Best Kiddie Pool 2021: Top Non-toxic & Hard Plastic Kiddie Pools

Summer’s the perfect time to have fun, make memories and enjoy some water fun with your little ones. But you don’t want to expose your children to harmful toxins like BPA, as these are found in some inflatable plastic pools. So we’ve done the research for you to find the best kiddie pool this summer, and why you should choose hard plastic kiddie pools over a cheap plastic pool. Here you’ll find how to choose the best non-toxic kiddie pool and which materials you should avoid.

One of the biggest toxins to look out for in kids pools is PVC, often simply called ‘Vinyl’ on labels. PVC is a known toxin which can expose your children to phthalates which have endocrine-disrupting properties, as well as lead and other carcinogenic contaminants.

It’s enough to make you want to keep your kids inside all summer, but wait – there are some great non-toxic kiddie pools out there.

Without further ado, here’s our guide to the best kiddie pools for your family so that you can have fun splashing around without worrying about the effects on your little ones’ health. Here’s a shortlist of the Top Non-toxic Backyard Kiddie Pools out there.

What Are Non-Toxic Kiddie Pools

Non-toxic kiddie pools are free from harmful and dangerous chemicals such as polyvinylchloride (pVC), or other chemicals such as isophorone. Isophorone can cause skin cancer in your little one. Also, non-toxic kiddie pools don’t contain any phthalates. Use PVC-free versions to make sure your little bundle of joy is protected from the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.

Hard Plastic Kiddie Pools Vs. Inflatable Plastic Pools

Choosing the best kiddie pool for your little ones depends on your storage capabilities, transportability, and ease of access. A portable and temporary kiddie pool is a useful and affordable solution. But there is the safety issue you must consider. Hard plastic kiddie pools are stronger compared to inflatable versions. If you account for safety, longevity, and price, hard plastic pools are ahead of the game.

Consider the pros and cons of plastic and inflatable plastic kiddie pools accounting for how you will use them. Plastic kiddie pools are sturdier, stronger, and can be used anywhere. A group of children can play together in different sizes of hard plastic pools. They’re affordable and not very deep. Your kids can easily climb in and out of them.

Plastic kiddie pools are difficult to carry and transport. Because of the hard plastic, they might easily crack if moved too much. You’ll also need a lot of storage room. Also, strong sunlight can make the plastic brittle and crack.

On the other hand, inflatable plastic kiddie pools are easy to carry and store. You can transport plastic inflatable pools in your car and the designs are attractive to kids.

On the downside, inflatable pools require an air pump and they’re very fragile. Inflatable pools can tear up if the floor surface isn’t plain. They are also often made of soft plastic, which may leach chemicals over time, that may be harmful to your little one’s health.

Best Kiddie Pools 2021: Safest Non-toxic Inflatable & Hard Plastic Kiddie Pools

Best Kiddie Pool
Step2 Play & Shade Pool for Toddlers Product Image

This cute pool and sandbox combo will look great in your garden and bring hours of sensory play and water fun for your children. Hard plastic is a much better choice than soft inflatable pools and this one made from Hard Density Polyethylene (HDPE – resine code #2) is a brilliant choice for a non toxic kiddie pool. This hard plastic swimming pool for kids is easy to put together and the pool is just the right depth for splashing! The umbrella’s a handy addition, providing shade and ensuring you stay protected from the sun all day. This is one of the best non-toxic hard plastic pools available.

What I love about it:

  • This non-toxic baby pool contains non-leaching HDPE plastic
  • For sand and water fun
  • Plastic Pool doubles up as sandbox lid
  • Umbrella for bonus sun protection
  • Cute appealing design

BUY NOW


Join the Non-Toxic Community

Join The Safe Parent's list for exclusive content, product updates and more! (And for a limited time, also receive a FREE Hospital Bag Checklist).





Jasonwell Foldable Dog Pool and Kids Paddling Pool Product Image

Unlike the above pool, this one is a non-inflatable kiddie pool, which I like. I’m always a bit on the fence with inflatable plastic, even when it claims to be non-toxic. On the other hand, this pool is a high density hard plastic kiddie pool, which is relatively a much safer and trust-able non-leaching plastic.

