Swimming pools bring us a lot of joy. But for above ground pool owners, pool closing can be a stressful job. Draining the pool means you have the big task of refilling it and starting from scratch in the spring. Slapping a winter cover on and hoping it doesn’t freeze means risking damage to your pool structure. But if you want a stress-free way to winterize your swimming pool, the answer is a pool pillow.

What is a Pool Pillow?

A pool pillow, also called an air pillow or ice compensator, is an inflatable pillow that is placed in the center of the pool underneath the winter pool cover. Pool pillows eliminate the need to completely drain the pool. By resting on the surface of the water, the pool pillow changes the direction of the ice expansion. Instead of freezing from the center out and putting tremendous pressure on the pool walls, a pool pillow causes the water to freeze from the outside toward the center. This puts much less pressure on the pool walls so that your risk of damage to the cover, walls, and liner is much lower. Pool pillows are super affordable and easy to use. Think of them as an insurance policy for your swimming pool during the winter months.  

How to Install a Pool Pillow

Installing a pool pillow is quick and easy.

  1. Inflate the pool pillow to ⅔ capacity. Do not overinflate. 
  2. Use a Pool Pillow Pal to attach the pool pillow to the center of the pool cover. If you don’t have a Pool Pillow Pal, attach ropes to the grommets on the corners of the pool pillow and place the pillow in the center of the pool, securing the ropes to the edge of the pool. 
  3. Place the pool cover on the pool, making sure that the pool pillow is between the cover and the water. Secure the winter cover according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to Choose the Best Pool Pillow 


Construction

Some people use an inner tube or exercise ball instead of a pool pillow, but they often deflate during the winter season, as these items are not designed to stand up to the elements. Doheny’s pool pillows are made of heavy duty vinyl to withstand pressure from ice and snow, and treated to prevent bacteria and fungus growth, as well as damage from UV light. 

Size

The size of the pillow that you need depends on the size of the pool. Our general guidelines for pool pillow size are as follows:

  • Round pools up to 18 ft, use a 4x4 ft pillow
  • Round pools up to 33 ft, use a 4x8 ft pillow
  • Oval pools use 4.5x15 ft pillow

Recommended Pool Air Pillows and Accessories

Doheny’s has an extensive selection of the highest quality pool pillows and winterizing accessories at the lowest prices.


Doheny’s Heavy Duty Air Pillow

These deluxe vinyl air pillows for use in round or oval pools in a range of sizes are a simple and affordable way to protect your swimming pool from winter damage. Easy installation and quality construction make a pool pillow a winter closing necessity for any above ground pool owner. Available in single, two, or three packs.


Pool Pillow Pal

The Pool Pillow Pal is a simple little velcro patch that takes the frustration out of centering and securing your pool pillow under your swimming pool cover. The Pool Pillow Pal is easy to use, affordable, and eliminates the need for ropes and ties on your pool pillow.

Doheny’s Winter Cover Seal Wrap

Secure your above ground winter pool cover and prevent wind damage with Doheny’s Winter Cover Seal Wrap. This easy to use poly blend wrap installs in minutes and stretches to give your pool cover a tight seal, significantly extending the life of your winter cover. 


If winterizing your pool has always been a headache, Doheny’s makes the process quick and hassle free with our high quality winter pillows. We also have a huge selection of winter pool covers for both above ground and inground pools, as well as winter closing kits to prep your pool water for the winter.


If you have any questions about our pool pillows or any of our pool supplies, please contact our pool experts today at 800-574-7665 or check us out online at doheny.com.