The best paddling pools with shade to keep your babies and toddlers cool

Paddling Pools with Cover collage

by Anne Lora Scagliusi |
Updated on

No pool? No problem! A paddling pool with shade is a lifesaver to keep your little ones entertained when the British sun finally peeks through. Just add water, and watch the splish-splashing fun begin.

Paddling pools are a hit with school-aged kids on those hot afternoons and are great for cooling down the littlest ones. Not to mention, pool play is a perfect screen-free activity that gets kids active and burns off their endless energy.

It’s also pretty economical as we all get affected by the rising cost of living and childcare; choosing water play offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional trips and holidays without compromising fun.

Beyond fun, waterplay stimulates their senses and supports their development. According to the University of Manchester, water play helps kids be more creative and imaginative. We all know kids absolutely love splashing, pouring, spraying, and making waves. It keeps them healthy and happy, and gives them opportunities to explore and learn about science in really cool ways.

Summers in Britain are far from predictable, with heatwaves one week and constant rainfall the next.  A paddling pool with shade and other best outdoor toys for playing outside this summer is perfect for those sunny spells, providing a cool retreat without the hassle of beach crowds or packed lidos.

The best paddling pools with shade in 2024 at a glance:

Things to consider when buying a paddling pool with shade

When shopping for a paddling pool with shade, look for durability, ease of setup, and, of course, generous sun protection. Paddling pools with shade are a parent's best friend, letting you worry less about your little ones getting sunburned and more about enjoying those sunny days yourself, whether you're basking in the sun or firing up the BBQ. Here are some important criteria to consider:

Age suitability:

It is essential to consider your child's age and size when choosing a paddling pool. You don't want to get one that's too small for your child as they will soon grow out of it. Children must always be supervised by parents when playing in the pool.

Paddling pool size:

Paddling pools are a great way for kids to play in the garden, but you'll need to consider how much outdoor space you have available. There are many paddling pools that suit all kinds of spaces, from baby paddling pool with shade to large paddling pools.

Does it come with a pump?

The majority of pools do not come with a pump, so it is good to check if you have already got one before you checkout your purchase. Some pools do come with a pump, but if not, you can find one for around £5.

Does it come with a repair kit?

Another thing to check is if your pool also comes with a repair kit. As paddling pools can puncture, it is good to have tools for a quick fix.

The best paddling pools with shade in 2024

Whether your little one loves cars, wildlife, sea creatures, or mystical themes, they'll be thrilled with our selection of themed paddling pools with covers. From animals like sharks, crocodiles, crabs, turtles, and zebras, to magical unicorns, and other imaginative designs, there's something for every young explorer. These paddling pools with shade not only shield your child from harsh British UV rays but also ensure hours of fun and excitement.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends avoiding direct sun and using sun hats, shades, and protective clothing for babies under 6 months. Once your baby reaches 6 months of age, it’s time to introduce baby SPF.

Best design paddling pool with shade

If you're on the hunt for a stylish and sturdy paddling pool with a shade, look no further than this gem from Liewood. Known for their sleek Nordic designs, Liewood's seaside-themed pool is flying off shelves—it's that popular! Ideal for modern families, it not only looks great but also follows a responsible manufacturing approach, supporting environmental protection.

This chic baby pool comes with a built-in sunshade, offering essential protection from the summer sun while creating a safe spot for your little ones to splash and play with their favourite water toys. Setting it up is a breeze—just inflate, fill, and let the fun begin. Plus, it's easy to clean, meaning more time to soak up some sun with your family and less time worrying about upkeep. Ready to make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood?

Pros

  • Aesthetic nordic design and subtle colour scheme  
  • Made from quality and sustainable materials 
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable and made to last 

Cons

  • Might be too pricey for some
  • On the small side as its specifically made for small babies
Built-in sunshade
Inflatable floor for comfort
Best from 12 months+
Phthalate-free PVC

We might not be expecting rainbows, but kids will still adore this Summer Waves Unicorn Sprinkles Shade Pool. Perfectly sized to introduce your little ones to water, this unicorn-themed paddling pool with shade is as whimsical as it gets. It features a soft cushioned base for comfort, along with adjustable shades to shield your kids from the sun when needed. Just fill it with water and enjoy quality time in this magical pool with your children.

