Your automatic pool cover does a lot of work keeping your pool clean, but the
cover itself needs some attention too. Regular cleaning helps extend the life
of the fabric, keeps it looking good, and prevents buildup from breaking
down the material over time. The good news is that basic pool cover
maintenance is something most homeowners can handle on their own with
the right products and a little time.
Here is how to do it, and what to watch for along the way.
How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Cover?
A good rule of thumb is to give your cover a general maintenance cleaning at
least a few times a year, with lighter rinses in between as needed. If your pool
is in an area with heavy tree coverage, lots of dust, or high sun exposure, you
may want to clean it more frequently. The longer dirt, debris, and pool
chemicals are left sitting on the fabric, the more work they do breaking it
down.
What You Will Need
You do not need much to get the job done right. A soft bristle brush, a garden
hose, and the right cleaning products are really all it takes. Using products
that are specifically designed for vinyl pool cover fabric matters here since
harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners can do more damage than good.
Mizu makes two products designed specifically for this:
The Mizu Pool Cover Cleaner ($20.79) is formulated for vinyl automatic pool
covers and removes tough dirt and buildup without damaging the fabric.
Apply it liberally and scrub with a soft bristle brush to work through even
stubborn messes.
The Mizu UV Protectant and Conditioner ($20.79) is applied after cleaning and
is designed to shield the vinyl against sun damage, cracking, fading, and
staining. Apply it with a microfiber brush or towel, let it dry, and your cover is
protected. Think of it like sunscreen for your pool cover.
If you want both, the Pool Cover Care Bundle ($34.99) includes both products
together.
Step by Step: Cleaning Your Pool Cover
Start by rinsing the cover with a garden hose to remove loose debris and dirt
from the surface. If you have a pool cover pump, place it on the cover while
you clean to help prevent water from building up as you rinse. Once the
surface is wet, apply the Mizu Pool Cover Cleaner and work it in with a soft
bristle brush using circular motions. Pay extra attention to areas with visible
staining or buildup. Rinse thoroughly when done and allow the cover to dry
before applying the UV Protectant. Once dry, apply the conditioner evenly
across the surface with a microfiber towel or brush and let it set.
That is really it for a standard cleaning. The whole process takes about 30 to
45 minutes depending on the size of your cover.
What to Look for While You Are Out There
While you are cleaning, take a minute to inspect the fabric up close. Look for
any signs of fraying, stiffness, discoloration, or the white scrim fibers
beginning to show through. These can be early signs that your fabric is
starting to wear down and may need professional attention sooner rather
than later.
When It Makes Sense to Bring in a Pro
DIY cleaning is great for regular upkeep, but it is not a substitute for a
professional service. Mizu offers a Complete System Maintenance (CSM) that
goes well beyond what a hose and brush can do. Our techs perform a deep
cleaning, power washing, a 14-point inspection, and replacement of key wear
components to make sure your entire cover system is running the way it
should.
If your cover has not had a professional service in a while, or if you are noticing
any mechanical issues, strange noises, or visible wear on the fabric or
hardware, it is worth booking a CSM. Staying ahead of those issues is almost
always less costly than dealing with them after they become a bigger
problem.
Regular cleaning at home keeps your cover looking good between visits. A
professional service keeps the whole system healthy for the long run. Both
matter.
