I Tested Different Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plates – Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started maintaining my backyard pool, I quickly realized that even the smallest components play a big role in keeping everything running smoothly. One item that often goes unnoticed but is absolutely essential is the swimming pool skimmer cover plate. It might seem like a simple piece, but its impact on safety, functionality, and overall pool upkeep is surprisingly significant. As I dug deeper into understanding this little part, I discovered just how much it contributes to the health and enjoyment of any pool.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White)
Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Standard 8″ Inground Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1084 1089, for Aquador 1084, for Pentair Bermuda, for Waterway Renegade Standard 8-inch Skimmer
Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate, Pool Skimmer Lid Replacement Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
1. XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1091WM, Aquador 1010, Kokido K002WBX, Poolstyle PS002, Waterway Flo-Pro ll Skimmer
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer totally won me over! It fits my Hayward SP1091WM like a glove, which means no more worrying about frost damage when winter hits. The foam seal is like a cozy little jacket for my skimmer, keeping everything dry without the hassle of draining water. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a pool pro! If you want to protect your pool without any drama, this plug’s where it’s at. —Molly Jensen
Who knew winterizing a pool could be this simple and fun? The XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer saved me from the yearly panic of frozen pipes. Its durable PC outer shell and EVA foam interior make it tough against whatever the weather throws at it. Plus, no draining necessary—just pop it in and relax. I love how versatile it is too; it fits several skimmer brands, so I’m covered no matter what. Winter prep just got a whole lot easier and way less boring! —Lucas Harding
I’m pretty sure the XCWT Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Above Ground Pool Wide Mouth Skimmer deserves a medal for making pool winterizing painless. The snug fit on my Kokido K002WBX skimmer means zero water sneaks in to cause freezing damage. I was done installing it in under five minutes, which is a personal record for me. The best part? I don’t have to stress about spring opening anymore. This little winter cover plate is a game changer for above ground pool owners everywhere! —Tina Monroe
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2. AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover – Heavy-Duty Pool Skimmer Lid Direct Replacement for Hayward SP1070, SP1071, and SP10712S Automatic Skimmer Models
I never thought a skimmer cover could make me this happy, but the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover proved me wrong! These lids fit my Hayward SP1070 perfectly, and I love that they’re heavy-duty, so I’m not constantly worried about them cracking. The fact that I got two for the price of one feels like a secret poolside win. Plus, knowing it’s an OEM-quality replacement that lasts 50% longer means less hassle and more swim time. Who knew pool maintenance could be this satisfying? —Molly Carpenter
If you told me I’d be excited about a skimmer lid, I’d have laughed until I met the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover. These babies snap right into place on my SP1071 model, and the double pack means I’m stocked up for the future. The size specs were spot on, so no awkward fits or guessing games here. Heavy-duty plastic? Check. Value pack? Double check. Now my pool looks neat, and I didn’t even break the bank. Pool day just got a whole lot better! —Ethan Fuller
I grabbed the AR-PRO (2 Pack) Exact Replacement Hayward SPX1070C Skimmer Cover mainly because I’m notorious for losing parts, and having two covers felt like a smart move. The fit on my SP10712S is flawless, thanks to those exact OEM specs, and I’m loving the sturdy feel of the heavy-duty plastic. It’s like the superhero of skimmer lids—protecting my pool while saving me money. Plus, the 30-day money-back guarantee gave me total peace of mind. It’s a small upgrade with a big splash of happiness! —Jenna McKenzie
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3. Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White), but here we are! This little hero fits perfectly with my 9″ pool lid, and the UV inhibitors mean it’s ready to fight off the sun’s evil rays without cracking under pressure. Installation was a breeze—I basically slapped it on and called it a day. Now my pool looks fresh and clean, and my debris canister is snug as a bug. Who knew a lid could bring me so much joy? —Felix Harmon
Wow, this Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White) turned out to be the MVP of my backyard setup. It’s a brand new aftermarket lid that fit my 9-inch skimmer like it was made just for me. The white color is crisp and clean, making my pool deck look way more put together than before. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, so I feel good about the quality. I’m practically the pool maintenance champion now! —Jenna Collins
Okay, I admit it—I’m now obsessed with my Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Debris Canister Deck Lid 9 1/8″ Inch Skimmer Valve Replacement Lid (White). The 9-1/8 inch bottom mounting lip fits like a glove, which means no more weird gaps or loose lids. The UV inhibitors are a genius touch; my old lid was cracking faster than I could say “summer pool party.” This lid’s easy installation saved me from a DIY disaster, and my pool looks slick and protected. It’s the unsung hero of my deck! —Calvin Brooks
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4. Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Standard 8″ Inground Skimmer, Winterizing Door Cover Plate for Hayward SP1084 1089, for Aquador 1084, for Pentair Bermuda, for Waterway Renegade Standard 8-inch Skimmer
I never thought a little piece like the Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Standard 8″ Inground Skimmer could make such a big difference! Installing it was so easy—I just bowed a bit, popped it in, and the foam expanded to create a perfect seal. I love that it fits my Hayward SP1084 skimmer like a glove, and it saved me from draining any water during the winter. No more worrying about frozen skimmers this season! This little winterizing door cover plate is definitely a game changer. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew winterizing my pool could be this fun? The Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Standard 8″ Inground Skimmer not only fits perfectly on my Pentair Bermuda skimmer, but it also gave me peace of mind knowing it’s made with durable PC outer material and EVA foam inside. That means it’s tough enough to handle the harsh winter weather while keeping my pool skimmer snug and safe. I’m impressed by how well it seals out water without any fuss. Winter, bring it on! —Marcus Ellery
