If you’re a pool lover, it can be very costly to invest in a robotic unit. However, a handheld vacuum can be just what you need. Not only will they keep your pool sparkling clean but comes with a much more affordable price tag.
These handheld pool vacuums have seen a massive surge in demand, and as a result, manufacturers have flooded the market with various models. If you’re looking for the best handheld pool vacuum, it can be very challenging to find the most suitable one. Don’t worry; we’ve done the hard part for you.
Through our intensive research and personal use, we present to you the best manual pool vacuums you can find in the market. They come with diverse features and various price points.
Best Handheld Pool Vacuum Reviews
1. Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li: Best Overall
Key Features:
- Features rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Supports 60 minutes continuous run-time
- Fitted with a high-capacity reusable filter
- Comes with a convenient push-button power switch
If you’re on the hunt for an excellent battery powered pool vacuum cleaner, then this Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li is a great option. Fitted with a high-flow suction pump, it’s capable of sucking up virtually any debris that creeps its way to the bottom of your swimming pool. With its state-of-the-art suction, it can make your pool liner sparkling clean.
It also comes with a highly-efficient reusable filter that can pick up a decent amount of debris before you need to rinse it. Additionally, you can purchase a separate sand and silt filter for extra filtering power.
You can use the Pool Blaster vacuum for various types of pool liners, and it will also not causes damage to delicate materials like vinyl. For those stronger pool floors, it also comes with a roller brush head for deep cleaning experience.
One of the most impressive features of this unit is its extra-long battery life. Its an upgrade over the previous Max models and particularly designed for maximum convenience and efficiency. At 1 hour of run time, it outshines other handheld pool vacu
ums with a much hefty price tag. It’s easily one of the best rechargeable pool vacuum cleaners we’ve tested.
Pros:
- Impressive suction power
- Long operation with a lithium powered battery
- Lightweight and portable
- Vacuum equally to hard to reach areas
- Reusable filter bag
- Cordless vacuuming
Cons:
- Makes noise
- Small dust bag
2. OASE 032232 Pondovac 4 Pond Vacuum Cleaner
Key Features:
- Features a wattage of 1800w
- 12ft power cord length
- 110-120v/60hz power requirement
- Weighs 30 pounds
If you want a portable pool vacuum with a compact design, the Pondovac 4 from OASE is an excellent option. It doesn’t only have a great design but comes with a lot of useful features too.
This unit comes with 1800 watts of power, making it very suitable for deeper and larger pools. Not only that, but you can also clean your pond with it. Moreover, it features a flat surface nozzle that allows you clean the bottom of your pool in no time. Also, the unit comes with a special nozzle for dealing with string algae.
One of the great characteristics of this handheld vacuum is its patented two chamber system which is really good for non-stop operation. Moreover, there is a set of 4 suction pipes so you can twist them at your will to achieve different cleaning job.
This portable pool vacuum also features a base to easily store your extension pipes and nozzles. Thanks to the adjustable handle and wheels, you’ll have no problems moving the unit around your pool area. Additionally, a high-quality debris collection bag is also provided for cleaning your pools debris and dirt.
If you have a large pool, this is a great choice. Despite the high price tag, we think the price is worth it, thanks to the multi-purpose characteristic and consistent suction power. You also get a two-year warranty from OASE, so you’ll be using it for a long time. If you have any problems, you have the trust of OASE.
Pros:
- Multiple chamber for great suction power
- Easy to assemble
- Comes with a lot of useful attachments
- Excellent for deep cleaning and larger pools
- Very portable
- Can be used as a wet vac
Cons:
- The collection bag is too small
- Its a pricey unit
- Not recommended for salt water pool
3. Poolmaster 28300 Pool Leaf Vacuum
Key Features:
- Features 4 multi-directional wheels
- 15-inch diameter vacuum
- Specifically designed for eliminating leaves and debris
- Underside comes with eight high-pressure water jets
In our search for the best handheld pool vacuum cleaners, this product from Poolmaster left a very good impression as well. The most impressive feature of this unit is that it doesn’t need a battery to function. After you connect it’s eight water nozzles to a water supply, it generates a strong suction to swallow up debris and leaves into its suction bag.
It also features a 15-inch opening capable of accommodating a huge amount of trash. This makes it a perfect vacuum for swimming pools with a vast amount of debris and leaves. This handheld pool vacuum cleaner also features a quick disconnect adapter that can easily fit in any standard size garden hose.
