Do bean bags float? The short answer is yes — if they’re designed for water. A proper swimming pool bean bag is built to handle chlorine, sun, splashes and long afternoons outdoors without the hassles that come with cheap inflatables.
This guide explains how floating pool bean bags work, what to look for in Australian conditions, and how to choose a style that suits your pool area and the way you actually relax. If you’re still comparing broader outdoor options, you may also want to browse our outdoor bean bags collection for deck and patio use.
Do Pool Bean Bags Float?
Yes — the best pool bean bags float because they’re made with buoyant, water-safe materials and the right construction. Unlike standard indoor bean bags (which absorb water and become heavy), a swimming pool bean bag is built to:
- Repel water rather than soak it up
- Allow drainage and quick drying
- Maintain shape and comfort on water or poolside
- Resist chlorine, salt and UV exposure
That’s why purpose-built floating bean bags are now replacing traditional pool floats for many Australian households — they’re more comfortable, more durable and far less fiddly to live with.
Why Floating Bean Bags Beat Inflatable Pool Floats
Inflatable floats look fun, but they come with predictable problems: punctures, slow leaks, sticky plastic, awkward storage and constant replacing. Floating bean bags are different — they’re made for real-world poolside use.
Here’s what you’ll notice straight away:
- No inflation — grab it and relax
- Better comfort — your body sinks in naturally rather than balancing on air chambers
- More stable — less tipping, less sliding
- Longer lifespan — quality outdoor fabrics outperform cheap vinyl
- Dual-purpose use — float in the pool, then use it as a lounger on the deck
If durability is a major priority, this article on durable bean bags is a good companion read.
Step-by-Step: How to Choose the Best Swimming Pool Bean Bag
1) Confirm it’s designed for pool use (not just outdoors)
Not all “outdoor” bean bags are suitable for floating. A true pool bean bag should be designed for direct water contact and frequent drying cycles.
As a rule of thumb:
- Pool bean bags are made for water and pool chemicals
- Outdoor bean bags are made for patios, decks and shade, but may not be ideal in the pool
Start with the dedicated range: pool bean bags.
2) Choose the right fabric for Australian sun
Australia’s UV levels are brutal on outdoor furnishings. A quality swimming pool bean bag should use a fabric with strong UV resistance and colourfast performance, otherwise fading and breakdown happen far too quickly.
If you’re comparing premium outdoor fabrics, these two resources will help:
- Olefin vs Sunbrella (practical pros and cons)
- What is Olefin fabric? (why it performs so well outdoors)
3) Understand chlorine and saltwater realities
Chlorine and saltwater don’t affect everything equally. Chlorine can contribute to colour fading over time, while saltwater may leave residue that needs occasional rinsing.
Simple habits make a big difference:
- Rinse with fresh water occasionally, especially after heavy pool use
- Let the bean bag dry properly between uses
- Avoid leaving it permanently in the water when not in use
If you live in a humid coastal area, mould prevention matters too. This guide covers practical steps: how to prevent mould on outdoor bean bags.
4) Pick the right size for how you relax
Size isn’t just about space — it’s about posture and use. Ask yourself: are you floating, lounging, reading, sunbaking, entertaining?
- Single loungers are ideal for solo relaxation and easy movement
- Larger designs suit sprawling, stretching out, or sharing poolside
- Kids-friendly sizes keep things manageable while still feeling “grown up”
For most backyards, starting with one versatile lounger style is the easiest way to get the feel right, then add more later.
5) Look for the practical details that signal quality
Premium construction shows up in the small details. When choosing a pool bean bag, check for:
- Reinforced seams to handle lifting, dragging and daily use
- Quality zippers (including child-safe designs where relevant)
- Fast-drying design so it doesn’t stay damp for days
- Fabric that’s easy to wipe clean after sunscreen, spills and pool snacks
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: What Matters for Pool Use?
These terms are often used loosely, but they matter when your bean bag is going in (or right next to) the pool.
- Water-resistant means it repels splashes and light moisture, but may absorb water over time
- Waterproof means water won’t penetrate the material, which is better for pool environments
If you want a bean bag that truly performs around water, start with products engineered for the pool rather than standard patio seating.
Choosing Colours That Work Poolside
Colour is personal, but it’s also practical. In full sun, darker colours can feel hotter to the touch, while lighter shades tend to stay cooler.
For Australian pool areas, popular approaches include:
- Coastal neutrals (white, sand, soft grey) for a clean resort look
- Deep blues for a classic poolside palette that complements water
- Bold stripes or brights if you want a more playful, holiday feel
If fading is a concern, these tips help keep fabrics looking fresh: how to stop fabric from fading in the sun.
Real-World Example: A Floating Pool Bean Bag in Action
A quality floating pool bean bag should feel effortless: easy to move, comfortable to lie back on, and durable enough that you’re not babying it all summer. That’s the real test — not just whether it floats, but whether it holds up to how Australians actually use their pools.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Pool Bean Bag Looking New
Pool bean bags are designed for outdoor life, but a little care extends their lifespan and keeps them fresh.
- Brush off leaves and debris regularly
- Wipe sunscreen marks early (it’s easier than leaving it)
- Rinse occasionally in high-chlorine or salt environments
- Dry thoroughly after heavy rain or long pool sessions
- Store in a dry spot during extreme storms
If you’re shopping more broadly for seating that lives outside year-round, explore the wider range of outdoor bean bags for patios and entertaining areas.
Another Poolside Style Option
If your pool area is as much about lounging on the deck as floating in the water, a bean bag lounger style can be the best of both worlds — relaxed, supportive and visually premium without the bulk of rigid outdoor furniture.
FAQs: Swimming Pool Bean Bags
Will a pool bean bag float in deep water?
Yes, if it’s designed as a floating pool bean bag. Standard indoor bean bags are not suitable for deep water or pool use.
Are floating bean bags safe for kids?
They can be, but they’re not a safety device. Children should always be supervised around water, regardless of flotation products.
Can I leave my floating bean bag in the pool permanently?
It’s better to remove it when not in use. This reduces chemical exposure, helps it dry properly, and extends the life of the fabric.
Do pool bean bags get mouldy?
They shouldn’t if they’re designed to drain and dry quickly, and you allow proper drying between uses. In humid areas, basic maintenance makes a big difference.
Final Checklist: Choosing the Best Pool Bean Bag
- Start with a purpose-built pool bean bag range
- Prioritise UV resistance for Australian sun
- Choose designs that drain and dry quickly
- Match size to how you relax (float, lounge, entertain)
- Keep maintenance simple: rinse, dry, store during storms
If you’re ready to compare styles and sizes, browse our full range of pool bean bags designed for Australian pools and outdoor living.