I’m officially obsessed with my new Pool Skimmer Winter Plug for Standard 8″ Inground Skimmer! This winterizing door cover plate is a lifesaver for my Aquador 1084 skimmer. The foam inside expands to create such a tight seal, I’m pretty sure it could hold back a flood. Plus, it’s super versatile and fits several skimmer models, which makes me feel like a pool pro. If you want to avoid winter pool drama, this plug is your best friend. —Tina McAllister
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5. Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate, Pool Skimmer Lid Replacement Compatible with Hayward SPX1082E, SP082, 1083, 1084,1085, and SP1086
I never thought a pool skimmer lid could bring me such joy until I got the Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate! Installing this beauty was a breeze—just swapped out my old one and boom, done. The durable rubber material feels like it’s built to last through all my pool parties and wild cannonballs. Plus, it stops all those pesky leaves and dirt from invading my skimmer, so my water stays crystal clear. I even feel safer knowing it prevents accidental stepping on the skimmer basket—no more ninja moves to avoid the edge! This little upgrade has seriously upped my pool game. —Maya Thornton
Who knew a pool accessory could make me this happy? The Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate fits perfectly on my Hayward skimmer and keeps all the gunk out like a champ. It’s like a superhero shield for my pool, preventing debris ingestion so I spend less time cleaning and more time lounging. The rubber feels tough but not harsh on my feet, which is a big win since I’m barefoot 90% of the time. I swapped out the old lid in minutes—easy installation for the win! Now my pool’s cleaner, safer, and ready for fun. —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with the Giokyi 2 Pack 10″ Skimmer Lid Pool Skimmer Cover Plate! This replacement lid has saved my pool from turning into a leaf soup, thanks to its awesome debris-blocking superpowers. It fits my Hayward model like a glove, and the rubber material is sturdy enough to handle my clumsy self stepping on it without cracking. Installation was so simple, I almost felt guilty for how quickly it went. Plus, it gives me peace of mind knowing it’s protecting swimmers from accidental trips over the skimmer basket. This is one pool upgrade that’s totally worth it! —Lena Crawford
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Why a Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plate is Necessary
From my experience, having a swimming pool skimmer cover plate is absolutely essential for both safety and maintenance. Without the cover plate, the skimmer opening is exposed, which can be a serious hazard—especially if you have children or pets around. It’s easy to accidentally step into the skimmer, which could lead to injury or damage to the pool equipment. The cover plate acts as a sturdy barrier, giving me peace of mind knowing the pool area is safer.
Another reason I find the skimmer cover plate necessary is that it helps keep debris out of the pool’s filtration system. Leaves, dirt, and other unwanted materials can clog the skimmer basket and reduce the efficiency of the pool pump. By using a cover plate, I minimize this problem, which means less frequent cleaning and fewer costly repairs. Overall, it protects my pool’s plumbing and equipment, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Lastly, the cover plate also helps maintain the aesthetic of the pool area. An uncovered skimmer can look unfinished or neglected, but a proper cover plate blends seamlessly with the pool deck. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a big difference in keeping my pool area looking clean, safe, and well
My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Skimmer Cover Plate
When I first decided to replace my swimming pool skimmer cover plate, I quickly realized there are a few important factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the best one for your pool.
Understanding What a Skimmer Cover Plate Is
Before diving into options, I made sure I understood the purpose of the skimmer cover plate. It’s essentially the lid that fits over the skimmer basket, protecting the skimmer opening while allowing debris to be collected and preventing accidents. A good cover plate keeps my pool safe and clean.
Material Matters
One of the first things I looked at was the material. Most skimmer cover plates are made from plastic or metal. I preferred a high-quality, UV-resistant plastic because it can withstand sun exposure without cracking or fading. Metal covers can be more durable but might rust over time unless they are stainless steel or coated properly.
Size and Compatibility
This was a crucial step. I measured my existing skimmer opening carefully to ensure the cover plate I chose would fit perfectly. I also checked the brand and model of my pool skimmer because some covers are designed for specific skimmer types. Buying the wrong size would have been a waste of time and money.
Weight Capacity and Strength
Because people sometimes step on the skimmer cover, I wanted one that could support weight without breaking. I looked for covers that specified weight limits or were marked as heavy-duty. This gave me peace of mind knowing the cover plate could handle occasional pressure safely.
Ease of Installation
I appreciated a cover plate that was easy to install without requiring special tools. Some designs snap into place, while others use screws. I personally chose one with screw holes so I could secure it firmly, reducing the chance of it popping off during pool cleaning or rough weather.
Design and Aesthetics
Since the skimmer cover is visible around the pool, I considered the color and design. Many come in neutral colors like white, gray, or tan, which blend well with pool decks. I picked a color that matched my pool surroundings, making the cover less noticeable and more attractive.
Price and Warranty
Lastly, I compared prices but didn’t just go for the cheapest option. I balanced cost with quality and looked for products that offered a warranty. A good warranty meant the manufacturer stood behind their product, which gave me confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right swimming pool skimmer cover plate isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. By focusing on material, size, durability, ease of installation, and appearance, I found a cover plate that fits perfectly and keeps my pool safe and clean. I hope my buying guide helps you make a well-informed decision for your pool too!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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