10 Best Pool Cleaners 2026 in the United States

The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner is designed specifically for in-ground pools and can handle a variety of pool shapes and surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, pebble, and tile. It is equipped with dual venturi jets and powered by a separate booster pump, ensuring efficient cleaning in three hours or less. The cleaner is capable of complete coverage, scrubbing both the floor and walls of your pool, which is beneficial for thorough maintenance.

Its large 2.25-inch inlet can capture large debris like leaves and acorns, which some other cleaners might struggle with. Additionally, it comes with a 31-feet feed hose and a single chamber filter bag to collect debris of various sizes. This makes it suitable for larger pools and those with considerable debris. The ease of use is enhanced by its simple setup and maintenance, though the need for a booster pump could be a downside for some users.

The device is made of plastic, which raises some questions about its long-term durability, but it is backed by a reputable brand, Polaris, known for quality products. Energy efficiency might be a concern given that it requires a separate booster pump, potentially increasing operational costs. However, the comprehensive warranty and effective cleaning capabilities can make it a valuable addition to your pool maintenance routine.

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme is a robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet long. It offers strong cleaning performance with its dual-drive system, allowing it to move precisely and cover tight corners well. A standout feature is its active scrubbing brush and waterline scrubber, which work together to remove dirt and algae not just on the pool floor but also along the waterline, an area often missed by other cleaners. This makes it particularly effective for pools needing detailed cleaning.

The top-load filter is easy to access and clean, reducing maintenance hassles. Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi and an app, you can schedule cleaning sessions remotely, adding convenience. The cleaner is energy efficient, using AC power with a design aimed at saving costs over time. Its plastic build is sturdy yet lightweight at around 25 pounds, making it manageable for setup and storage. Dolphin’s reputation for durability comes from over 40 years in the market and is supported by a standard manufacturer warranty.

The cleaner is designed specifically for in-ground pools, so it may not suit above-ground pools. While the Wi-Fi feature is handy, it requires a reliable internet connection to function smoothly. Some challenges include difficulty handling very large debris or extremely irregular pool shapes. This model serves as a reliable choice for pool owners seeking a high-quality, easy-to-use robotic cleaner that thoroughly covers floors and waterlines, with the convenience of remote control and consistent performance.

The Polaris MAXX Premium is a strong choice for anyone with an in-ground pool looking for thorough cleaning. It works well on all surfaces of the pool, from the bottom to the waterline, thanks to its active scrubbing brushes that help remove stubborn dirt and debris. The innovative HALO Technology is designed to handle both fine particles like sand and larger debris, making it efficient at keeping your pool clean without frequent manual intervention.

One of the standout features is its smart navigation system, which allows the cleaner to move strategically around the pool, covering more area and climbing walls with ease. This means it can clean irregularly shaped pools effectively. It runs on standard AC power and is designed to be energy efficient by working at lower flow rates, which can save on electricity costs over time. The use of a regulator valve also helps extend the cleaner’s lifespan by controlling water flow and reducing wear. Maintenance is relatively straightforward since the brushes are replaceable, and no complicated assembly is needed. The 39-foot hose provides good reach for most in-ground pools. However, the unit weighs about 21 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users to handle frequently. The product comes with a limited warranty, which is common but worth noting if you want longer-term coverage.

It receives solid customer ratings, though some users might find it less suitable if they have above-ground pools or smaller pools, since it’s optimized for in-ground models. Also, as a suction-side cleaner, it relies on your pool’s pump system, so energy savings depend partly on your current setup. In summary, the Polaris MAXX offers strong cleaning power, smart features, and energy-saving benefits, making it a practical pick for most in-ground pool owners who want a reliable, hands-off cleaning solution.