8 Best Pool Leaf Rakes in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

There is nothing worse than getting ready to take a refreshing dip in the pool only to find the surface clogged with leaves. The only thing more disappointing is when you grab your handy leaf rake only to find it has a hole or a bent handle. All of these circumstances can add up to a frustrating and hot afternoon.

Even if you have yet to find yourself in this situation, a leaf rake for your pool is an essential item you need to have. If you are in the market for one or you have just acquired a pool, there are many options available, which makes the process of picking one out more difficult than it otherwise would be.

Not to worry, however. We have reviewed the eight best pool leaf rakes below. We will share all of the important info such as durability, effectiveness, and much more. If you need some additional information, we have provided a buyer’s guide with some bonus facts, as well. Keep on reading below!

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		ProTuff Pool Leaf Rake	Aluminum alloy frame Double-stitched netting Mold and tear-resistant	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		U.S. Pool Supply LR-080 Pool Leaf Rake	Chemical resistant nylon mesh Fits standard poles Durable plastic	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		Crystal Pool S100218A Silt Rake	Double-stitched nylon mesh Durable frame Won’t damage pool	CHECK PRICE
		Stargoods Pool Leaf Rake	Durable mesh Tapered lip Will pick up small and big debris	CHECK PRICE
		Sabuy Deep-Bag Swimming Pool Leaf	Double-layered mesh net Aluminum alloy frame Won’t damage pool	CHECK PRICE

The 8 Best Pool Leaf Rakes

1. ProTuff Pool Leaf Rake — Best Overall

Our overall pick for the best leaf rake is the ProTuff Pool Leaf Rake. This option is available in either a 13, 17, 19 or 23-inch basket that uses semi-fine mesh to keep your pool, pond or any other water system clear of debris. You will also have an 18-inch aluminum alloy handle with a winged side that will not twist, break, or bend.

You can attach this skimmer to a telescopic pole with the attached clips. What’s more, the abrasion-resistant netting won’t tear or snag giving you endless seasons of durable performance. It is made of double-stitched nylon, plus it is tapered for light and easy maneuverability. The netting is also mold and mildew-resistant and works great at removing debris, but it will not get clogged with silt or sand.

The ProTuff has a durable plastic frame around the net which is long-lasting yet will not scratch the surface of your pool. It has an easy glide scoop front to gather debris around the sides of the pool or the bottom. This pool rake can be used on any type of pool and will last season after season. Overall, this is our top pick for a pool skimmer.

2. U.S. Pool Supply LR-080 Pool Leaf Rake — Best Value

If you need a more affordable option, the U.S. Pool Supply LR-080 Pool Leaf Rake is a great low-cost pick on our list of the best pool leaf rakes. Available in a 20-inch basket, you can pick this leaf rake up in a single, double, three, four, or five-pack depending on your need.

The U.S. Pool Supply net comes without a handle but fits most standard-size telescoping or vacuum wands measuring 1¼ inches. The frame is made of a durable plastic that is safe to use on all pools, plus it will not damage any tiles or liners.

This net has a beveled edge that makes removing leaves from the bottom and sides of the pool a breeze. The netting itself is made of strong nylon that is chemical resistant, and it is 17 inches deep to collect as much debris as possible in one go. Beyond that, the only drawback to this model is the plastic frame is not as long-lasting or sturdy as our first choice. Otherwise, this is the best pool leaf rake for the money.

3. Crystal Pool S100218A Silt Rake — Premium Choice

The Crystal Pool S100218A Silt Rake is our next pick and a little more expensive than the others. This durable option has a tighter mesh netting that allows you to pick up smaller particles from your pool, as well as, removing the larger debris such as leaves and insects.

The Crystal Pool is easy to use with low drag. It has a double stretch nylon bag that is durable, chemical and mold-resistant, plus tear and abrasion-free. The durable plastic rim has an easy slide sides, so you will not scratch your pool tile or get it caught on the lining or any other material that could become damaged.

The outer plastic-frame is reinforced with heavy-duty metal attached to a strong handle. The only drawback of note with this option is you will need to purchase the corresponding pole to have any reach with the basket. Also, as mentioned, this rake is more expensive.

4. Stargoods Pool Leaf Rake

The Stargoods Pool Leaf Rake is a 17.5-inch mesh net bag surrounded by a durable plastic frame. The netting consists of a fine mesh that will simultaneously pick up the smaller particles and the bigger debris that litters your pool.

The Stargoods features an easy-to-use flat lip and rounded corners making gathering debris from the floor and sides of the pool a breeze. One drawback of note, however, is the drag is a little stronger on this model than on others. Besides that, this option will not damage tiling or any other aspect of your pool.

This net also has a universal handle that fits all standard telescopic poles, so you will easily be able to reach the bottom of your pool. The handle is also reinforced for durability. Be advised, however, the mesh net does not have any mold or chemical resistance, so it will not last as long as others.