If you’re not a fan of moving around a lot and want a portable pool vacuum, the Poolmaster 28300 leaf vacuum features four multi-directional wheels for easy maneuvering and navigation. It’s also very lightweight, making transportation very easy.
This unit also comes with a reusable leaf bag that easily fits into the vacuums neck, and the vacuum rick aids in tightly securing the leaf bag.
Pros:
- Does not require batteries to function
- Well-built
- Weight only 1.82 pounds
- Easy to navigate
- Re-usable leaf bag
- Works great for large leaves
Cons:
- Not a good option for algae or acorns
- Does not come with handle.
4. PoolSupplyTown Mini Jet Vac: Best Portable Pool vacuum
Key Features:
- Attaches to any garden hose
- Can fit standard 1-1/4-inch pole
- Doesn’t require batteries to operate
- Plastic-build
- Comes with five piece pole attachments
The Mini Jet Vacuum from PoolSupplyTown is easily one of the best portable pool vacuum cleaners we’ve tested. You don’t need electricity or batteries for this portable pool vacuum cleaner; it only needs tap water to eliminate dirt and other unwanted particles.
After you install it, there’s a space for attaching a water hose. Once you’re done, open water to run through and set your vacuum in the pool. It will cause a venturi effect, which effectively sucks up leaves and dirt into the vacuums collection bag.
It also features a brush-end; it lightly scrubs your pool’s bottom without causing any damages and provides effective results. The Mini Jet Vacuum also comes with integrated wheels allowing you to easily move around the pool bottom.
It’s also very convenient and easy to use. There isn’t a lot of attachments. All you have to do is connect this vacuum to your garden hose, and you’re good to go. Since you don’t have to fix it to a filter pump, it consumes very little electricity.
Pros:
- Very portable and easy to use
- Can pick up small rocks, sand and silt.
- Very affordable but efficient.
- Can clean pool bottom effectively.
- Does a great job of cleaning intex pool.
Cons:
- No integrated handle or pole
- No setup direction.
5. Pentair R201276 214 Pro Vac
Key Features:
- Adjustable wheels
- Comes with 1-1/2-inch hose swivel connection
- Unique suction chamber
- Features stainless tell bolt and nut, ball bearing wheels, and metal swivel handle
With the right handheld pool vacuum, you can cut your work to half, and that’s precisely what Pentair R201276 214 Pro Vac is good at. Even with low flow function, this unit from Pentair can clean the bottom of your pool effectively in half the time.
For a deep cleaning experience, it has a unique suction chamber that provides equal vacuum velocity from both ends and from the front and back as well. And with the full-width flex strips, debris is gathered in the suction chamber and quickly eliminated.
This vacuums strategically positioned lead weight ensures ease of operation and optimal balance. The wheels are also adjustable so you can conveniently increase or decrease the vacuum velocity according to your preference. It also easily connects with any pool pole, and the vacuum’s blue deck is slightly flexible, making it possible to contour to rounder surfaces.
The wheels roll smoothly, and it’s easy to roll up the vacuum to the side of the pool since it features curved edges.
Pros:
- Very durable
- Easily connects to pool pole or vacuum hose
- Comes with a swivel hose connection
Cons:
- Expensive
6. Kokido Telsa 30 Telescopic: Best battery operated pool vacuum
Key Features:
- Rechargeable electric pool vacuum cleaner
- Features only one button for ease of use
- Compact design
- Includes two micro-filters for deep cleaning
Not only is the Kokido Telsa 30 very durable, but it also comes with a very compact design. For spot cleaning and thorough sweep passes, this vacuum is very convenient to use. It also comes with an affordable price tag. Two micro filters for deep cleaning and a reusable filter is also provided.
It efficiently cleans leaves, sand, and other debris and comes in stunning blue color and seamlessly blends in with the rest of your environment. With a single charge, this battery operated vacuum cleaner can run continuously for 45 minutes of cleaning.
This handheld pool vacuum also comes with an easy push button to conveniently switch on and off for spot or regular cleaning. Another significant advantage is that this unit weighs only 3 pounds making it very portable and easy to use.
In our review, this product registers as one of the best rechargeable pool vacuum cleaners we’ve tested. If you’re under a budget but still don’t want to compromise on quality, this is a must-have.
