Pool Loungers: How to Choose the Right Pool Lounger for Your Summer
A good pool lounger is the difference between a quick dip and a whole afternoon in the water. The right lounger in the pool lets you stretch out, stay shaded and keep a drink within reach, so you only get out when you want to. Here's how to choose one that suits the way you actually spend summer.
Full-Length Lounger or Pool Chair Lounger?
Pool loungers come in two main shapes. A full-length pool lounger supports you from head to heel, so it's made for lying back, reading and sunbathing. A pool chair lounger (sometimes called a chair pool lounger) holds you upright in a seated position, which is easier for chatting, sipping and keeping an eye on the kids.
If you want to nap, choose a full-length lounger. If you want to socialise, choose a chair.
Why Shade Matters on an Australian Pool Lounger
Australian sun is fierce, and the water reflects it straight back at you. A pool lounger with a canopy gives you shade on demand, so you can stay in the pool through the middle of the day without retreating inside. Look for a canopy you can remove, so you can choose sun or shade without getting out. Shade is a comfort, not sun protection on its own, so keep up the sunscreen and a hat.
Features Worth Having
- A cup holder, so your drink stays upright instead of balancing on your stomach.
- Grab handles, which make climbing on and off far less undignified.
- Thickened PVC, which feels more supportive and lasts longer than thin vinyl.
- A design you like looking at, because a pool lounger sits in your backyard all summer.
Our Pool Loungers
The Riviera Canopy Lounger ($120) is our full-length pool lounger, with a detachable sun canopy, full backrest, cup holder and grab handles along both sides, in powder blue and cream stripes.
The Dolly Lounge Chair ($115) is our pool chair lounger, an upright inflatable pool lounge chair with a removable canopy, cup holder, cool mesh seat and a hand pump in the box.
The Drift Hammock ($85) is the minimalist option: a floating water hammock with a mesh sling that keeps you cool while you drift.
Pool Lounger FAQs
What's the most comfortable pool lounger? For lying down, a full-length lounger with a backrest. For sitting, a pool chair with a mesh seat, which keeps you cool and supported.
Can I leave my pool lounger in the pool? It's best to take it out after use. Sun and pool chemicals shorten the life of any inflatable. Read our pool lounger care guide.
Is a pool lounger a good gift? It's one of the few gifts people use every weekend of summer, which is why ours arrive gift-boxed.
Free Delivery, Gift-Boxed
Every Miss Dolly Drift float arrives in our signature gift box with a carry bag. Delivery is free on Australian orders over $99, express is available at checkout and you have 30 days to return anything unused.
Pool floats are for recreation, not swimming aids. Always supervise children around water.
