The Ingenious Pool Noodle Hack That Makes Skimming Your Pool A Breeze

There is no shortage of pool noodle hacks and DIY ideas, each one extremely useful. You can use pool noodles to protect your garage walls from car doors, create various crafts, and even make different types of outdoor furniture with these foam devices. And, if you have a pool, these foam noodles are more helpful than you may realize. In a genius TikTok hack shared by @lemonberryteacher, by adding a piece of a pool noodle to your pool's leaf skimmer, you can help keep it buoyant. This lets your skimmer stay afloat, reducing stress and tension as you clean debris.

Another great thing about this hack is that your skimmer will float if you accidentally drop it in the pool. And if you already have an old pool noodle handy, this trick won't cost a thing. If you don't have a foam noodle, just head to the Dollar Tree — they sell them for $1.25 each. You'll need to cut your pool noodle lengthwise and widthwise so you can attach it to your skimmer. When cutting a pool noodle, utility knives are ideal for working lengthwise and a serrated knife is great for widthwise cuts. Take precautions when cutting pool noodles and invest in cut-resistant gloves, available on Amazon for $10.

Before you cut your pool noodle, measure your skimmer. As the adage goes, measure twice and cut once. Next, use your serrated knife to cut your pool noodle to the designated length. You'll then use a utility knife to cut it lengthwise. If you don't have a utility knife, you can purchase one on Amazon for $10. Scissors are also a decent option if you're lacking in the knife department. Just be sure to purchase a hollow foam noodle for this hack. If you only have one skimmer, you can still use what's left of your pool noodle for other DIY crafts, such as making a festive patriotic wreath for your front porch. 

It's important to remember that pool noodles are prone to mold and mildew, just like any other pool toy. When you're done skimming your pool, simply let your pool noodle dry out in the sun to prevent any bacterial growth. If you do notice that your foam noodles are looking a little worse for wear, clean them with white vinegar and water mixed in a 1:1 ratio. Don't be afraid to clean your other pool toys while you're at it!