Maintaining a sparkling clean pool is essential for both aesthetic appeal and hygiene, and one of the most effective tools in achieving that is the pool brush. But what do you do when you find yourself without one or are looking for a more affordable or DIY option? In this article, we’ll explore what you can use as a pool brush, the importance of brushing in your pool maintenance routine, and alternatives ranging from specialty brushes to everyday items you might already have at home.
If you’re a new pool owner or someone looking to keep your water pristine without breaking the bank, this guide is for you.
Why Brushing Your Pool Is Essential
Before delving into what you can use as a pool brush, it’s important to understand why brushing is such an integral part of pool maintenance. The process accomplishes several key tasks:
- Removes algae and bacteria buildup, especially in corners and along the pool floor.
- Loosens debris
- Prevents staining
- Improves circulation and water chemistry
Regular brushing ensures that the cleaning chemicals distributed in your pool can function more effectively, leading to a safer and better-looking swimming environment. It also helps prevent the need for costly repairs or deep cleanings later.
That said, if a standard pool brush isn’t available or you’d prefer a substitute, here are several practical alternatives.
Basic Pool Brush Types and Their Uses
Before going over alternatives, here is a brief overview of traditional pool brushes. Understanding their features helps you identify suitable substitutes:
Tile Brush
A tile brush has stiff nylon bristles and is ideal for concrete, fiberglass, and tiled pools. It’s aggressive enough to scrub away tough stains and scale on walls and steps.
Carpet Brush
With softer bristles, this brush is better suited for vinyl-lined pools to prevent tearing or scratching the delicate material. It’s designed to gently lift debris resting on the bottom.
What Can I Use as a Pool Brush? Practical Alternatives
In case you’ve misplaced your pool brush or are in between replacements, consider these substitute options. We’ll explore the best alternatives, their pros and cons, and how to use them effectively.
1. Stiff Broom or Push Broom
If you have a concrete, fiberglass, or tiled pool, a stiff nylon outdoor broom can serve surprisingly well as a substitute. These bristles can handle the same types of dirt and algae built up on the walls and floor.
- Pros: Readily available in most homes, has a long handle
- Cons: May shed bristles, too stiff for vinyl pools, not waterproof by design
To use effectively:
- Rinse the broom thoroughly to remove dirt.
- Attach it to a telescopic pole if available. If not, wrap the handle tightly with waterproof tape.
- Brush areas with algae buildup in a scrubbing motion, moving in straight lines for maximum effect.
- Skim away any loosened debris after brushing.
2. Carpet or Upholstery Brush
For vinyl-lined pools, consider using a carpet or upholstery brush. These often have medium-soft bristles and are designed to collect fine particulates, mimicking a specialized vinyl pool brush.
- Pros: Gentle on vinyl surfaces, ideal for fine dust and debris
- Cons: May not reach into corners or scrub tough algae, not water-resistant
An even better method is to tape this brush to a pole—if possible—and press it gently along the bottom surfaces of the pool, especially after vacuuming for combined efficiency.
3. Old Toothbrush or Stiff Clothesbrush
For hard-to-reach spots such as pool corners, steps, or tiles around jets and drains, a worn-out toothbrush or a stiff clothesbrush can be effective. They may not be large enough for broad cleaning, but can remove localized grime with a little elbow grease.
- Suitable for hard surfaces only.
- Works best with diluted chlorine or a cleaning solution.
- Avoid using on vinyl surfaces to prevent damage.
The small size also allows cleaning between tiles or deep into wall fixtures.
4. Sponge Brush with Sandpaper Insert
Some pool owners have successfully modified sponge brushes by inserting strips of sandpaper (with grit no higher than 200). This enhances scrubbing power while retaining the sponge’s ability to hold water.
This method allows brushing and rinsing in one tool, adding efficiency to your routine.
- Pros: Two-in-one tool for brushing and wiping
- Cons: Sandpaper wears away over time, limited reach
5. DIY Pool Brush with Paint Roller or Sponge
If you’re crafty and handy, you can create your own DYI pool brush using a paint roller or a stiff sponge. For instance:
- Using a paint roller with a nylon or natural fiber cover.
- Attach it to an extender pole with clamps or tightly secured tape.
- Roll the tool over the pool walls and floor to dislodge scum and algae.
For a sponge variation, a large abrasive sponge taped to a pole can work for light cleaning, though it lacks the durability of a genuine pool brush.
Best Practices When Using Alternative Tools as a Pool Brush
Using alternatives can be effective, but they require specific handling strategies to ensure both efficiency and the safety of your pool’s surface. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
Match the Tool to Your Pool Surface
One of the most crucial considerations is the type of material lining your pool.
| Pool Type | Recommended Brushes | Safe Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Rigid tile brush | Stiff broom, DIY paint roller brush |
| Fiberglass | Dual-texture brushes | Moderate-stiffness carpet brush |
| Vinyl | Soft carpet brush | Upholstery brush, sponge with mild abrasion |
Using the wrong type of brush could lead to surface damage, so always take this into account.
