8 Best Handheld Pool Vacuums for Sand (2025)

If you’re battling sand in a small pool or inflatable spa and don’t want to break the bank, the KOKIDO XV110 is a game-changer. This compact powerhouse delivers 60 minutes of cordless runtime—25% more than previous models—thanks to its upgraded lithium battery, making it ideal for spot-cleaning sandy floors without constant recharging. Its IPX8 waterproof rating and automatic shutoff when out of water ensure safety and longevity, while the quiet 60dB operation means cleaning won’t disrupt your backyard oasis. For owners of smaller pools up to 20 feet, this tool solves the all-too-common frustration of sand settling in corners where robotic cleaners miss.

In real-world use, the KOKIDO shines during quick cleanups after windy days or post-swim sand showers. With a 17-inch body and 72-inch aluminum pole, it’s easy to maneuver across pool floors and steps, though its suction power is best suited for fine debris like sand and silt, not heavy leaf loads. The dual brush heads—flat and corner-focused—help scrape stubborn particles from textured liners, while the cold-to-warm water compatibility (41–108°F) makes it versatile across seasons. However, it struggles with larger debris over 3 inches, so pairing it with a leaf rake or robotic cleaner is recommended for full maintenance.

Compared to heavier-duty models like the Teguy or ENHULK vacuums, the KOKIDO trades raw power for ultra-portability and affordability, positioning itself as the best budget-friendly option for light-duty sand cleanup. It’s perfect for inflatable pool owners, spa enthusiasts, or anyone needing a secondary handheld tool to touch up problem areas. While it can’t match the flow rate of 18.5 GPM beasts, its value for targeted sand removal in small pools outperforms pricier options that overdeliver on features you may never use.

When power meets endurance, the ENHULK T403 steps up as the go-to handheld vacuum for large above-ground pools. Boasting a 18.5 gallons-per-minute flow rate, this unit clears sand, twigs, and leaves with surgical efficiency—making it a top performer for pools where debris accumulates fast. Its 5 × 2000mAh lithium batteries deliver a solid 60 minutes of runtime, and with 1.5-hour rapid charging, downtime between cleanings is minimal. If you’re tired of weak vacuums that quit mid-job, this one answers the call with industrial-grade suction in a consumer-friendly package.

During testing on a 24-foot above-ground pool, the ENHULK handled deep sand layers along the cove and ladder tracks with ease, thanks to its triangular suction head that glides into tight spaces. The telescopic pole extends to 87.5 inches, letting users clean deep ends without bending or wading, while the tool-free assembly means you’re up and running in under a minute. It maintains strong suction even when the filter begins to clog, though performance dips noticeably when tackling wet leaves in bulk—something to note if your pool sits under trees.

Against the Yousky S1Pro and FOTING models, the ENHULK holds its own with superior suction and build quality, though it lacks an LED display or fine-mesh filter options. It’s clearly built for larger pools where reach and power matter most, outperforming compact models in coverage and grit removal. While it’s one of the pricier handhelds, its performance justifies the investment for serious pool owners, especially when compared to lighter models that can’t sustain power over long sessions.

The Yousky S1Pro redefines value in handheld pool cleaning, blending professional-level suction with a telescoping pole and reusable filter bag at a mid-range price. With a 18.5GPM flow rate, it clears sand and debris 35% faster than standard vacuums, making it a standout for inground and larger above-ground pools. The aerospace-grade aluminum pole adjusts from 20 to 69 inches, offering ergonomic comfort and eliminating back strain—especially useful when scrubbing deep ends or ladder wells. If you’re looking for a do-it-all handheld that doesn’t sacrifice features for cost, this is the sweet spot.

Real-world testing showed the S1Pro excelling in daily maintenance of sandy pool floors, with the flat brush head lifting fine grains efficiently and the corner brush tackling step crevices where algae and grit build up. The high-capacity polyester filter bag holds more debris than mesh baskets, reducing emptying frequency—a major plus during spring cleanouts. Charging takes 2.5 hours, slightly longer than rivals, but the long runtime ensures full-pool coverage without interruption. It does struggle slightly with wet leaves, but for sand and fine sediment, it’s exceptionally effective.

Pitted against the ENHULK T403, the Yousky trades some pole length for better ergonomics and a more durable build, while offering comparable suction at a lower price. It’s not as powerful as the Teguy, but it delivers more value per dollar with its tool-free head swaps and reusable bag system. Ideal for mid-to-large pool owners who want strong performance without complexity, the S1Pro offers better overall balance than most in its class, especially for sand-focused cleaning.

For unmatched runtime and precision cleaning, the 90-minute handheld spa vacuum is the undisputed king of endurance. Powered by a 2.5Ah lithium battery, it delivers 90 minutes of continuous operation—perfect for deep-cleaning hot tubs, inflatable pools, and spas where sand and silt settle in jets and corners. Its 12 GPM suction may not top the charts, but it’s more than enough to lift fine sand and debris without clogging, and the dual brush heads ensure every surface gets attention. If you hate stopping mid-clean to recharge, this vacuum eliminates that frustration entirely.

In practice, this model excels in small, enclosed environments like jetted tubs and inflatable kiddie pools, where sand sticks to textured walls and drains. The triangular head reaches under waterfalls and around jets, while the regular brush handles flat surfaces with ease. The 47-inch telescopic pole offers good reach without compromising balance, and the 120-micron high-density filter captures fine particles effectively. However, the 4-hour charge time is a notable trade-off, and the suction isn’t strong enough for large leaf loads, limiting its use in open-air pools.

