Homemade Pool Cover Bubble Wrap: Easy DIY Guide for Savings

Homemade Pool Cover Bubble Wrap: The Complete Guide

Keeping a swimming pool warm and clean can be a real challenge, especially for budget-conscious homeowners. Many people look for ways to save money while still protecting their pool. One creative and popular solution is using bubble wrap as a homemade pool cover. At first, this might sound strange, but with the right knowledge and approach, bubble wrap can become a simple and effective pool cover alternative.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using bubble wrap for your pool. You’ll learn how it works, how to install and care for it, and the benefits and drawbacks. We’ll also compare bubble wrap covers to commercial pool covers, answer common questions, and share expert tips to help you get the most value from your homemade pool cover.

Why Use A Pool Cover?

Pools are fun, but they require a lot of maintenance. Pool covers solve several common problems:

• They keep dirt, leaves, and bugs out of the water.
• They reduce water evaporation, which means less refilling.
• They help the pool retain heat, saving on energy costs.
• They can improve pool safety by preventing accidental falls.

A good cover can cut water evaporation by up to 95% and reduce heating costs by 50-70%. For many families, the right cover pays for itself quickly. But commercial covers can be expensive, leading many to try homemade solutions like bubble wrap.

How Bubble Wrap Works As A Pool Cover

At its core, bubble wrap is a sheet of plastic with air-filled bubbles. These bubbles act as tiny insulators, trapping warm air and slowing heat loss. When you lay bubble wrap on the surface of your pool, the bubbles face down and touch the water.

This forms a barrier that helps keep warmth in and debris out.

The concept is similar to commercial solar pool covers (also called solar blankets). These products are designed with special UV-resistant plastic and engineered bubbles for durability. Bubble wrap is not as strong, but the basic science is the same.

The Science Behind It

• Heat Retention: The air in the bubbles creates a layer of insulation that slows down heat escaping from the water.
• Evaporation Control: Covering the water stops most evaporation, which is the main way pools lose heat and water.
• Sunlight Use: On sunny days, clear bubble wrap lets sunlight reach the water, which can help warm it up.

Pros And Cons Of Bubble Wrap Pool Covers

Before you decide to use bubble wrap, it’s important to understand what it does well and where it falls short.

Advantages

• Low cost: Bubble wrap is much cheaper than commercial pool covers.
• Easy to find: You can buy it at most hardware stores or online.
• Simple installation: It’s lightweight and easy to cut to fit your pool.
• Reduces evaporation: Bubble wrap covers can cut water loss by up to 90%.
• Some heat retention: The bubbles trap heat, helping the pool stay warmer.

Disadvantages

• Short lifespan: Bubble wrap breaks down in sunlight and chlorine much faster than real pool covers.
• Not UV resistant: Sunlight can make the plastic brittle within weeks.
• Can tear or blow away: It’s light and fragile, so it may not stay in place during strong winds.
• Not child-safe: It will not support weight and is not a safety cover.
• Less effective at heating: Commercial solar covers heat water more efficiently.

Comparing Bubble Wrap And Commercial Pool Covers

Many pool owners wonder how bubble wrap really stacks up against products designed for pools. Here is a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.

Key insight: For temporary or emergency use, bubble wrap can work well. But for long-term durability, safety, and appearance, a commercial pool cover is the better investment.

Making Your Own Bubble Wrap Pool Cover

If you decide to try bubble wrap, making a homemade pool cover is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

What You Need

• Bubble wrap: Choose the largest, thickest rolls you can find. The bubbles should be at least 3/8″ (10 mm) in diameter for best insulation.
• Scissors or a utility knife: For cutting the wrap to fit your pool shape.
• Measuring tape: To measure the dimensions of your pool.
• Heavy-duty tape (optional): For joining pieces if your pool is wider than the wrap.
• Weights or water jugs (optional): To help keep the cover in place during wind.

Step-by-step Instructions

• Measure your pool: Get the length and width (or diameter for round pools).
• Cut the bubble wrap: Lay the roll next to the pool and cut the wrap to fit, leaving a few extra inches on each side.
• Join pieces if needed: For wider pools, use heavy-duty tape on the top side (not the water side) to connect sections.
• Place on water: Lay the bubble wrap with the bubbles facing down, directly onto the pool water.
• Trim for a perfect fit: Use scissors to cut around ladders, corners, or curves.
• Secure the edges: Use small weights, filled water jugs, or clips to keep the wrap from blowing away. Do not use sharp or heavy objects that might tear the wrap.