Clean and Inspect Tools Before Use
Even if you’re using a common household tool like a broom or toothbrush, clean and inspect it thoroughly for:
- Splinters or sharp edges that could damage your pool
- Dirt or mold that might enter the water
- Loose bristles or handles that could break apart underwater
It’s important to protect both the integrity of your pool and water quality.
Use Pool Water for Rinsing Alternatives
Instead of rinsing a used broom or brush with tap water, immerse and scrub it in the pool itself during cleaning. This helps you spot any issues like bristle loss or residue that might pose a problem during usage.
Combine Brushing with Vacuuming
Even with non-traditional brushes or tools, always follow brushing with pool vacuuming to effectively remove the dislodged debris.
If you have a manual vacuum, brushing enhances the process. With a robotic or automatic pool cleaner, periodic brushing keeps buildup minimal and improves the cleaner’s efficiency.
When You Should Prioritize Investing in a Real Pool Brush
While alternatives can be helpful in a pinch or for temporary use, investing in a proper pool brush becomes necessary under the following circumstances.
Heavy Algae or Mineral Buildup
A real pool brush is your best bet when dealing with:
- Stubborn algae
- Purple or black scale buildup
- Iridescent or metallic stains on tiles
These require consistent, firm pressure and the correct bristle type, making traditional brushes the most dependable solution.
Chemical Treatments Require Aggressive Brushing
When treating for algae blooms, brushing is crucial to expose spores to the chlorine shock. Without adequate scrubbing, algae can resist treatment, and the effort is essentially wasted.
Durability and Long-Term Use
Standard brushes are designed to:
- Withstand repeated chemical exposure
- Resist degradation from chlorine and other pool cleaners
- Persist for multiple seasons with proper care
Substitutes made from unsealed wood or untreated bristles might deteriorate after just a few uses.
Top Alternative Pool Brush Solutions and Brands
If you’re ready to upgrade from everyday brushes but still want more cost-effective alternatives, here are some lesser-known brands and tools that provide excellent performance.
Brushes with Reversible or Replaceable Heads
Brands such as Hayward, Cleanline, and AquaStar offer multi-headed brushes with one stiff and one soft side, reducing the need to own multiple brushes. These can handle both vinyl and concrete surfaces effectively.
Brushes Made with Microfiber Technology
Innovations in brush design include microfiber covers that attract and trap fine dust and oils. They are especially helpful for fiberglass pools, mimicking the action of traditional brushes but with less abrasion.
Brushes Designed for Telescopic Poles with Attachments
Modular brushing systems let you snap on different heads—scrubbers, brushes, scrapers—onto the same handle. These come in useful for both light brushing and intensive wall cleaning.
DIYing a Budget-Friendly Pool Brush
Want to experiment with making a cost-effective, durable brush? Here are two options you can try:
Option 1: PVC Pipe and Stiff Nylon Bristles
You can construct a semi-permanent pool brush by:
- Buying a short section of half-inch PVC pipe (from your local hardware store).
- Drilling small holes around the circumference to insert thick nylon bristles (like those found in outdoor brooms).
- Securing them with epoxy or waterproof adhesive.
- Attaching the end to a telescopic pole using bolts or heavy-duty tape.
This creates a custom brush built to your specifications and can be reused for years.
Option 2: Combining a Deck Brush and a Telescoping Handle
Deck brushes are often long-lasting and stiff. If you can fit it or tightly secure it to a telescoping pool pole, you’ll have an effective alternative that costs a fraction of the real thing.
The Bottom Line: What Can I Use as a Pool Brush?
There are several short-term alternatives you can use instead of a pool brush, and some DIY solutions work surprisingly well. However, long-term maintenance, especially for large or chemically treated pools, benefits most from dedicated pool cleaning tools.
Remember to:
- Choose the right tool for your pool type
- Rinse and inspect tools before submerging
- Combine brushing with vacuuming for a complete clean
Whether you opt for a carpet brush, DIY brush assembly, or even a toothbrush for corners, the goal remains consistent: to maintain clean, clear, and safe water so your pool remains inviting all summer long.
Before you decide on an alternative, always consider what you’re cleaning, the type of surface you’re brushing, and how frequently you’re maintaining your pool. Some makeshift brushes are ideal for monthly upkeep, while others are only suitable for spot treatments.
Final Thoughts on Maintaining Your Pool Without a Traditional Brush
In summary, if you find yourself asking “What can I use as a pool brush?”, the good news is you have many options. From household cleaning tools like brooms and sponges to more creative DIY solutions, you can keep your pool looking great even without purchasing a brand-new brush.
Still, when your pool shows signs of stubborn stains, algae growth, or needs chemical treatments, it’s time to invest in a proper brush tailored to your specific pool. It offers greater efficiency, durability, and peace of mind in maintaining long-term cleanliness.
Choosing the right substitute or real brush can elevate your pool care routine, making it both effective and enjoyable. You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your pool in top condition—but you should always prioritize tools that protect your investment.
