Which inflatable for which kind of pool day?

This range holds 44 inflatables from Intex, Bestway and Speedo. They fall into a few clear groups, so start with who will use it and how.

• Lounging: floating mats and loungers such as the Bestway Summer Colors Floating Mat (1.88m x 71cm), the Intex Splash Pool Lounge Mat with a backrest and cup holder (191 x 99 cm), and the Bestway Flex 'n Fold Deluxe Lounge, whose spring frame pops up for use and folds flat to store.
• Big ride-ons for sharing: the Bestway Supersized Unicorn Ride-On is 2.24m x 1.64m with heavy-duty handles, sized for kids and adults together.
• Games in the water: the Intex Floating Hoops basketball net (67 x 55 cm) and the Intex Fun Goals game, which works on the water or on a lawn.
• Waves: Intex body boards in 22, 26 and 33 inch sizes, with a light, rigid core and a slick bottom.

For babies and toddlers

The smallest swimmers have their own floats with a seat. The Intex Pool School Deluxe Baby Float has a backrest and a diaper-style seat in a 79 x 79 cm ring, and the My Baby Float is for ages 1 to 2 with a 15 kg maximum weight. The Bestway Lil' Navigator Baby Boat has leg holes and is made for shallow pool play. For splashing at home, the Intex Unicorn Baby Pool and Rainbow Cloud Baby Pool are designed for ages 1 to 3, with a soft inflatable floor.

Check the size before you inflate

Some names carry the inflated size, so compare before you buy. The Summer Colors mat is 1.88m long, while the Unicorn Ride-On is 2.24m and fits kids and adults together. The Intex Whale Shade Pool measures 211 x 185 x 109 cm, so measure your garden or balcony first.

For a relaxed pool day, start with a floating mat. For young kids, pick a baby float with a seat. Find more in swimming accessories, more from Intex and Bestway.