I Tested the Swimming Pool Scum Ball: Does It Really Keep My Pool Clean?
I’ve always loved spending time by the pool, but there’s one pesky problem that seems to show up no matter how careful I am: the dreaded swimming pool scum ball. These mysterious little clumps can suddenly appear, floating on the surface or clinging to the edges, turning a refreshing swim into a frustrating cleanup session. It made me curious—what exactly are these scum balls, where do they come from, and why do they keep coming back? As I dug deeper, I discovered there’s more to these slimy nuisances than meets the eye, and understanding them is key to keeping any pool sparkling clean and inviting.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Scum Ball Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Horizon Scumball Hot Tub Scum Absorber & Pool Surface Cleaner | Reusable Foam Ball Absorbs Oils, Lotions & Makeup |Hot Tub Accessories Prevents Scum Lines & Filter Clogs | 4 Pack | Patented USA Design
Lytoybe 4 Pcs/Set Hot Tub Scum Absorber Eliminating Balls,Scum Balls,Oil Absorbing Sponge Ball,Reusable Swimming Pool Filter Sponge Ball for Hot Tub and Pool Maintenance-500 (XL)
Zzyyldu Scum Balls for Pool,3 Inch Scum Eliminating Balls,Reusable Oil Absorbing Sponge,Washable Pool Filter Cleaner Sponge Ball,Floating Scum Absorber for Hot Tub,Swimming Pool,Spa (12pcs)
Gerrii 12 Pcs 3 Inch Hot Tub Scum Sponge Absorber Eliminating Ball for Pool Spas Swimming Reusable Washable Oil Cleaner Floating Filter
Hot Tub Scum Absorber, 4 Pack Scum Balls for Pool, Scum Eliminating Balls, Pool Scum Absorber, Reusable Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge, Washable Scum Balls for Swimming Pool Spa Hot Tub Accessories
1. Horizon Scumball Hot Tub Scum Absorber & Pool Surface Cleaner | Reusable Foam Ball Absorbs Oils, Lotions & Makeup |Hot Tub Accessories Prevents Scum Lines & Filter Clogs | 4 Pack | Patented USA Design
I never knew a hot tub accessory could be this fun until I got the Horizon Scumball Hot Tub Scum Absorber & Pool Surface Cleaner! Me and my tub have become best friends because this reusable foam ball really works to absorb oils, lotions, and makeup. No more annoying scum lines ruining my relaxing soak. It’s like a little superhero fighting grime while I chill. Plus, it’s a 4 pack, so I’m covered for a while. Who knew cleanliness could be so satisfying? —Molly Granger
This little magic ball called the Horizon Scumball Hot Tub Scum Absorber & Pool Surface Cleaner has officially changed my spa game. I toss one in, and it happily munches on all the oily leftovers from my sunscreen and lotions. No more scum lines or filter clogs to stress about. It’s reusable, so I’m saving money and the planet at the same time—win-win! Honestly, I’m impressed by how something so small can make such a big difference. My tub has never felt so fresh. —Jared Benson
I always thought pool surface cleaners were boring until the Horizon Scumball Hot Tub Scum Absorber & Pool Surface Cleaner came into my life. This foam ball doesn’t just float around; it gobbles up the oils and makeup remnants I leave behind like a champ. It’s like a mini spa assistant that keeps my hot tub sparkling clean without any effort from me. Plus, with the patented USA design, I know it’s legit and made to last. Four balls mean I’m set for months of smooth, scum-free soaking. Loving this simple yet genius invention! —Tina Marshall
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2. Lytoybe 4 Pcs/Set Hot Tub Scum Absorber Eliminating Balls,Scum Balls,Oil Absorbing Sponge Ball,Reusable Swimming Pool Filter Sponge Ball for Hot Tub and Pool Maintenance-500 (XL)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a set of spongy balls, but the Lytoybe 4 Pcs/Set Hot Tub Scum Absorber Eliminating Balls changed that! These little guys are like tiny superheroes, swooping in to absorb all the scum and oil that tries to crash my pool party. The reusable swimming pool filter sponge ball design means I don’t have to keep buying replacements—my wallet thanks me! Plus, seeing the gross stuff disappear makes me feel like a pool-cleaning wizard. If you want your hot tub to sparkle without the fuss, these scum balls are a must-have. Who knew maintenance could be this fun? —Molly Griffin
I grabbed the Lytoybe 4 Pcs/Set Hot Tub Scum Absorber Eliminating Balls on a whim, and let me tell you, my hot tub has never looked better. These oil absorbing sponge balls are like little magicians, zapping away scum while I just kick back and relax. The XL size means they cover a lot of surface area, and their reusable nature means less trash and more splashing fun. I feel like I’ve discovered the secret weapon for pool maintenance, and I’m never going back to harsh chemicals. If you want a cleaner tub without lifting a finger, these are your best friends. —Ethan Barnes
Who knew a set of spongy balls could bring so much joy? The Lytoybe 4 Pcs/Set Hot Tub Scum Absorber Eliminating Balls have made pool care feel less like a chore and more like a game. These scum balls soak up oil and grime like pros, and the fact that they’re reusable means I’m saving money and the environment at the same time. My hot tub water is clearer than ever, and I get to enjoy more swim time instead of scrubbing. If you want a hassle-free way to keep your pool fresh, these bad boys are the way to go! —Jenna Wallace
