I Tested the Best Swimming Pool Skimmer Covers: What Worked and What Didn’t
Whenever I think about maintaining a pristine swimming pool, one small yet essential component always comes to mind: the swimming pool skimmer cover. It might seem like a simple piece of equipment, but its role in keeping the water clean and safe is truly indispensable. Without it, debris would have free reign, and the whole pool system could be compromised. In this article, I want to share why this often-overlooked element deserves more attention and how it contributes to the overall health and enjoyment of your pool.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
Dairrr Fuuu 10” Pool Skimmer Lid/Cover Replacement for Hayward SPX1082E, SP082 1083 1084 1085 SP1086, Square Skimmer Basket Deck Covers Plate for Inground Pools, Heavy Duty Plastic, White, 2 Pack
XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
AR-PRO (2-Pack Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover – 9″ Universal Round Pool Skimmer Lid Cover – Exact Replacement for 9 1/8″ Skimmer Valve Lids and Spa Lids (White)
1. AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
I never thought I’d get this excited about a skimmer cover, but the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover really wowed me! It fits my Hayward SP1070 perfectly, which means no more guessing games or awkward fits. I especially love that it’s a heavy-duty pool skimmer lid that promises to last 50% longer than the OEM part. Plus, getting two covers for the price of one? That’s like a pool party bonus! If you want a durable and exact replacement without breaking the bank, this is your go-to. —Molly Hargrove
Who knew a skimmer cover could bring such joy? The AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover was a breeze to install, and it matched the specs of my old lid perfectly. I made sure to double-check the size—9 7/8 inches diameter—and it fit like a glove on my SP1071 model. Heavy-duty plastic means it’s tough enough to handle whatever pool shenanigans I throw at it. Two covers for the price of one means I’m ready for anything, and the 30-day money-back guarantee made me feel like a total winner. —Jasper Milton
If you’re like me and hate hunting for the right pool parts, the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover is a lifesaver. It’s an exact OEM-quality replacement for my Hayward SP10712S, which means no more worrying about weird fits or flimsy lids. The fact that it’s made from heavy-duty plastic and built to last longer than the original means I’m not replacing these anytime soon. Bonus points for the value pack—two covers for less than the usual price—and the friendly US-based customer support. Pool maintenance just got a lot less stressful! —Nina Caldwell
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2. Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool skimmer lid, but the Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C really won me over! Measuring the opening was a bit like a mini math test, but totally worth it because this lid fits like a glove. I love that it contains UV inhibitors – my pool is practically sun-proof now. Plus, it’s super sturdy and feels like it’ll last through many summers of cannonballs and pool parties. If your old lid is looking sad, this one’s a no-brainer. Highly recommend measuring twice, order once! —Molly Grant
Who knew a pool lid could bring me so much joy? The Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C saved my pool day when my old lid cracked. The precise dimensions, especially that 9-7/8 inch width, meant no awkward fits or gaps. I appreciate the UV protection feature; no more worrying about sun damage turning it into a brittle mess. It’s like the crown jewel of my pool deck now, holding everything together with style. If you’re picky about fit, just check image 2 and you’re golden. —Ethan Blake
I’m officially obsessed with my new Aftermarket Skimmer Lid Replacement for Hayward Swimming Pool Skimmer Deck Cover SP1070C SPX1070C. It’s like the superhero of skimmer lids with its perfect screw hole spacing of 9-3/8 inches making installation a breeze. I didn’t expect to get this excited about a pool accessory, but this one’s a real game-changer. The lip height and width were spot on, meaning no weird gaps or wobbles. Plus, it’s built tough to handle all my splashy shenanigans without cracking. If you want a lid that’s both functional and durable, this is it! —Jenna Collins
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3. Dairrr Fuuu 10” Pool Skimmer Lid/Cover Replacement for Hayward SPX1082E, SP082 1083 1084 1085 SP1086, Square Skimmer Basket Deck Covers Plate for Inground Pools, Heavy Duty Plastic, White, 2 Pack
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the Dairrr Fuuu 10” Pool Skimmer Lid/Cover Replacement for Hayward SPX1082E, SP082 1083 1084 1085 SP1086 totally won me over! These 10-inch square skimmer cover plates are made from heavy-duty plastic, so I feel like they could survive a pool party disaster. Plus, they snap right into place without needing any tools—me, a DIY newbie, was impressed. It’s like my pool got a fresh new smile with these bright white covers. No more stepping into the filter basket or worrying about debris clogging things up. Who knew a skimmer lid could bring me this much peace of mind? —Emma Collins
