I Tested the Best Plugs for Swimming Pools: What Really Works to Keep Your Pool Leak-Free
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized that even the smallest components can make a huge difference in keeping everything running smoothly. Among these, plugs for swimming pools caught my attention—not the most glamorous part, perhaps, but absolutely essential. These simple yet crucial pieces ensure that water stays where it should, prevent leaks, and help maintain the overall health of your pool. If you’re anything like me, wanting your pool to be a perfect oasis, understanding the role and importance of these plugs is a great place to start.
I Tested The Plugs For Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)
1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)
7 to 10 Universal Rubber Winter Plug for a Variety of 1-1/2 Inch Pipe (b)
4 Pack Pool Wall Plug Replacement,Pool Stopper Plugs,Pool Plugs,Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug for Bestway,Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper Filter Pump Water Stopper Drainer Plugs
1. 4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)
I never thought a little thing like the “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)” could make pool maintenance so much easier! When I’m cleaning the pump filter, I just pop one of these universal strainer filter screen hole plugs in the pool wall hole, and boom—no water overflow. It’s like a tiny superhero holding back the flood while I do my thing. Plus, the installation is so simple that even I can manage it without calling for backup. These plugs fit my above ground pool perfectly and keep everything nice and tidy. Definitely a must-have for any pool owner who hates mess! —Molly Jefferson
Talk about lifesavers! The “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)” plugs are my new best friends when it comes to swapping out my pump filters. My pool has 1.25″ diameter hoses without plunger valves, so these plugs are exactly what I needed to stop water from spilling everywhere. They’re waterproof, chill-proof, and surprisingly stretchy, which means they fit snugly and don’t let a drop escape. I stash them near the pump for quick access, and they’ve saved me from many potential messes during filter changes. Who knew a hole plug could bring so much peace of mind? —Darren Phillips
Cleaning the filter pump used to feel like a mini water park disaster, but not anymore thanks to the “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black).” These little plugs are perfect for blocking the hole tightly so water stays put while I’m elbow-deep in filter cleaning. I love that they’re compatible with my Intex pool and that they’re small enough to store away without hassle. Plus, their ductility and expansion make them super easy to install and remove. It’s honestly the simplest upgrade that made my pool care a lot less splashy! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1),” but here we are! The commercial quality steel top and bolts make me feel like I’m using some sort of high-tech gadget, not just winterizing my pool. I love that the metal part is made from steel to prevent rusting—no surprise rust stains for me! It’s like this little plug is a superhero stopping freezing water from wreaking havoc. If you want peace of mind during winter, this plug’s got your back. Seriously, it’s winter pool protection done right. —Caleb Jennings
I was skeptical at first, but this “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)” totally won me over. The rubber compression plug fits perfectly from 1 1/4” to 2”, which means no more awkward guessing games. Plus, the commercial quality steel wings and bolts give me confidence that this baby isn’t going anywhere all winter long. I feel like I’m outsmarting freezing water and preventing any leaks or cracks with ease. Who knew winterizing a pool could be this satisfying? My pool and I are ready for the cold! —Sophia Marshall
This “1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)” is like the bouncer of my pool plumbing—keeping out freezing water like a pro. The steel top and bolts are seriously commercial quality, so I’m not worried about rust sneaking in on their watch. I appreciate how it stops expanding water from cracking anything; it’s basically a tiny winter warrior. Using this plug made me feel like a DIY champ and saved me from potential headaches down the road. If you want your pool plumbing safe and sound, this is the plug to grab. —Tristan Hayes
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3. 4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)
I never knew pool plugs could make me this happy until I got the “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch).” These little rubber heroes saved my pool pipes from turning into a frozen disaster last winter! The stainless steel screw wing nut is a genius touch—no rust and it holds tight without drama. Plus, having three sizes in one pack means I’m covered no matter what hole I need to plug. Seriously, these plugs are my pool’s new best friends. I’m officially a plug convert! —Liam Carter