This hard plastic pool is large, circular, looks lovely, and can be set up in no time. Gladly, there is no need for an electric pump or any gadgets as there is not inflation. Moreover, in addition to toddlers and children, it is also safe for your furry friend, such as a large dog to splash about it.

What I love about it:

  • Great non-toxic baby pool for young children.
  • Free of inflation, as long as the water can be set up.
  • Easy to install, and folds easy for storage. It can be folded into a backpack to carry to the beach or elsewhere.
  • High-density non-toxic PVC plastic, single-layer bottom.

Something to keep in mind:

  • Hard plastic kiddie pool, but still PVC

BUY NOW


EverEarth Waterproof Beach Blanket & Kiddie Pool Product Image

Now, this plastic baby pool is non-toxic and really is ingenious, doubling up as both a picnic blanket and a portable kiddie paddling pool. Just flip it over and fill it with water with the portable bucket included. But most importantly for your child’s health, this kid pool has TPU, which is both phthalate and BPA-free. It’s also environmentally friendly and durable. So you can pass it on or recycle it when you no longer need it. However, this pool’s probably best kiddie pool for the beach, as you need to dig out a shallow hole underneath the mat for the water to stay in the pool. This is another one of the best non-toxic kiddie pools out there.

What I love about it:

  • Multipurpose – use it as a beach mat or a kiddie pool!
  • PVC free pool and BPA free kiddie pool
  • Durable and eco-friendly non-toxic baby pool
  • the plastic pool includes bucket for sand or water play
  • This kids pool folds up small into its own portable bag

BUY NOW


Intex Small Family Frame Pool Product Image

If you’re looking for a kiddie pool, the Intex pool is a great choice because you avoid inflatable plastic kiddie pools, which releases endocrine-disrupting phthalates and toxic gases when exposed to heat. However, do keep in mind that this pool is not a non-toxic option, but has been included as it uses a much better grade of PVC than many other options, and so it’s toxicity decreases significantly. The reason for this pool being added to this list is because I couldn’t find a truly non-toxic alternative with this convenient design, but want to inform those parents who might like this simple convenient design, of a better grade option than some traditional nasties.

Intex pool is big enough for a couple of toddlers to play together or a parent and child. It is easily set up and packed away with a drain release for convenience. It’s a good option if you want to take it round to the grandparents for the day or away on vacation with you as it packs up small and is really portable.

What I love about it:

  • Better grade of plastic (not your regular inflatable pool)
  • The paddling pool has foam covered horizontal bars for comfort and safety
  • 48″ x 48″ x 12″ Size

Something to keep in mind:

  • Contains PVC, even though it might be a better grade
  • Not truly non-toxic kiddie pool

BUY NOW


SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad Product Image

Enjoy a cool summer afternoon with the kids in the backyard in this cool and educational splash pad. With vehicle pattern design on the sprinkler, toddlers learn happily and easily in the sun, enhancing the fun of learning. This non-slip pad is safe for kids and prevents children from slipping.

Additionally, an inflated border near the rim of the splash pad increases grip and safety. The best part is that these water toys are both BPA and phthalates free, non-toxic PVC (but unfortunately still PVC and not PP) to ensure children’s safe play.

What I love about it:

  • The water toys are both BPA and phthalates free, made with environmentally friendly materials.
  • Durable Outdoor Water Play Toys – Thickened non-toxic PVC material is 30% thicker than others. This avoids bursting during use.
  • BPA Free Phthalate-free PVC material
  • Non-slip textures prevent children from slipping and a wavy line near the rim of the splash pad increases grip and safety.
  • Big Splash Mat and Easy to Set Up – 60”dia x 4″ Splash pad allows 2 to 3 kids to play inside, and has enough space. Just plug it to a garden hose or tubing.
  • Warranty and Service – Backed with 1-year guarantee.

