Stop Scrubbing!These Handheld Pool Vacuums Do the Work for You

Handheld pool vacuums make it easy to keep pools and spas free of dirt and debris. These compact, maneuverable tools are perfect for above-ground and small pools, and they’re often more affordable than larger pool cleaning systems. Whether you’re dealing with fine sand, stubborn dirt, or floating leaves, a quality handheld pool vacuum can simplify maintenance and keep the water crystal clear.

Since not all handheld pool vacuums are created equal, it’s important to find one that suits your needs. Options range from cordless, rechargeable models to those powered by an electrical outlet, and some even come with telescoping handles for reaching deep into large pools. After testing several top-rated handheld pool vacuums, we found that the Pool Blaster Max stood out for its powerful suction and long battery life. We also identified other great options based on our hands-on testing, ensuring there’s a pick for every budget and pool type.

To help find the best handheld pool vacuum, we’ve broken down key features to consider before buying. Keep reading for our top recommendations and expert shopping tips.

1. BEST OVERALL: Pool Blaster Max Cordless Pool & Spa Vacuum
   ↓ Jump to Review
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Intex 28620EP Rechargeable Handheld Pool Vacuum
   ↓ Jump to Review
3. BEST FOR INGROUND POOLS: Efurden Handheld Rechargeable Pool Cleaner
   ↓ Jump to Review
4. EASIEST TO USE: Aiper Pilot H1 Cordless Pool Vacuum
   ↓ Jump to Review
5. BEST FOR ABOVE-GROUND: Wybot Hyson 100P Handheld Pool Vacuum
   ↓ Jump to Review
6. BEST FOR SMALL SPACES: PoolSupplyTown Pool Spa Jet Vacuum Cleaner
   ↓ Jump to Review
7. BEST FOR LEAVES: Pool Blaster Battery-Powered Leaf Vac
   ↓ Jump to Review

Handheld Pool Vacuums Comparison Chart

Our Top Picks

Based on our testing and research, these are the best handheld pool vacuums on the market today. We made sure to include options across a range of categories, including models for above and inground pools, for cleaning up leaves, and for pool owners on a budget.

Best Overall

Pool Blaster Max Cordless Pool & Spa Vacuum

See It

What We Like

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• 60-minute runtime on a single charge
• Reusable filter bag

What We Don’t Like

• Cloth filter bag can get dirty or stained
• Comparatively high price

Specs

• Design Cordless and hose-free
• Runtime Up to 60 minutes
• Best for Spot cleaning and hard-to-reach areas

Our Ratings

The Pool Blaster Max stands out for its powerful suction, ease of use, and reliable performance. This cordless manual vacuum weighs just 5.5 pounds and excels at picking up fine dirt, leaves, and debris. Setup took around 15 minutes, with most of that time spent figuring out the charger. After a full 4-hour charge, it was ready to tackle the pool.

The vacuum requires a standard telescoping pole (sold separately) and runs for up to 60 minutes per charge. However, we found that it cleaned an entire pool in about 15 minutes, and was especially ideal for quick spot-cleaning around ladders, steps, and corners. While it’s on the pricier side for a manual vacuum, its ability to remove debris that even some robotic vacuums missed made it worth the investment.

The reusable filter bag, made of clothlike material, can stain after picking up fine dirt and sludge, though this doesn’t impact performance. It rinses clean with a hose but isn’t machine washable. We also noticed condensation inside the vacuum after use, so leaving it open to dry is a smart move.

For those who want a dependable, high-performance handheld vacuum, the Pool Blaster Max is an excellent choice. It’s also a great companion to a robotic vacuum, much like using a handheld vacuum alongside a Roomba for a spotless home.

What our tester says: “Despite being a bit pricey for a manual vacuum, we loved how it quickly and easily cleaned some areas the other robotic vacuums missed even after hours in the pool.” —Lisa Galek, Product Reviews writer and tester.

Get the Pool Blaster Max Li handheld pool vacuum at Amazon or Leslie’s.