One reviewer said: “So cute! Love this pool, it looks great and the top stands quite tall so provides lots of shade. The low side and padded bottom make it comfortable and easy for the little one to get in and out."

Parent reviewer said: “Fantastic pool providing shade from the sun. Bought this for our baby to use outdoors on sunnier days. Have used as a ball pit and paddling pool. Canopy is a must have to protect her from the sun. Excellent value for money for the quality of the item."

Pros

  • Colourful unicorn design
  • Can be used as a ball pit and play pool
  • Includes a repair kit, protective cover, and filter pump
  • Adjustable shade

Cons

  •  Some say it's a bit of a squeeze
Capacity 28 litres
Size L102, W100, D102cm
Length 3.3ft
Valve size 7mm
Weight 1.24kg
For ages 1 year and over

Price: £49.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$48.89View offer

Whether you're planning a beach-themed play day in your garden or simply looking for the perfect kiddie pool, look no further than this top pick from Amazon. With over 1000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this whale-themed paddling pool with a baby shade beach tent is a crowd favourite. Made from high-quality raft material, it's designed to be durable and sturdy. This whale paddling pool with shade promises hours of fun and excitement for babies and toddlers.

One reviewer said: "Our grandson loved it. We used it indoors filled with plastic balls and then outdoors as a pool. Just the right size for our deck which gets sun all day and best part is that the design of the whale’s mouth protects from direct sun exposure. Easy to inflate with a compressor in just a few minutes. Definitely a home run."

Pros

  • Stable
  • Holds enough water level for one to three years old

Cons

  • Can only fit two small babies/toddlers
Product Dimensions‎142 x 137 x 71 cm
Capacity‎53 litres
Special Features‎Inflatable, Lightweight, Drain Hole
Item Weight ‎2.24 kg

If you're in search of a standout paddling pool with shade that will impress your kids, then look no further than this elephant-shaped baby pool. Not only does it have a sunshade canopy, it also has a sprinkler, it's designed to keep everyone, including you, happy and entertained. Turn any day into a delightful water playground for your little ones with this fantastic baby sprinkler pool!

Parent reviewer said: "Brilliant paddling pool. This paddling pool was great for my one year old. It took about 10 minutes to blow up by mouth which was tiring but once done it stayed up in our garden for a number of weeks with no sign of deflating despite being thrown about by wind and rain. We also folded it in half and packed it in our car boot (while semi inflated) to a relatives house to use there and it was fine. It can easily accommodate two babies/small toddlers."

One reviewer said: "Bought as a gift for my niece, who loves it. Small enough to fit in a small terrace garden, but big enough for my 18 month old niece to have a splash around. The tall back is great to keep her in the shade."

Pros

  • Customers like the quality, size and speed of the splash pool
  • The canopy provides amazing shade 
  • Can easily accommodate two babies or small toddlers
  •  Easily folds in half and pack for storage

Cons

  • Can take some time inflating
Product Dimensions: ‎30.9 x 23 x 8.7 cm
Material:‎Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Special Features:‎Inflatable, Portable, Built-In Sprayer, Lightweight, Extra Guarded Padding, Foldable, Drain Hole 
Item Weight1.31 kg

Looking for a turtle paddling pool with shade? Then you might like this adorable Hapello Turtle Baby Canopy Pool from Asda. It is perfect for little ones eager to splash and play. This multicoloured paddling pool features a charming turtle design that will capture children's imaginations. It includes a protective screen and a cushioned base, ensuring safety and comfort during pool play. Ideal for outdoor fun on sunny days, the canopy provides shade to shield from the sun's rays. Easy to set up and maintain, this turtle-themed pool promises hours of joyous playtime for your child, whether indoors or outdoors.

One reviewer said: "It is very ideal when trying to shelter baby in the sun and letting them play away, comfy too for sitting down."