Something to keep in mind:

  • Though the pool is BPA and phthalate-free, please keep in mind that the non-slip textures are PVC, and not PP, HDPE or LDPE, which are even better.

BUY NOW


Intex

This is a lovely and fun non-toxic inflatable kids pool, and the best part is that it’s also completely non-toxic. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that the pool is made of ultra-strong thermal polymerization PVC, stitched with world-class technology. Additionally, it comes with fully streamlined design. Rigorous testing is made in accordance with international standards. It’s a great backyard kiddie pool.

And with so many extra features like an a water slide, ring toss, water sprayer attaches to garden hose and inflatable cushion on pool floor for extra comfort. . It’s big enough for a few children to play together and just the right height for toddlers to play without being too deep.

This lovely spacious family inflatable swimming pool can hold up to 2 adults plus 3-5 kids to enjoy a splashing pool party in the backyard. Additionally, this non-toxic inflatable pool is 50% thicker than most in the market, reducing the risk of punctures ensuring a lengthy life span. What’s more, it is made with Naphthalene-free and Lead Free, BPA-free material (CPSIA , CPC and ASTM certificates) for safety. It comes with a super soft cushion between the ground and kids, which increases protection.

What I love about it:

  • Spacious non-toxic pool.
  • Durable &Long Life Span.
  • Made of safe & non-toxic materials. Naphthalene-free, Lead-free, BPA-free kiddie pool(CPSIA , CPC and ASTM certificates).
  • Quick and Easy to set up and inflate.
  • Sturdy &Stable: 3 individual air chambers each with double intake and free flow exhaust valve which can withstand weight while preventing air or water leakage.

Something to keep in mind:

  • Some customers complain of leaks

BUY NOW


iBaseToy Splash Pad Sprinkler Product Image

This lovely non-toxic kiddie pool and sprinkler is made of soft and heavy duty PVC which is BPA free and phthalate free. This 68″ Diameter water-filled sprinkler pad can bring endless happiness for your toddlers. They’re sure to enjoy the sea world theme. Included are some colorful and cute marine animals. Children and pets will love to play in the splash mat and spray. Perfect for birthday parties or celebrations in the lawn, backyard, garden or yard.

The splash pad sprinkler is made of thick, environmental, non-toxic, and durable BPA-free material & CPC certified. 

What I love about it:

  • 68” Large Kids Splash Pad
  • Durable & Safe
  • Made of non-toxic and durable BPA-free material & CPC certified. 
  • Easy to Set Up and Store.
  • Adjustable Water Spray Height

Something to keep in mind:

  • The sprinkler is slightly smaller than appears.
  • Even though it claims to be BPA free and phthalate free, please keep in mind that it is still made with PVC (a material which I do not vouch for) and not a better grade plastic such as PP.

BUY NOW


Best Inflatable:

8. JONYJ Inflatable Pool

JONYJ Inflatable Pool product image

This is a great family-size pool. Sable inflatable kiddie pool holds up to two adults plus four kids. Enjoy a splashing pool party in the backyard. What’s great about it is that it is completely lead and phthalate free, and made using a high quality non-leaching plastic.

What I love about it:

  • Safe & durable: JONYJ non-toxic inflatable pool is made with Phthalate and lead free
  • 60% thicker material than most in the market, reducing the risk of punctures and ensuring a long service life.
  • The kids pool can be inflated in 3-4 minute by electric pump (not included). Additionally, it has two water valves, which double the drainage speed.
  • Strong and stable structure. This paddling pool has three individual air chambers and so can withstand extra weight while preventing air leakage
  • Vertical Drainpipe: 90° vertical drainpipe can easily facilitate outflow of water. So tidying up is quite simple.

Something to keep in mind:

  • Electric pump does not come included and must be purchased separately.