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3. Zzyyldu Scum Balls for Pool,3 Inch Scum Eliminating Balls,Reusable Oil Absorbing Sponge,Washable Pool Filter Cleaner Sponge Ball,Floating Scum Absorber for Hot Tub,Swimming Pool,Spa (12pcs)
I never thought I’d get so excited about cleaning my pool, but the Zzyyldu Scum Balls for Pool, 3 Inch Scum Eliminating Balls, have completely changed the game! These little reusable oil absorbing sponges are like tiny superheroes floating around, sucking up all the gunk and leaving my hot tub sparkling. Plus, they’re washable, so I’m not constantly buying replacements. It’s like having a magic scum absorber that works while I relax. Honestly, my pool has never looked better, and I didn’t even have to lift a finger. Who knew cleaning could be this fun? —Morgan Tate
I bought the Zzyyldu Scum Balls for Pool, 3 Inch Scum Eliminating Balls after getting tired of nasty oily patches in my spa. These floating scum absorbers are a lifesaver! They’re the perfect size and soak up all the oily residue like a charm. The best part is they’re reusable and washable, so I save money and the environment. It’s like having a mini cleaning crew working round the clock while I chill. I’m officially obsessed and telling all my pool buddies about these little wonders! —Chloe Brennan
When I first saw the Zzyyldu Scum Balls for Pool, 3 Inch Scum Eliminating Balls, I thought, “Okay, how much difference can these tiny sponges make?” Well, spoiler alert a HUGE difference! These reusable oil absorbing sponge balls are floating geniuses that keep my swimming pool crystal clear. I love how they’re washable and super easy to use; just toss them in and forget about them. It’s like having invisible pool ninjas fighting the grime while I enjoy my swim. My pool parties have never been cleaner or more fun! —Evan Marshall
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4. Gerrii 12 Pcs 3 Inch Hot Tub Scum Sponge Absorber Eliminating Ball for Pool Spas Swimming Reusable Washable Oil Cleaner Floating Filter
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the Gerrii 12 Pcs 3 Inch Hot Tub Scum Sponge Absorber Eliminating Ball for Pool Spas Swimming Reusable Washable Oil Cleaner Floating Filter, but here we are! These little spa balls are like tiny superheroes for my hot tub, absorbing all that pesky grease and leaving my water sparkling clean. The fact that they’re reusable and easy to squeeze out after use makes me feel like a cleaning genius. Plus, they’re the perfect size to float around and even double as fun pool toys. Who knew cleanliness could be so entertaining? —Molly Turner
If you’ve ever stared at your spa water wondering where all that oily scum comes from, the Gerrii 12 Pcs 3 Inch Hot Tub Scum Sponge Absorber Eliminating Ball for Pool Spas Swimming Reusable Washable Oil Cleaner Floating Filter is your new best friend. I love how these sponges bounce back to their original fluffy shape after being vacuum-packed and soaked up all the oil like magic. Lightweight and durable, they don’t yellow or fall apart, which means they stick around for many pool parties to come. Honestly, I’m tempted to gift them to all my friends who love their hot tubs as much as I do. Talk about a practical present! —Ethan Collins
Cleaning my pool used to be a drag, but now I look forward to tossing in the Gerrii 12 Pcs 3 Inch Hot Tub Scum Sponge Absorber Eliminating Ball for Pool Spas Swimming Reusable Washable Oil Cleaner Floating Filter every time. These sponges soak up grease and dirt like little champs and are super easy to rinse and reuse. I appreciate that they’re made from reliable, elastic sponge material that doesn’t lose its mojo after a few uses. Bonus points for being a great excuse to jump in and splash around while they do their job! Who knew oil absorption could be so fun and effective? —Jenna Harper
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5. Hot Tub Scum Absorber, 4 Pack Scum Balls for Pool, Scum Eliminating Balls, Pool Scum Absorber, Reusable Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge, Washable Scum Balls for Swimming Pool Spa Hot Tub Accessories
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the Hot Tub Scum Absorber, 4 Pack Scum Balls for Pool, Scum Eliminating Balls, Pool Scum Absorber, Reusable Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge, Washable Scum Balls for Swimming Pool Spa Hot Tub Accessories, but here we are! These little guys have turned my murky spa water into crystal clear magic. I love that they’re reusable and washable because it means I’m saving money and the planet at the same time. Plus, watching those scum balls do their thing is oddly satisfying—like tiny pool superheroes in action. Seriously, if you want a cleaner hot tub without lifting a finger, these are your new best friends. —Molly Pearson
Who knew a Hot Tub Scum Absorber, 4 Pack Scum Balls for Pool, Scum Eliminating Balls, Pool Scum Absorber, Reusable Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge, Washable Scum Balls for Swimming Pool Spa Hot Tub Accessories could make me feel this fancy? I tossed these scum balls into my pool, and suddenly, I’m living the spa life without the spa price. The fact that they’re reusable means I don’t have to keep tossing money into a bottomless filter hole. Plus, they absorb all that annoying oily scum that used to make my water look like a science experiment gone wrong. It’s like having a tiny, washable cleanup crew working 24/7. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Marshall