Don’t overlook brushing. Even if your water looks clean, microscopic buildup along surfaces can lead to costly repairs or inefficient filtration over time. Make brushing a consistent part of your pool maintenance plan to enjoy years of refreshing, clean swimming.
Can I use a regular household brush to clean my pool?
Yes, in a pinch, you can use a regular household brush—like a stiff broom or a scrub brush—for light pool cleaning tasks. However, these brushes are not specifically designed for pool surfaces and may be too abrasive for certain materials like vinyl or fiberglass, potentially causing scratches or damage. Additionally, household brushes often lack the ergonomic design and compatibility with telescopic poles needed to effectively reach all areas of the pool.
For long-term pool maintenance, it’s best to use a pool brush designed for your specific pool type. Pool brushes are made with bristles suited to different surfaces—nylon for fiberglass and tile, steel for concrete, and softer options for vinyl. They also typically feature a brush head that can be attached to a standard telescopic pole, allowing for easier and more thorough cleaning without having to enter the pool.
Are kitchen scrubbers a viable option for cleaning the pool walls?
Kitchen scrubbers, especially those with abrasive surfaces, can be used to clean small, hard-to-reach areas of your pool walls in the absence of a pool brush. They can help remove light scum or calcium buildup around tiles or corners. However, they are not ideal for regular or large-scale pool cleaning due to their limited surface area and lack of extension capabilities.
Using a kitchen scrubber regularly for pool cleaning can become inefficient and labor-intensive. Moreover, harsh scrubbing with improper tools may wear down pool surfaces over time. If your primary goal is to clean pool walls and tiles effectively and safely, consider a tile brush or a pool brush with a handle attachment that connects to your telescopic pole and water hose.
What alternative tools can I use to brush my pool?
If you don’t have a traditional pool brush, there are several alternative tools you can consider. Some pool owners use pool brooms, which resemble large push brooms and can be effective for sweeping debris from the pool floor. There are also robotic pool cleaners available that can scrub surfaces while also vacuuming debris, offering a more automated solution.
Another option is a handheld vacuum head with a scrubbing edge, which can help dislodge algae and dirt while vacuuming. For spot cleaning or areas near the waterline, a pumice stone or a tile-specific scrubber can be useful, particularly for removing mineral deposits. Make sure to test any alternative tool on a small area first and consult your pool manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging surfaces.
Can I use a nylon brush on a concrete pool?
Using a nylon brush on a concrete (gunite or plaster) pool won’t cause harm, but it may not be the most effective option for removing heavy algae or scale buildup. Nylon bristles are too soft to agitate tough debris and might leave residue behind. For concrete pools, it’s recommended to use a brush with stainless steel bristles, which are abrasive enough to clean thoroughly without damaging the rough texture of the surface.
That said, a nylon brush can be useful for light maintenance or applying pool cleaning agents more evenly across the surface. It can also be a good alternative if you are brushing areas with smooth surfaces or tile, especially for regular maintenance scrubbing. Just be sure to keep a separate brush for your concrete walls if you have a multi-surface pool.
Is it okay to use metal brushes on a fiberglass or vinyl pool?
No, using a metal brush on fiberglass or vinyl pools is strongly discouraged and can lead to serious surface damage. Stainless steel bristles are too abrasive for these delicate surfaces, potentially scratching the gel coat on fiberglass pools or puncturing vinyl liners. Even gentle brushing with a metal brush can cause microscopic tears that may lead to bigger problems over time.
For fiberglass or vinyl pools, you should stick to brushes with soft nylon or even poly bristles, which are designed to lift debris and algae away without compromising the integrity of your pool. If dealing with persistent algae or stains, consider using a brush with medium-stiffness bristles or applying an algaecide before scrubbing gently with the appropriate tool.
What kind of brushing tools should be used for in-floor pool systems?
In-floor pool systems, which feature automatic floor sweepers and pop-up jets, still require regular brushing, especially for pool walls, tiles, and areas around the skimmer. Traditional pool brushes—specifically ones compatible with your pool material—are ideal for this. For example, use nylon brushes on vinyl or fiberglass pools, and steel brushes on concrete versions.
Because in-floor systems can vary in design, it’s beneficial to use a brush with a swivel head that can easily maneuver tight corners and edges. Having a good telescopic pole also makes it easier to reach around jets, drains, and steps. Proper brushing helps loosen debris and contaminants, ensuring that the in-floor system can capture and filter away what’s been dislodged.
What materials can substitute for a dedicated pool brush in an emergency?
In an emergency, when no proper pool tools are available, you can substitute a pool brush with items like a push broom, a stiff kitchen brush, a sponge mop, or even a section of artificial turf attached to a stick. While not ideal, these items can help dislodge debris and algae in a pinch. For tile cleaning, a sponge or pumice stone may also serve for smaller jobs like scrubbing calcium buildup.
However, it’s important to note that these substitutes aren’t engineered for pool surfaces and could cause damage if used frequently or aggressively. Always err on the side of caution and use light pressure when applying makeshift tools. For best results and long-term care, it’s worth investing in a proper pool brush that’s matched to your pool’s material and features a connector for telescopic poles.