Thermal blanket vs. winter tarp vs. netting: which cover to buy?
Because there are different "covers" (and each one solves a different problem)
When someone searches for “ pool cover ,” they generally want one of three things: (1) less evaporation and more heat , (2) fewer leaves/dirt , (3) protection for the pool out of season . The most common mistake is buying a cover just “because”—and then it flies away in the wind, accumulates water on top, or doesn’t serve its intended purpose.
Covering the pool offers clear benefits: it's one of the most effective ways to reduce heat loss and heating costs, with potential savings of 50%–70% when the pool is heated.
And in terms of water, using a cover can reduce evaporation by up to 95% (depending on the type/use and conditions).
1) Thermal blanket (solar cover / “bubbles”): for heat + evaporation
What it is: a thicker, "bubble wrap" type of sheet, usually with UV protection, that floats on water.
Who it's for:
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It aims to retain heat at night and reduce evaporation.
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wants to "go up" a few degrees throughout the season (especially in pools exposed to the sun)
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He uses the pool frequently (it's a "routine" cover, not a "closure")
Main advantages
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Excellent cost/benefit ratio in summer (especially for evaporation and heat).
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reduces the entry of light dirt (dust, small insects)
Attention (very important)
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It is not a safety cover : it is not designed to support weight and should not be treated as a fall barrier.
2) Summer cover (lightweight/dirt-resistant canvas): for leaves and easy maintenance.
What it is: a "drier" cover, usually to reduce leaves, dust, and insects.
Who it's for:
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Want something easy to put on and take off (especially in inflatable pools)?
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There are trees nearby and you want to reduce network/suction work.
Practical tip (buyer intent)
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If your number one problem is leaves, a summer pool cover often solves the problem better than a thermal blanket — and requires less "physical effort" in large pools.
3) Leaf netting: the "anti-tree" option
What it is: a mesh that traps leaves and larger debris while allowing water to pass through (depending on the model).
Who it's for:
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It lives in areas with trees, wind, and lots of leaves.
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want to avoid "leaf soup" after 24–48h
Notice
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Thermal mesh: typically not the best choice for retaining heat/evaporation.
4) Winter tarp (reinforced cover): to “close the season”
What it is: a more robust (often opaque) tarp, designed to last for weeks/months, with fastening systems (eyelets, cable, tensioners, etc.).
Who it's for:
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wants to reduce off-season maintenance
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It aims to protect against heavy dirt and bad weather.
Key choice: solid canvas vs canvas/mesh
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Solid mats offer more protection against fine debris, but they can accumulate water on top , requiring drainage/pumping and increasing risk (especially with children).
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Mesh fabrics reduce this problem, but they still allow some fine dirt to pass through (depending on the mesh type).
5) "Security coverage": only if it is actually certified/sold as such.
There are coverings designed to function as a physical barrier, but don't confuse these with ordinary blankets and tarps. Technical sources warn that only coverings marketed as "safety coverings" should be treated as such, and even then, they require risk assessment and proper use.
And there are European analyses that indicate that certain types of covers are not an effective measure to prevent child drowning and may even create dangers in some scenarios.
How to choose in 60 seconds (simple rule)
Want less evaporation and hotter water? → Thermal blanket
Want less leaves/dirt in your daily life? → Summer cover or leaf net
Looking for off-season protection and weather resistance? → Reinforced winter tarp
Want child safety? → think first about fencing + rules , not just "a cover".
FAQ
Can a cover really reduce evaporation?
Yes. The EPA (WaterSense) indicates that covers can reduce evaporation by up to 95%.
Is a thermal blanket safe for children?
No. Bubble covers help with heat/leaves, but they are not a safety feature .
Is solid tarp better than netting in winter?
It depends: solid materials trap more dirt, but can accumulate water on top (requires management).