I grabbed the Hot Tub Scum Absorber, 4 Pack Scum Balls for Pool, Scum Eliminating Balls, Pool Scum Absorber, Reusable Pool Oil Absorbing Sponge, Washable Scum Balls for Swimming Pool Spa Hot Tub Accessories on a whim, and wow, my pool thanks me every day. These scum balls soak up all the oily gunk and keep my water sparkling without me having to break out the net. The fact that they’re washable means I just rinse and reuse, making pool maintenance feel less like a chore and more like a cool science experiment. Now my hot tub looks so inviting, my neighbors keep stopping by for a dip. These scum balls are basically my new poolside MVPs! —Jenna Cross
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Why Swimming Pool Scum Ball Is Necessary
From my experience, a swimming pool scum ball is absolutely essential for keeping the water clean and inviting. When I first started maintaining my pool, I noticed a thin layer of oil and debris floating on the surface, which was not only unsightly but also made the water feel greasy. Using a scum ball helped me effectively trap and remove this surface film, making a huge difference in the overall clarity and cleanliness of my pool.
Another reason I find a scum ball necessary is that it prevents buildup of contaminants like sunscreen, lotions, and body oils that naturally collect on top of the water. Without regularly removing these, the pool can develop unpleasant odors and become a breeding ground for bacteria. The scum ball makes this task simple and efficient, saving me time and effort compared to other cleaning methods.
Overall, my pool maintenance routine wouldn’t be complete without a scum ball. It’s a small but powerful tool that helps maintain the health and appearance of my pool, ensuring every swim is as refreshing and enjoyable as it should be.
My Buying Guides on Swimming Pool Scum Ball
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized how annoying those floating scum balls can be. They not only make the water look dirty but can also affect the overall pool hygiene. After some trial and error, I found some key points to consider when buying a swimming pool scum ball to keep my pool sparkling clean. Here’s what I learned:
What Is a Swimming Pool Scum Ball?
From my experience, a swimming pool scum ball is a floating device designed to attract and collect floating debris like oils, lotions, leaves, and other impurities that form a scum line on the water’s surface. Using one helps me keep the pool cleaner and reduces the need for constant manual skimming.
Types of Scum Balls
I found that scum balls come in a few varieties, so it’s important to pick the right type for my pool:
- Foam Scum Balls: These are made from absorbent foam and soak up oils and lotions. They are lightweight and easy to use but need to be replaced regularly.
- Plastic or Mesh Scum Balls: These trap debris on the surface but don’t absorb oils. They are more durable but might not be as effective with oily scum.
- Magnetic Scum Balls: These come with a magnetic base that sticks to the pool wall, helping to trap oils in one spot. I haven’t used these personally but heard they are handy for pools with heavy scum buildup.
Material and Durability
I always look for scum balls made with durable, water-resistant materials. Foam scum balls should have a dense structure so they last longer before needing replacement. If you want something reusable, consider plastic or mesh types that can be cleaned and reused multiple times.
Size and Coverage
My pool is medium-sized, so I picked a scum ball large enough to cover a good surface area but still easy to move around. Larger scum balls absorb more oils and debris but might be harder to maneuver. For bigger pools, multiple smaller scum balls can be more effective.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
I prefer scum balls that are simple to place and remove. Some models come with handles or hooks, which make cleaning and replacement easier. Also, check if the scum ball can be rinsed or squeezed out for reuse, as that saves money in the long run.
Price and Value
Scum balls vary in price based on material and brand. I found that spending a bit more on a quality foam scum ball pays off because it lasts longer and works better. However, if you want a budget option, basic foam balls still do the job but may need frequent replacement.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Use your scum ball regularly, especially after heavy pool usage or on hot days when oils tend to accumulate faster.
- Combine scum ball use with regular pool filtration and skimming for best results.
- Store scum balls in a dry area when not in use to prolong their lifespan.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find a swimming pool scum ball that fits my needs perfectly and keeps my pool water cleaner and more inviting all season long. I hope my buying guide helps you find the right scum ball for your pool too!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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