How to keep pests out of your pool area

Posted on

Introduction

Tired of bugs, rodents, or birds invading your poolside paradise? You’re not alone. Knowing how to keep pests out of your pool area is essential for creating a clean, relaxing, and safe backyard experience. In this complete guide, we’ll show you proven strategies to prevent unwanted critters from ruining your swim time—and how to protect your pool long-term.

Why Keeping Pests Away Matters for Your Pool

Pests around your pool aren’t just annoying—they can pose serious problems. From mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water to rodents chewing equipment wires, pest activity can impact water quality, cause damage, and even carry diseases.

Here’s why pest control around your pool is so important:

  • Health & Hygiene: Pests like insects, frogs, or rodents can contaminate the water with bacteria or feces.
  • Equipment Protection: Rats and squirrels may chew through wiring or pool covers.
  • Aesthetic & Comfort: Nobody wants to relax beside a pool full of buzzing flies or ant infestations.
  • Prevent Property Damage: Burrowing animals or nesting birds can affect deck integrity or landscaping.

Keeping pests away maintains your pool’s cleanliness, safety, and overall enjoyment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Keeping Pests Out

Step 1: Eliminate Standing Water

Standing water is a magnet for mosquitoes and insects.

  • Empty puddles from plant trays, pool toys, or furniture.
  • Drain and clean uncovered buckets or containers after rain.
  • Ensure proper pool drainage and prevent water buildup on your deck or patio.

Even a small amount of stagnant water can support mosquito larvae, so don’t overlook any water-collecting surfaces.

Step 2: Use Pool Covers When Not in Use

Covering your pool is one of the most effective ways to keep pests out.

  • Use a fitted pool safety cover to prevent insects, frogs, or debris from entering the water.
  • Opt for mesh or solid covers depending on your climate and pest type.
  • Keep covers clean and properly fastened to avoid gaps where animals could sneak in.

Bonus: Covers also reduce water evaporation and chemical loss!

Step 3: Trim Nearby Vegetation

Tall grass, shrubs, and overgrown plants create ideal hiding spots for pests.

  • Trim back bushes and keep grass neatly mowed around the pool perimeter.
  • Remove fallen leaves, branches, or fruit which attract ants, flies, and rodents.
  • Avoid planting dense foliage close to the water’s edge.

This simple step reduces both pest hiding spots and food sources.

Step 4: Secure Trash and Food Sources

Food scraps and open bins are a buffet for unwanted critters.

  • Seal outdoor garbage bins tightly and store them away from the pool.
  • Don’t leave pet food or snacks outside after pool parties.
  • Clean up any grill or dining areas to eliminate smells that attract raccoons, birds, and rodents.

Pests follow their noses—cutting off food supply is key to prevention.

Step 5: Install Pest Deterrents

There are plenty of effective, non-toxic ways to keep pests at bay:

  • Citronella torches or candles: Repel mosquitoes and flies.
  • Motion-activated sprinklers or lights: Scare away larger pests like raccoons, cats, or birds.
  • Ultrasonic pest repellents: Emit sounds that deter rodents and insects (safe for humans).
  • Bird spikes or decoys: Prevent nesting and droppings around your pool area.

Use a combination of deterrents for better coverage and long-lasting results.

Step 6: Maintain Your Pool Regularly

Clean, chemically balanced water is less attractive to pests.

  • Skim and vacuum the pool regularly to remove debris.
  • Keep the chlorine and pH levels balanced to prevent algae and bugs.
  • Shock the pool periodically, especially after storms or high activity.

A clean pool repels bugs and limits the breeding conditions for insects and bacteria.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Leaving Pool Lights On Overnight
    • Mistake: Lights attract insects like moths, flies, and beetles.
    • Fix: Turn off unnecessary lighting after hours or use yellow “bug” lights that are less attractive to insects.
  2. Ignoring Pet Waste
    • Mistake: Leaving pet waste near the pool can draw flies and other pests.
    • Fix: Always clean up after pets promptly to keep the area sanitary.
  3. Using Harsh Chemicals Outdoors
    • Mistake: Spraying toxic pesticides near the pool can harm swimmers and water quality.
    • Fix: Choose pool-safe or natural pest repellents designed for outdoor use.
  4. Skipping Landscaping Maintenance
    • Mistake: Letting vegetation grow unchecked near the pool area.
    • Fix: Regularly prune, mow, and clean up landscape debris to minimize pest shelter.
  5. Leaving Pool Toys and Floats in the Water
    • Mistake: These items can collect rainwater and attract insects.
    • Fix: Dry and store pool toys after each use.

Extra Tips & Pool Hacks

  • Use Essential Oils: Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon oils are natural deterrents. Add a few drops to cotton balls and place them around the pool deck.
  • Create a Gravel Barrier: Place a 12–18 inch border of gravel or stone around your pool to deter ants, termites, and burrowing pests.
  • Add a Pool Enclosure: Screen enclosures provide full protection from insects, birds, and leaves while enhancing your backyard’s appeal.

📖 Related article: [How to Install Anti-Slip Surfaces Around Your Pool] for keeping the area safe and clean while controlling pests.

Conclusion

Keeping pests out of your pool area doesn’t require toxic chemicals or expensive services—just consistent maintenance and smart prevention. From eliminating food and water sources to installing natural deterrents, you now have the tools to keep your backyard swim zone pest-free and peaceful.

👉 Bookmark this guide to stay one step ahead of unwanted visitors in your pool area!