Your skimmer basket is an important part of your pool system, and while they do generally last a while. Every so often, you will need to buy a new one. If you have seen just how many different pool skimmer baskets are out there, you know that the choices can be overwhelming.
Which skimmer baskets are compatible with your pool skimmer and equipment system? Are they going to fit? Will it last a long time? Below, I help you answer all those questions and highlight some excellent pool skimmer basket replacement options that can hopefully fit your pool setup. Ready to find the perfect skimmer for your pool? Let’s dive in!
Pool Skimmer Baskets: My Top Picks
SkimPro Tower-Vented Skimmer Basket
⭐ Most Universal
Research Score: 4.7 / 5
- User Friendliness: 4
- Performance and Compatibility: 5
- Durability: 5
- Price: 5
Specs:
- Basket Dimensions: 6.125” x 8.44”
- Height of the Tower: 12.95”
- It fits most skimmers, including Hayward 1070 series, Jacuzzi Deckmate, American, etc.
What’s Great:
- Good value
- Tower makes it easy to remove for cleaning
- Able to withstand excessive debris found after storms
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- The tower may protrude from the skimmer in some pool models
Research Notes
One of the best pool skimmer baskets on the market is the SkimPro Tower-Vented SKimmer Basket. The top handle of this skimmer is an absolute game-changer. It allows you to take the basket out and put it back in without getting your hands dirty. Plus, the basket can handle debris of all sizes (though it may struggle with very large leaves). And if that’s not enough to convince you, this skimmer basket should fit most skimmers and should last you a long time, thanks to its sturdy build. Unfortunately, the tower portion of this basket may stick out of some skimmer models. But if this happens, safely cut it to a more appropriate size.
User Friendliness
One of my favorite features of the SkimPro Tower-Vented Skimmer Basket is its top handle. With this handle, you can easily put in and take out the basket – without putting your hands in the water! This makes for some easy cleaning. Installation is super easy; you won’t even need a manual. But as a top tip: to keep the basket down, it might help to put a couple of pebbles into the tower before installing. However, I have had to dock off one point here since the tower makes it a bit difficult to clean this basket. But definitely nothing you won’t be able to handle!
Performance and Compatibility
If you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all skimmer basket or are having trouble finding a basket that will work for your pool, the SkimPro Tower-Vented Skimmer Basket is the product for you. With a wide range of compatible brands and models, this skimmer basket will work with almost every pool. To determine if this skimmer basket will work for your pool, you can check the bottom of your current skimmer for a serial number or measure the dimensions of your pool’s skimmer to see if it is the right size.
This pool skimmer basket scores highly on the performance front as well. This basket easily catches debris of all sizes – including leaves!
Durability
The SkimPro Tower-Vented Skimmer Basket feels very durable and sturdy. In fact, unlike many other skimmer baskets, the handle of this basket should last a while, as it is not flimsy at all! Gone are the days of skimmer basket handles breaking after just a couple of uses.
Price
Here is the thing. You can definitely buy some cheaper skimmer baskets than the SkimPro Tower-Vented Basket. The higher price is due to the tower, arguably this basket’s best feature. Plus, the basket is incredibly durable and should last you many pool seasons. Definitely a great value for money!
Notes From Other Testers
Out of more than 800 reviews from other testers, this SkimPro skimmer basket rates an average of 4.4 stars out of 5. This product rates particularly highly with other testers in terms of durability and sturdiness – a testament to the build of the product! Pool owners love the tower feature of this pool skimmer, which makes it so much easier to clean the basket when it fills up. On the flip side, however, the tower may not fit in all units. But if this is the case, you can easily cut down the plastic to make it fit.
GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket
⭐ Best Affordable Replacement Skimmer Basket
Research Score: 4.7 / 5
- User Friendliness: 5
- Performance and Compatibility: 4
- Durability: 5
- Price: 5
Specs:
- Basket dimensions: 8 7/16” x 6 1/8”
- Height of Tower: 12 15/16”
- It fits most American brand skimmers, Hayward 1070, SwimQuip, and more
What’s Great:
- Tower vent to provide continuous water flow
- Tower allows for easy removal
- Has weights in the bottom
- Competitive price point
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Tendency to float when full
Research Notes
The GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket is another almost universal product that works for many pool models. The dimensions are about the same as the SkimPro, so if you’re looking for a more affordable version in the same size range or want to try something similar to compare the two, the GVT skimmer basket is an excellent option. The tower vent and top handle get two thumbs up from me! This feature makes your life so much easier when it comes to pool maintenance. While this GVT model includes a weighted bottom, the basket still tends to float when it’s filled with debris, so that’s one thing to look out for.
User Friendliness
Another pool skimmer basket with that awesome tower vent and top handle is the GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket. This tower vent provides continuous water flow even when the basket is filled with debris. Plus, it makes removing the basket for cleaning much more manageable. You won’t need to reach into the water and debris to search for the handle. Furthermore, the GVT model’s design includes a weighted bottom, keeping the skimmer basket safely in place, so you won’t have to worry about any debris sneaking its way past the basket and into your pool’s pump or filter.
Performance and Compatibility
This skimmer basket will help clear your pool of debris of all shapes and sizes, including leaves, little bugs, and even an unfortunate frog! Unfortunately, I did dock off one point here because the basket does tend to float when it has a lot of debris, so some debris might escape the basket.
A great versatile product that will work for many different pool models, the GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket has about the same dimensions as the SkimPro model, so if the above basket would work for you, so would this one.
Durability
This skimmer basket is a pretty sturdy build. While it is made of plastic, it is not flimsy at all. And unlike baskets with your average handle, the tower is not likely to break any time soon! The tower screws into the basket, so it should last you several pool seasons!
Price
The GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket basically offers all of the features of the SkimPro at a slightly lower price, so there’s not much to say here! This price is an absolute steal for the quality of the product you get. The tower is an awesome feature you would be hard-pressed to find at this price point.
Notes From Other Testers
With an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from more than 2,000 reviews, it’s easy to see why the GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket is a big hit with pool owners around the world! In fact, around 90% of testers gave this skimmer basket at least 4 stars, which is certainly no mean feat. Other testers especially loved that this basket is easy to remove, clean, and use. They rated it highly for sturdiness as well. The tower is an absolute hit. However, on the other hand, some users have had issues with the basket floating despite the weight at the bottom. To remedy this, put a couple of smooth pebbles inside the tower handle.
SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer Basket
⭐ Best for Fast Cleaning
Research Score: 4.1 / 5
- User Friendliness: 4
- Performance and Compatibility: 5
- Durability: 4
- Price: 3
Specs:
- Product dimensions: 8” x 8.25” x 7.5”
- Fits all skimmer baskets up to 10 3/4 inches tall and 8 1/8 inches wide
What’s Great:
- Cleans pool three times faster than the average tower-vented skimmer
- It fits most skimmer baskets for in-ground pools
- Included skimmer socks ensure debris does not make its way to the filter
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- More expensive model
- It does not come with a skimmer basket for collecting debris
- Flimsy bolts that do not hold down the basket well
Research Notes
If you have an issue with a pool that attracts a lot of debris from nearby trees or even bugs, the SkimDoctor 2.0 is the best skimmer basket for your pool. While you will need to purchase a skimmer basket separately, this attachment will be a lifesaver, cleaning pools three times faster than your usual tower-vented skimmer! Plus, it’s super easy to install and use. All you need to do is take out the skimmer sock and throw it away once full. Although this product might be more expensive than other skimmer baskets on this list, the extra few dollars would be worth the spend for a sparkling pool.
User Friendliness
The SkimDoctor 2.0 is super straightforward to install. However, since this unit does not have a skimmer basket, you must purchase this separately. The skimmer socks that come with this unit come in super handy, as you won’t need to clean your skimmer basket. All you need to do is take out the skimmer sock and throw it away. If you want to save a few bucks, you could wash and reuse the sock, but it would be a lot more difficult to clean than your average basket.
Performance and Compatibility
The SkimDoctor 2.0 is a fantastic skimmer basket turbocharger that cleans pools three times faster than your average tower-vented skimmer! This skimmer is a great fit for pools that get a lot of debris, as it can quickly clean up the mess so you can return to enjoying your pool. If your backyard has many trees, or you live in an area that gets a lot of bad storms that will blow debris into your swimming pool, this skimmer will be your best friend.