Compared to the KOKIDO and FOTING models, this vacuum prioritizes stamina over speed, making it a better companion for detailed spa maintenance than whole-pool jobs. It’s not built for 24-foot pools, but for hot tub owners and small-pool users, it outlasts every other handheld on the list. When matched against the KOKIDO, it offers double the runtime and better reach, though at nearly double the price—making it a clear win for those who value uninterrupted cleaning.

The Sharkswell 2025 stands out not for raw power, but for its exceptional filtration flexibility, making it the best choice for pools plagued by mixed debris types. With four reusable filter bags—two at 40μm and two at 180μm—it can switch from trapping fine sand to handling leaves and twigs in seconds. The 98-inch telescopic pole is the longest in the lineup, delivering unmatched reach for high-walled above-ground or deep inground pools. When versatility and clean water clarity are your top concerns, this vacuum delivers with quiet confidence.

Field tests revealed the Sharkswell’s 40μm bags captured nearly all sand particles, leaving the pool floor spotless, while the 180μm option handled leaf fragments without clogging. The wide suction head cleaned large floor areas quickly, and the narrow head navigated corners with precision. Its IPX8-rated double-sealed motor survived repeated submersion with zero leaks, and the rubber-sealed charging port prevented corrosion. While its suction isn’t the strongest (unspecified GPM), it maintains steady flow even with fine filters—though runtime drops slightly when using the ultra-fine mesh.

Against the Teguy and ENHULK, the Sharkswell trades peak suction for filtering superiority and extended reach, making it ideal for pools near trees or with sandy bottoms. It’s not the fastest charger, but the 2-year warranty (with registration) adds peace of mind. For users who want crystal-clear water and adaptability, it outperforms single-filter models, offering better long-term value than higher-GPM vacuums that skimp on filtration options.

The Teguy handheld vacuum earns its title as the best overall with a perfect blend of power, speed, and smart design. Packed with a 40W motor and 18.5 GPM suction, it obliterates sand, leaves, and silt with ease, while its Supercharge Technology recharges the 5 × 2000mAh battery in just 1.5 hours—twice as fast as most competitors. The 7-foot telescopic pole and 4 premium 500-mesh filter bags ensure long-lasting, clog-resistant performance, making it a true workhorse for both above-ground and inground pools.

In real-world use, the Teguy handled a full 24-foot pool in two sessions, lifting packed sand from ladder bases and cove areas without suction drop. The filter bags held more debris than mesh screens, and swapping them was tool-free and mess-free. The intelligent protection system automatically shuts off the motor if left out of water, preventing burnout—a crucial safety feature often missing in budget models. While it’s heavier than some, the balanced grip reduces fatigue, even during extended cleanings.

Compared to the ENHULK and Yousky, the Teguy offers similar suction but faster charging and better filtration, making it the most complete package. It’s not the cheapest, but it outperforms in durability, speed, and convenience, especially for users who clean weekly. When judged against the FOTING model, it delivers equal runtime with superior build and smarter safeguards, justifying its place as the top-tier choice for serious pool owners.

When your pool floor is blanketed in fine sand, the AQ70 Heavy Duty Vacuum is the precision instrument you need. With a 25μm ultra-fine mesh filter, it captures microscopic sand and silt particles that most vacuums miss, making it the best choice for silky-smooth pool bottoms. Its 16.8 GPM suction is strong but not extreme, focusing on consistency and filtration over brute force. The patent-protected magnet-drive system eliminates seal wear and water ingress, ensuring years of leak-free operation—a game-changer for longevity.

Testing revealed the AQ70’s 30–90° tilt head made cleaning stairs and shallow steps effortless, while the three ultra-fine filters (two 25μm, one 120μm) allowed customization based on debris type. The balanced grip reduced hand fatigue, even during 45-minute sessions, and the no-leak design held up under repeated use. However, the filters require frequent rinsing in sandy conditions, and the suction slows when the mesh clogs, demanding more maintenance than coarser models.

Against the Sharkswell and Teguy, the AQ70 sacrifices speed and convenience for unmatched fine-particle capture, making it ideal for mineral-rich or sand-prone areas. It’s not the fastest or easiest to use, but for pools where water clarity is non-negotiable, it delivers results no other handheld matches. While pricier than most, its specialized performance justifies the cost over generic vacuums that leave a gritty residue.

The FOTING 2025 brings smart tech to handheld cleaning with its intuitive LED display, making it the best choice for users who want real-time feedback. The green, flashing green, and red indicators clearly show battery status, eliminating guesswork during long cleanings. Powered by a 40W motor with 19.5 GPM suction—the highest on the list—it demolishes sand, leaves, and debris with authority. The 60-inch telescopic pole and all-angle vacuum head ensure full coverage, while the anti-backflow valve and waterproof charging port boost durability.

In practice, the LED system proved invaluable during a 50-minute cleaning session, giving accurate battery warnings before shutdown. The triangular brush head excelled in corners and around steps, and the tool-free assembly made setup a breeze. It handled wet sand and small pebbles without clogging, though the 0.53-gallon filter pocket filled quickly in heavy debris, requiring mid-job emptying. The 1.5-hour charge time keeps downtime low, matching the Teguy and ENHULK.

Compared to the Teguy, the FOTING offers slightly more suction and a superior display, but fewer filter options and no smart shutoff. It’s ideal for tech-savvy users who want power and feedback, outperforming basic models in precision and control. While it doesn’t beat the Teguy in overall package, its LED advantage makes it a smarter daily driver for those who hate surprises mid-clean.