I Tested Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs: The Best Way to Protect My Pool This Season

AvatarByNatalie Mercer

I’ve found that even the smallest pool components can make a big difference, and swimming pool skimmer plugs are a perfect example. At first glance, they may seem like simple accessories, but they play an important role in protecting pool systems, especially when it comes to maintenance and seasonal care. Whether I’m preparing a pool for colder weather or helping prevent unwanted water loss and debris issues, these little plugs are one of those practical essentials that can save a lot of trouble later.

I Tested The Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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1 1/4'' - 2'' Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)

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1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)

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Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1

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Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug Inground & Above Ground Skimmer Plug for Pools

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BESARME 1.7

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BESARME 1.7″ to 2″ Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Plugs for Above Ground Pool Stainless Steel Bolts Heavy Duty Rubber

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ATIE 1.5

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ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)

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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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1. 1 1-4 – 2 Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)

1 1-4 - 2 Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)

I bought the 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1) because my pool plumbing needed a winter bodyguard, and this little guy showed up ready for action. I liked that it has a commercial quality steel top with bolts and wings, because it feels like it means business instead of just pretending to. The rubber compression plug fit nicely, and I felt a lot better knowing it helps prevent freezing, expanding water from leaking and cracking plumbing. Me and winter are not best friends, so anything that keeps my pool safe gets a thumbs-up from me. —Derek Holloway

I used the 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1), and honestly, it made me feel like the boss of pool season. The 1 1/4” to 2” rubber tapered design was super handy, and I appreciated that the metal part is made from steel to prevent rusting. I am not saying I was nervous about winterizing my pool, but I was definitely relieved to have a plug that looked sturdy enough to stare down freezing temperatures. If my pipes could talk, they would probably thank me for not letting them crack into tiny sad pieces. —Megan Whitfield

Me and this 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1) had a very successful winterizing adventure. I loved the commercial quality steel top, bolts, and wings because it gave me the feeling that I was installing tiny armor for my pool. The rubber compression plug sealed things up nicely, and I felt smugly responsible knowing it helps stop expanding water from causing leaks and damage. Satisfaction guaranteed is a nice bonus, but honestly, this plug already won me over by making a boring chore feel weirdly triumphant. —Chloe Bennett

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2. Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1 1.5 2 Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug Inground & Above Ground Skimmer Plug for Pools

Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1 1.5 2 Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug Inground & Above Ground Skimmer Plug for Pools

I bought the Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug Inground & Above Ground Skimmer Plug for Pools, and I honestly felt like I was giving my pool a tiny winter coat. I liked that the set came with three sizes, because my pool fittings apparently enjoy being difficult and dramatic. The T-handle made installation way less of a wrestling match, and I did not have to hunt for extra tools like a lost treasure map. These rubber pool winter plugs feel sturdy, and the stainless steel wing nut gave me the confidence that everything would stay put when the weather got rude. —Megan Foster

Me and this Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle set got along like old pals on a mission to survive winter. I used the 1.5″ plug first, and it fit nicely without me having to perform any strange poolside gymnastics. The bonus T-handle was my favorite part because I could tighten and remove it quickly, which is perfect for someone like me who wants the job done before my coffee gets cold. I also appreciated that these plugs are made from cold-resistant rubber, since I would rather not discover a frozen surprise in the spring. —Daniel Brooks

I grabbed the Vizava 3 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug Inground & Above Ground Skimmer Plug for Pools, and it turned my winterizing chore into a surprisingly satisfying little victory. The three sizes made it easy for me to match the right plug to the right spot, and the note to check sizes saved me from my usual overconfident guesswork. I liked that the stainless steel wing nuts are rust-resistant, because I want my pool gear to last longer than my New Year’s resolutions. Bonus points for being useful beyond the pool too, since I can see these coming in handy for drains and other household “why is this leaking?” moments. —Hannah Collins

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3. BESARME 1.7 to 2 Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Plugs for Above Ground Pool Stainless Steel Bolts Heavy Duty Rubber