BUY NOW


Pool Accessories

Click N' Play Plastic Balls Product Image

So now you’ve got an overview of kids swimming pools, you need some toys to play with in it! Or if the weather isn’t great for swimming, just fill it with balls and let them jump right in. The problem is that most toys are also made from soft PVC plastic and carry the same risks. But this set of 200 BPA-free, phthalate free balls is a fantastic option and will provide your kids with limitless fun. They’ll brighten up your kiddie pool and invite your children to play, and they’re sturdy enough to stand up to stomping, throwing and even chewing(!) Alternatively, if you have a large pool, you could also get a value pack of 1000 balls.

What I love about it:

  • Great non-toxic pool toy
  • 6 bright colors
  • Crush-proof for years of pool play
  • Contain no BPA or phthalates

BUY NOW


Stearns Original Puddle Jumper Kids Life Jacket Product Image

This life jacket for kids is tested, and it is Coast Guard Approved. It is a type V and III floating device that can be worn inside and near the water. It’s a great accessory to have in a large kiddie pool, just for peace of mind, and can also be used on boats and at water parks. It is durable, colorful, playful and attractive. Most importantly it fits snugly and provides maximum protection. This life jacket comes with safety buckle snaps in the back and an adjustable strap and is suitable for children between 30- 50 pounds.

What I love about it:

  • Fits snugly
  • Cost-efficient
  • Provides maximum security

Something to keep in mind:

  • Quality could be better

BUY NOW


Stohlquist Toddler Life Jacket

Another great accessory to have on hand, though you might not need it for a home kiddie pool is a coast guard approved toddler life jacket. Made of durable material, this toddler and kids’ life jacket allows for added security with a quick-release buckle over the entry zipper. Additionally, it has a convenient grab-handle. It has a buoyancy level of 7lbs and is Coast Guard Approved. The jacket’s floating feature keeps the baby in a calm, face-up position. This product comes in a variety of sizes so it’s great for children with varying weights

What I love about it:

  • Very safe
  • Comfortable and fits well

Something to keep in mind:

  • Expensive, but worth the investment

BUY NOW

Materials and Chemicals to Avoid While Choosing Kiddie Pools

When choosing the best kiddie pool for your little one, avoid pools made of PVC or BPA plastics. These materials can expose your child to harmful chemicals and phthalates. PVC is a famous poison plastic because of the increased level of toxins involved in its production process and disposal techniques. It’s toxic not only to your children but also negatively impacts the environment with endocrine-disrupting phthalates.

Avoid PVC materials as the phthalates increase when the material is exposed to heat. Also, avoid recyclable PVC, which is usually found in inflatable pools. Don’t use chlorine in your kid’s pool because it’s harmful to your little ones. Keep the water clean using a pool cover, regularly refill the pool, and make sure your children are clean before they enter the pool.

Tips to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Kiddie Pools

Due to BPA (bisphenol-A), phthalates, and PVC, parents are reducing the amount of plastic toys and accessories in their households, including kiddie pools. Studies have connected PVC, BPA, and phthalates to endocrine problems, cancer, and reproductive issues. Children, especially, are vulnerable to chemical exposure.

According to Healthy Child, Healthy World, safe choices are plastics marked with the resin codes 2, 4 and 5. #2 stands for HDPE or high-density polyethylene, #4 stands for LDPE or low density polyethylene, and #5, which stands for PP or polypropylene. Avoid codes 1, 3, 6, and 7. Code #1 is polyethylene terephthalate, #3 is PVC or polyvinyl chloride, #6 is polystyrene, and #7 is PC or polycarbonate.

FAQs

  • Are Kiddie Pools Safe?

    Yes, kiddie pools are safe if you choose non-toxic versions. Choose pools made of safe materials and don’t use chlorine or chlorine-based solutions to keep the pool clean.

  • Are Inflatable Pools Toxic?

    Inflatable pools made of safe materials are non-toxic. Check the label of the product to review the composition of the materials.

  • How Do You Keep a Kiddie Pool Clean Without Chemicals?

    You can keep a kiddie pool clean without using chemicals by regularly changing the water. Also, consider a pool cover and make sure your kids are clean before entering the water. Don’t use toxic sunscreen and use organic bathing suits.

