Giant unicorn, pink flamingo, XXL mattress, floating armchair, or baby float: pool floats and inflatable mattresses are the undisputed stars of summer. Fun, colorful, and very photogenic, they transform every swim into a moment of relaxation and play. This complete guide reviews the types, how to choose according to age, safety rules, and maintenance to enjoy the pool all summer long.
From classic round floats to giant unicorns, including XXL mattresses, floating armchairs, and family islands, the world of inflatable pool items is vast. They all have one thing in common: bringing fun and relaxation to the water. The right choice depends on the users' age, the use (play, sunbathing, relaxation), and the pool's size.
They perfectly complement our other must-haves: the inflatable pool, the inflatable water slide, and the inflatable pool sofa. Find all models in the pool floats & inflatable mattresses collection.
The animal float (unicorn, flamingo, giant donut) is all the rage on social media; the XXL mattress invites you to sunbathe on the water; the floating armchair offers a relaxing seated position; the baby float (seat, sometimes with sunshade) introduces toddlers to water, under supervision.
| Profile | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Baby / Toddler | Seat float with support, sunshade, under supervision |
| Child | Float adapted to size + armbands/vest if non-swimmer |
| Teen / Adult | XXL mattress, animal float, floating armchair |
| Group | Floating island, multiple seats |
Inflate your floats and mattresses with an electric pump (much faster than blowing) while respecting the pressure: neither too soft nor over-inflated, especially in the sun where air expands. After use, rinse with clear water to remove chlorine, let it dry completely, then deflate and store in the shade. A repair kit can easily patch a leak.
Hesitating between a float and a mattress? Our float vs. inflatable mattress comparison helps you decide based on your use.
Discover our pool floats and inflatable mattresses—animal, XXL, loungers, and baby—for an unforgettable summer.
View the Floats & Mattresses collectionNo: a pool float or mattress is a leisure toy, not approved safety equipment. A child can fall or slide into the water in an instant. For non-swimmers, use armbands or an appropriate vest, and maintain constant, close adult supervision.
Adapt the size to the user and the pool: a seat float for baby, a float of the right circumference for a child, an XXL mattress or giant float for adults. Also, check that the pool is large enough for big models, and the depth is suitable for the age.
An electric pump (mains or battery-powered) is ideal: it inflates a mattress in less than a minute. Respect the recommended pressure and avoid over-inflating in the sun, as air expands with heat and can excessively stretch the seams.
In a pool, the risk is limited but real with wind; in open water, avoid drifting far and falling asleep on it. Stay close to the edge, watch the wind, and never let a child drift alone on a mattress.
Rinse with clear water after use to remove chlorine, let dry completely, then deflate and store in the shade, away from heat. Avoid dragging them on rough surfaces. A repair kit can patch a leak and extend their lifespan.
It depends on the use: a float (ring, animal, seat) offers better support in the water and entertains children; a mattress prioritizes sunbathing and lounging. Our dedicated comparison details the advantages of each to help you choose according to your profile.
Also discover our pool universe: floats & mattresses, pools, water slides, and pool sofas. Also read: our float vs. mattress comparison and our inflatable pool guide.
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