In terms of compatibility, this product fits most skimmer baskets for in-ground pools. However, there may be some modifications you need to do to fit it into your skimmer, depending on what brand and model you have.
Durability
If you’re looking for a pretty durable pool skimmer, the SkimDoctor 2.0 is a great pick. It’s made of sturdy plastic and should last you several pool seasons without issue. Unfortunately, I have had to dock off a point, as the bolts are rather flimsy and do not hold down the product onto the basket very well.
Price
This is definitely the most expensive option on my list, and it’s easy to see why. This SkimDoctor 2.0 will suck in all the debris floating around in your pool, leaving your pool crystal clear. However, while the price is justified in some cases, it’s worth noting that this model does not come with a skimmer basket.
Notes From Other Testers
More than 2,000 other testers have reviewed the SkimDoctor 2.0, with more than half of the reviewers giving this skimmer basket attachment 5 stars out of 5! While rated an average of 3.8 stars, this product rates exceptionally high in terms of ease of installation. These testers love that this product can get their pool much cleaner than any tower-vented skimmer basket out there. With that said, there are some criticisms that this product does not come with a basket. I found that the bolts are pretty flimsy as well.
Hayward SPX1082CA Basket Replacement
⭐ Best for Hayward Automatic Skimmers
Research Score: 4.2 / 5
- User Friendliness: 4
- Performance and Compatibility: 4
- Durability: 4
- Price: 5
Specs:
- Product dimensions: 7” wide x 5” deep
- Fits Hayward skimmers for models SP1082 through SP1086
What’s Great:
- Dependable company in business for over 80 years
- Guaranteed fit for the specified Hayward skimmer models, as it is from the same company
- It catches and holds a lot of debris
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Plastic handle can break easily
- Not a universal size
Research Notes
If you are looking for a replacement basket for your Hayward pool skimmer, this is an excellent option for you at a very affordable price. This is the most popular skimmer basket for the standard Hayward model skimmers. This basket is heavy-duty and will ensure that your pool stays clean and in working condition. If you are hesitant to purchase the one-size-fits-all varieties, the Hayward replacement would be a good fit for you, as the exact model numbers it fits are in the description. Just watch out for its flimsy handle!
User Friendliness
This Hayward Basket Replacement is an easy-to-use skimmer basket that you can simply pop into place to replace your old or broken one. While this basket is easy to use, I did dock off one point simply because of the handle. The handle does come in super handy, but it is incredibly flimsy and may not last very long. So, try not to take out the basket by the handle if it’s full.
Performance and Compatibility
In terms of performance, I have no complaints here! This Hayward Basket Replacement does an excellent job of collecting debris into the basket. However, as it collects debris, it may unfortunately start to float.
With regards to compatibility, this product is not a universal fit and is advertised to fit the following Hayward skimmer models: SP1082, SP1083, SP1084, SP1085, and SP1086 Series.
Durability
As a dependable and well-known company in business for over 80 years, Hayward has made a name for itself by producing quality pool products. And this goes for their skimmer basket replacement as well. With that said, the only issue I have with the durability of this basket is its flimsy handle that may easily break.
Price
The Hayward Basket Replacement is a quality product at a super reasonable price point. If you’re after a new skimmer basket for your Hayward skimmer and don’t need the bells and whistles that come with a tower-vented skimmer, this is a great option!
Notes From Other Testers
With more than 4,500 reviews, this Hayward skimmer basket is one of the most popular skimmer baskets on the market! And for good reason – it boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. And more than 90% of these reviews give this skimmer at least 4 out of 5 stars! These testers love that the Hayward basket is dependable, sturdy, durable, and easy to remove. Unfortunately, the biggest complaint is the flimsy handle.
