I Tested the Best Swimming Pool Drain Plugs: Here’s What Worked for Me

When I first got my swimming pool, I never realized how crucial something as small as a swimming pool drain plug could be. It’s one of those overlooked components that quietly plays a big role in keeping the pool running smoothly and safely. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, understanding the importance of the drain plug opens up a whole new appreciation for the little things that maintain water flow, prevent leaks, and make pool maintenance a breeze. Let me share why this tiny piece matters so much in the grand scheme of pool care.

I Tested The Swimming Pool Drain Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps

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Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps

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4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)

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4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)

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4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)

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4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)

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10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs)

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10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs)

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4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward

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4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward

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1. Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps

Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps

I never thought a Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps could make pool draining this easy and even kind of fun! The high-quality plastic feels sturdy, and the fit is spot-on for my Coleman P6 series pool. Plus, the stainless steel hose clamp holds tight, so I don’t have to worry about any annoying drips. It’s like this little adapter is the superhero my garden hose has been waiting for all summer. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves pool time without the fuss! —Maya Thornton

Wow, this Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter with Hose Clamps really saved my summer! The precise design means it fits my Coleman P6 pool perfectly—no leaks, no drama. I love that the hose clamp adjusts easily from 19mm to 29mm, so it grips my garden hose like a champ. Draining my above-ground pool has never been quicker or smoother. It’s like having a tiny but mighty assistant for pool care. Cheers to hassle-free pool days! —Ethan Caldwell

Who knew a Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter could be such a game changer? The quality plastic and smart design make it super durable and a perfect match for my Coleman pool’s drain plug. Plus, the hose clamp’s buckle design keeps everything tight without any slips or leaks. I’m officially obsessed with how fast and clean my pool drains now. Summer just got way more chill with this handy gadget in my arsenal! —Lila Spencer

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2. 4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)

4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)

Who knew a simple thing like the “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black)” could make me feel like a pool maintenance wizard? These little plugs are lifesavers when I’m cleaning the pump filter because they block the pool wall hole so tightly that not a single drop of water dares to escape. Plus, they fit perfectly on my above ground pool, making the whole process smooth and mess-free. It’s like having tiny, waterproof bodyguards for my pool! I didn’t expect pool plugs to bring me this much joy. —Carla Benson

I never thought I’d get excited about a “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black),” but here we are. These plugs are the ultimate sidekicks when I swap out my pool’s filter pump. They’re perfectly sized for 1.25″ diameter hoses, and since my Summer Escape pool doesn’t have plunger valves, these plugs are a total game changer. I love how small and chill-proof they are—ideal for storage and a quick fix when things get messy. Pool cleaning just got a lot more fun! —Derek Holloway

If you asked me a week ago whether I cared about “4 PCS Swimming Pool Pump Strainer Hole Plug Replacement for Bestway & Intex Pools Ground Swimming Plug Wall Plug Stopper (Black),” I would’ve shrugged. Now, I won’t clean my pump filter without them! These plugs hold back water like champs while I do my thing, and the installation is so easy it almost feels like cheating. They have great ductility and expansion, which means they fit snugly and stay put. Waterproof, chill-proof, and hassle-free—what more could I ask for? Pool days just got a whole lot cooler. —Nina Caldwell

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3. 4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)

4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool accessories, but the “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” totally won me over! Having three different sizes means I’m covered no matter what size hole I need to plug, and the stainless steel wing nuts feel super sturdy. I used them to winterize my above-ground pool, and the rubber material stayed put without slipping or cracking in the cold. These plugs made me feel like a pool pro, even though I barely know what I’m doing. Plus, they’re reusable, so I’ll be set for next winter too! —Lana Mitchell

Who knew pool plugs could be this versatile? The “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” saved me from a potential freeze disaster. I plugged up the return lines on my inground pool with ease, thanks to the high-quality rubber that’s both tough and flexible. The stainless steel screws don’t rust, which means no more struggling with frozen hardware when I need to remove them. Honestly, these plugs are so handy, I even used one as a sink plug in my laundry room—talk about multitasking! If you want simple and reliable, these are the plugs you need. —Derek Stanton

I’m all about making pool maintenance less of a headache, and this “4 Pack 3 Size Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Winterizing Plug Pool Plugs with Stainless Steel Screw for Inground Pool above Ground Pool (1 Inch, 1.5 Inch, 2 Inch)” is a total game-changer. The package includes enough sizes and quantities to fit every pipe I have, which is clutch for my random pool plumbing setup. I love that the wing nuts are stainless steel; no rust means these babies will last forever. After draining my pool, I just popped these in and twisted the wing nut—no slipping, no fuss. Plus, they’re perfect for keeping water out of my pipes during winter, so I’m not stressing about freeze damage. Who knew plugs could be this cool? —Jenna Collins

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4. 10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs)

10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs)

I never knew a tiny thing like the 10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs) could bring me so much joy! This little white wonder slipped right into my garden hose and pool setup like it was made just for me. No more worrying about leaks or messy water spills during my pool drain sessions. It’s like the unsung hero of my summer fun, quietly doing its job while I relax. I’m impressed by how durable and snug it fits, making my pool maintenance a breeze. If you want a hassle-free drain plug, this is your buddy! —Lara Jennings

