Do-It-Yourself Swimming Pool

During the dog days of summer, there are few things as inviting as going for a refreshing dip in the pool, lake, river or ocean. And whether you have a beachfront property or go to the public pool, there are plenty of water toys and accessories that can make a day on the water even more enjoyable.

The most ubiquitous of all water and pool accessories is the noodle. These foam rubber cylinder creations are fun for flotation and games. Typically made of polyethylene closed-cell foam, these tubes have a smooth outer surface that covers an interior that is non-absorbent and very buoyant. Made in many colors, these tubes can have almost limitless lengths and diameters as well. Some come with hollow cores and others are solid, but their only limit is the imagination of the user*.

If you are a parent looking to keep a watchful eye on children or simply prefer to relax near the pool but not in it, getting the right outdoor patio cushions is essential. A cheap, woven lawn chair or a sticky, plastic chaise lounger is going to get uncomfortable quickly, cutting down on the time you spend at the water. The answer to that is to outfit your seating with the perfect outdoor furniture cushion. The smartest way do this is with fast-drying outdoor foam, but any material can be used if enough precaution is taken to avoid damaging it. Cushions can be made for loungers, wicker chairs and outdoor benches that will provide you with the comfort you get on your couch inside. No matter where you go to cool off in the summer, there are plenty of ways to have fun and make it even more relaxing.

*Foam noodles are not intended to be used as a life-saving flotation device. They are exclusively recreational products.