Solar Pool Cover Rectangle Solar Blanket 12Mil Blue 18ft x 36ft

Our review of the Solar Pool Cover Rectangle Solar Blanket finds it best suited for backyard pool owners who want an inexpensive, low-effort way to raise water temperature and reduce evaporation. The cover is a transparent blue sheet with thousands of bubbles that absorb and transfer heat into the water, and the single biggest reason to buy is its combination of thickness and bubble design that customers say produces measurable warmth while also keeping debris out when the pool is not in use.

Key Features

• 12Mil heavy-duty material: thicker construction and strong welded seams improve durability and resist tears during handling and seasonal use.
• Bubble heat transfer: thousands of bubbles absorb solar energy during the day and release it into the pool, helping raise water temperature for longer swims.
• Evaporation reduction: covering the pool when not in use minimizes water loss and helps maintain pool levels between fills.
• Debris protection: laying the cover on the surface prevents leaves and bugs from entering the pool, keeping the water cleaner for less maintenance.
• Easy to customize: the blanket arrives slightly oversized with an extra 2 in allowance and can be cut with scissors to fit irregular pool shapes.
• Reel compatible: recommended for use with a cover reel to make on/off handling simpler and extend the life of the cover.

Who It's For

This cover is ideal for owners of inground and above-ground pools who want a cost-effective way to increase temperature and reduce evaporation without mechanical heaters. It is especially useful for pools exposed to full sun where the bubble design can capture maximum solar energy.

It is not aimed at those seeking a rigid safety cover, a winterizing tarp, or automated thermal systems; users who need exact-fit commercial pool covers or child-safety rated solutions should consider purpose-built alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides noticeable warmth to the pool water thanks to the bubble heat transfer design.
• Thicker 12Mil material and welded seams offer better durability and perceived value.
• Helps keep debris out and reduces evaporation when the pool is covered, cutting maintenance and water use.
• Can be trimmed to fit irregular pool shapes and works with a reel for easier handling.

Cons

• Some users report mixed experiences with the initial installation process, and the cover can be awkward to position without a partner or a reel.
• Bubbles may appear deflated before sun exposure due to thermal expansion and contraction, which is normal but can look concerning at first.

Specifications

Product type	Solar pool cover / solar blanket
Material thickness	12Mil heavy-duty material
Shape & size	Rectangle, 18' x 36'
Color	Transparent blue
Compatibility	Inground and above-ground pools; works with pool cover reels
Edge allowance	Includes approx. 2 in extra for trimming

Our Verdict

The Solar Pool Cover Rectangle Solar Blanket is a practical, budget-friendly option for pool owners who want to extend swim time and reduce water loss without complex equipment. Its 12Mil construction and bubble design deliver real warming and debris protection, making it good value for seasonal pool maintenance when paired with a reel or two people to handle installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which side faces the water?
The bubble side should face down toward the pool surface when in use to maximize heat transfer.

Can the cover be cut to fit my pool?
Yes, the blanket includes about 2 in extra and can be trimmed with scissors to fit irregular shapes.

Is the cover suitable for above-ground pools?
Yes, it is designed for both inground and above-ground pools and is recommended to be used with a reel for easier handling.