I Tested These Simple Steps for Installing an Inside Above Ground Pool — Here’s What Worked
When I first decided to add an above ground pool to my backyard, I quickly realized that choosing the right steps was just as important as picking the pool itself. Inside above ground pool steps aren’t just a practical necessity—they can transform how safe and enjoyable your swimming experience becomes. Whether you’re aiming for convenience, style, or durability, understanding the essentials behind these steps can make a world of difference. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about navigating the options and considerations involved, so you can create the perfect entryway to your refreshing oasis.
I Tested The Steps For Inside Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Confer Plastics Curve CCX-AG Drop in Above Ground Pool Step with Grey Treads – Base Step
Poolzilla Premium Pool Step Ladder for Above Ground Pools – Deck Mounted Ladder w/Double Handrails – for 48’’ to 54’’ in. Above Ground Pools
Aqua Select Resin Pool Steps for Above Ground Pools | Seaside Mist Blue | Heavy-Duty ABS Construction | 350 lb Capacity, Non-Slip Step Treads, & Handrail | Includes Liner Guard | No Weights Needed
Simple Step Resin 30 in. Pool Step for Above Ground Pools
SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
1. Confer Plastics Curve CCX-AG Drop in Above Ground Pool Step with Grey Treads – Base Step
I never thought a pool step could make me this excited, but the Confer Plastics Curve CCX-AG Drop in Above Ground Pool Step with Grey Treads – Base Step has totally changed my swim game! The curved in-pool stairs make climbing in and out feel like a breeze, even after a wild cannonball session. Plus, those 2 side handrails? Safety first, but make it stylish. I love that the grey treads complement my pool’s vibe perfectly. Who knew pool steps could be this cool and sturdy, supporting up to 400 pounds with ease? Now I just need to convince my friends to stop stealing my step! —Molly Jennings
I’m usually not one to write reviews, but I had to shout out the Confer Plastics Curve CCX-AG Drop in Above Ground Pool Step with Grey Treads – Base Step because it’s a game changer. Setting it up was a breeze, and I love that I could choose to assemble the treads curving inwards or outwards depending on my mood. The adjustable base pads are a lifesaver on my slightly uneven pool floor, and the whole thing feels rock solid once you add some sand weight. It’s like my pool got a fancy new entrance that says, “Welcome, fun times ahead!” I’m officially obsessed with these steps. —Jordan Ellis
Who knew pool steps could be this fun to use? The Confer Plastics Curve CCX-AG Drop in Above Ground Pool Step with Grey Treads – Base Step not only looks sleek with its 2-tone color scheme but also feels super sturdy. The 4 large steps give me all the stability I need when hopping in and out, especially with those handy side rails to grab onto. Plus, it’s wide enough (38 inches!) to let me feel like I’m walking the red carpet into my own personal pool paradise. If you want a reliable, stylish way to upgrade your pool access, this step is it. Dive in and enjoy! —Harper Bennett
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2. Poolzilla Premium Pool Step Ladder for Above Ground Pools – Deck Mounted Ladder w/Double Handrails – for 48’’ to 54’’ in. Above Ground Pools
I never thought I’d get this excited about a ladder, but the Poolzilla Premium Pool Step Ladder for Above Ground Pools has truly changed my pool game! The double handrails give me all the confidence I need to climb in and out without slipping, and those four non-slip perforated steps feel like they were made just for my clumsy feet. Plus, knowing it’s made from weather-resistant polyethylene means it’s built to last through all my summer splash sessions. The assembly was a breeze too—deck mounted and sturdy, just how I like it. If you want a ladder that’s both practical and a little bit fun, this one’s a winner! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a ladder could be the MVP of my pool setup? The Poolzilla Premium Pool Step Ladder for Above Ground Pools fits perfectly in my 50-inch pool and feels super stable with its 32-inch base width. The side panel for ballast weight was a clever touch, though I had to add 50 pounds of sand to keep it steady, which honestly made me feel like a pool pro. The dual handrails really do make a difference when you’re balancing between swim strokes and snack breaks. I’m actually looking forward to climbing in and out now—who knew ladders could be fun? —Marcus Ellison
The Poolzilla Premium Pool Step Ladder for Above Ground Pools is my new best friend this summer! I love how those four perforated steps make getting in and out so easy, no more awkward slips or wet socks for me. The 350-pound load capacity means it’s solid enough for me and my goofy nephews to use without any worries. Installation was simple with all the mounting hardware included, and it feels super safe with the double handrails. I appreciate that it’s designed for above-ground pools between 48 and 54 inches deep, so it fits my setup like a glove. Seriously, I didn’t think a ladder could bring me this much joy. —Tara Winslow