Pentair 516112 Handle Basket Replacement
⭐ Best for Pentair Skimmers
Research Score: 4.3 / 5
- User Friendliness: 5
- Performance and Compatibility: 4
- Durability: 4
- Price: 4
Specs:
- Product Dimensions: 5.5” x 5.5” x 8.5”
- Fits Pentair Bermuda gunite and vinyl skimmers
What’s Great:
- The metal handle makes for easier lifting
- Guaranteed fit for specified Pentair models, as the same company manufactures it
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- A plastic bucket that is fragile may break if overfilled
Research Notes
Are you looking for a replacement basket for your Pentair skimmer? Get the Pentair 516112 Handle Basket. This basket fits Pentair Bermuda gunite and vinyl skimmers, so if you’re not looking for a universal fit and want one that fits perfectly within your skimmer, this is a great pick. The best feature of this skimmer basket is the metal handle, which is a lot sturdier and more durable than your average plastic handle, which may break if the basket is holding too much weight. While this may not be the cheapest skimmer basket out there, you definitely pay for that reliable Pentair name.
User Friendliness
The Pentair 516112 Handle Basket comes equipped with a metal handle, which holds up much better than most baskets’ standard plastic handles. The metal handle, paired with the basket’s lightweight design, makes it much easier to remove when it comes time to clean the debris out of the basket. Plus, it’s super easy to get in and take out.
Performance and Compatibility
The Pentair 516112 Handle Basket does exactly what it’s supposed to. It captures debris of all sizes to reduce strain on your skimmer. My one complaint is that because the unit is so light, it tends to float, especially once it starts collecting some debris.
When it comes to compatibility, this Pentair skimmer basket is a guaranteed fit for specified Pentair models; it fits Pentair Bermuda gunite and vinyl liner skimmers. So, if you are looking for a replacement skimmer basket for your Pentair pool, this is the best choice for you. But keep in mind that this is not the skimmer to get if you’re looking for a universal fit!
Durability
This may not be the most durable or heavy-duty skimmer basket out there, but it should still last you several pool seasons. Just take care when lifting it out, especially when it’s overfilled. One advantage is that this Pentair 516112 Handle Basket comes with a metal handle instead of a more fragile plastic one.
Price
Pentair is a big name when it comes to pool equipment, so it goes without saying that you definitely pay a few extra bucks for the recognition. While you can find some cheaper skimmer baskets out there, the metal handle, rather than a cheap plastic one, is a huge plus!
Notes From Other Testers
With an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, the Pentair 516112 Handle Basket is a popular skimmer basket amongst pool owners worldwide. In fact, almost 90% of all reviews rated this product at least 4 stars out of 5! Testers loved that this product was the perfect replacement basket for their Pentair pools. The metal handle gets quite a few praises as well. In terms of criticisms, the lightweight design seems to be a point of contention, as the suction may be too strong on some skimmers, and the basket may float.
Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket
⭐ Most Affordable for Some Hayward and Pentair Models
Research Score: 4.3 / 5
- User Friendliness: 5
- Performance and Compatibility: 4
- Durability: 3
- Price: 5
Specs:
- Product Dimensions: 8.31” x 5.75” x 5.19”
- Fits standard Pentair Bermuda skimmer models and some Hayward models
What’s Great:
- Versatile fit
- Weighted bottom stops basket from floating out of the skimmer
- Sturdy handle for easy lifting
Limitations & What Needs Improvement:
- Weight in the bottom can come detached while cleaning
- Plastic can be damaged when pulling out of the skimmer
- Not made to fit all skimmer models
Research Notes
If you are on a tighter budget, the Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket is an excellent alternative for a replacement basket. The Aladdin skimmer basket is designed to fit most standard Pentair swimming pools and will also work with some Hayward models. And even though it comes at a much cheaper price point, it still offers features such as a sturdy handle and a weighted bottom. While this skimmer basket may not be the most durable product out there, it’s definitely a great value!
User Friendliness
This affordable replacement basket has a great sturdy handle for easy lifting and a weighted bottom to ensure that the skimmer basket stays in place while it is cleaning. Note that the weighted bottom makes it a little trickier to remove if your pool’s pump is on. Be sure to turn the pump off before removing the Aladdin basket to avoid any damage.
Performance and Compatibility
Thanks to the weight at the bottom of the basket that keeps it from floating, this skimmer basket captures the debris from your pool. However, since this skimmer basket is reasonably lightweight, if you have a lot of debris, it might not be the best fit.
