Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool Review: Our In-Depth Test of a Backyard Summer Saver

There’s a specific kind of late-afternoon summer heat that settles over a backyard, making the grass too hot to walk on and the air thick and still. For years, we debated the idea of a pool. The thought of massive excavation projects, five-figure costs, and permanent changes to our landscape was always a non-starter. We just wanted a simple, effective way for the kids to splash, play, and escape the oppressive sun, and for us adults to have a cool spot to dip our feet with a cold drink. The cycle of inflatable kiddie pools that would inevitably get a puncture and turn into a sad, deflated mess by mid-July was getting old. We needed something more substantial but not a lifelong commitment. This search for that perfect middle ground—durable, affordable, and manageable for a small yard—is what led us to investigate framed above-ground pools, and specifically, to the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool.

What to Consider Before Buying a Framed Swimming Pool

A framed swimming pool is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating a personal aquatic oasis without the permanence and expense of an in-ground pool. They represent the perfect intersection of durability, affordability, and seasonal flexibility. Unlike flimsy inflatable pools, framed pools use a rigid steel or plastic structure to support a heavy-duty liner, offering a much more stable and long-lasting swimming experience. The primary benefit is transforming any reasonably level patch of your backyard into a hub of summer activity, providing countless hours of entertainment for kids and a refreshing retreat for adults, all for a fraction of the cost of traditional pool installations.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the classic dilemma of a smaller backyard, a limited budget, or a desire for a non-permanent solution. Families with young children who have outgrown the splash pad but aren’t ready for a full-depth pool will find this category perfect. It’s also an excellent choice for renters who want a pool for the season without making permanent alterations to the property. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who want to swim laps, practice diving, or host large pool parties with many adults. If you have a sprawling backyard and a budget to match, a larger, deeper, and more permanent above-ground or in-ground model would be a better long-term investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Measure your available space meticulously. You need not only the footprint of the pool itself but also at least 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides for safe access and setup. Ensure the ground is perfectly level; even a slight slope can put immense stress on one side of the frame, leading to instability or failure. The 10ft x 6.8ft size of the Sloosh model is specifically designed for compact spaces where larger pools simply won’t fit.
• Capacity/Performance: Consider the pool’s depth and water capacity. A 26-inch depth, like that of the Sloosh pool, is ideal for younger children and for adults who just want to cool off and relax. The included filter pump’s performance, measured in Gallons Per Hour (GPH), is critical. A 330 GPH pump is standard for a pool this size, but it requires diligent maintenance to keep the water clear.
• Materials & Durability: Look for liners made from multi-ply, puncture-resistant PVC. The frame should be made of corrosion-resistant coated steel. The Sloosh pool features what it calls “Fortafushion” material and a 3-ply PVC support band, which are designed to withstand UV rays and the general wear and tear of a summer season. The strength of the T-joints and locking mechanisms is a key indicator of overall stability.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A “tool-free” assembly is a major selling point and significantly lowers the barrier to entry. However, the real work begins after setup. You will need to commit to regular maintenance, including running the pump, cleaning or replacing filters, skimming debris, and managing water chemistry with chlorine and other balancing chemicals. A simple pool can become a swampy mess without consistent care.

While the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool is an excellent choice for its category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the Sloosh Rectangular Pool

Upon arrival, the box for the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool was surprisingly compact and manageable. Inside, all the components were neatly organized. Our first task was a full inventory, laying out all the frame tubes, T-joints, and the tightly folded gray liner. A crucial tip we confirmed, which some users have missed, is that some of the smaller poles are packed inside the larger ones to save space. A quick check revealed everything was present and accounted for. The frame components felt sturdy, with a smooth, powder-coated finish that suggests decent weather resistance. The liner material, dubbed “Fortafushion,” felt thick and substantial—a clear step up from the thin vinyl of inflatable pools.