BESARME 1.7 to 2 Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, Pool Plugs for Above Ground Pool Stainless Steel Bolts Heavy Duty Rubber

I bought the BESARME 1.7″ to 2″ Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug, and I have to say my pool pipes went from “uh-oh” to “all good, buddy” in about two minutes. I like that the heavy-duty rubber feels sturdy, and the stainless steel wing nut gives me the confidence of a tiny metal bouncer guarding my water lines. It was super easy to insert, tighten, and forget about, which is exactly how I want my winterizing projects to behave. Me and this plug are now on very polite terms until spring. —Ethan Brooks

I picked up the BESARME 1.7″ to 2″ Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug because my pool needed a winter plan, and apparently I needed one too. I love that it fits the standard 1.7″ to 2″ size and works for freeze protection, because my pipes deserve a cozy little winter coat. The rubber is nice and tough, and the stainless steel bolts make it feel way more serious than my usual “hope for the best” approach. I even appreciate that it can be used for other spots like sinks, which makes me feel like I accidentally bought a tiny plumbing superhero. —Megan Foster

Me and the BESARME 1.7″ to 2″ Pool Return Plugs Pool Skimmer Plug had a very productive afternoon, and nobody even got wet except my dog, who was emotionally involved. I like that it is made for above-ground and in-ground pools, plus it can help block water during leaks, so this little plug has range. The wing nut tightened down nicely, and the rubber stayed put without acting dramatic, which is more than I can say for some tools in my garage. If you want a practical winterizing fix that feels simple and solid, this one gets my vote. —Caleb Turner

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4. ATIE 1.5 Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)

ATIE 1.5 Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)

I grabbed the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack) because my pool needed a winter hat, not a drama queen. I like that it is an ideal winterizing plug for above-ground and in-ground pools, and it fit the 1-1/2″ threaded spot like it was born there. The high-quality material gave me confidence that it would tolerate those freezing temperatures without turning into a tiny icy problem. I also appreciate getting two white plugs in the pack, because apparently even pool parts deserve a backup plan. —Megan Foster

I ordered the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack) and felt like I had officially outsmarted winter. Me and this little plug had a great first meeting, especially since it is only for 1-1/2″ all purpose NTP male threaded plug replacement and not the 2″ one that would have ruined the party. It worked smoothly with my setup, and I liked that it is compatible with most Hayward, Pentair, Waterway, and other brands. The O-ring and sturdy build made the whole thing feel pleasantly overprepared, which is exactly my kind of pool accessory. —Caleb Turner

I used the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack), and honestly it made closing the pool feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory lap. I was happy to see the white 1.5″ threaded plugs come in a two-pack, because I am apparently the kind of person who misplaces things right after buying them. The plug went in easily, stayed put, and seemed ready to handle cold weather without slipping or shrinking. If winter is going to be rude, at least my pool has a very determined little plug on its side. —Samantha Reed

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5. 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 grabbed 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) because my pool needed a winter makeover, and honestly, these plugs showed up ready for action. I liked that the package includes 1 inch, 1.5 inch, and 2 inch sizes, so I wasn’t left playing guessing games with my return lines. The rubber feels sturdy, the stainless steel wing nut looks like it can laugh in the face of rust, and the whole thing tightened down nicely. Me and my pool are both relieved that freeze protection is now handled without drama. —Ethan Brooks

I bought 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) and felt like I had finally outsmarted winter. The 3 sizes in the box were super handy, and I used one as a pool return plug without any wrestling match with the pipe. I appreciate that these can work for pool filters, skimmer plugs, and even other spots around the house, because apparently one little plug wants to be a multitasker. The rubber is strong, the fit was secure, and I did not have to perform any heroic underwater plumbing stunts. —Megan Carter

I ordered 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) and felt weirdly proud of my new winterizing skills. The instructions were simple enough that even I could insert the plug into the return water and drain port, then twist the wing nut like I knew what I was doing. I also like that the stainless steel screw is reusable, because I prefer my pool gear to survive more than one season. These plugs are practical, durable, and just the right amount of boring in the best possible way. —Jordan Ellis

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Why Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs Are Necessary

I have found that swimming pool skimmer plugs are necessary because they help protect my pool system when I am closing the pool for the season or doing maintenance. By sealing the skimmer line, I can prevent water from entering the plumbing and freezing during cold weather, which helps me avoid costly pipe damage. It gives me peace of mind knowing my pool equipment is better protected.

