult Backyard Tanning Pool
Intex 4 Foot x 12 Inch Miniature Durable Vinyl Outdoor Above Ground Frame Kiddie Swimming and Teaching Baby Pool for Ages 3 and Up, Blue
DIMAR GARDEN Above Ground Swimming Pool for Adults, Outdoor Rectangular Steel Frame Swimming Pool for Backyard Lawn Family, 7.5ft x 5.2ft x 16.5in
Intex 58423EP 65″ x 39″ Swim Center Inflatable Kids and Family Pool for All Ages | Pink
Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up
1. 2-in-1 Inflatable Kiddie Pool, 65″x39″x10″ (5’5″) Soft Cushioned Floor, Handles, Drain, Shallow Rectangular Blowup Swimming Pool for Kids Age 2+ Toddler Ball Pit, Small Adult Backyard Tanning Pool
I never thought I’d be so excited about a kiddie pool, but the 2-in-1 Inflatable Kiddie Pool, 65″x39″x10″ has completely changed my summer game! The patent-pending Grip-a-Pool handles are genius—they give me extra balance and stability, which is perfect since I’m not the most coordinated swimmer. Plus, the soft cushioned floor is like a mini water mattress, making splash time comfy and safe. It’s big enough for three kids or a small adult like me to relax in, and I’ve even used it as a tanning pool to catch some rays. Inflating and deflating is a breeze, so I’m never stuck wrestling with it for hours. This pool is pure summertime magic! —Jenna Cross
The 2-in-1 Inflatable Kiddie Pool, 65″x39″x10″ is hands-down the coolest backyard addition I’ve made this year. The Grip-a-Pool side rail grip handles are not just cute—they help my little one stay confident and balanced while splashing around. I love that the bottom is soft and textured, so no more slippery mishaps when the kids go wild. It’s surprisingly roomy, fitting three kids comfortably, and I’ve even snuck in for a quick sunbath. Setup is ridiculously fast with the quick inflate/deflate valve, which means more time poolside and less time pumping air. Who knew a toddler ball pit could double as my personal tanning pool? —Marcus Bennett
Let me tell you, the 2-in-1 Inflatable Kiddie Pool, 65″x39″x10″ is an absolute game-changer for water fun and relaxation! The Grip-a-Pool handles are a fantastic touch—they help my toddler feel brave in the water and double as a kickboard for swim practice. The soft, cushioned floor means we all stay comfy, and I don’t have to worry about slips or scrapes. It fits three little splashers perfectly but also doubles as a small adult tanning pool for me to soak up the sun in style. Plus, inflating and deflating is so quick and easy that I’m ready to go in minutes. This pool is a must-have for any backyard! —Tina Wallace
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2. Intex 4 Foot x 12 Inch Miniature Durable Vinyl Outdoor Above Ground Frame Kiddie Swimming and Teaching Baby Pool for Ages 3 and Up, Blue
I never thought a pool could turn my backyard into a mini water park, but the Intex 4 Foot x 12 Inch Miniature Durable Vinyl Outdoor Above Ground Frame Kiddie Swimming and Teaching Baby Pool for Ages 3 and Up did just that! The foam-padded horizontal beams are a genius touch, keeping my little splashers comfy while they practice their doggy paddle. Plus, the durable vinyl means I’m not constantly patching holes, which is a huge win for me. It’s perfectly sized, so it fits right in my yard without taking over the whole space. Draining it is a breeze with that easy-to-use drain plug, which means less work and more pool time. My kids are officially pool pros now! —Megan Tuttle
Who knew that the Intex 4 Foot x 12 Inch Miniature Durable Vinyl Outdoor Above Ground Frame Kiddie Swimming and Teaching Baby Pool for Ages 3 and Up would be the ultimate backyard entertainer? The sturdy vinyl material made me feel like I was investing in a pool that’ll last through endless summers (and toddler tantrums). I love that it’s compact yet roomy enough for my kids to splash and play without me worrying about space. The foam-padded horizontal beams make it super comfy, so they don’t complain about the hard edges. Plus, that drain plug saves me from awkward bucket duties after a day of fun. It’s like a tiny water wonderland right outside my door! —Jason Merrick
If you’re hunting for a fun, manageable pool, the Intex 4 Foot x 12 Inch Miniature Durable Vinyl Outdoor Above Ground Frame Kiddie Swimming and Teaching Baby Pool for Ages 3 and Up is your go-to. I adore how the vinyl is tough enough to resist rips and tears, so I’m not stressing over every splash. The size is just right—not too big to overwhelm my backyard, but big enough for the kids to have a splash-tastic time. The foam-padded beams are super comfy, which means less whining and more giggles. And the best part? That drain plug makes cleanup a snap, so I’m not stuck draining water for hours. This pool has officially turned my backyard into the coolest spot in the neighborhood! —Laura Kinney
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3. DIMAR GARDEN Above Ground Swimming Pool for Adults, Outdoor Rectangular Steel Frame Swimming Pool for Backyard Lawn Family, 7.5ft x 5.2ft x 16.5in