The “tool-free” assembly claim held up. The process involves laying out the liner, feeding the horizontal frame tubes through the sleeves at the top, and then connecting them with the T-joints before attaching the vertical support legs. The pieces snapped together with satisfying clicks. Working alone, I had the entire frame constructed and ready for water in just under two hours, echoing the experience of other users. With a second person, this could easily be a one-hour job. The most critical step, and one that cannot be rushed, is ensuring the ground is level and smoothing out every last wrinkle on the liner floor before you start filling. Once water goes in, those wrinkles are there for the season. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of the setup process.

A Deep Dive into the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool’s Performance

A pool’s true test isn’t on the spec sheet; it’s in how it holds up to a summer of splashing, sun, and constant use. We put the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool through its paces for weeks, focusing on the core aspects that matter most to a family: its structural build, its day-to-day usability, and the reality of its maintenance requirements.

Assembly and Structural Integrity

The foundation of any framed pool is, quite literally, its frame. Sloosh has done a commendable job here, especially considering the budget-friendly price. The system of reinforced frame tubes and snap-in T-joints creates a surprisingly rigid structure once assembled. We paid close attention to the corner joints, which are often a weak point in cheaper pools, and found them to be well-designed, distributing pressure evenly. The 3-ply PVC support band that wraps around the center of the pool is a crucial feature, providing essential lateral support to prevent the long walls from bowing outwards under the immense pressure of the water. We filled the pool to the recommended level and saw minimal bowing, which gave us significant confidence in its design.

Our experience confirms what other users have noted: the frame is strong. The tool-free design is not a gimmick; it genuinely simplifies the process. The instructions are primarily visual, but they are clear enough to follow without issue. The most important piece of advice we can offer is to take your time preparing the ground. We followed one user’s excellent suggestion and laid down a heavy-duty tarp first, followed by a specific pool ground cloth. This not only protects the liner from potential punctures from rocks or roots but also provides a smoother, more comfortable floor. A level surface is non-negotiable. Even a one-inch difference from one end to the other can put uneven stress on the frame, compromising its integrity and longevity. This initial prep work is the single most important factor in ensuring the pool lasts all summer, a detail that a feature that really sets it apart in terms of long-term satisfaction.

Dimensions, Depth, and Everyday Fun

The magic of the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool lies in its dimensions. At 10 feet long by 6.8 feet wide, it hits a sweet spot. It’s large enough for several kids to splash and play comfortably without feeling cramped, yet it’s compact enough to fit in smaller yards, on patios, or in areas where a traditional 15- or 18-foot round pool would be impossible. The rectangular shape is also more space-efficient than a round pool of a similar capacity and lends itself better to games like volleyball or simple races from one end to the other.

The 26-inch height, which translates to a water depth of about 22-24 inches, is perfect for its intended audience. It’s deep enough for younger kids (with supervision, of course) to feel like they’re in a “real” pool, but shallow enough to give parents peace of mind. For adults, it’s the ideal depth to sit on the bottom or on a pool chair and have the water come up to your chest—perfect for cooling off without full immersion. It’s not a pool for swimming laps, but it excels as a “splash and cool off” hub. We found it became the backyard’s main attraction, a place where the kids could burn off energy for hours while we relaxed nearby. The gray color of the liner is a nice modern touch, blending into the backyard landscape more subtly than the traditional bright blue of many other pools. This thoughtful design and perfect sizing for small families is a huge part of its appeal, and you can check the latest price and availability online.

The Reality of the Filter Pump and Water Maintenance

If there’s one area where expectations need to be managed, it’s the included 330 GPH filter pump system. To be clear, it works. The pump is quiet, and the dual suction outlets do a decent job of circulating the water in a pool of this volume. However, it is an entry-level pump with a small cartridge filter. As one user astutely pointed out, keeping this system effective requires diligence. We immediately adopted their recommended maintenance schedule and found it to be spot-on. Rinsing the paper cartridge filter with a hose every 3-4 days (or more with heavy use) is mandatory to maintain flow. The filter itself will need to be replaced every 2-3 weeks.