Practical Tips

• Always cover the pool when not in use to maximize benefits.
• Remove the cover gently to avoid tearing.
• Store the wrap in the shade when not in use to extend its life.

How Effective Is Bubble Wrap For Pools?

Bubble wrap can be surprisingly effective for short-term use, especially in mild climates or for above-ground pools. Here’s what you can realistically expect:

• Evaporation reduction: Up to 90% of water loss can be prevented.
• Heat retention: Pool water stays 2-4°C warmer at night.
• Debris protection: Floating leaves, dust, and bugs are kept out.

However, bubble wrap will start to break down after a few weeks of strong sun and chlorine exposure. If you need a cover for just one swimming season, or while waiting for a real cover to arrive, it’s a practical solution.

Real-world Example

A homeowner in California with a 24-foot above-ground pool tested bubble wrap against a commercial solar cover. The water temperature with bubble wrap stayed about 2°C warmer than an uncovered pool, but 3°C cooler than with the real solar cover.

The bubble wrap lasted about 7 weeks before the plastic began to crack and tear.

Improving Your Bubble Wrap Pool Cover

While bubble wrap alone is not perfect, you can make it more effective with a few simple tricks:

Use A Double Layer

Stacking two layers of bubble wrap, with both bubble sides facing the water, increases insulation. The downside is extra cost and weight, but it can boost heat retention by up to 30%.

Add A Uv Sheet

Placing a thin, clear plastic sheet (like painter’s drop cloth) over the bubble wrap can protect it from UV rays, making it last longer.

Edge Sealing

Tape or fold the edges to reduce tearing. This is especially helpful if your pool has sharp corners or steps.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Many people make small errors that reduce the effectiveness of their homemade pool cover:

• Bubbles facing up: The bubbles should always touch the water, not face the sky.
• Leaving gaps: Any open space lets heat escape and debris enter.
• Using thin bubble wrap: Thicker wrap works better and lasts longer.
• Not securing the cover: Wind can easily blow bubble wrap away.
• Not removing during storms: Heavy rain or wind can damage the wrap quickly.

Cost Comparison: Homemade Vs. Store-bought Covers

It’s important to look at the costs over time, not just the initial price.

Insight: Over several years, a commercial cover is actually cheaper and better for the environment because less plastic is wasted.

Safety Considerations

Pool safety is a serious matter. Homemade bubble wrap covers are not safety covers. They do not support the weight of a child, pet, or adult. Never use them as a replacement for a safety-rated pool cover.

If safety is your main concern, invest in a certified safety cover. These are tested to hold weight and secure the pool area.

Environmental Impact

Bubble wrap is made from plastic, which can pollute the environment if not disposed of properly. Because homemade covers wear out quickly, you may need to replace them several times each year. This creates more waste compared to a commercial cover that lasts many years.

To reduce your impact:

• Recycle used bubble wrap if your local facility accepts it.
• Store the cover away from sun when not in use to make it last longer.
• Consider using a more durable cover for the long term.

Credit: www.amazon.com

Caring For Your Bubble Wrap Pool Cover

A little care can help your homemade cover last as long as possible:

• Rinse regularly: Wash off chlorine and debris with a garden hose.
• Dry before storage: Wet bubble wrap can grow mold or mildew.
• Store in the shade: Sunlight breaks down the plastic quickly.
• Repair small tears: Use clear packing tape to patch holes before they grow.

When To Replace Your Cover

Even with good care, bubble wrap will wear out. Replace your cover if:

• The bubbles start popping or flattening.
• The wrap develops large tears.
• It turns brittle or starts to crumble.
• It no longer floats evenly on the water.

Alternatives To Bubble Wrap

If you want more durability without buying a full commercial cover, consider these options:

• Plastic drop cloths: Thicker and more UV resistant than bubble wrap, but less insulating.
• Old vinyl billboards or tarps: Water-resistant and strong, but not insulating.
• DIY solar blankets: Made from UV-resistant plastic and bubble material, available online.

Each option has its own trade-offs in cost, durability, and effectiveness.