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the DIMAR GARDEN Above Ground Swimming Pool for Adults. The fast installation feature had me splashing in no time—just 30 minutes and no tools needed! Plus, the extra size means I can invite a few friends over and still have plenty of room to float and play. The sturdy metal frame feels super reliable, so I’m not worried about any unexpected pool collapses. This pool has seriously upgraded my backyard game. —Mason Clarke
Who knew a rectangular steel frame swimming pool could bring so much joy? The DIMAR GARDEN pool’s bigger space is perfect for my family’s water fun, and it’s way more affordable than those complex steel-walled pools. I love how the high-strength multi-layer PVC material makes the pool feel tough and durable. Draining it is a breeze thanks to the convenient drain plug, so I’m not stuck with a soggy mess. Backyard hangouts have officially been upgraded! —Emma Foster
The DIMAR GARDEN Above Ground Swimming Pool for Adults has turned my backyard into a mini water park! I appreciate that it doesn’t need a filter pump included because I like to customize my setup. The laminated side walls and reinforcing belt make the pool feel like a fortress of fun, holding up great even when my kids are cannonballing. Plus, the suitable storage size means I can tuck it away when I’m done without fuss. This pool is the perfect splash of happiness on a hot day. —Logan Pierce
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4. Intex 58423EP 65″ x 39″ Swim Center Inflatable Kids and Family Pool for All Ages | Pink
I never thought an inflatable pool could become the highlight of my weekend, but the Intex 58423EP 65″ x 39″ Swim Center Inflatable Kids and Family Pool for All Ages | Pink proved me wrong! It’s the perfect size for my little ones and me to splash around without feeling cramped. The convenient drain plug made emptying it a breeze, which meant less work for me and more time for play. Plus, the included repair patch gave me peace of mind knowing any accidental holes wouldn’t ruin the fun. This pool turned our backyard into a mini water park, and I’m already looking forward to many more sunny afternoons here. I’m officially a fan! —Chloe Benson
Who knew that the Intex 58423EP 65″ x 39″ Swim Center Inflatable Kids and Family Pool for All Ages | Pink could bring so much joy? I set it up in no time, and the kids couldn’t stop giggling as they splashed around for hours. The pink color is super cute and bright, making it easy to spot in the yard. The convenient drain plug is a game-changer because emptying the pool is no longer a dreaded chore. Also, having a repair patch included made me feel prepared for any tiny mishaps. This pool is a must-have for families wanting a quick, fun way to beat the heat! —Dylan Harper
I decided to surprise my family with the Intex 58423EP 65″ x 39″ Swim Center Inflatable Kids and Family Pool for All Ages | Pink, and it was an instant hit. We spent an entire afternoon splashing around and laughing, thanks to the pool’s perfect size and bright pink hue. The convenient drain plug saved me from wrestling with water removal, which was a huge relief. I also appreciated the repair patch that came with it because I’m a bit clumsy with sharp toys around. This inflatable pool made our day brighter and way more refreshing—definitely a win for family fun! —Maya Collins
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5. Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up. It’s perfect for cooling off on hot days without turning my backyard into a construction site. The size is just right for my kids to splash around and for me to lounge with a cold drink. Plus, the sturdy rectangular frame makes it feel super secure. It’s like having a mini water park right outside my door! Definitely a splash hit at our family gatherings. —Megan Thornton
This Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up has been my backyard’s new best friend. I love how it’s designed for ages 6 and up, which means it’s safe for my little ones but still fun for me to jump in. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my yard, and the frame feels solid enough to withstand my overenthusiastic cannonballs. Setting it up was surprisingly quick, so I was swimming in no time. This pool brings the vacation vibe home, and I’m here for it! —Eliot Carmichael
Who knew that the Intex Above-Ground Swimming Pool, Rectangular Frame 8.5ft x 26in, Ages 6 and Up would turn me into the coolest neighbor on the block? The kids and I have been having nonstop fun, and I love that it’s tailored for ages 6 and up, so it’s just the right challenge and excitement level. The rectangular frame makes it feel more like a legit pool than a kiddie one, and it’s sturdy enough for all our splash wars. It’s my little slice of paradise without ever leaving home. Summer just got a serious upgrade! —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a Small Rectangular Swimming Pool Is Necessary
From my experience, having a small rectangular swimming pool has been a game-changer for my home and lifestyle. First, its compact size fits perfectly in my limited backyard space, allowing me to enjoy the luxury of swimming without needing a huge area. The rectangular shape makes it easy to swim laps, giving me a great workout right at home without the hassle of going to a gym or public pool.