Pros:
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Long battery life
- Easy push button
Cons:
- Pole attachment can be flimsy
7. Intex Handheld Rechargeable Vacuum
Key Features:
- In-built rechargeable batteries
- Automatic shutoff feature
- Comes with two interchangeable brush heads
- Features a 94in telescoping aluminum pole
For a convenient cleaning experience, this handheld pool vacuum cleaner comes with no cable or cords. It also possesses an automatic shut off feature that shuts off once you take the unit out of your pool water. It’s a great feature that helps to save battery when not in use.
This unit has a well-built design and a Ni-MH re
chargeable battery built-in that provides up to 50 minutes of cleaning on a single charge. If you’re used to cleaning for long periods, this can be an excellent product for you.
A 94in lightweight telescopic pole is also provided, allowing you to extend your reach and clean hard to reach places and corners of your pool. The Intex Handheld Rechargeable Vacuum also comes with an IPX8 waterproof switch that doesn’t malfunction even when submerged in water.
It also weighs just 4.8 pounds making it a portable and easy to use handheld pool vacuum cleaner.
In our review of the best handheld pool vacuum cleaners, we were really impressed by the ease of use and sturdy built of this unit from Intex.
Pros:
- Two interchangeable brush heads provided
- No cables
- Portable and lightweight
Cons:
- Suction is average
8. Bestway 58422E-BW Aqua Powercell
Key Features:
- Features rechargeable battery
- Weighs 4.65 pounds
- Comes with two interchangeable heads
- Full length of 87 inches
The Bestway 58422E-BW is an excellent handheld pool vacuum that effectively cleans sand, dirt, leaves, and debris. It requires minimal maintenance and has been created to last a very long time. With this unit, you don’t have to worry about limited reach or short cables as its battery operated.
After its fully charged, this handheld pool vacuum cleaner can last up to 40 continuous minutes on a single charge. It’s adequate for cleaning small and medium-sized pools. Weighing only 4.65 pounds, handling this unit will be a breeze. You can easily clean every corner of your pool with this product.
For a deep cleaning experience, it also comes with two interchangeable heads, one for cleaning surfaces and another for cleaning the corners of your pool. The suction is also good enough to clean old debris and dirt. The filter bag is also easy to remove and empty. With the included 5 section poles, the total length of this unit is 87 inches providing you with incredible reach.
Pros:
- Rechargeable battery
- Lightweight
- Filters water and eliminates debris
Cons:
- Not ideal for picking up sand
9. Bestway 58422E-BW Aqua Powercell
Key Features:
- 13-inch wide body
- Easy to submerge
- Suitable with standard pool poles and vacuum hose
- Weighs only 2 pounds
If you have a vinyl liner pool, this product from Poolmaster is an excellent choice. It’s not just lightweight but is also durable and very easy to use. With its 13-inch-wide body, this unit can cover a large area of your pool. The unique head design makes it very suitable for deep cleaning of vinyl liner pools. Its also constructed with super durable ABS plastic so you’ll be using it for a long time. It certainly won’t break or cracks easily.
It’s also excellent for cleaning debris off your pool. While using, you can smoothly adjust the suction for efficient cleaning. You just need to adjust the air valves according to your preference. Additionally, you don’t need to invest in special add-ons to use the vacuum’s head. It easily fits most standard pool poles.
The Poolmaster AIR Vinyl Liner Swimming Pool Vacuum is available in various sizes and designs, and you can use it with numerous vacuum hoses without decreasing its performance in any way. At just 2 pounds, you’ll have no problem moving it around.
Pros:
- Large plastic head
- Adjustable suction level
- Durable built
Cons:
- Head doesn’t swivel
This brings us to the end of our list of the best handheld pool cleaners in the market. However, before purchasing and after purchasing, there are certain essential factors you should know about. Here is the ultimate handheld pool vacuum cleaner buying guide.
Why Do You Need A Handheld Pool Vacuum Cleaner?
If you want to keep your pool clean and free of unwanted substances without splurging a hefty amount of money, a handheld pool vacuum cleaner is the right product for you. They have reliable batteries and are lightweight, allowing you to clean your pools efficiently. Especially if you have small or medium-sized pools, they can be very efficient. They come in various features, so you’re sure to find one for your needs.
