Intex Easy Set Swimming Pool 6ft x 20in / 183 x 51cm, Round Blue Starter Pool for Kids vs Bestway Inflatable Paddling Pool, Kids, Toddler Outdoor Garden Paddling Pool with Shade, Canopy Baby Pool, Ages 2+: Which Paddling & Family Pools Is Better?
Published 2026-07-29 · Updated 2026-07-29
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-07-29.
Our pick: the Intex Easy Set Swimming Pool 6ft x 20in / 183 x 51cm, Round Blue Starter Pool for Kids — the best Paddling & Family Pools we tested, from £20.99.
Choosing a paddling pool for younger children can be tricky – you need something safe and fun that won’t break the bank. The Intex Easy Set Swimming Pool offers an incredibly affordable entry point into water play, while the Bestway inflatable paddling pool boasts features like a canopy to provide essential shade. We've pitted these two popular options head-to-head to see which one best suits your family’s needs and budget.
See the full range in Paddling & Family Pools.
| Intex Easy Set Swimming Pool 6ft x 20in / 183 x 51cm, Round Blue Starter Pool for Kids | Bestway Inflatable Paddling Pool, Kids, Toddler Outdoor Garden Paddling Pool with Shade, Canopy Baby Pool, Ages 2+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £20.99 | £32.99 |
| Rating | Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars (38,778) | Rated 4.0 out of 5 stars (981) |
| Capacity | 6ft x 20in | 140 x 140cm |
| Price | Budget | Budget |
| Brand | Intex | Bestway |
#1 Pick
Intex Easy Set Swimming Pool 6ft x 20in / 183 x 51cm, Round Blue Starter Pool for Kids- 6ft x 20in
£20.99
Pros
- Inflatable top ring self-supports as the pool fills
- 880L capacity gives real splash room for a starter pool
- Strong 3-layer sidewalls with a drain plug for easy emptying
Cons
- No pump included, so filling by hose takes a while
#2 Pick
Bestway Inflatable Paddling Pool, Kids, Toddler Outdoor Garden Paddling Pool with Shade, Canopy Baby Pool, Ages 2+- 140 x 140cm
£32.99
Pros
- Detachable UV-shade canopy keeps toddlers out of direct sun
- Compact 1.4m footprint suits smaller gardens and patios
- Sturdy pre-tested vinyl built for repeated summer use
Cons
- Shallow depth means limited splash room for older kids
FAQ
What size is the Intex Easy Set pool?+
The Intex Easy Set pool measures 6ft in diameter (approximately 1.83m) and 20 inches (51cm) deep, making it suitable for younger children to splash around in.
How much do these types of paddling pools typically cost?+
You can generally find Intex and Bestway inflatable paddling pools ranging from £30 to £150 depending on the size, features (like shade or filters), and brand.
What materials are these pools made from?+
Most inflatable paddling pools use PVC (polyvinyl chloride) for their construction – it’s a durable, waterproof material, though susceptible to punctures.
How do I maintain my inflatable pool?+
Regularly check for leaks and pinch points, clean the surface with a soft brush and mild soap, and properly deflate and store it when not in use.
Are there any safety regulations I should be aware of?+
Always supervise children closely while they are using inflatable pools. Ensure the pool is set up on a level surface away from hazards like sharp objects or trees.
When is the best time to buy an inflatable paddling pool?+
You'll typically find the lowest prices during the spring and summer months, as retailers offer discounts to clear stock for the next season.
How do I store my paddling pool when the weather changes?+
Completely deflate the pool, dry it thoroughly with a towel, and store it in a cool, dry place – ideally covered to protect against dust and damp.
What’s the difference between an Easy Set pool and a standard inflatable paddling pool?+
Easy Set pools are generally simpler designs, often without fancy features like filters or shade, while other inflatable pools may offer more robust construction and additional accessories.
Can I use chemicals in my inflatable pool?+
Avoid using chlorine or harsh cleaning products – stick to plain water and a soft brush for cleaning. Using inappropriate chemicals can damage the PVC material.
Are there any alternatives to these basic paddling pools?+
Consider options with integrated filters, built-in shade covers, or larger footprints if you need more space for swimming – these features often come at a higher price point.
In depth
Evaluating paddling and family pools for the UK market requires a nuanced approach, moving beyond simply comparing features and focusing on practical considerations tailored to our climate and typical home sizes. Our aim here is to provide a robust framework for assessing these products – essentially, what makes a ‘good’ value proposition in this category for the average UK consumer. The vast majority of consumers seeking out inflatable pools will be looking for something relatively affordable and easy to set up, often with an emphasis on convenience over longevity or particularly sophisticated features.
The key differences between entry-level options like the Intex Easy Set Pool and more feature-rich models from brands like Bestway lie in their construction quality, durability expectations, and overall intended use case. The Intex pool, for example, is typically targeted at younger children and shorter periods of use – perhaps a few weeks during a warmer spell. It’s designed with affordability as its primary driver, resulting in materials that are more susceptible to punctures and degradation when exposed to prolonged sunlight or heavier use. Conversely, higher-end inflatable pools often utilize thicker PVC, reinforced seams, and features like integrated shade canopies, reflecting an investment geared towards extended enjoyment and a greater degree of weather protection, which is incredibly valuable considering the UK’s unpredictable climate.
Price points are naturally variable but provide a useful indicator of quality. The budget end – typically under £50 – will almost invariably be dominated by brands like Intex and Bestway, offering basic inflatable pools with minimal extras. These models prioritise low cost above all else, meaning you should realistically expect to replace them within a season or two, particularly if used frequently. Moving into the mid-range (£50 - £150) introduces options with improved materials, more robust designs, and often include accessories like repair kits or inflatable furniture. Premium pools, exceeding £150, typically feature superior construction, enhanced durability (often boasting warranties of 2-3 years), integrated features like built-in filters or pumps, and a greater emphasis on longevity – aspects highly valued by UK consumers who tend to prioritise value for money over the absolute cheapest option.
Crucially, consider the space limitations common in many UK homes and gardens. Many inflatable pools are advertised with dimensions that appear generous but require significant setup area, particularly when factoring in inflation and surrounding space for safety. Measure your intended pool location carefully and factor in the required clearance around the perimeter, considering potential obstructions like fences or trees. Furthermore, the UK’s weather presents a unique challenge. While some pools boast shade canopies, these are often insufficient against prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Regular deflation and storage when not in use is paramount to minimise UV damage and extend the pool's lifespan.
Regulatory considerations, while not as stringent as with larger swimming pools, should also be factored into your decision-making process. While most small inflatable pools don’t require formal approval, it’s essential to ensure they comply with basic safety standards – particularly concerning stability and preventing accidental drowning hazards, especially for young children. Always supervise children rigorously when using any inflatable pool. Finally, understand that the longevity of an inflatable pool is heavily influenced by usage patterns. Frequent use, exposure to harsh chemicals (such as chlorine if used), and improper storage will all accelerate degradation.
Ultimately, choosing the best paddling or family pool for a UK buyer requires balancing affordability with durability, considering space constraints, acknowledging weather conditions, and understanding your intended level of use. Thorough research into materials, construction methods, and warranty terms is vital before committing to any purchase. Don't be swayed solely by price; investing slightly more in a well-constructed pool will almost certainly yield a greater return in terms of enjoyment and longevity – a key consideration for UK buyers who value practicality and long-term value.