Hosting a pool party at your home can be such a joy. What better way to make memories with friends this summer than by jumping into a refreshing pool? But as fun as parties can be to host, the inevitable cleanup process can feel overwhelming. It might even prevent you from hosting a pool party altogether.

Here’s the life raft you’ve been looking for. This ultimate guide to cleaning up after a pool party will help you tackle post-party cleanup efficiently and effectively.

Start With Your Surroundings

The party was a success, and the guests have gone home. The pool itself can wait — right now, your focus should be removing food and debris from the deck, yard, and seating areas. The last thing you want to see in the morning is piles of garbage strewn across the yard. 

Gather all the pool toys, floats, and other accessories around your pool’s perimeter, too. This will make it much easier for you to maneuver around your pool while you’re cleaning.

Move to the Pool

Once you’ve tackled the leftover snacks, cups, and strewn-about towels, it’s time for the main event: cleaning the pool. Cleaning up after a pool party should be similar to general maintenance, with a few additional steps to ensure the water is as clean as possible.

Skim the Pool

Skimming your pool should be your first step. Remove any debris or leaves that might be sitting on the surface. A quick skim will keep your pool filter from working too hard. If it’s late, this should be the bare minimum cleaning you do for your pool before covering it and addressing the rest of the steps the following day.

Check and Clean Filters

This is an excellent time to see how your filters are faring after the party. Checking and swapping your filters as needed will help your pool equipment last much longer. If your filter’s pressure gauge reads 10 PSI higher than clean starting pressure it’s time to clean elements or backwash the filter depending upon which style filter you have. 

Vacuum the Pool

Skimming alone just won’t cut it — you’ll want to give the bottom of your pool a good vacuum to catch anything that doesn’t float on the surface. This is more labor-intensive than other steps, but it’s essential to prevent buildup.

Balance the Pool Chemicals

Sweat, sunscreen, and human skin can imbalance your pool’s chemicals. Test the water and adjust the chemicals as needed. This step is vital for maintaining a safe swimming environment after the party. Balanced chemicals prevent algae growth and ensure the water is healthy enough for use.

Pre-Party Tips for Easier Cleanup

Now that you’re an expert on post-party cleanup, you can take the following steps before your next party to make it easier on yourself!

Hire Professional Cleaners

You can hire pool cleaners before and after your party to properly balance your pool’s chemicals and get it sparkling clean. You could also schedule pool service either before or after instead of both; having help even once can free you up to focus on other parts of your pool party.

Invest in High-Quality Cleaning Tools

Good cleaning tools like quality skimmers or vacuums will make the cleanup process an absolute breeze. Investing in the right equipment does have an initial cost to consider, but the amount of time and effort you save in the long run is often well worth it.

Delegate Tasks

Have you noticed someone in your home twiddling their thumbs post-party? If you aren’t hosting the party alone, cleanup should be something everyone participates in. Multiple hands will make quick work of the process, so make sure everyone knows beforehand what their job will be.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Preventive care of your yard and pool makes cleanup significantly less daunting after a party. Schedule routine cleanings and checkups to prevent any major issues with the pool or equipment. A well-maintained pool is always party-ready — it provides a safe environment for anyone before, during, and after a backyard bash.

Pool Maintenance Simplified With All Seasons Pools and Spas

Whether your party went a little too hard for you to handle the pool cleaning yourself or you’d rather just have the peace of mind that professionals bring, All Seasons Pools and Spas is here to help with your pool maintenance. Reach out today to learn more and schedule an appointment.