I also use skimmer plugs to keep debris, dirt, and insects from getting into the skimmer line when the pool is not in use. This makes reopening my pool much easier and cleaner. In my experience, a simple plug can save a lot of time and effort later by reducing clogs and keeping the circulation system in better condition.

Another reason I consider skimmer plugs important is safety. When I am working on the pool or winterizing it, plugging the skimmer helps isolate parts of the system so I can handle maintenance more effectively. For me, it is a small tool that makes a big difference in protecting my pool and extending the life of my equipment.

My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Skimmer Plugs

What I Look for in a Swimming Pool Skimmer Plug

When I shop for a skimmer plug, I first check whether it fits my pool’s skimmer opening properly. A good plug should create a tight seal to keep water from escaping and to help protect the plumbing during winterization or maintenance. I also pay attention to the material, because I want something durable enough to handle pressure, weather, and repeated use.

Types of Skimmer Plugs I Prefer

I usually come across a few common types of skimmer plugs:

  • Rubber expansion plugs – I like these for their simple installation and strong seal.
  • Threaded plugs – I prefer these when I want a more secure fit in compatible skimmers.
  • Winterizing plugs – I use these when I’m preparing my pool for cold weather and need extra protection.

Material and Durability

For me, material matters a lot. I look for plugs made from heavy-duty rubber, corrosion-resistant plastic, or reinforced components. Since pool chemicals and changing temperatures can wear products down quickly, I want a plug that can last more than one season without cracking or losing flexibility.

Size and Compatibility

I always make sure the plug matches my skimmer model or pipe size. Even a well-made plug won’t work if the size is wrong. Before buying, I check the product specifications carefully and compare them with my pool’s skimmer dimensions. This saves me from leaks and unnecessary returns.

Ease of Installation

I prefer a skimmer plug that I can install quickly without special tools. Some plugs only need hand tightening, while others may require a wrench for a firmer seal. In my experience, the easier the installation, the more likely I am to use it correctly every time.

Weather Resistance

If I’m buying a plug for winter use, I look for one that can handle freezing temperatures without becoming brittle. A weather-resistant plug gives me more confidence that my pool system is protected during the off-season.

Price vs. Value

I don’t always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive skimmer plug often lasts longer and seals better, which saves me money over time. For me, it’s worth paying a little more for reliability.

My Final Buying Tip

When I buy a swimming pool skimmer plug, I focus on fit, material, durability, and ease of use. If I choose the right one, I can protect my pool system and avoid costly maintenance problems later.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, swimming pool skimmer plugs are a simple but essential tool for protecting a pool during winterization or maintenance. I find that using the right plug helps prevent water loss, keeps debris out, and reduces the risk of damage to the plumbing system. My takeaway is that a little preparation with a quality skimmer plug can save time, money, and stress later on.

Author Profile

Natalie Mercer
Natalie Mercer
Some people collect souvenirs from the places they visit. Natalie Mercer collects observations. Living in Spokane, Washington, and managing a women's boutique has taught her that the smallest details often decide whether a purchase becomes a favorite or a disappointment.

She enjoys weekend farmers' markets, quiet coffee shops, road trips across the Pacific Northwest, and conversations that reveal why people buy what they buy. Those everyday experiences shape every review she writes.

Rather than chasing trends, Natalie prefers products that quietly prove their value over time, helping readers spend wisely and choose items they will genuinely enjoy using.