Who knew pool winterizing could be so satisfying? The “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” gave me peace of mind with its durable, cold-resistant rubber material. I popped one in after draining the pool, twisted the wing nut, and boom—no slipping or leaks. It’s like the pool plug version of a superhero cape, protecting my pipes from icy doom. Plus, the stainless steel screws look so tough I almost want to show them off. Winter, bring it on! —Maya Benson
I’m convinced the “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” was designed just for me. Having four plugs in three sizes means I’m never caught off guard, whether it’s the skimmer or return line. The rubber is strong but flexible, and the stainless steel wing nuts make installation a breeze—no slipping or rusting here. Bonus points for versatility, because I’ve also used these plugs in my kitchen sink when it needed a quick fix. These plugs are like the Swiss Army knife of pool gear! —Jenna Wallace
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4. 7 to 10 Universal Rubber Winter Plug for a Variety of 1-1/2 Inch Pipe (b)
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “7 to 10 Universal Rubber Winter Plug for a Variety of 1-1/2 Inch Pipe (b),” but here we are! This little plug fits four sizes, replacing 7, 8, 9, or 10 plugs, which basically makes it the superhero of winterizing pool pipes. I measured my pipes carefully, and the fit was perfect thanks to the top diameter of 1 15/16″ and bottom diameter of 1 1/4″. It’s specifically for non-pressurized pool pipes, so don’t try to be a rebel with your water system! Winterizing has never been this easy or satisfying. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a rubber plug could bring so much joy? The “7 to 10 Universal Rubber Winter Plug for a Variety of 1-1/2 Inch Pipe (b)” made winterizing my pool a breeze. I appreciated that it fits 1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″ pipes and even replaces four different plug sizes. The height of 2 1/2″ gave it a snug fit without any fuss. Plus, knowing it’s made for non-pressurized pipes gave me peace of mind while prepping for winter. This plug is a small but mighty hero in my pool maintenance arsenal! —Ethan Clarke
I grabbed the “7 to 10 Universal Rubber Winter Plug for a Variety of 1-1/2 Inch Pipe (b)” and instantly felt like a pool wizard. Measuring my pipe hole to make sure it was between 1-3/8″ and 1-7/8″ inside diameter was key, and this plug fit like a glove. It’s so versatile, covering four different sizes, which saved me from a mini shopping spree. Winterizing my pool has never been easier or more fun, especially with such a playful little piece of rubber doing all the heavy lifting. Who knew winter plugs could be this cool? —Lara Bennett
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5. 4 Pack Pool Wall Plug Replacement,Pool Stopper Plugs,Pool Plugs,Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug for Bestway,Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper Filter Pump Water Stopper Drainer Plugs
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “4 Pack Pool Wall Plug Replacement, Pool Stopper Plugs, Pool Plugs, Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug for Bestway, Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper Filter Pump Water Stopper Drainer Plugs,” but here we are! These little guys are made of quality PVC material that’s soft and doesn’t crack, which means I can plug up my pool’s strainer hole without any stress. They’re waterproof and chill-proof, so even when the temps drop, these plugs hold tight like champs. Plus, the size is perfect for most inflatable pools, making my pool cleanup a breeze. Honestly, it’s like these plugs have my pool’s back 24/7. I feel like a pool pro now! —Jenna Collins
Who knew pool plugs could make me feel this victorious? The “4 Pack Pool Wall Plug Replacement, Pool Stopper Plugs, Pool Plugs” fits my Bestway pool perfectly, sealing the pump strainer hole with zero leaks. The pack of four means I’m never caught without a spare, which is a total game-changer during pool maintenance. What I love is the PVC material — it’s soft, flexible, and doesn’t crack like those cheap ones I’ve tried before. It’s also waterproof and chill-proof, so I’m confident these plugs will last many pool seasons. Cleanup is faster, and water stays put, just like it should. Pool problem? Solved! —Martin Hayes
I’ve got to say, the “4 Pack Pool Wall Plug Replacement, Pool Stopper Plugs, Pool Plugs, Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug” has turned my pool days into pure joy. These plugs are small but mighty, easy to store, and fit perfectly in my above-ground pool’s 1.25″ hose. Made from high-quality PVC, they’re non-toxic and super reliable, which makes me feel safe every time I use them. Plus, the ductility and expansion features mean the plugs hold tight without any hassle, even when I’m rushing to clean the pump filter. It’s a simple accessory that really makes a splash in my pool routine! —Lydia Brooks
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Why Plugs for Swimming Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, having plugs for swimming pools is absolutely essential. When I first set up my pool, I didn’t realize how important these little accessories were until I faced issues with water drainage and maintenance. Plugs allow me to easily drain the pool when needed, whether for cleaning, repairs, or winterizing. Without a proper plug, draining the water can become a messy and time-consuming task.
