The Best Pool Cleaning Tools for Gunite Pools

Owning a gunite pool offers unparalleled beauty, durability, and customization—but it also requires regular upkeep to maintain that pristine, resort-like appearance. Because gunite surfaces are porous and textured, they can accumulate debris, algae, and stains more easily than smoother pool finishes. That’s why having the right cleaning tools is essential for keeping your gunite pool clean, safe, and sparkling.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the best pool cleaning tools for gunite pools, explain how they work, and help you build a maintenance routine that protects your investment and maximizes your enjoyment all year long.

🧼 Why Gunite Pools Need Specialized Cleaning Tools

Gunite pools are built with a concrete base that’s typically coated with plaster, pebble tec, or other aggregate finishes. These finishes look stunning but contain microscopic pits and pores where dirt, algae, and bacteria can settle.

Key cleaning challenges for gunite pools include:

• Algae embedding in textured surfaces

• Calcium buildup or scale on rough finishes

• Dust, leaves, and debris getting stuck in corners or steps

• Organic matter settling into deeper crevices

To maintain water clarity and surface hygiene, it’s essential to use cleaning tools that can:

• Scrub effectively without damaging the finish

• Reach deep into corners and low-circulation areas

• Work efficiently for large surface areas

• Complement your pool’s filtration and circulation system

🧹 1. Heavy-Duty Pool Brushes (Nylon or Stainless Steel)

Every gunite pool owner should have a high-quality brush in their cleaning arsenal.

Best Brush Types:

• Nylon bristle brushes – Ideal for routine cleaning of plaster or smooth surfaces

• Combination nylon/stainless steel brushes – Best for tougher stains or pebble finishes

• Stainless steel-only brushes – Use with caution for algae removal on hard gunite (not suitable for soft plaster)

🧽 Pro Tip: Brush your pool walls, steps, and floor at least once a week to prevent algae growth and surface staining.

🌀 2. Manual Pool Vacuum Head and Telescopic Pole

While robotic and automatic cleaners are convenient, manual vacuums provide the most thorough clean—especially when targeting problem areas.

What to Look For:

• Weighted vacuum head that stays flat on the floor

• Wheels with bearings to glide smoothly over textured surfaces

• Brush edges for scrubbing as you vacuum

Attach the vacuum to a telescoping pole and pool vacuum hose, then connect it to your skimmer for suction.

🧼 Manual vacuums are great for picking up debris after storms, algae treatment, or heavy pool use.

🤖 3. Robotic Pool Cleaners for Gunite Pools

A robotic pool cleaner is an investment that saves time and effort. These smart machines work independently of your pool’s filtration system, cleaning both walls and floors while filtering fine debris.

Features to Consider:

• Powerful suction and scrubbing brushes

• Ability to climb walls and steps

• Programmable cleaning cycles

• Compatibility with rough surfaces

• Large filter basket for capturing fine particles

Recommended models for gunite pools include:

• Dolphin Premier

• Polaris P965iQ

• Pentair Prowler 930

🔌 Just plug it in, drop it in the pool, and enjoy a hands-free clean.

🧽 4. Leaf Rakes and Skimmer Nets

Leaves, bugs, and floating debris are a constant concern, especially if your pool is near trees or shrubs. A durable skimmer net helps you remove this debris daily before it sinks and clogs your filters.

Must-Have Tools:

• Flat skimmer net – Great for surface cleaning

• Deep leaf rake – Ideal for scooping leaves from the floor

🍂 Regular skimming helps reduce strain on your pump and keeps your water clear and inviting.

🧪 5. Water Testing Kit or Digital Tester

While not a cleaning tool in the traditional sense, maintaining water chemistry is essential to prevent algae and staining—especially in gunite pools.

Choose a test kit that includes:

• pH

• Chlorine or sanitizer

• Alkalinity

• Calcium hardness

• Cyanuric acid

Digital testers offer greater accuracy and ease of use, especially if you test weekly (which you should).

⚗️ Balanced water prevents scale, etching, and plaster damage—preserving the beauty of your gunite surface.

🚿 6. Pool Tile and Surface Cleaning Brushes

Over time, calcium and oil buildup can stain tile lines and surfaces, especially around the waterline.

For this, use:

• Pumice stones (only for tile or concrete)

• Surface-safe scrubbing pads

• Specialty pool tile cleaners

🧼 Clean your tile line every 1–2 weeks to keep stains from becoming permanent.

💡 Bonus: Pressure Washers and Acid Wash (Professional Use)

For severe staining or algae outbreaks, a professional pressure wash or acid wash may be needed. This deep-cleaning method strips away buildup and rejuvenates the pool’s surface.

⚠️ This should only be done by trained professionals to avoid damaging the finish.

🧰 Complete Gunite Pool Maintenance Kit Checklist

🏡 Partner with Harpeth Valley Hardscape for Premium Pool Care

At Harpeth Valley Hardscape, we don’t just build custom gunite pools—we help our clients maintain them beautifully for years to come. Whether you need equipment recommendations, seasonal service, or professional deep cleaning, our expert team is here to make pool care simple and stress-free.

📆 Fill out the form below to schedule a pool maintenance consultation or ask about our trusted tool recommendations.