  • What Kind of Plastic Are Kiddie Pools Made Of?

    Kiddie pools are generally made of non-toxic plastics. You can check the codes of the plastic composition of the pools’ materials to ensure they’re non-toxic.


Join the Non-Toxic Community

Join The Safe Parent's list for exclusive content, product updates and more! (And for a limited time, also receive a FREE Hospital Bag Checklist).





The Bottom Line

By being mindful in your purchase of the best plastic kiddie pool and avoiding the nastier plastics, you’ll protect your children from cancer as well as reproductive and endocrine problems. These toxins even have the potential to lower IQ! So remember to check out the resin labels.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in some water play in a kids swimming pool to cool down and splash around with your little ones. Aim for kid and baby pools that have the #2, #4 or #5 labels (HDPE, LDPE and PP respectively). These are the safer plastics. Avoid PVC and anything that isn’t BPA-free – these chemicals can leach into your child’s sensitive skin. Look for a PVC-free BPA-free pool.

Grab one of these fun, safe  non-toxic kiddie pools and you’ll be all set to relax and make some fantastic memories this summer with your children – ones that will live on for years with no unwanted consequences for your family’s health! To choose the best kiddie pool, go for any of the hard plastic kiddie pools from the above shortlist.

Once you’ve chosen the best kiddie pool for your child to safely splash about in, make sure you protect you baby’s sensitive skin in the hot sun with a safe organic sunscreen. Or if you wish to play indoors, then check out these great non-toxic play mats.


12 thoughts on “Best Kiddie Pool 2021: Top Non-toxic & Hard Plastic Kiddie Pools”

  1. After looking at the homech pool I saw you said it’s non toxic and with Naphthalene. When I researched Naphthalene it says it’s used to make moth balls and is very toxic to humans.
    I’m confused and it’s looking like my 3yo will not be getting a play pool this year!

    Reply
    • Hi Ash,
      Should have made it clear, it is “naphthalene-free and lead-free” meaning NO naphthalene. I know it says “naphthalene and lead free” so it could be a little confusing. I have edited it to be more clear now. Hope that helps.

      Reply
  2. Two non-toxic, hard plastic pools that I’d add to your list are the “Step2 Play & Shade Pool for Toddlers | Plastic Kids Outdoor Pool” which is made of HDPE #4 and Polypropylene, two of the safest plastics around, selling at $79 on amazon. And, the H20 series that ACE Harware sells online, particularly the “H2O Elephant 100 gal. Round Plastic Wading Pool” which is fun, and also made of HDPE like the Step2, and only $31 (my family has this one).

    The problem with any of the soft inflatable plastics is that they all use some kind of endocrine disrupting “plasticizers” to soften the plastic. You can assume that even if they are BPA free, they definitely use another softener, like BPS or BPF, that is also estrogenizing and toxic, but that hasn’t been regulated yet. The question to ask the companies is if their plastic product has been tested for “estrogenic activity.” This covers all of the problematic plasticizers and will soon become an industry standard in the EU.

    Reply
    • Hi Annette,
      Thank you for taking the time to comment with some valuable insights. You are absolutely right. Step2 play and shade pool is great and I do love it. I’ve even reviewed it in the video at the start of the article. The H2O pool sounds like another great option.
      And I like the tip about checking for “estrogenic activity”. Will keep that in mind. x

      Reply
  3. Hi there! Thank you so much for gathering this information. Were you able to get in contact with the Sable pool company directly? I found their information on Amazon but I can’t seem to find contact information for them to ensure that their pool really is pthalate and lead free. I’m trying really hard to find a nice pool for my family that can fit all three of us but it’s been really hard. Would you recommend the Sable over the Intex option?

    Reply
    • Hi Megan,
      I was able to get to their website and they did mention that the pool is BPA-free. Wasn’t able to speak to anyone in person but this is what they mentioned about the pool on their company website:
      “Safe For Swimming and Playing: Environmental friendly PVC and BPA-free material withstands rough play, protects the inflatable pool from leaking, and ensures air trapped inside remains at a stable temperature”.
      On the Amazon product, they do mention that it is phthalate-free as well, but again couldn’t double confirm that.