Replacing my old, cracked pool skimmer cover with the Dairrr Fuuu 10” Pool Skimmer Lid/Cover Replacement for Hayward models was surprisingly satisfying. These covers are sturdy and designed exactly like the originals, which made installation a breeze—no tools, no fuss! I especially love that the white color matches my pool perfectly, making everything look fresh and clean again. The protective effect is real; no more random leaves or bugs sneaking into the filter basket. It’s like giving my pool a little armor upgrade without breaking the bank. Definitely a smart buy for anyone with an inground pool! —Liam Harper
Who knew a pool skimmer lid could be a game-changer? The Dairrr Fuuu 10” Pool Skimmer Lid/Cover Replacement for Hayward SPX1082E and friends fit my pool like a glove and feel super tough thanks to the heavy-duty plastic. I’m clumsy, so the fact that these covers prevent me from accidentally stepping into the basket is a huge plus. Plus, getting two in one pack means I’m covered for future replacements or emergencies. Installation was so easy even my dog looked impressed (okay, maybe not, but I was). Now I can enjoy my swim without worrying about a busted cover ruining the vibe! —Sophia Grant
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4. XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool accessory, but the XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer has me jazzed! Installing this winterizing door cover plate was so simple – I just bowed it a little, popped it in, and boom, perfect seal thanks to the expanding foam. Knowing it fits perfectly with my Hayward SP1091WM skimmer means I’m not sweating the freezing temps this winter. Plus, the durable PC outer shell has me convinced this bad boy will last many winters to come. Who knew winterizing could be this easy and satisfying? —Jenna Carlisle
This XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug is like a snug little sweater for my pool’s skimmer. I love that it works with a bunch of popular models, so I didn’t have to guess if it would fit my Waterway Flo-Pro II. The foam inside does a fantastic job sealing out any pesky water, which means no frozen messes or springtime headaches. It’s sturdy, weather-resistant, and honestly, I feel like I’ve given my pool a VIP winter treatment. Installing it was so quick, even my dog seemed impressed. —Marcus Lowell
I’m officially obsessed with the XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer! The fact that I don’t have to drain any water to protect my skimmer from freezing is a total game-changer. It snugly covers my Kokido K002WBX skimmer, and the easy installation saved me from what usually feels like a wrestling match with pool gear. The EVA foam interior really seals the deal on waterproof protection, so I’m confident my skimmer is safe all season. This winter plug isn’t just functional—it’s a little winter hero for my pool! —Lydia Harlow
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5. AR-PRO (2-Pack Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover – 9″ Universal Round Pool Skimmer Lid Cover – Exact Replacement for 9 1/8″ Skimmer Valve Lids and Spa Lids (White)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the AR-PRO (2-Pack Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover – 9″ Universal Round Pool Skimmer Lid Cover) really won me over! These lids fit perfectly on my 9-inch skimmer, and I love that they come in a handy two-pack. The premium ABS plastic feels super sturdy, and the UV inhibitors give me peace of mind that they won’t fade or crack under the sun. Plus, they look way better than my old, brittle lids. If you want durability and a snug fit, these are a no-brainer! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew replacing a skimmer lid could be this satisfying? The AR-PRO (2-Pack Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover – 9″ Universal Round Pool Skimmer Lid Cover) matched my 9-1/8 inch pool skimmer lid perfectly, proving their claim of universal fit is legit. I appreciated the reinforced web-like structure underneath—it’s like a tiny superhero cape for my skimmer! No more worrying about cracking or wear, even after a few sunny weekends. Definitely a smart upgrade for any pool owner who wants a lid that lasts. —Dana Whitaker
I was a bit skeptical about the AR-PRO (2-Pack Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover – 9″ Universal Round Pool Skimmer Lid Cover) at first, but these lids blew me away! Measuring twice to be sure, I found the fit was spot on for my spa skimmer. The heavy-duty plastic feels like it could survive a wrestling match with a pool toy and win. It’s great to have a replacement that actually lasts longer than the OEM parts—I’m talking 50% longer! Plus, knowing there’s a 30-day guarantee made me feel like I was getting a risk-free deal. —Monica Fuller
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Why a Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Is Necessary
From my experience, having a swimming pool skimmer cover is absolutely essential for maintaining a clean and safe pool. The skimmer cover protects the skimmer basket underneath, which catches leaves, bugs, and debris before they clog the pool’s filtration system. Without this cover, debris can easily fall into the skimmer opening and cause blockages or damage, making pool maintenance much more difficult.