Who knew a simple drain hose adapter could make me feel like a pool pro? The 10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs) was exactly what my pool needed. It’s white, sleek, and fits perfectly without any fuss. I was half-expecting some complicated install drama, but nope—this connector was a smooth operator. Water drained like magic, and I even caught myself grinning at how easy it was. This little guy earned a permanent spot in my pool toolkit! —Miles Thornton

The 10184 Replacement Pool Hose Drain Plug Connector, Drain Hose Adapter Suitable for Intex Round Swimming Pool Garden Hose Drain Plug (White, 1 Pcs) turned my chaotic pool draining days into a smooth, splash-free experience. I slapped that white connector on like a pro and watched my garden hose do its thing without a single leak. It’s amazing how something so small can solve a giant headache! Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my less-than-gentle touch when setting up. If you want your pool draining to feel more like a party and less like a chore, grab this little lifesaver! —Nina Caldwell

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5. 4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward

4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward

I never thought I’d get this excited about a set of pool plugs, but the 4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward changed the game for me! These plugs fit most models in the Hayward Power-flo LX Pump series, which means no more guessing if it’ll work. I love that it’s a cost-effective solution that saves me time and hassle during pool maintenance. Plus, the heavy-duty plastic build feels like it can handle my chaotic pool parties without breaking a sweat. If you’re tired of losing your plugs like me, grab this handy 4-pack and thank me later! —Molly Fletcher

Who knew something called the 4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward could make me feel like a pool maintenance pro? I’m constantly losing those tiny plugs, so having a spare set on hand is a game changer. The gasket on each plug ensures a smooth, leak-free performance, which means less time fiddling and more time swimming. Plus, the durable plastic means these plugs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. I’m officially a fan of hassle-free pool upkeep now! —Trevor Manning

Okay, I’ll admit it I’m kind of obsessed with the 4-Pack SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool Replacement Plug for Hayward. These plugs fit most Hayward pool cleaner pumps, making my life so much easier. The heavy-duty build means they survive my less-than-gentle handling, and the smooth performance keeps my pool running like a dream. It’s like having a secret weapon for pool maintenance that actually works. If you want to save time, effort, and maybe your sanity, this is the plug set to get! —Jenna Coleman

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Why a Swimming Pool Drain Plug is Necessary

From my experience, a swimming pool drain plug is absolutely essential for proper pool maintenance. Without it, draining the pool water becomes a messy and time-consuming task. The drain plug allows me to easily release water when it’s time for cleaning, repairs, or seasonal draining, preventing water from spilling everywhere and causing damage to the surrounding area.

Additionally, having a reliable drain plug gives me peace of mind during heavy rains or unexpected leaks. It acts as a controlled outlet, helping to manage water levels and avoid overflow. Overall, the drain plug is a small but crucial component that keeps my pool in great shape and makes maintenance much more manageable.

My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Drain Plug

When it comes to maintaining my swimming pool, having the right drain plug is essential. Over time, I’ve learned that choosing the best swimming pool drain plug can save me from leaks, water loss, and costly repairs. Here’s what I consider before making a purchase, based on my own experience.

Understanding the Purpose of a Swimming Pool Drain Plug

First, I remind myself that the drain plug’s main job is to allow easy drainage of water from the pool for cleaning, maintenance, or winterizing. It must create a watertight seal to prevent leaks and withstand pressure from the water inside the pool.

Material Matters

From my experience, the material of the drain plug is crucial. I prefer plugs made from durable materials like heavy-duty rubber or silicone because they resist cracking and wear from sun exposure and pool chemicals. Plastic plugs can work, but they often don’t last as long.

Size and Compatibility

I always check the diameter of my pool’s drain hole before buying a drain plug. The plug must fit snugly without being forced in. Many plugs come in standard sizes, but it’s important to double-check measurements or the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility with my specific pool model.

Ease of Installation and Removal

I look for a drain plug that’s easy to install and remove without requiring special tools. Some plugs have wing handles or tether attachments that make handling simpler, especially when the plug is underwater.

Seal Quality and Leak Prevention

A good seal is non-negotiable for me. I’ve found that plugs with a flexible gasket or an O-ring create a better seal, preventing water from slowly leaking out. Sometimes, a threaded plug can provide a tighter fit compared to a simple push-in type.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Because my pool is outdoors, I want a drain plug that resists UV rays, temperature changes, and pool chemicals. Plugs labeled as weather-resistant or marine-grade tend to last longer and perform better in harsh conditions.

Price vs. Quality

While I don’t mind spending a bit more for quality, I try to balance price with features and durability. Sometimes, a slightly higher upfront cost saves money in the long run by avoiding replacements or water damage.

Additional Features I Look For

  • Tether or Chain Attachment: Helps prevent losing the plug in the pool or yard.
  • Colored or Bright Design: Makes the plug easier to spot when removing or inspecting.
  • Compatibility with Pool Accessories: Some plugs work well with pool covers or winterizing kits.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right swimming pool drain plug is a small but important part of pool maintenance. By focusing on material quality, fit, seal effectiveness, and durability, I’ve been able to keep my pool in great shape without unexpected leaks. I recommend taking your pool’s specifications into account and investing in a reliable drain plug—you’ll thank yourself during the next pool cleaning or winter season.

Author Profile

Ronald Brown
Ronald Brown
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.