Best Bang For The Buck

Intex 28620EP Rechargeable Handheld Pool Vacuum

See It

What We Like

• Very simple to operate
• Long sturdy pole
• Two scrubber heads included

What We Don’t Like

• Zero charge out of the box
• Charging cable only (no plug)
• Struggles with pebbles and other large debris

Specs

• Design Handheld with telescoping shaft
• Runtime Around 1 hour
• Best for Small debris cleanup

Our Ratings

Striking a balance between affordability and functionality, the Intex handheld pool vacuum is a solid choice for small pools, hot tubs, and budget-conscious buyers. This compact model is easy to store in a shed or garage and is lightweight enough for quick cleanups. While it performs well with fine dirt and debris, it struggles with heavier pieces like small pebbles, requiring some extra effort to pick them up.

Right out of the box, the vacuum had zero charge, and unfortunately, it doesn’t include a charging plug—only a USB cable. Once fully charged, it was ready to go, but its suction power was not the strongest. It effectively handled light debris but required coaxing to pick up heavier particles. The canister is also quite small, meaning frequent emptying during longer cleaning sessions.

On the plus side, the Intex comes as a complete kit, including two interchangeable brush heads, a 94-inch telescoping aluminum pole, and a pole adapter. However, it must be fully submerged to function properly, so you won’t be able to vacuum up any floating leaves. Despite its limitations, it’s a budget-friendly option that works well for routine maintenance—just don’t expect it to tackle heavy-duty messes.

Get the Intex battery-powered pool vacuum at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best for Inground Pools

Efurden Handheld Rechargeable Pool Cleaner

See It

What We Like

• Large bristles for scrubbing
• Good suction power
• Will vacuum anything on the pool floor
• Very easy to empty and clean

What We Don’t Like

• Pole connector feels a little flimsy

Specs

• Design Short or long handled cordless
• Runtime 60 minutes
• Best for Scrubbing

Our Ratings

For inground pool owners, a handheld vacuum can’t fully replace a full-size hosed vacuum, but it can be a valuable tool for quick spot cleaning between deep cleans. The Efurden handheld pool cleaner stands out as one of the best for this purpose, thanks to its strong suction, scrubbing bristles, and easy-to-use design.

Right out of the box, the Efurden impressed us by including both a charger and a long telescoping pole, so there’s no need to buy extra accessories. One thing to note about the pole is that the connectors feel a little on the flimsy side, but they hold together even during heavy scrubbing. The unit itself is larger than most handheld models, which gives it a sturdy feel without being too bulky. During testing, it picked up small debris effortlessly and even handled pebbles surprisingly well—a task that many handheld vacuums struggle with. The side and bottom bristles did a great job loosening dirt and algae, making it one of the best options for both suction and scrubbing.

The big, easy-to-use controls are a nice touch, and the canister removal process is simple, making emptying and cleaning hassle-free. However, one odd quirk stood out—there’s no branding anywhere. The box, instructions, and vacuum itself don’t mention “Efurden” at all, which felt strange for a product of this quality. Despite this mystery, the vacuum’s performance speaks for itself. If you’re looking for a powerful, easy-to-use handheld pool vacuum that excels at both suction and scrubbing, this one is a top contender.

Get the Efurden handheld pool vacuum at Amazon, Walmart, or Efurden.

Easiest To Use

Aiper Pilot H1 Cordless Pool Vacuum

See It

What We Like

• Easy assembly
• Great suction
• Comfortable foam grip handle

What We Don’t Like

• Front suction part twists off too easily
• No pole included

Specs

• Design Cordless handheld
• Runtime 60 minutes
• Best for Smaller pools (unless you have a pole)

Our Ratings

Handheld vacuums are some of the most versatile and convenient pool appliances out there, and the Aiper Pilot H1 cordless vacuum exemplifies this. Designed to eliminate the hassle of hoses and cords, this battery-powered model makes cleaning pools easier and more efficient. With a 60-minute battery life on a single charge, it’s suitable for a range of pool sizes, from small spas to larger inground pools.

The Aiper is incredibly simple to assemble, with all parts clicking into place effortlessly. The vacuum is lightweight, weighing only 3.5 pounds, and is easy to operate. It also comes with small scrubber bristles on the vacuum head, which work well for loosening debris. The suction power is good, but it’s difficult—though not impossible—to pick up floating debris, which is not really its intended use. That said, it’s a good pool cleaner for picking up anything from the pool floor—even larger pebbles.

One issue we encountered is that the front suction part twists on and off easily, so it sometimes detaches during use. It doesn’t lock securely into place, which can be a bit frustrating when moving the vacuum around. While the vacuum doesn’t include a telescoping pole for deep areas (which would’ve been a nice addition), it’s still compatible with most standard pool poles. The filter bag is one of the easiest to clean out, as it uses a simple elastic band to hold it in place. However, over time, the elastic may weaken.

