Your ultimate summer pool party survival kit
There’s nothing better than gathering friends and family for a summer pool party, especially with the UK already seeing three heatwaves and another on the way. It’s the perfect excuse to make the most of your outdoor space. And while pool parties are all about relaxing and having fun, a bit of prep behind the scenes can make everything run more smoothly.
Whether you’re throwing a laid-back afternoon BBQ or a big celebration, here’s your go-to pool party survival kit to help you make the most of your outdoor space with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment.
- Water first: get your pool guest-ready
Even if your pool looks clean, hot weather and extra swimmers can throw your water chemistry off balance quickly. A few days before the party:
- Test the water and adjust pH, chlorine and stabiliser levels
- Shock the pool 24 to 48 hours in advance to clear up any cloudiness
- Clean skimmers and remove debris, as nothing kills the vibe like floating leaves and bugs
- Run the pump for a few extra hours on the morning of the party for maximum clarity
- Poolside comfort: make it easy for guests
Your pool may be the centrepiece, but the area around it makes all the difference.
- Set up shaded areas using parasols or a pop-up gazebo
- Keep plenty of towels on hand, plus a laundry basket nearby for wet ones
- Provide non-slip mats or outdoor rugs around entry points
- Offer a cool box of bottled water and suncream for guests to help themselves
Upgrade with poolside loungers or even inflatable chairs for chill-out zones
- Emergency clean-up kit
No matter how prepared you are, spills, mud, and stray snacks happen.
Have these to hand:
- A telescopic pool skimmer net for quick scoops
- Plastic buckets or storage tubs for soggy inflatables or wet gear
- Disposable cups and plates to cut down on washing-up chaos
- Surface wipes or a patio broom to tackle food drops or muddy footprints
Penguin tip: If your pool turns cloudy after the party, run a clarifier and clean the filter first thing the next morning
- Entertainment extras for kids and grown-ups
A pool party isn’t complete without a little something extra to keep the fun flowing.
- Stock up on inflatables, games, and pool noodles
- For kids: floating basketball hoops, dive sticks, or water balloons
- For adults: floating trays, drink holders, or waterproof speakers
Penguin Pick: Giant inflatables are a hit for both age groups and they make for great photos too
- Post-party wind down
The party might be over, but don’t forget your pool
- Re-test and rebalance water within 24 hours
- Backwash your filter and clear debris
- Let the pump run a full cycle to reset everything
This prevents cloudy water, algae growth, and chemical imbalance, keeping your pool in top shape for the next round of fun
Enjoy the sunshine, keep cool, and make the most of pool season.