Ideally, you should skim your pool at least once a day while it’s in use, and definitely after storms, high winds, or heavy leaf fall. Skimming regularly helps to prevent debris from settling on the bottom of your pool and staining its surfaces.

There are many factors you should consider when you're choosing a leaf skimmer for your pool, including:

• The size of your pool and the amount of debris that falls into it, for example, if you have lots of trees, a deeper debris bag may be useful.
• Net size and frame width. If you have a larger pool, a wider frame will make cleaning quicker. Alternatively, choose a narrower frame if you have limited space.
• Mesh fineness is important, as a finer mesh will catch smaller debris/pollen, whereas a coarse mesh may only handle larger leaves.
• Compatible with your telescopic poles

• Walk around the edge of your pool and skim in a consistent pattern so you cover the entire surface.
• Use slow, deliberate strokes so leaves get captured rather than being pushed underwater.
• Empty and rinse the bag when it starts to fill; a full net is less effective than an empty one.
• After use, rinse the skimmer with fresh water to remove any remaining chemicals and debris. Then, store it in a shaded area to prolong its life.

A well-made leaf skimmer can last multiple seasons, as long as it’s cared for properly. You should replace the skimmer if you notice that the frame is bent or cracked, the mesh is torn or large holes are forming, the connection to your pole has loosened or stripped, or the net no longer stays open.

Leaves that sink may be due to a large influx at once, or your skimming routine not catching them in time. Suppose you do have leaves that have sunk to the bottom of your pool. In that case, you should vacuum or rake the bottom of the pool to remove built-up debris, increase your skimming frequency (especially after storms or heavy leaf fall), and consider a deep bag net skimmer if your pool often gets heavy loads.