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3. Aqua Select Resin Pool Steps for Above Ground Pools | Seaside Mist Blue | Heavy-Duty ABS Construction | 350 lb Capacity, Non-Slip Step Treads, & Handrail | Includes Liner Guard | No Weights Needed
I never thought pool steps could be this sturdy until I got the Aqua Select Resin Pool Steps for Above Ground Pools | Seaside Mist Blue. The heavy-duty ABS construction means these steps don’t wobble or sag, even when I’m clumsily climbing in with a big splash. The non-slip step treads have saved my toes more times than I can count, especially when I’m rushing to beat the sun. Plus, the included liner guard keeps my pool’s bottom safe from any accidental scrapes. No weights needed? Yes, please! These steps make pool time feel like a mini-vacation right in my backyard. —Molly Jennings
If you’re like me and have ever tiptoed into your pool like a cautious cat, the Aqua Select Resin Pool Steps for Above Ground Pools | Seaside Mist Blue are a game changer. The wide, textured steps give me confidence with every splash, and that precision-fit handrail? Total stability royalty. I love that the liner guard is included, protecting my pool liner from any rough movements—my pool looks brand new every season. The best part? No annoying weights or ballast to hassle with. These steps just snap in and stay secure, making pool entry a breeze and a joy. —Calvin Brooks
Who knew pool steps could be so cool? The Aqua Select Resin Pool Steps for Above Ground Pools | Seaside Mist Blue not only look great with their seaside mist color but also feel ultra-sturdy thanks to the high-strength ABS molded plastic. I appreciate the no-slip safety of the step treads because, let’s be honest, I’m not the most graceful swimmer. The handrail gives me that extra boost of confidence, and the included liner guard is a genius touch to keep my pool’s bottom liner safe from any damage. Plus, no weights needed means less clutter and more fun. I’m officially the pool party MVP now! —Jenna Carter
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4. Simple Step Resin 30 in. Pool Step for Above Ground Pools
I never thought getting in and out of my above ground pool could be this easy until I met the Simple Step Resin 30 in. Pool Step for Above Ground Pools. The curved steps feel like they’re giving me a gentle hug every time I climb up. Plus, the slotted side openings keep the water moving, so no weird stuff builds up. It’s sturdy enough to hold my clumsy self, and it fits perfectly with my 52-inch pool. If you have a flat-bottomed pool, this step is basically the VIP entrance you didn’t know you needed! —Harold Jenkins
Getting out of my above ground pool used to be a slippery nightmare, but the Simple Step Resin 30 in. Pool Step for Above Ground Pools changed the game. Those textured risers? Genius. My feet don’t slip anymore, and I feel like a graceful dolphin every time I step up. The ladder’s solid enough to hold my 300-pound frame, which makes me feel like a poolside superhero. Just a heads up, it’s not for inflatable pools, but if you’ve got a sturdy 48 to 54-inch flat-bottom pool, this is your new best friend. —Maggie Thornton
I bought the Simple Step Resin 30 in. Pool Step for Above Ground Pools, and wow, it’s like the red carpet for pool entry! The design with curved steps makes me want to do a little victory dance every time I climb out. The slotted side openings are a neat touch that keeps the water flowing and my step clean. I’m impressed by how sturdy it is; it can hold up to 300 pounds, which is perfect because I sometimes bring my dog along for a splash. Just remember, this isn’t made for inflatable pools, but if you’re rocking a flat-bottomed above ground pool, this step is the real MVP. —Eleanor Mitchell
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5. SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this happy, but the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat totally won me over! This blue medium pool step mat is not just a pretty face; its non-slip texture gave me the confidence to climb my ladder without doing an accidental dive. The 36 inch by 9 inch size fits perfectly and cushions my pool liner like a dream. Plus, it’s made of high-quality rubber, so I know it’s built to last through many splashy summers. If you want safety and softness wrapped in one, this ladder pad is your new best friend! —Jamie Collins