5. Sabuy Deep-Bag Swimming Pool Leaf

If you are in the market for a bigger 18-inch pool rake, the Sabuy Deep-Bag Swimming Pool Leaf is a good option for you. The durable frame is made of a strong aluminum alloy that will not twist, dent, or break. Be advised, though, this model is heavier than others and has more drag.

On the other hand, this net is made with double-layer polypropylene, plus it has a winged handle for stability. What’s more, the net is tapered to give you further control. This is a great option for removing silt, dirt, and also bigger items such as leaves. The netting is abrasion-resistant, yet it has not been treated to fight mold.

You also want to note that this leaf rake doesn’t have a tapered lip, although the edges are rounded to make going around the sides easier. The Sabuy will also not damage any part of your pool, either. Finally, this option will fit most standard size extension poles.

6. Intex 29051E Leaf Rake

Up next we have the Intex 29051E Leaf Rake. This is a 17-inch mesh netting that is great for cleaning to the bottom reaches of your pool. Right away, we want to note that this option is only compatible with a 1-3/16-inch extension pole which can be more difficult to locate.

Beyond that, the net on this option is made of a durable nylon material. The wider mesh is great for picking up leaves and other large debris, however, it is not effective at eliminating smaller particles. That being said, it does have rounded edges and a tapered lip so cleaning off the sides and bottom is simple. What’s more, it will not harm tiling or lining.

Unfortunately, the plastic frame on the Intex is flimsy and prone to break. It is not recommended for larger pools with a significant amount of debris. What’s more, the mesh net itself is not abrasion-resistant nor does it have any mold-fighting abilities.

7. Swimline 8040 Deep-Bag Pool Rake

Our seventh pick is the Swimline 8040 Deep-bag Pool Rake. This is a deep and wide net that can clean up leaves, insects, sticks, and other debris that could make its way into your pool. That being said, with the size of the basket, the drag is heavy and will require a decent amount of force.

Beyond that, the frame is made of a durable plastic that will not warp or break. It has rounded edges and a tapered lip, yet if you are not careful, it can chip tile or catch on linings and covers. You should also note that the net itself is prone to tear and does not have a long life span.

On a brighter note, the Swimline attaches to most standard telescopic poles. What’s more, the handle is strong and will not bend. Finally, the mesh of the netting is also prone to mold if not dried out properly.

8. Poolmaster Stanley 21882 Pool Leaf Rake

Our final pick is the Poolmaster Stanley 21882 Pool leaf Rake. This model has a solid core aluminum frame that unfortunately can make the whole rake heavy with a significant amount of drag. On the other hand, it has a double mesh net that is capable of removing large and small particles from your pool.

The Poolmaster has a sloping lip to help collect debris from the bottom and sides of your pool. Unfortunately, the design of this net causes the debris to scatter instead of being pulled into it. You should also note that the net is not durable and tends to rip and snag easily.

Also, you want to consider that this leaf rake can also cause scratches on your pool’s tile because of the metal sides. Overall, because of the poor performance of this model, it is our least favorite option for a pool leaf rake.

Buyer’s Guide – Finding the Best Pool Leaf Rake

Shopping Tips

Having a solid leaf rake at your side is an important aspect of pool maintenance. Finding the right choice can be more difficult, however. To further help you locate the right one for you, take a look at some of these shopping tips below:

• Mesh: When it comes to the mesh netting for your rake, it is important to find a middle ground. The weave should be tight enough to catch smaller particles, but loose enough so it is not going to put an unnecessary strain on the pole due to a heavy drag.
• Frame: This is another important part of the pool rake scenario. The frame needs to be strong to handle the pressure of the drag. Not only just that, but curved corners and a beveled lip allow you to clean the sides and bottom of the pool without creating damage to the tiles of the lining.
• Drag: The drag force of your pool rake is determined by the size of the net and the mesh. The bigger the net and the tighter the mesh, the harder it will be to clean out your pool. A considerable amount of drag can make a small pool seem like a big job.
• Extension pole: Unless you are cleaning out a kiddy pool, you are going to need an extension pole to reach the bottom debris in your swimming pool. Most leaf rakes do not come with the pole, either, so the most important thing here is to make sure you are purchasing a net that will fit a universal handle.
• Net Resistance: Even over a short summer season, your pool leaf rake can take a lot of abuse. The daily wear and tear along with debris such as insects and tree branches can cause tears and other damage to occur. Not only that, but constantly submerging it in water will allow mold and mildew to grow if you are not careful. Thankfully, a lot of nets/mesh come with abrasion and mold resistance to keep your pool tool in good condition for longer.

Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed our reviews on the eight best pool leaf rakes. As an important component of your summer fun, it is important to find one that is going to last you through the whole season while also being able to keep your pool squeaky clean.

If you are looking for the best of the best pool leaf rakes, The ProTuffPool Leaf Rake is our first choice. Extremely durable and dependable, you will not have to worry about damaging your pool tile with this option. If you need a more affordable option, the U.S. Pool Supply LR-080 Pool Leaf Rake is a great option for a lower cost.

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