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Reporting live from my 50-square-foot Brooklyn backyard, where I’m sweating from the sticky summer heat, wishing I succumbed to suburbia so that I could have a sprawling, expensive, heavily-chlorinated pool. Instead I have a weed-infested—but somehow still charming—little dirt box, fitted with a hammock, homemade fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and a grill. But what it really, really needs, my Instagram advertisements have decided, is an inflatable pool. Not just any inflatable pool, they told me. A chic, minimalist, decidedly gorgeous inflatable pool that works for kids, sure, but works even better for adults. I have to hand it to these algorithms, because they’re good.
After daydreaming about the possibility of owning one of these temporary, portable pools for sweaty afternoons such as this one (as well as backyard kickbacks and romantic nights with my partner), I can’t really imagine a world without one. Ahead, see the nine options I’m eyeing to create my Brooklyn backyard oasis from brands like Funboy, Sunnylife, Minnidip, and Mylle. And yes, of course I’ll send you an invite to my first pool party.
This midcentury-inspired, Palm Springs-chic pool from Minnidip is at the top of my list. Its scalloped, tufted design is so eye-catching that you don’t even need a pattern or print. Plus, it has high walls so you can submerge a little more.
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This sweet, nostalgic design from Danish pool brand Petites Pommes is sure to please your kids, pets, and you. A bit smaller and shallower than others on this list, it’s ideal for dipping your toes in to keep cool while you blow through your Goodreads list and lather up on SPF.
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Grab a pal and splash around in this vibrant, botanical pool that nods to Moroccan design. It’s nice and wide to fit multiple people comfortably during summer soirees (or when your neighbors get so jealous that they hop the fence).
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The Original Mylle inflatable pool (which launched in 2017) was created using interior design principles. It’ll fit two adults, or more kids, and probably even more pets.
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This pool has a different shape that allows for a little more space. It’ll look stylish and intentional on your deck or porch—like it's been there all along.
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Running a bath for you and your partner seems cinematic and lovely, until you’re faced with the cramped, sweaty reality. Instead, blow up this heart-shaped pool and have a leisurely soak with plenty of legroom. Toss in some rose petals, fill a plate with chocolate covered strawberries, and turn up the slow jams. Much better.
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Here’s a simple, no-frills inflatable pool that will stand the test of time (and the speedy trend cycle). Wren’s rugged pool is great for toting along during your camping trips and mountain vacations.
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Australia-based Pool Buoy begs the question: What if you took your soft, squiggly interior design aesthetic and took it…outside? This abstract, colorful pool is sure to be the focus of many photos this summer.
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Of course I have a glittery inflatable pool on my list! It’s giving me Barbie vibes (sans pink), and just imagine the pretty splashes of light when the sun reflects off it. This one can fit up to three adults, and it’s the tallest one for ample water capacity. It includes a repair patch, too, in case your BBQ guest’s press-on nails accidentally puncture it.