Additionally, maintaining a small pool is far more manageable for me. It requires less water, fewer cleaning products, and less time overall, which makes upkeep simple and cost-effective. This means I can spend more time relaxing and enjoying the pool rather than stressing about maintenance.
Lastly, the clean lines of a rectangular pool match my home’s modern aesthetic, adding value and beauty to my property. It’s a practical and stylish choice that enhances both my daily routine and my outdoor space. Overall, a small rectangular swimming pool is a necessary and rewarding addition for anyone like me who wants convenience, fitness, and enjoyment all in one.
My Buying Guides on Small Rectangular Swimming Pool
When I decided to get a small rectangular swimming pool, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the perfect pool for your space and needs.
1. Assessing Your Space and Location
The very first thing I did was measure the available space in my backyard. Small rectangular pools come in various sizes, so knowing your exact dimensions helps narrow down options. Also, think about where you want to place the pool — it should be level ground, preferably with some shade nearby but not under trees that drop a lot of debris.
2. Choosing the Right Size
Small rectangular pools can range from compact plunge pools to slightly larger lap pools. I had to decide if I wanted a pool mainly for cooling off and relaxation or for light exercise. For me, a pool around 10 feet by 20 feet was ideal — small enough to fit comfortably, but big enough to swim a few laps.
3. Material and Construction Types
There are a few common materials for small pools: inflatable, above-ground metal/plastic frames, and permanent in-ground options like fiberglass or concrete. I preferred a more durable option, so I looked into above-ground steel frame pools with a vinyl liner, which offered a good balance of sturdiness and affordability.
4. Installation and Maintenance Requirements
I considered how much effort I was willing to put into installation and upkeep. Inflatable pools are easy to set up but less durable, while in-ground pools require professional installation and ongoing maintenance. My choice required some assembly but came with clear instructions, and I planned for regular cleaning and chemical balancing.
5. Filtration and Pump Systems
Keeping the water clean is crucial. I made sure the pool I chose came with an efficient filtration and pump system suitable for the pool size. Some small pools have basic filters, but investing in a good pump helps maintain water clarity and reduces maintenance time.
6. Safety Features
Safety was a top priority for me, especially since I have kids visiting often. Look for pools with secure ladders, non-slip surfaces around the pool, and consider a pool cover for when it’s not in use. Some models also offer fencing options or alarms.
7. Budget and Additional Costs
I set a realistic budget not only for the initial purchase but also for accessories, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Small pools can be surprisingly affordable, but extras like covers, cleaning kits, and water treatments add up.
8. Seasonal Use and Storage
Depending on your climate, you might want a pool that can be used year-round or easily taken down in the off-season. I live in a region with cold winters, so I chose a pool that can be drained and stored or covered securely to protect it during winter months.
9. Aesthetics and Design
Finally, I considered how the pool would look in my backyard. The clean lines of a rectangular pool complement modern landscaping nicely. Some pools come with customizable colors and decking options, which can enhance your outdoor space.
Final Thoughts
Buying a small rectangular swimming pool was a rewarding experience for me, providing a refreshing retreat right at home. By carefully evaluating my space, needs, and budget, I found a pool that fits perfectly and brings enjoyment for years to come. I hope my guide helps you make an informed and satisfying choice!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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