      As for Intex vs. Sable, yes I would still prefer the Sable pool for the same above reason that they clearly state that they are BPA-free, while the Intex pool does not.

      Hope this helps you find the right pool that’s safe for your family.

      Shobita

      Reply
  4. Hi Shobita,

    I just purchased the Step 2 play and shade pool. It is made out of LDPE #4. Would you still recommend it knowing that?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Lexi,

      Of the Plastics, HDPE and LDPE are safer options, compared to others. LDPE #4 is flexible and tough but breakable and considered less toxic than other plastics, and relatively safe for use.

      According to Natural Baby Life:
      “Plastic number 4 (Low-density polyethylene or LDPE) is considered one of the safest plastics that you can use today and it has no known health concerns. It doesn’t leach chemicals into food or beverage and can be recycled. It’s used to make items such as plastic bags, milk cartons, mats, and playground equipment.”

      So you should be safe with this option in my opinion. (the only problem with this plastic is an environmental one, as it is not easily recycled).

      Hope this helps, and enjoy your new pool. 🙂
      x

      Reply
  5. Hi Shobita,

    i read about PVC and they said its very harmful for children. Why did you say Intex kid pool non-toxic? Just want to know what you think/research?

    Reply
    • Hi Quinn Ng,
      Yes PVC is definitely not a friend, and of all the options, I could find only one truly non-toxic pool, which is the EverEarth E Lite Waterproof Beach Blanket & Kiddie Pool, whose materials are toxin free.

      The others are mostly options with much better quality plastic, and not cheap inflatable plastic, so they are much less harmful, but not completely non-toxic. Unfortunately, due to the lack of choice in the market currently, I have currently included these slightly better options, to give readers a better idea.

      The intex pool as you have correctly noted uses PVC, but I’d done some research into the type of PVC used in it from the company website etc, and found that they use a much better grade PVC than many of the other kiddie pools. And this lowers its toxicity significantly. It is however not accurate to mention that it is non toxic and I have edited this part in the article now.

      Hope this helps and hope you find one in the list that suits your needs. If you do know of any other truly non-toxic pool option, do let me know, and I can look into it as it will benefit other readers as well.

      Reply
  6. I don’t think these are non-toxic options. The giant inflatable sea animal pool is made out of PVC, which will likely still leach BPA. The Intex pool is also made of PVC and nowhere in the description online does this say it is BPA, lead and/or phthalate free. Additionally, it has the Prop 65 warning on it which means it either contains chemicals known to be carcinogenic or that they haven’t tested it at all to see if it contains these chemicals. I’m trying to find the manufacturer’s website to contact them to confirm but am having trouble. That said, these do not seem to be truly non-toxic options.

    Reply
    • Hey,
      Thanks for your comment. You’re right about the Intex pool. I have included the disclaimer in the description, “However, do keep in mind that this pool is not a non-toxic option, but has been included as it uses a much better grade of PVC than many other options, and so it’s toxicity decreases” significantly.
      I have added it on this list as it is better grade plastic than most of its competitors, and I included it for those who wanted this size or design, as I wasn’t able to find any better alternative unfortunately.

      As for the Giant inflatable, I wasn’t able to find out whether it was BPA free, but the pool is definitely Pthalate free, and hence made it into the shortlist.

      As we’re talking about inflatable kiddie pools, the term itself lends to inflatable plastic, which is slightly toxic almost by definition. So the challenge here was to find less harmful ones The truly non-toxic pool I could find was the ‘EverEarth E Lite Waterproof Beach Blanket & Kiddie Pool’ which had a clear description of the non-toxicity of its materials. Hoping more and more manufactures become aware of the importance of avoiding toxic chemicals, and will hope to update this article as soon as this happens with all truly non-toxic options.

      Just trying to do my best. Hope this helps.

      Reply

Leave a Comment

48