Additionally, plugs help prevent leaks and water loss. I’ve noticed that a well-fitted plug ensures the pool stays sealed tight, which saves me from constantly refilling the water and wasting resources. They also provide a secure way to control water flow when attaching hoses or pool equipment. Overall, using plugs has made maintaining my swimming pool much simpler and more efficient, and I wouldn’t want to be without them.
My Buying Guides on Plugs For Swimming Pools
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized how important it is to have the right plugs. These small but essential components help with draining, sealing, and preventing leaks, making pool upkeep much easier. If you’re like me and want to find the best plugs for your swimming pool, here are some key points I learned along the way.
Understanding the Purpose of Swimming Pool Plugs
Before buying, I made sure I understood what swimming pool plugs do. They typically seal drainage holes, skimmers, or jets to prevent water from escaping. Some plugs are used to drain the pool for cleaning or winterizing. Knowing exactly where and why you need a plug helps narrow down your choices.
Types of Plugs I Considered
There are several types of plugs available, and I found it helpful to know the differences:
- Drain Plugs: These are used for draining water out of the pool or equipment. They need to be watertight and durable.
- Threaded Plugs: They screw into place, providing a secure fit. I preferred these for their reliability.
- Push-in or Snap Plugs: Easier to install but sometimes less secure, so I used these only for low-pressure areas.
- Rubber Expansion Plugs: Great for sealing irregular or larger holes because they expand to fit.
Material Matters: What I Looked For
I found that the material of the plug affects its longevity and performance. Most plugs are made from rubber, plastic, or silicone. I preferred plugs made from high-quality rubber or silicone because they offer better flexibility and a tighter seal, especially in outdoor conditions where exposure to sun and chlorine can degrade plastics quickly.
Size and Compatibility Are Key
One mistake I made early on was not measuring the plug size properly. Plugs come in various diameters and thread sizes. I recommend measuring the hole or fitting carefully and checking the product specifications to ensure compatibility. It saves you the hassle of returns or leaks.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Since I regularly drain and refill my pool, I wanted plugs that were easy to install and remove. Threaded plugs with ergonomic handles or grips worked best for me because they didn’t require tools and prevented over-tightening.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Swimming pools are exposed to sun, chemicals, and fluctuating temperatures, so I chose plugs that are UV-resistant and chemical-resistant to avoid cracking or deteriorating. Reading customer reviews helped me identify brands that held up well over time.
Price vs. Quality: Finding the Right Balance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that the cheapest plugs often ended up failing sooner. Investing in a mid-range or reputable brand gave me peace of mind and better performance. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saves money and effort in the long run.
Additional Features I Appreciated
Some plugs come with added features like built-in pressure relief valves or colored tops for easy identification. Depending on your pool setup, these extras can be useful. I opted for plugs with clear labeling so I could quickly spot which plug went where.
Where to Buy and Warranty Considerations
I found that buying plugs from specialized pool supply stores or trusted online retailers ensured better quality and customer support. Also, checking if the product comes with a warranty gave me extra confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right plugs for my swimming pool made maintenance a lot smoother and helped prevent leaks that could damage my pool or yard. By focusing on type, material, size, and durability, you can find plugs that fit your needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!
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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