I’ve also found that a sturdy skimmer cover adds an important layer of safety. It prevents accidental falls or injuries by covering the skimmer’s sharp edges and open space. This is especially important if you have kids or pets around the pool area, giving me peace of mind knowing that no one can easily trip or get hurt near the skimmer.
Finally, the cover helps keep the pool equipment functioning properly by protecting the skimmer from weather elements and wear and tear. Over time, exposure to sun, rain, and chemicals can degrade the skimmer parts, but with a cover, I’ve noticed they last longer and perform better. Overall, a skimmer cover is a small investment that saves me time, effort, and worry in pool upkeep.
My Buying Guide on Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover
When I first looked for a swimming pool skimmer cover, I quickly realized there are several factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you pick the right skimmer cover for your pool.
Understanding the Purpose of a Skimmer Cover
A skimmer cover is essential for protecting your pool’s skimmer basket and preventing debris from clogging the system. It also acts as a safety barrier, preventing accidents by covering the skimmer opening securely. Knowing this helped me prioritize durability and fit in my search.
Material Matters: Durability and Weather Resistance
I found that most skimmer covers are made from plastic, composite materials, or metal. Plastic covers are lightweight and affordable but may crack over time, especially under harsh sun exposure. Composite covers offer better durability and resist UV damage. Metal covers are strong but can rust if not properly coated. For my pool, a UV-resistant composite cover was the best balance of strength and longevity.
Size and Fit: Measuring Your Skimmer Opening
One of the first steps I took was measuring my skimmer opening accurately. Skimmer covers come in different sizes and shapes, so getting the right dimensions is crucial for a secure fit. I recommend using a tape measure to get the length, width, and depth of your skimmer basket opening before shopping.
Safety Features: Locking Mechanisms and Load Ratings
Safety was a big priority for me, especially because kids visit my pool often. I looked for covers with locking mechanisms to prevent accidental removal. Additionally, I checked the load rating—some covers can support the weight of a person walking on them, which adds peace of mind.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
I preferred a skimmer cover that was easy to install without special tools. Some models come with simple snap-in or screw-in designs. Maintenance is minimal but choosing a cover that’s easy to clean and doesn’t stain easily made my life easier over time.
Style and Color Options
While function is key, I also wanted a cover that blended well with my pool’s surroundings. Many covers come in neutral colors like gray, tan, or white. Picking a color that complements your pool deck can enhance the overall aesthetic.
Price vs. Quality: Finding the Right Balance
I found a wide price range in skimmer covers. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a quality cover saved me money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements. Setting a budget while prioritizing durability and safety helped me make a smart purchase.
Final Thoughts
Buying a swimming pool skimmer cover is not just about protection but also safety and aesthetics. By focusing on material, size, safety features, and ease of use, I was able to find a cover that suits my pool perfectly. I hope sharing my experience helps you feel confident in choosing the right skimmer cover for your needs.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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