Pros

  • Multicoloured and charming turtle design
  • Easy to set-up

Cons

  • Available while stocks last
Multicoloured
Includes: 1x baby canopy pool with protective screen and cushioned base
Age range: up to three years
117 x 132 x 83 cm
PVC
 0.8 kg

Best budget baby paddling pool with shade

Price: £3 (was £5)

www.argos.co.uk

This crab ball pit and paddling pool with shade is incredibly popular, boasting over 600 reviews and a stellar 4.9-star rating, with 94% of users recommending the product. This versatile crab doubles as both a paddling pool and a ball pit, ensuring your little ones have plenty of fun indoors and outdoors, whether the sun is shining or not. Fill it with water for outdoor play during warm months, and the inflatable canopy provides shade, offering sun protection. Alternatively, fill it with play balls for enjoyable indoor and outdoor play sessions. Setting it up is a breeze, with the pool inflating in around six minutes and holding a capacity of 37.2 litres. Play balls are sold separately.

Parent reviewer said: “Great little pool” We bought this a couple of weeks ago to keep our 10 month old cool during the heatwave. It’s the perfect size for smaller children and the built in sunshade is really useful.

One reviewer said: “ So much fun”  I brought this a few weeks ago and have already used it multiple times. It is relatively quick to inflate with an electric pump and stays inflated. The top provides great shade and sun protection. My baby loves splashing in it.

Pros

  • Doubles up as a paddling pool or a ball pit 
  • Good price size and water
  • Great size size and water depth for babies

Cons

  • Inflatable cover won't allow standing. Fine for younger children that will sit and play and not get in and out all the time.
Capacity 37 litres
Approximate time to inflate: six minutes
Approximate time to fill: 20 minutes
Includes repair kit
Air pump not included
Size L117, W101.6, D71cm
Length 4ft
Weight 0.98kg
For ages one year and over

Price: £7.50 (£15)

www.argos.co.uk

Do your kids love zebras? Then they'll adore the Bestway Zebra Safari Shade Pool. This pool features adorable zebra stripes that will spark their safari imaginations. The inflatable sunshade provides a cosy, shaded spot, keeping them protected from the harsh sun while they splash around. It has a soft, inflatable floor so rest assured your little ones are extra comfy and it has a water capacity of 26 litres, it's just the right size for your little adventurers. Plus, it comes with a handy repair patch, so the fun can continue all summer long. Your kids will absolutely love it, and you'll love knowing they're safe and happy while you get a moment to relax!

Parent review said: "Brilliant! Brought for my three month old to be able to cool down in the warmer weather and this product did just the job whilst keeping him shaded from the sun! Excellent for the price and only took two mins to blow up! Highly recommend it."

Grandparent review: "Best holiday purchase ever! I bought this for my eight month old grandson to put beside the pool on holiday and we would have been lost without it - it kept him shaded from the sun and he played in it for hours on end and the lid folds down if you want a bit of sun on the children too. I literally couldn’t recommend this product enough!"

Pros

  • Doubles up as a ball pit which is great for grey days
  • Cool zebra print
Capacity 26 litres
Approximate time to inflate: Five minutes
Approximate time to fill: Two minutes
Includes repair kit
Air pump not included
Length 3ft
Size L97, W97, D15cm
Weight 0.95kg
For ages 2 years and over
Age range: Child (3-4 years)

Price: £14.39 (was £17.99)

www.johnlewis.com

If your little one loves Baby Shark as much as we do, then this shark paddling pool with shade is going to be a hit! The shaded cover keeps them cool while they enjoy splashing around, giving you peace of mind. The cushioned base and cheerful shark design keep them comfortable and delighted during play. It also comes with an AirFlate tool that makes inflating and deflating a breeze, and the EasyGrip non-slip air valve is super convenient. It's perfect for hours of fun in the sun!

Parent review said: "Perfect size for our eight month old, shade is super handy to keep her safe in the sun. Fun design, recommend!"

Pros

  • Cool baby shark design babies and toddlers will surely love
  • Super handy
Composition:PVC
Dimensions:H32 x W40 x D40cm
Suitable from:Two years

Best paddling pool for babies

This 3-in-1 design tent, paddling pool and playpen will help your baby to stay cool in the heat, and the SPF 50+ UV protective canopy will protect them from the sun. It also includes two detachable toys with clips and a comfortable, removable mattress so your baby will have fun playing all day.

Parent review said: "Our little one had lots of fun lay splashing safely in this pool. It is simple enough to fold away and very compact in storage. Really happy with the purchase."

