IT takes about an hour to fill it up, get the temperature right and get the kids changed into their swimming gear.
And within what feels like seconds, the paddling pool is full of grass and dirt the kids have traipsed into the water.
But parents all too familiar with that situation have come up with a genius solution to ensure the water stays clean – and it’s less than £6.
The product in question is a foot bath tray, which you fill with water and leave by the side of the pool.
This then allows users to wash their feet before hopping in, and therefore stops any unwanted additions to the pool.
The trays retail for just £5.89 on eBay, and is big enough for feet from child to adult size.
“The tray is much larger than I expected, which is fab,” one person commented after purchasing the budget item.
“It will be used for cleaning feet before getting in the hot tub.”
“Great price, ideal for getting any debris off your feet before getting in the pool,” another added.
“Works perfectly and does the job,” a third said.
As someone else wrote: “Thoroughly recommend!”
And once you’re finished using the tray as a pool cleaning pitstop, you can pop it inside to store mucky boots and shoes on.
Made from durable polypropylene, it’s also easy to clean – just pop it in some soapy water and you can use it again and again.
In the product description, manufacturers also state that the try can be used for other purposes – such as a pet food tray, bird seeding station or plant tray.
Similar trays are sold on the Lay-Z Spa website, for a pricier £11.99, and the positive reviews kept on coming on those too.
“Perfect size for feet,” one wrote.
One of the easiest ways to keep bugs out of your pool is to cover it with a dark sheet (like bin bags) when it’s not in use.
This can also help keep the water warm for kids as well.
Bug traps around the pool can also be useful.
To naturally stop bugs from coming around you can plant such as lavender, basil or mint as they hate the smell.
“I have been using it for the children’s paddling pool as well as for the hot tub.
“Essential with the lawn being so dead and dry this time of the year.
“Very happy with it.”
“The biggest of feet will fit in this. It’s a lot bigger than expected which is great!” another added.
“Great for kids to clean off their feet before a dip,” a third noted.