Maximizing Energy Savings

Using any pool cover—even a homemade one—can lead to big energy savings. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that pools lose 70% of their heat through evaporation. A simple bubble wrap cover can:

• Cut heating costs by 50% or more.
• Reduce water loss so you refill less often.
• Lower your pool chemical use, saving more money.

For even better results, combine your cover with a solar heater or use a pool timer to minimize run time when the cover is on.

Step-by-step: Cutting And Fitting Bubble Wrap To Your Pool

Getting the right fit is important for performance and appearance.

• Lay the bubble wrap out flat near the pool.
• Measure the longest and widest parts of your pool.
• Cut a piece slightly larger than these measurements.
• Float the wrap on the water, bubbles down.
• Mark and cut around corners, steps, and ladders for a snug fit.
• Secure the wrap with light weights or clips, making sure not to puncture the plastic.

If your pool is an unusual shape, cut several pieces and tape them together on the dry side.

Storing Bubble Wrap Covers

Off-season storage is critical for making your cover last.

• Rinse the cover and let it dry completely.
• Roll it up loosely (don’t fold, which causes creases).
• Store indoors or in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight and sharp objects.
• Avoid placing heavy items on top, which can flatten the bubbles.

Credit: www.amazon.com

Can Bubble Wrap Be Used For Heated Pools?

Yes, but with limits. Bubble wrap slows heat loss and will help keep your heated pool warmer overnight or during cool weather. However, it is not as efficient or durable as a purpose-made solar cover. For pools heated year-round, a commercial cover is more cost-effective.

How Bubble Wrap Covers Affect Water Chemistry

Covers reduce evaporation, which means fewer chemicals are lost to the air. You may need to use less chlorine, algaecide, and pH adjusters. However, the cover can also trap heat and raise the water temperature. Warmer water can encourage algae growth, so test your water more often and adjust your chemicals as needed.

Is Bubble Wrap Safe For All Pool Types?

Bubble wrap can be used on most above-ground and in-ground pools. However, be careful if you have:

• Saltwater pools: Salt can break down the plastic faster.
• Sharp-edged pools: Edges may tear the wrap.
• Very large pools: Joining many pieces is harder, and wind can be a bigger problem.

Always check for damage before each use.

Making Bubble Wrap Last Longer: Expert Tips

Most people overlook a few easy ways to make their bubble wrap cover last.

• Rotate the wrap: Every week, turn the cover 180 degrees to distribute sun exposure more evenly.
• Patch early: Repair small holes and tears before they get worse.
• Keep water balanced: High chlorine or salt levels break down plastic faster.
• Bring inside during storms: Strong wind and rain can shred the wrap quickly.

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Case Study: Bubble Wrap Pool Cover In A Humid Climate

A family in Florida tried a homemade bubble wrap pool cover for their 18-foot round above-ground pool. Over three months, they saw:

• Water temperature increase of 3°C compared to uncovered.
• Water use dropped by about 1,000 liters per month.
• The wrap began to break down after 6 weeks, mostly along the edges.

Their biggest lesson: securing the cover with small sand-filled bottles helped prevent wind damage, and using two layers kept the pool warmer at night.

When Should You Upgrade To A Real Pool Cover?

If you find yourself replacing the bubble wrap every month, or if you want better heat retention and safety, it’s time to invest in a commercial solar cover. Long-term, you’ll spend less, enjoy a cleaner, warmer pool, and reduce your impact on the environment.

Where To Buy Quality Bubble Wrap

For best results, buy bubble wrap in large rolls from hardware stores, packaging suppliers, or online. Look for:

• Large bubble size (3/8″ or larger)
• Thick plastic (minimum 2 mil)
• Clear or light blue color (lets in sunlight, hides less dirt)

Avoid colored or printed wrap, as dyes may leach into the water.

Trusted Resources

If you want to learn more about pool covers, energy savings, or pool care, visit the Wikipedia entry on swimming pool covers for more details.

A homemade pool cover made from bubble wrap is a clever, budget-friendly way to keep your pool cleaner and warmer for short periods. While it’s not as durable or safe as commercial covers, it can be a useful solution for many pool owners—especially if you follow the tips and advice in this guide.

If you want better performance and a longer-lasting solution, consider upgrading to a real solar pool cover in the future. For now, enjoy the savings, and happy swimming!