10 Best Pool Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme is a robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet long. It offers strong cleaning performance with its dual-drive system, allowing it to move precisely and cover tight corners well. A standout feature is its active scrubbing brush and waterline scrubber, which work together to remove dirt and algae not just on the pool floor but also along the waterline, an area often missed by other cleaners. This makes it particularly effective for pools needing detailed cleaning.

The top-load filter is easy to access and clean, reducing maintenance hassles. Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi and an app, you can schedule cleaning sessions remotely, adding convenience. The cleaner is energy efficient, using AC power with a design aimed at saving costs over time. Its plastic build is sturdy yet lightweight at around 25 pounds, making it manageable for setup and storage. Dolphin’s reputation for durability comes from over 40 years in the market and is supported by a standard manufacturer warranty.

The cleaner is designed specifically for in-ground pools, so it may not suit above-ground pools. While the Wi-Fi feature is handy, it requires a reliable internet connection to function smoothly. Some challenges include difficulty handling very large debris or extremely irregular pool shapes. This model serves as a reliable choice for pool owners seeking a high-quality, easy-to-use robotic cleaner that thoroughly covers floors and waterlines, with the convenience of remote control and consistent performance.

The Polaris Vac-Sweep 280 Pressure Side Pool Cleaner is designed specifically for in-ground pools and can handle a variety of pool shapes and surfaces, including vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, pebble, and tile. It is equipped with dual venturi jets and powered by a separate booster pump, ensuring efficient cleaning in three hours or less. The cleaner is capable of complete coverage, scrubbing both the floor and walls of your pool, which is beneficial for thorough maintenance.

Its large 2.25-inch inlet can capture large debris like leaves and acorns, which some other cleaners might struggle with. Additionally, it comes with a 31-feet feed hose and a single chamber filter bag to collect debris of various sizes. This makes it suitable for larger pools and those with considerable debris. The ease of use is enhanced by its simple setup and maintenance, though the need for a booster pump could be a downside for some users.

The device is made of plastic, which raises some questions about its long-term durability, but it is backed by a reputable brand, Polaris, known for quality products. Energy efficiency might be a concern given that it requires a separate booster pump, potentially increasing operational costs. However, the comprehensive warranty and effective cleaning capabilities can make it a valuable addition to your pool maintenance routine.

The Polaris VRX iQ+ Smart Robotic Pool Cleaner is designed to efficiently clean various pool types with its intelligent features and robust cleaning capabilities. It offers SMART Cycle Cleaning Mode, which cleverly assesses your pool’s dimensions and surface to determine the optimal cleaning time, ensuring thorough coverage. This makes it ideal for pools of different shapes and sizes. Its iAquaLink app control adds convenience, allowing users to easily set cleaning schedules, monitor temperatures, and receive status updates. The app's Wi-Fi connectivity enhances remote operation, making it user-friendly and accessible.

The cleaner is equipped with Vortex Vacuum technology and a 70-foot cable, featuring a tangle-reducing swivel, which helps it navigate and clean effectively from the floor to the waterline. With seven cleaning modes, including a specialized waterline-only option, it provides customizable cleaning solutions tailored to specific pool needs. The large illuminated debris canister is a practical feature, enabling users to easily see when it requires emptying.

In terms of ease of use and maintenance, the Polaris VRX iQ+ is straightforward with no assembly required, making it ready to operate right out of the box. Its 4WD agility ensures it can handle various pool terrains, while the durable aluminum build offers reliability and longevity. However, weighing 44 pounds, it might be heavy for some users to lift. On the downside, its high rank on best-seller lists suggests it's popular but not leading the market. It comes with a limited warranty, which could be a concern for those looking for extended service assurances. Nonetheless, its energy-efficient design and powerful cleaning performance make it a compelling choice for pool owners seeking a reliable robotic cleaner.