Pros

  • 3-in-1 product, can be play area, sun shade and paddling pool
  • Comes with removable mosquito net
  • Detachable canopy
  • Sold with two detachable toys with clips in different places

Cons

  • Only problem the base is very tricky to fold back
Dimensions (unfolded): 90 x 60 x 60 cm
Dimensions folded: 60 cm
Composition: 100 % polyester
Weight: 1.9 kg
Capacity: 75 litres
Anti-UV protection SPF 50+

Best baby paddling pool for price and look

Price: £54.45

This adorable mushroom themed baby paddling pool from Intex is sturdy, affordable and will provide hours of fun for your child.

Grandparent review said: "Brought for my granddaughter who loves it. It's a nice size for a small child and the mushroom top gives a little shade over the toddler. It's bright and cheerful. Well worth the money."

Pros

  • Can accommodate up to 3 babies/toddlers
  • Cute mushroom design
Product dimensions:101.6L x 101.6W x 88.9H centimetres
Material: Vinyl
Capacity:12 gallons
Age range: 12 months to 36 months
Special feature: Inflatable, Portable, Lightweight, Foldable

Best paddling pool for toddlers with removable shade

Intex Sun Shade Pool
Price: £29.60
Alternative retailers
Walmart$32.69View offer
Overstock$32.84View offer
Wayfair$38.68View offer
Lowe's$48.03View offer

This toddler-sized pool comes with a repair kit and is a cheap and cheerful activity for warmer days. This colourful pool's cover can be removed and is easy and convenient to set up.

Parent review said: "Perfect for our little one to enjoy, easy to set up and ideal with the removable shade when it gets sunny!"

Pros

  • Can fit four little ones in or one adult 
  • Good shade coverage
  • Very sturdy

Cons

  • Hard to inflate without an electrical pump
Multicolour
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
78 gallons
1.57m x 1.57m x 1.22m (62" x 62" x 48")
Suitable for two and up
Extra Wide Side Walls, Removable Sun Shade, Convenient Drain Plug and Repair Patch Included

Best steel frame paddling pool with shade

If you have a spacious backyard or garden, then you might want a large paddling pool with cover like the Bestway Splash Frame Pool with Shade and Sprinkler. This large paddling pool with a cover features a corrosion-resistant steel frame, firmly held together with the FrameLink System, providing remarkable strength and stability. You won't need to worry about it being wobbly while the kids are playing.

The pool's cover has a UPF rating of 40+, offering excellent protection against the sun whether kids are splashing around or relaxing. Plus, there's a water mister at the top of the shade. Simply connect it to a garden hose for a continuous cooling mist—perfect for those unbearable hot days. The pool is very easy to set up and take down for off-season storage, with no tools required.

Mum reviewer said: "My boys were in it every day whilst it was up, so it has been amazing. They love the fact that they are sheltered from the sun, I do too, and with the heat we have been having it has allowed them time to cool down."

Pros

  • Customers like the quality, ease of construction, value, size and shade of the splash pool
  • Provides excellent shade during hot summer days 
  • Comes with built-in sprinkler
  • Can accommodate up to four kids

Cons

  • Some complain about the ease of cleaning
Product Dimensions244 x 244 x 51 cm; 11.72 kg
Item display height‎75 centimetres
Item display length150 centimetres
Item display width‎38 centimetres
Material type‎PVC polyester fabric PVC laminate
Capacity1644 litres
Not suitable for children under 3 years
For use under adult supervision

How to clean a paddling pool

Once you have drained all the water out, wipe the pool down with a towel or a rag to remove any leftover moisture. Use a cleaning solution such as one part bleach and five parts water, or equal parts vinegar and water to clean the sides of the pool to avoid dirt and mould. You can use a scrubbing brush to make this easier.

Bacteria and algae can create slippery sections, so make sure you pay attention to those areas when cleaning them out. When this is done, quickly rinse the paddling pool with a high-pressure hose, and you're done.

How long does a paddling pool last?

The longevity of your paddling pool is dependant on how it's used and stored. It’s very easy to get a puncture in an inflatable pool by accidentally dropping it on a stone or dragging it across the concrete. Paddling pools, generally speaking, will last three or more years as long as you’re careful with it.

Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK. You can follow her on Instagram.

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