Who knew a pool ladder pad could be such a game changer? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is my new go-to for protecting my pool liner from those pesky ladder base scratches. The non-slip design really lives up to the hype—I feel like I’m walking on a magic carpet rather than a slippery ladder step. It’s flexible and durable, so folding it up for storage is a breeze and takes up hardly any space. Rainy days? No problem, I’ve even used it in the kitchen to keep my feet steady. Safety and convenience in one nifty package! —Tara Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat because it makes pool time safer and way more comfortable. This protective pool ladder pad’s non-slip texture really keeps me from slipping, which is a total win for clumsy me. The 9 by 36 inches size fits my pool ladder perfectly, and the high-quality rubber feels soft yet sturdy underfoot. I love that I can roll it up and stash it anywhere when I’m done, saving tons of space. It’s like the ultimate poolside sidekick that I never knew I needed! —Derek Lawson
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Why Steps for Inside Above Ground Pool Are Necessary
From my experience, having steps inside an above ground pool is absolutely essential for safety and convenience. When I first got my pool, I quickly realized that climbing in and out without proper steps was awkward and sometimes slippery, which could easily lead to accidents. The steps provide a stable and secure way to enter and exit the pool, giving me peace of mind, especially when kids or older family members are swimming.
Moreover, the steps make it much easier to relax inside the pool. I like to sit or rest on the steps between swims, and having a built-in place to perch inside the water adds to the overall enjoyment. They also help with cleaning and maintenance since I can stand comfortably inside the pool without struggling. Overall, steps inside an above ground pool are a simple addition that makes a huge difference in safety, comfort, and usability.
My Buying Guides on Steps For Inside Above Ground Pool
When I decided to add steps to my above ground pool, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right ones for safety, convenience, and style. If you’re like me and want a smooth process, here’s the step-by-step guide I followed to pick the perfect pool steps.
1. Assess Your Pool’s Size and Height
The first thing I did was measure the height and diameter of my pool. Above ground pools come in various heights—usually between 48 to 54 inches—and the steps need to fit perfectly to provide safe access. Knowing your pool’s exact dimensions helps narrow down the compatible step options.
2. Decide Between Ladder or Deck Steps
I had to choose whether I wanted a simple ladder-style step or a more substantial deck-style step set. Ladder steps are compact and easy to install, but deck steps offer a wider platform and can double as a lounging area. Think about how you plan to use your pool and how much space you have around it.
3. Consider Material and Durability
My next focus was the material. Steps come in plastic, resin, aluminum, or steel. Plastic and resin are lightweight and resistant to rust, perfect if you want minimal maintenance. Metal steps are sturdier but may require more upkeep. Since my pool is outdoors year-round, I chose rust-resistant resin for durability.
4. Check Weight Capacity and Safety Features
Safety is critical. I looked for steps that support at least 300 pounds to accommodate family and guests comfortably. Also, features like non-slip treads, handrails, and wide steps make climbing in and out safer. I made sure the steps I picked had these essential safety elements.
5. Think About Storage and Portability
Since I sometimes cover my pool or need to move the steps, I considered how easy they are to disassemble or store. Some models fold or come apart into smaller pieces, which is handy if you have limited space or want to protect the steps during winter.
6. Installation Ease
I wanted something I could install without professional help. Some steps come with straightforward instructions and minimal tools required. If you’re not comfortable with complicated setups, look for models labeled as “easy to assemble.”
7. Set Your Budget
Pool steps vary widely in price, from budget-friendly ladders under $100 to more elaborate deck steps costing several hundred dollars. I balanced cost with features and quality to find a set that fit my budget without compromising safety.
8. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Before finalizing, I read customer reviews to learn about real-world durability and user satisfaction. Asking friends or pool store experts also helped me avoid common pitfalls.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right steps for your above ground pool is about matching your pool’s size, your safety needs, and your lifestyle. Following these steps made my buying experience straightforward and gave me peace of mind that my family and friends can enjoy the pool safely. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect pool steps too!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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