Overall, the Aiper Pilot H1 is a lightweight, easy-to-use cordless vacuum, but the lack of an extension pole may limit its ability to handle larger pools or heavy-duty cleaning. That said, it’s great for small debris and spot cleaning, especially in smaller pools or spas.

What our tester says: “This was my favorite model to test because it glides through the water like a whale shark, easily scooping up anything in its path and looking great while doing it. The battery life and scrubber brushes are a great plus.” —Paul Rankin, Product Reviews writer and tester.

Get the Aiper rechargeable pool vacuum at Amazon.

Best For Above-Ground

Wybot Hyson 100 Handheld Pool Vacuum

See It

What We Like

• Good suction
• Colored indicator lights for charging
• Two scrubber heads included

What We Don’t Like

• Can be defeated by a single pebble

Specs

• Design Handheld with telescopic pole
• Runtime 60 minutes
• Best for Above-ground, fine debris

Our Ratings

The Wybot Hyson 100 is a compact and powerful handheld pool cleaner designed for smaller pools, spas, and hot tubs. It comes equipped with a 59-inch telescoping pole, which provides flexibility for cleaning in various situations, from hot tubs to tighter corners. It has a removable vacuum head, which can be swapped out for a nose cone head to reach tricky areas like steps and corners. 

It has good suction power, effectively picking up dirt, sand, and leaves. However, one of the downsides we encountered was the spinning mechanism that creates the suction. While the suction was strong, the rotating part that generates the vacuum power often got stuck on small pebbles, causing it to stop working until cleared. This design flaw is frustrating, especially given the small size of the obstructions. Additionally, the scrubber bristles are fairly soft, so while they may work for light debris, they don’t provide a great scrubbing action for more stubborn dirt.

Overall, the Wybot is a solid choice for light, quick cleaning in smaller spaces, but the poor design of the rotating suction part and the lack of effective scrubbers may limit its effectiveness in more demanding cleaning tasks. Still, its easy maneuverability and battery life make it a convenient tool for spot cleaning and also one of the best above-ground pool vacuums.

Get the Wybot portable pool vacuum at Amazon. 

More Great Options

In addition to our hands-on tested picks, we’ve found a few other pool vacuums worth considering. Based on extensive research and user reviews, these models offer great features and performance for pool owners.

Best For Small Spaces

PoolSupplyTown Pool Spa Jet Vacuum Cleaner

See It

What We Like

• Doesn’t require batteries or recharging
• Fine mesh bag captures even the smallest debris
• Very easy to handle and operate

What We Don’t Like

• Requires a garden hose hookup
• Does not have telescoping handle

Specs

• Design Hose connected brush attachment for pole
• Runtime N/A
• Best for Simple cleaning

For a very simple pool cleaning solution, look no further than this jet vacuum from PoolSupplyTown. Unlike most other handheld vacuums on the market that are battery- or cord-powered, this model requires no electricity at all. Instead, it utilizes the water pressure from a standard garden hose, which creates a Venturi effect when connected to the brush head, producing enough suction to draw leaves and other debris into the mesh bag. It’s a minimalist vacuum that’s great for thoroughly cleaning spas, hot tubs, and small above-ground pools, and it’s also effective for spot-cleaning large inground pools. 

Of course, such a simple design does have its drawbacks. The manual pool cleaner isn’t quite as powerful as some electric models on the market, and while it doesn’t require batteries or charging, it does need to be hooked up to a garden hose. Also, while the vacuum works with any standard 1.25-inch telescopic pool pole, that part is not included. But since the unit costs just a fraction of most other handheld vacuums on the market, it’s still a great value. 

Get the PoolSupplyTown handheld pool vacuum at Amazon or Walmart.

Best For Leaves

Pool Blaster Battery-Powered Leaf Vac

See It

What We Like

• Versatile design functions as a skimmer and floor vacuum
• Large vacuum opening and mesh bag prevent clogging
• Runs longer than other vacuums at up to 3 hours
• Lightweight and easy to use

What We Don’t Like

• Does not come with pool pole
• Won’t pick up small debris like sand or dirt
• Batteries are not rechargeable

Specs

• Design Battery-powered
• Runtime 3 hours
• Best for Above-ground and inground pools

Pools that are situated under trees can collect a lot of leaves, which typical handheld vacuums may not be able to handle. Most of these vacuums are designed to pick up only small quantities of debris at a time and may struggle to hold large amounts of heavier flotsam. That’s where the Pool Blaster battery-powered leaf vacuum comes in. It is specially designed to suck up large clumps of leaves without getting clogged or bogged down like other handheld vacuums.