In terms of compatibility, the Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket is a versatile product that fits some Pentair and Hayward skimmer models.
Durability
Unfortunately, the durability is where this product comes up short. For example, the weight may break off from the bottom, and the plastic itself can be damaged when you pull the basket out of the skimmer. To avoid these issues, try not to wait until the skimmer basket is too full before you empty it.
Price
The Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket is the perfect budget option for Pentair and Hayward skimmer models. At just around $10, you really can’t beat the price. While it may not be the fanciest plastic basket out there, it does the job it needs to. Plus, it still provides features such as a weighted bottom and a handle!
Notes From Other Testers
This skimmer basket is another super popular product amongst pool owners. From more than 3,500 reviews, the Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket has earned 4.1 stars out of 5, with around 75% of reviewers giving this product a 4 or 5 stars. These other testers especially love that this skimmer basket is good value for money and keeps the pool clean. However, some other testers have complaints regarding the durability of the basket.
Recap: The Best Pool Skimmer Baskets
- SkimPro Tower-Vented Skimmer Basket: Most Universal
- GVT SP-HP Skimmer Basket: Best Affordable Replacement Skimmer Basket
- SkimDoctor 2.0 Pool Skimmer Basket: Best for Fast Cleaning
- Hayward SPX1082CA Basket Replacement: Best for Hayward Automatic Skimmers
- Pentair 516112 Handle Basket Replacement: Best for Pentair Skimmers
- Aladdin Replacement Skimmer Basket: Most Affordable for Some Hayward and Pentair Models
My Research Criteria
How did I decide which products would cut my list? When I was searching through products, I had several factors that I took into consideration.
User Friendliness
Skimmer baskets are not necessarily the most difficult piece of pool equipment to understand. Plus, any pool owner should already be more than familiar with this piece of equipment, as you should be cleaning the basket regularly as a part of your maintenance routine. However, despite its simplicity, some features to look out for go a long way in making your job of installing and cleaning the skimmer basket much easier, such as handles. Furthermore, is the basket easy to clean and easy to install?
User-friendliness makes up 30% of the total product score.
Performance and Compatibility
Of course, one of the essential things to consider before buying any product is the question: Does it work? How well does it capture debris? Will it work for every pool or just specific brands or models? There are a lot of different pool skimmers out there, so you need to make sure your replacement basket will fit your specific model.
Performance and compatibility together made up 30% of the total research score of each pool skimmer basket above.
Durability
You can’t judge a product’s abilities if it doesn’t last long enough to be tested. Having inexpensive options for pool skimmers is excellent, but is it really saving you money if you have to replace it every month?
The high chlorine concentration in the water can be hard on a plastic basket and cause general wear and tear, but I believe it is reasonable to expect a pool skimmer to last at least one year of use. To extend your skimmer’s lifespan, I recommend turning off your pool’s pump before removing the skimmer for cleaning so that you don’t have to fight against the suction to release it.
Durability accounted for 20% of the total score.
Price
Price is one of the most critical factors for many consumers. A product could claim to have life-changing qualities, but if it’s outside of your budget, why would you even consider it? Even worse, if the product falls short of its claims, you’ll feel like you wasted your money. All the products that made my list are within an affordable price range for their quality.
Price made up the final 20% of each product’s research score.
What Else to Consider
Size and Design
Your skimmer basket should fit snugly in your skimmer housing. So, the last thing you want is to do a lot of research on the best skimmer basket only to find out it doesn’t fit! If you can, try to find a replacement skimmer basket that is the same model as yours (if you were happy with it, that is!). If not, simply measure the dimensions and buy one that will fit.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Brand reputation goes a long way. While it shouldn’t be the only consideration, it is definitely something you should keep in mind. Research the manufacturer’s reputation and track record in producing pool maintenance products. This is where user reviews will come in handy as well. You can also seek recommendations from pool owners. Well, that’s about it for replacement pool skimmer baskets. Have any questions? Shoot me a message. Also, make sure to check out my support articles on replacing skimmer baskets and skimmer weirs.
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