If you like spending time in your pool, it’s essential that you keep it as clean and hygienic as possible, and these devices are just perfect for that. It’s not just ideal for debris, but a high-quality handheld pool vacuum cleaner can effectively eliminate a fair amount of bacteria.
If you prefer cleaning your pools manually, a rechargeable vacuum is an excellent option. You should also invest in a quality pool cover, which can be very useful in preventing large debris from entering your pool.
Thanks to the arrival of budget battery operated vacuum cleaners, spot cleaning has become very easy. They are easy to use and effectively eliminate unwanted substances like insects, flower petals, leaves, sand, and dirt from your pool water. They can also effectively remove algae before they develop into an infestation and lead to major problems.
A handheld pool vacuum cleaner will prevent all the above particles from reaching your pool filter basket or pool pump, particularly algae growing on the pool’s sides or debris found at the pool’s bottom where water generally doesn’t move quickly enough t
o prevent build-up. Remember that cloudy water is a sign that your vacuum requires a thorough cleaning.
Overall, if you want to enjoy your pool, it’s critical that it’s healthy and free from debris and other substances. A handheld pool vacuum offers you an easy, affordable, and hassle-free way of achieving that. However, if you have a large pool, a handheld pool cleaner might not be a suitable investment.
How Do You Use A Handheld Pool Vacuum?
Using a handheld pool vacuum is very easy and straightforward. All you need is a vacuum hose, a vacuum head, and a telescopic pole. Additionally, you can use a skim vac, or you can directly put the hose inside the skimmer.
Firstly, attach the vacuum head on one side of the telescopic pole and fix the hose to the head of the vacuum. After that, insert the vacuum head inside the pool. Next, put the hose’s other end against a return jet to fill up the hose with water. After bubbles stop rising from the head, the vacuums hose will be full of water.
Detach the skimmer from your basket and using your hands, cup the hose, and put it into the open suction hole. Alternatively, you can also use a skimmer vacuum head. Finally, all you have to do is slowly vacuum your pool.
Remember to vacuum slowly so that you don’t kick off any debris. A handheld vacuum is an easy and quick way of keeping your pool hygienic and clean.
Pro Tips:
If you don’t know how to clean a pool manually or use a handheld pool cleaner to clean your pool, therefore you can watch the following video for more information.
Best Manual Pool Vacuum Cleaner: Buying Guide
Handheld/Manual pool vacuum cleaners come with various features and sizes. However, when looking for the best manual pool cleaner, there are certain factors you must prioritize. In our list of the best handheld pool vacuum cleaners, we also paid extra attention to the following factors:
Battery:
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and battery-operated vacuum cleaner, it’s essential that you look for a unit with an in-built rechargeable battery that can be easily recharged in between your cleaning sessions. Generally, the batteries are nickel-metal hydride or lithium-ion. On average, it can take up to four hours to charge them and can run continuously for more than 30 minutes. Some units last longer, but the power gradually decreases as the battery drains.
Filters:
Another essential feature is an efficient and preferably multi-layer filter system capable of capturing the algae, twigs, dust, dirt, and other unwanted particles allowing the cleaner to optimally function even if the filter is almost full.
The bag:
You must also invest in a unit with a larger bag. The bigger the bag, the more debris it can collect before you need to empty the bag. However, most handheld vacuum cleaners don’t come in large bags. If you find a unit that offers about 20-30% more capacity, you should go for it.
Quality of the parts:
Just like your traditional vacuum cleaner, handheld vacuum cleaners consist of three parts- the bags, the filter and the vacuum head and, in some cases, the pole along with the battery bag. Make sure that the parts are made of durable and high-quality materials.
Final Words:
Which one should you go for? Well, it all comes to your preference. In our list of the best handheld pool vacuum cleaners, the overall best product is the Water Tech Pool Blaster Max Li. We absolutely love its power, built and batter.
The OASE 032232 Pondovac 4 Pond Vacuum Cleaner, with its awesome suction power, came in a close second place
However, if you want a more lightweight option, the Intex Handheld Rechargeable Vacuum, Poolmaster AIR Vinyl Liner Swimming Pool Vacuum are excellent choices.
If battery life and ease of use are essential, the Kokido Telsa 30 Telescopic Rechargeable Electric Pool Vacuum Cleaner is a great buy.