This vacuum’s innovative design consists of a large mesh bag connected to a fan-based vacuum that effectively sucks up leaves and other debris as it passes over them. Unlike most electric vacuums out there, it’s not rechargeable, instead running on eight AA batteries. But it does boast a longer runtime—up to 3 hours—than competing vacuums. It’s also extremely lightweight at just 2.35 pounds. Unfortunately, it does not come with a required pool pole, but once attached to one, it becomes quite versatile, capable of being used both as a floor vacuum and as a skimmer to remove leaves from the surface of the pool.

Get the Pool Blaster battery-powered handheld pool vacuum at Amazon or Walmart.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Handheld Pool Vacuums

To determine our top pool vacuum picks, we considered over 20 different models from leading brands in the industry. Our evaluation was based on key factors such as suction power, battery life, ease of use, durability, and eco-friendliness. We also took price into account to ensure our recommendations offer the best value.

During testing, each vacuum was assessed on its performance with various debris, including leaves, dirt, and small pebbles, to measure suction strength and efficiency. We also evaluated the usability of each model, considering how easy it was to assemble, operate, and clean. We checked battery life to see how long the vacuums lasted on a full charge, and assessed features like filtration systems and added accessories (such as telescoping poles and scrubber heads). Durability was tested by evaluating the materials used and how well the vacuums held up after extended use.

Each product was rated on comfort, ease of maintenance, cleaning performance, and additional features to help us determine which models offered the best overall value.

What to Consider When Choosing a Pool Vacuum

Various factors impact a handheld pool vacuum’s performance, so it’s important for pool owners to consider their particular pool setup and needs while shopping for one. Like most pool vacuum cleaners, including robotic pool cleaners, handheld models can vary in terms of design, particularly when it comes to their power source. 

While there are many rechargeable handheld pool vacuums on this list, some may take standard batteries, plug into a wall outlet via an electrical cord, or run on water pressure provided by a hose. Some may be designed for specific pool sizes, from small above-ground pools to large inground ones. They may also incorporate filters designed to handle different types of debris, from fine dirt and sand to heavier leaves and sticks. 

No matter the pool size or design in question, buyers may also want to consider their own budgets, as these pool maintenance tools can vary greatly in terms of price and value.

Pool Type

One of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a handheld pool vacuum is pool type, and, specifically, pool size. Pools come in various shapes and sizes, and some handheld vacuums might be more suitable for smaller or irregularly shaped pools, while others may work better for larger or more standard pool designs. Features such as the presence of steps, corners, or unusual shapes may impact the maneuverability and reach of the handheld vacuum. These vacuums can also vary in terms of handle length, which can affect how far the machine can reach across a pool. For example, above-ground handheld pool vacuums may incorporate short handles capable of reaching only a few feet into the water, while handheld inground pool vacuums may come with longer telescoping handles that are able to reach the bottom of the deep end of larger pools.

Where a pool is situated can also determine the type of handheld pool vacuum that is needed. Pools that are located under trees or near other plants may collect more debris than others, which will call for a vacuum capable of handling larger amounts of leaves and sticks. Similarly, pools that are situated near beaches or the like may tend to collect sand and smaller debris, which will require a vacuum with a finer filter. A pool’s surface may also influence a vacuum’s performance—above-ground pools are often made of soft and flexible materials like vinyl, while inground pools typically have sturdier surfaces, such as concrete or fiberglass.

Power and Suction

Power and suction are other features that can greatly affect the performance of a swimming pool sweeper. As previously noted, some pools may collect more or different types of debris than others, so it’s important to confirm that the vacuum is powerful enough to pick up the objects in question. A more powerful motor generally results in stronger suction, allowing the vacuum to effectively remove both small and large particles. Additionally, robust suction is essential for handling various types of debris, including leaves, sand, algae, and other sediments that might settle at the bottom or cling to the pool walls. 

