How to Stop Bugs from Getting in Your Pool

Bugs love pools as much as we do—mosquitoes, beetles, and backswimmers can turn a refreshing dip into a nuisance. Here’s how to keep your pool bug-free and crystal clear with ease.

1. Use a Pool Cover

Solid covers: Block bugs completely (and reduce evaporation).
Solar covers: While not bug-proof, they deter insects from landing.
Mesh safety covers: Let water through but keep out leaves and larger bugs.

2. Adjust Lighting

Bugs swarm around bright lights at night.

Switch to yellow LED bulbs: Less attractive to insects. (Or use multi-color energy efficient LED lights)
Move lights away: Install fixtures away from the pool edge.
Citronella candles: Place around seating areas for added repellent.

3. Maintain Water Chemistry

Stagnant, unbalanced water attracts bugs like mosquitoes.

Keep chlorine at 1–3 ppm and pH at 7.2–7.6.
Shock weekly to destroy organic matter (bug food).
Add algaecide: Algae blooms attract water beetles and midges.
Add phosphate remover: No algae food, no algae.

4. Install Bug Traps & Barriers

Skimmer socks: Catch bugs before they clog up your pumps and filters.
Surface skimmers: Use a handheld net to scoop bugs each morning.
Floating repellents: Try non-toxic options like lemongrass oil tablets.
Anti-bug chemicals: They don't poison bugs as many people might assume, but they break surface tension so that the bugs immediately sink so they can be vacuumed away or picked up by your pool cleaners.

5. Eliminate Breeding Grounds

Remove standing water: Empty buckets, gutters, or plant saucers near the pool.
Trim vegetation: Keep shrubs and grass short around the pool area.
Use mosquito dunks: Drop larvicide in nearby ponds or drains.

6. Natural Predators

Fish in ornamental ponds: Goldfish or native species eat mosquito larvae.
Bats and birds: Install a bat box or birdbath to attract bug-eating wildlife.

Aussie-Specific Tips

Bushfire season: Cover the pool to keep out ash and insects.
Drought periods: Stagnant water attracts more bugs—maintain filtration.
Coastal areas: Use saltwater-friendly traps to avoid corrosion.

Need Bug-Proofing Gear?

Browse our Pool Covers and Pool Chemicals to keep your water pristine and bug-free. Pair with a skimmer net for daily sweeps!

Final Tip: Consistency is key! A quick skim each morning and weekly chemical checks will save you from bug battles later. Now, reclaim your pool—it’s your oasis, not theirs.

How to Stop Bugs from Getting in Your PoolUpdated a month ago