Keeping your pool safe and protected over winter isn’t just about keeping leaves out—it’s also about making sure no one (kids, pets, or wildlife) accidentally falls in when it’s not in use. A good pool safety cover does both. But not all covers are the same, so let’s break it down.

Why You Need a Pool Safety Cover in Winter

Winter means less pool use, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. A solid safety cover keeps your pool clean, stops evaporation, and, most importantly, prevents accidents. If you have kids or pets, it’s a no-brainer—an open pool is a risk you don’t want to take.

Oh, and there’s the added bonus of keeping your pool in good nick for summer. Less debris means fewer chemicals and less maintenance when you’re ready to swim again.

Types of Pool Covers (and Which Ones Are Actually Safe)

Not every cover out there is designed for safety. Some are just for blocking leaves, others help with heat retention, and some do both. Here’s what you need to know:

• Basic solar covers (not for safety) – These are great for keeping the water warm but useless in winter for safety. They’re thin and flimsy—if someone steps on them, they’ll sink straight in.
• Winter debris covers (not weight-bearing) – These stop leaves and dirt getting in but can still collect water on top, creating a drowning risk if kids or small pets wander onto the surface.
• Security mesh covers (good option) – These are secured tightly to the deck with straps, strong enough to hold weight, but still let rainwater through so it doesn’t pool up.
• Solid safety covers (best protection) – These are the gold standard. Strong, fully weight-bearing, and they seal off the pool entirely. Some even come with automatic pump systems to drain any rainwater that collects on top.

What to Look for in a Good Winter Pool Safety Cover

Here’s what matters when choosing a winter pool cover:

✔ Weight capacity – You want something that can hold at least the weight of a child or pet if they accidentally step on it. Solid safety covers are best here.

✔ Secure fastening – Look for covers that attach firmly around the pool’s edge. Loose tarps or covers that simply float on the surface aren’t good enough.

✔ Drainage design – If water builds up on top, it can create a hazard if kids play near it. A good cover either lets water through (mesh types) or has a drainage system.

✔ Durability – New Zealand winters can be rough, especially if you live in a windy area. You need a cover strong enough to handle wind, rain, and UV exposure without falling apart.

Best Pool Safety Covers You Can Get in New Zealand

If you’re looking for a solid winter pool cover that’s actually built to keep your pool safe, here are some good options:

• BioGuard Safety Covers – Available through Pool & Spa Warehouse, these are heavy-duty, strong, and designed specifically for safety.
• Loop-Loc Safety Covers – These are high-end, imported covers but available in NZ through companies like Pool Covers NZ. They’re known for their strength and ability to hold serious weight.
• Aluminium or PVC Slat Covers – Companies like Elite Pool Covers NZ offer fully automated hard covers that completely seal off your pool. These are pricier but one of the best options for safety.

Installation: DIY or Get a Pro?

Some covers are simple to install yourself (like mesh safety covers), but for anything high-end, like a solid PVC or automatic cover, you’re better off getting a professional to fit it. A badly installed cover won’t be safe, so if in doubt, call in an expert.

If you’re unsure, places like Freedom Pools NZ or your local pool shop can help with recommendations on installation.

Final Thoughts

Winter pool covers aren’t just about keeping the water clean—they’re a safety essential if you have kids, pets, or just want peace of mind. Go for a cover that’s strong, properly secured, and designed to prevent accidents. It might cost more upfront, but the safety and long-term savings on maintenance make it worth it.

If you’re ready to get one, start with local pool cover retailers, check reviews, and don’t skimp on quality. Better safe than sorry.