We highly recommend buying a multi-pack of replacement filters at the same time you purchase the pool. This small upfront investment will save you headaches later. We also noted the user comment about the pump shutting off after about 8 hours. We experienced this as well and found a simple unplug/replug cycle reset it. This could be a built-in thermal protection feature, but it’s something to be aware of. Beyond the pump, proper water chemistry is paramount. This pool is large enough that you can’t just drain and refill it every week. We used a simple floating dispenser with 1-inch chlorine tabs and a basic water testing kit to monitor pH and alkalinity. With this routine—running the pump daily and keeping the water chemistry balanced—we kept the water crystal clear for weeks. Any pool takes work, and this one is no exception, but the effort is manageable and well worth it for a full season of fun. The included pump is a great starting point for any new pool owner.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment for the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool is largely positive, particularly when viewed through the lens of its price point. Many users echo our findings, praising it as the “perfect size for my kids” and highlighting the “easy set up” and “strong frame.” One detailed review perfectly summarized the experience, stating it “served its purpose for keeping the kiddos cool all summer” and called the price “unbeatable.” This same user provided the invaluable advice about diligent filter cleaning and proper chlorination, which we found to be essential for a successful season.

However, the feedback isn’t universally glowing. The most common point of criticism is the small, basic filter pump, which many, including us, identify as the pool’s weakest link. It functions, but requires a hands-on approach. The most concerning piece of feedback came from a user who received a pool with a pinhole leak in the liner from the start. While their attempt to patch it was unsuccessful, this highlights a potential for quality control issues. It serves as a critical reminder to inspect the liner carefully before and during the initial filling process. While this seems to be an outlier, it’s a valid concern for any potential buyer.

How Does the Sloosh Pool Compare to the Alternatives?

The Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool occupies a competitive space. To understand its value, it’s essential to see how it measures up against other popular options on the market.

1. Bestway Steel Pro 10 Foot Round Pool Set

The Bestway Steel Pro is a direct competitor in terms of size and price. The most obvious difference is its round shape versus the Sloosh’s rectangle. A 10-foot round pool has a slightly larger total water area, but the rectangular shape of the Sloosh is often more practical for smaller, narrower yards and for directional play. The Bestway is also slightly deeper at 30 inches. For those who prioritize a little extra depth and have a yard that better accommodates a circular footprint, the Bestway is a very strong alternative. However, for sheer space efficiency, the Sloosh pool’s rectangular design is superior.

2. Aquarian Phoenix 15′ Steel-Frame Pool Kit

The Aquarian Phoenix represents a significant step up in both size and build quality. At 15 feet in diameter and featuring a more robust all-steel frame construction, this pool is built for greater longevity and larger families. It moves from the “seasonal” category towards a more “semi-permanent” installation. This is an excellent choice for someone with more backyard space and a larger budget who wants a more durable, long-term solution. It’s less of a direct competitor and more of an upgrade path for those who find the Sloosh pool too small for their needs.

3. Intex Prism Frame Oval Pool 20ft x 10ft x 48in with Filter Pump

The Intex Prism Frame Oval Pool is in a different league entirely. At 20 feet long and a full 48 inches deep, it offers a true swimming experience. It comes as a complete premium package, including a much more powerful 1500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, a pool cover, and a ground cloth. This is the choice for a family that wants the best of the above-ground world without compromise. The trade-offs are a significantly higher price and the need for a very large, level yard. It’s a fantastic product, but it serves a completely different user than the compact, budget-focused Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool Worth It?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is a resounding yes, but with a clear understanding of what it is—and what it isn’t. The Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool is an outstanding entry-level framed pool that delivers exceptional value. Its greatest strengths are its compact, space-saving design, its surprisingly robust frame, and its incredibly simple setup process. It is the perfect solution for families with small children and smaller backyards who want to graduate from flimsy inflatable pools to something more durable and season-long, without a major financial investment.

Its primary weakness is the basic filter pump, which requires consistent, hands-on maintenance to keep the water clean. This isn’t a “set it and forget it” product. However, for those willing to commit to a simple routine of filter cleaning and water testing, it provides a full summer of priceless backyard fun. If you’re looking for an affordable, manageable, and fun way to beat the heat this summer, the Sloosh Rectangular Above Ground Pool is an excellent choice that we can confidently recommend. To start your own summer adventure, you can find the best deal on the Sloosh pool right here.