Real Alternatives—and Why Most Homeowners Still Choose a Safety Cover

When you ask “what can I use instead of a pool cover?” you’re usually looking for something simpler, cheaper, or lower-maintenance than a traditional winter setup. Below are the most common substitutes people consider—what each does (and doesn’t) do—plus a smart alternative that keeps your pool protected without the headaches.

Quick Answer

If you want a low-hassle way to keep kids, pets, and debris out while protecting water quality all winter, a custom-fit winter safety cover is the proven solution—and you don’t need to schedule an installation to get one. You can mail in your old cover for precision measuring and get a made-to-fit replacement with fast turnaround. (Read more)

Common “Instead of a Cover” Options (Pros & Cons)

1) Blue tarps & DIY tie-downs

What they offer: A low upfront cost and quick purchase from a big-box store.
Where they fall short: Tarps aren’t load-bearing, aren’t anchored into your deck, and can collect unsafe standing water—offering little real safety and frequent maintenance emergencies after storms. A true safety cover is built around a deck-anchor system and is tensioned taut for security. (Read more)

2) Leaf nets

What they offer: Help with autumn cleanup by catching leaves before they sink.
Where they fall short: Leaf nets don’t block sunlight and don’t secure the water surface; they’re typically used with a winter cover, not instead of one. (Sunlight encourages spring algae if nothing inhibits it.) For winter, solid covers block light; mesh covers keep debris out while draining water. (Read more)

3) Solar blankets (“solar covers”)

What they offer: Warm-weather heat retention and reduced evaporation.
Where they fall short: They’re not meant for winter, aren’t anchored, don’t support weight, and won’t keep a closed pool safe or clean through storms and snow. If winter clarity and safety are priorities, use a purpose-built safety cover (mesh or solid). (Read more)

4) “No cover at all”

What it looks like: Letting the pool ride out winter uncovered after lowering water and balancing chemicals.
Trade-offs: Expect more spring cleanup, greater algae risk, and more work before opening. A safety cover reduces debris load and light exposure—two big drivers of green water in spring. (Read more)

5) Automatic safety covers (daily-use convenience)

What they offer: Strong, walk-on protection and everyday ease for in-season use; open/close at the touch of a button.
Consideration: These are fantastic safety tools for routine use, but winterization strategies vary by climate and pool setup. Talk through your specific conditions if you’re considering an automatic system for year-round needs. (Read more)

Why Most Owners End Up Choosing a Winter Safety Cover

• Custom-measured fit: Precision around steps, features, and shape helps keep out fine debris. (Read more)
• Your choice of mesh or solid: Mesh drains rain/snowmelt; solid blocks sunlight to help suppress algae. (Read more)
• Real safety: Properly anchored covers are load-tested and designed to be tensioned taut across the pool. (Read more)
• Less spring shock: Limiting debris and light exposure means clearer, easier openings. (Read more)
• Durability: Quality covers typically last 10–15 years with reasonable care. (Read more)

Easiest Way to Get the Right Cover (No Installer Scheduling)

Calm Water Pools offers premium Latham® winter safety covers with a streamlined process: ship your old cover for professional measuring, receive an exact quote, and get fast turnaround (often about two weeks, season-dependent). It’s a precise fit without the install appointment. (Read more)

👉 Learn more or start here: Winter Safety Covers.

Solid vs. Mesh at a Glance

• Solid: Blocks 100% of sunlight; may require pumping off rain/snow water.
• Mesh: Allows drainage; lighter to handle; still keeps debris out.
  Both styles are available in premium materials and colors to match your needs. (Read more)

Final Take

You can try tarps, leaf nets, or skipping a cover entirely—but each comes with trade-offs in safety, cleanliness, and spring workload. A purpose-built, custom-measured winter safety cover is the dependable alternative many homeowners choose when they want fewer surprises and a safer backyard.

Have questions about sizing or fabric type? Call 240-372-4440 for friendly guidance from Calm Water Pools. (Read more)

Calm Water Pools sells the covers; installation isn’t included. Latham arranges the pickup/measuring step so your replacement fits right the first time. (Read more)