When trying to ascertain a vacuum’s power and suction, it’s helpful to consider the unit’s specific design. Many handheld vacuums rely on electric motors to create suction, and the size of the motor can often be found in the manufacturer’s specifications for the product. Other vacuums may need to be connected to a pool pump or even a garden hose to generate suction, which can vary according to the model’s design. It may also be worth noting how the model is powered: whether by recharged or standard battery, electrical cord, or by water pressure delivered via hose. 

Additional Features

Many other features can impact the performance of a handheld vacuum. For handheld battery pool vacuums, runtime can be an important factor depending on the size of the pool, as larger pools typically take more time to clean. Additionally, the design of the vacuum itself is worth considering, as shape, weight, and other ergonomics can affect the model’s maneuverability and ease of use—steering a heavy vacuum at the end of a long, skinny pole can be difficult. 

Filter type is another crucial feature to consider, particularly in pools that tend to collect either very large or very fine debris. Fine mesh filters are adept at capturing small particles like sand and silt, while cartridge filters are efficient at collecting finer debris but may require regular cleaning. The size of the filter is also important, as it determines not only the size of debris it can handle but also the amount. 

Lastly, when it comes to handheld electric pool vacuums in particular, it’s important to note the size and length of the handle. Most handheld pool vacuums are designed to be portable and easy to operate, resulting in shorter handles that may not be long enough to reach the deep end of some pools. Many models are compatible with telescoping handles or pool poles that can increase their reach, though these accessories are not always included and may need to be purchased separately. 

Tips for Using a Handheld Pool Vacuum

Using a swimming pool vacuum can remove much of the hard work from pool cleaning, but there are steps users can take to make the process even more efficient. First and foremost, before vacuuming, it’s important to make sure the pool water is at the proper level to avoid air entering the system, as this can hinder the vacuum’s performance. Additionally, skimming the surface and brushing the walls of the pool to loosen and remove any debris that might obstruct the vacuuming process will make the cleaning more effective. When vacuuming, move the machine slowly and methodically across the pool floor and stop over any heavy accumulations to ensure everything is captured. Don’t forget to empty the filter regularly to maintain the vacuum’s suction power and prevent debris from circulating back into the pool water.

Regularly maintaining a cordless handheld pool vacuum can also help ensure and increase its performance. That means cleaning the vacuum filter or replacing the filter cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent clogs and maintain maximum suction power. Lastly, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for your specific handheld pool cleaner to ensure safety and performance.

• Move the vacuum slowly and methodically across the pool’s bottom to allow it to pick up debris effectively
• Empty the filter regularly to prevent clogs and maximize suction power
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe operation and performance

FAQs  

If you’re still wondering how to get the most out of your handheld pool vacuum, here are some commonly asked questions about the various types of pool vacuums out there as well as some best practices on how to vacuum a pool in general.

Q. How do I clean my pool without electricity?

You can use manual pool-cleaning tools, such as skimmers and nets, to remove any floating debris in the pool. There are also manual pool vacuums available that generate suction using the water pressure from standard garden hoses.

Q. What kind of vacuum do I need for a pool?

The ideal kind of vacuum depends on the pool in question. Large inground pools that collect a lot of debris may require full-size pool pump vacuums to be thoroughly cleaned, but many smaller pools can be cleaned using more compact—and affordable—portable pool vacuums.

Q. What is the fastest way to vacuum a pool?

The fastest way to vacuum a pool is to use an efficient and powerful pool vacuum system. Move the vacuum slowly and carefully across the pool bottom, making sure to pick up any debris left behind. 

Q. How long do pool vacuums last?

Pool vacuum cleaners typically last 3-5 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and quality of the unit.

Q. Should I shock my pool and then vacuum?

Yes, it’s recommended to shock your pool first and then vacuum after the chemicals settle, typically 24 hours later, especially if there’s an algae buildup.

Q. How often do you have to vacuum your pool?

It’s ideal to vacuum your pool at least once a week, or more often if there’s heavy debris or algae buildup.

Meet the Tester

Paul Rankin has years of experience writing product reviews and buying guides, especially in outdoor and pool equipment. He takes a straightforward, hands-on approach, always aiming to give readers honest, practical advice they can trust.

Additional research provided by Chase Brush and Lisa Galek

 

Everything You Need for a Lush and Healthy Lawn

Keeping your grass green and your plants thriving doesn’t just take a green thumb—it starts with the right tools and supplies.

SEE OUR FAVORITES