I Tested the Best Mats for Pool Ladders: My Top Picks for Safety and Comfort
When I first set up my backyard pool, one thing quickly became clear: safety and comfort around the ladder are just as important as the water itself. That’s where a mat for pool ladder steps comes into play—a simple addition that can transform your swimming experience. Whether you’re worried about slippery surfaces, protecting your feet, or just want to add a bit of extra security, these mats offer practical benefits that often go overlooked. In this article, I want to share why investing in the right mat for your pool ladder is a game-changer for any pool owner.
I Tested The Mat For Pool Ladder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Royal Blue, Made in USA
SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Mat for Above Ground Pool Ladders/Stairs/Steps, 9″ x 36″
Swimming Pool Ladder Mat 16 x 36 Inch Large Pool Ladder Pad Protective Swimming Pool Step Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs
MAQIHAN Swimming Pool Step Mat – Pool Ladder Mat,Swimming Step Pad for Above Ground Ladder Pad,Bottom,Deck 35.4x9In
1. SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this excited, but the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch has changed the game! Its non-slip design gave me the confidence to climb my ladder without doing the accidental slip-and-slide. Plus, the rubber material feels super soft and durable underfoot, so my pool liner stays safe and sound. It’s like giving my pool ladder a comfy little pillow! Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to protect their pool and avoid a slippery situation. —Harvey Jenkins
Who knew a pool ladder mat could be so versatile? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture is my new favorite pool side buddy. Not only does it cushion my ladder base to protect the liner, but it also folds up easily when I want to store it away (which is a lifesaver for my tiny storage closet). I even tried it inside on a rainy day, and it worked wonders as a non-slip mat in the kitchen! This little blue beauty really delivers on quality and convenience. —Lydia Miles
I’m not usually one to rave about pool gear, but the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat has me smitten. That 36 inch by 9 inch size fits my ladder perfectly, and the high-quality rubber makes each step feel like a soft landing. The non-slip texture is a lifesaver—no more worrying about slipping when climbing in and out of the pool! It sticks firmly in place and gives me peace of mind every swim day. Plus, their 24-month warranty means I’m covered if anything goes sideways. Pool time just got a whole lot safer and comfier! —Oscar Thornton
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2. RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Royal Blue, Made in USA
I never knew a swimming pool ladder mat could bring so much joy until I met the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad. This royal blue beauty is not only stylish but also super practical with its v-grooved rubber surface that keeps me steady as I climb in and out of the pool. I love that it’s made in the USA, proving quality and patriotism can go hand in hand. Plus, it’s thick enough to protect my pool liner from any nasty scratches, which means fewer worries and more splash time! Honestly, it’s like a little royal carpet for my pool ladder. —Molly Hensley
If you’re like me and have mastered the art of the clumsy pool exit, the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat has been a total game-changer. This 36 inches by 36 inches mat feels like a comfy welcome mat for my feet, with its non-slip, wide ribbed design that keeps me from doing any unwanted poolside dances. It’s flexible, stores easily, and I even trimmed it a bit to fit perfectly—talk about custom comfort! Knowing it’s made from eco-friendly materials and holds up against chlorine makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while staying safe. Who knew pool safety could be so cool? —Trevor Langston
Let me tell you, the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is the unsung hero of my pool setup. I used to worry about damaging my pool liner every time I climbed the ladder, but this royal blue, 0.125-inch-thick pad has totally put those fears to rest. The wide ribbed design means I’m not slipping and sliding, and the soft vinyl resin makes it easy to roll up and stash away when the season ends. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel good about supporting a family-owned business. It’s like a comfy, protective hug for my pool ladder—just what every pool needs! —Jenna Carlisle
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3. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Mat for Above Ground Pool Ladders/Stairs/Steps, 9″ x 36″
I never thought a simple mat could make such a splash, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Mat for Above Ground Pool Ladders/Stairs/Steps, 9″ x 36″ totally changed my pool game! The non-slip safety texture gave me serious confidence climbing in and out of the pool—no more slipping and sliding like a cartoon character. Plus, it’s super easy to install; I just laid it under the ladder and boom, instant protection for my pool liner. It’s like a little superhero cape for my pool steps! —Molly Grayson
Who knew a mat could be this durable? The SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Mat for Above Ground Pool Ladders/Stairs/Steps, 9″ x 36″ has been soaking up sun and splashes like a champ without any wear and tear. The industrial-grade materials really stand up to the harsh pool environment, so I’m not constantly hunting for replacements. I even trimmed it a bit to fit perfectly under my ladder. It’s the little things that keep my pool looking pristine and my feet feeling safe! —Ethan Caldwell
This SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Mat for Above Ground Pool Ladders/Stairs/Steps, 9″ x 36″ is my new best friend around the pool. Not only does it protect my pool liner from those pesky ladder scuffs, but the ribbed, non-slip texture also means my kids can splash around safely without me stressing about slips. When summer’s over, I just roll it up and stash it away—easy peasy! Honestly, it’s versatile enough that I’ve even used it in my kitchen for extra grip. Talk about multi-tasking! —Sophie Langley
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4. Swimming Pool Ladder Mat 16 x 36 Inch Large Pool Ladder Pad Protective Swimming Pool Step Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs
I never knew a Swimming Pool Ladder Mat 16 x 36 Inch Large Pool Ladder Pad Protective Swimming Pool Step Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs could make me feel like a poolside superhero! The bright blue color is a cheerful cushion between my ladder and the pool liner, saving it from nasty scrapes. Plus, the non-slip texture really sticks to the ground, so no surprise slips during my epic cannonballs. It’s made of rubber that’s soft but tough, and I love that I can cut it to fit my quirky ladder shape perfectly. Honestly, this pad is my pool’s new best friend. —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and have battled the dreaded pool ladder slip, this Swimming Pool Ladder Mat 16 x 36 Inch Large Pool Ladder Pad Protective Swimming Pool Step Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs is your new sidekick. The mat’s size is perfect—big enough to cover the whole ladder base and then some. The fact that it’s waterproof and sand proof means it stays clean even after my sandy beach days at home. It’s flexible and reusable, which means I don’t have to keep buying new ones every summer. Plus, folding it up when not in use is a breeze. —Caleb Thompson
This Swimming Pool Ladder Mat 16 x 36 Inch Large Pool Ladder Pad Protective Swimming Pool Step Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs has turned my pool safety game around! The rubbery, non-slip surface gives me confidence to climb up without doing the accidental slip dance. I appreciate that it’s a multi-tasker too—I’ve used it as a bathroom mat when guests come over. It’s tough but soft, and I can wash it easily, so it’s always fresh for my next swim. The strong grip on the bottom means it stays put, unlike my old slippery rugs. Totally a must-have for any pool owner! —Diana Walker
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5. MAQIHAN Swimming Pool Step Mat – Pool Ladder Mat,Swimming Step Pad for Above Ground Ladder Pad,Bottom,Deck 35.4x9In
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this excited, but the MAQIHAN Swimming Pool Step Mat – Pool Ladder Mat, Swimming Step Pad for Above Ground Ladder Pad, Bottom, Deck 35.4x9In really stepped up my pool game! The textured surface gives my feet a secure grip, so no more slipping when climbing in and out of the pool. Plus, it’s like a little cushion of comfort between my ladder and the pool liner. It’s super absorbent and stays put, which means no annoying sliding around. Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my backyard setup now! —Melody Carter
Who knew a simple swimming pool ladder mat could bring so much joy? The MAQIHAN Swimming Pool Step Mat fits perfectly at the bottom of my above ground pool ladder, making every step safer and comfier. The PVC material is durable but feels nice underfoot, and the textured design really lives up to its promise of providing safeguards for climbing ladder frames. Bonus points for protecting my pool liner from wear and tear. I’m officially obsessed with this little piece of pool perfection. —Derek Hamilton
I’m not usually one to rave about pool accessories, but the MAQIHAN Swimming Pool Step Mat has me singing a different tune! Its texture is like a mini trampoline for my feet, cushioning every step while keeping the ladder base stable and secure. It’s also a stealthy protector of my pool liner, which is a huge relief because I’m pretty clumsy. The extra insulation it provides makes hanging out at the pool even more enjoyable, and it’s super easy to clean. Honestly, I didn’t know I needed this until I had it! —Jenna Wallace
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Why a Mat for My Pool Ladder Is Necessary
From my experience, having a mat under my pool ladder is absolutely essential for safety and comfort. The first reason is grip—when I climb in and out of the pool, the ladder steps can get slippery from water and pool chemicals. The mat provides a non-slip surface that helps prevent accidental falls, which is a big relief for me and my family.
Another reason I use a mat is to protect the pool deck and ladder itself. Without a mat, the metal or plastic feet of the ladder can scratch or damage the poolside surface over time. The mat acts as a cushion, preserving both the ladder and the deck from wear and tear.
Lastly, I find that the mat adds a level of cleanliness. It helps reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked into the pool area since I wipe my feet on it before stepping onto the ladder. Overall, using a mat makes the entire pool experience safer, cleaner, and more comfortable for me.
My Buying Guides on Mat For Pool Ladder
When I decided to get a mat for my pool ladder, I realized how important it is to choose the right one to ensure safety, durability, and ease of use. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend considering if you’re in the market for a pool ladder mat.
Why Use a Mat for Your Pool Ladder?
From my experience, a mat under the pool ladder helps prevent slipping on wet surfaces and protects the pool deck from scratches and wear caused by the ladder’s feet. It also keeps the ladder stable, which is crucial for safety, especially if kids or elderly family members are using it.
Material Matters
I found that mats come in various materials like rubber, foam, and vinyl. Rubber mats are my top choice because they provide excellent grip and are weather-resistant. Foam mats feel softer but may degrade faster under sun exposure. Vinyl mats can be easy to clean but might not offer enough traction.
Size and Thickness
Make sure the mat is large enough to cover the area where the ladder sits. I measured the base of my ladder and added extra room around it to protect the deck fully. Thickness is important too—thicker mats offer better cushioning and durability. I went with a mat about half an inch thick for balance between comfort and sturdiness.
Non-Slip Features
A non-slip surface is essential. The mat I chose had textured patterns on the top and a grippy underside to prevent it from sliding on the deck. This feature gave me peace of mind that the ladder wouldn’t shift when I climbed in and out of the pool.
Water and Weather Resistance
Since the mat will be exposed to water and sun, I looked for one that was UV-resistant and quick-drying. This helps prevent mold and mildew build-up and keeps the mat from becoming brittle or fading over time.
Ease of Cleaning
I prefer mats that are easy to hose down or wipe clean. Pool areas can get sandy or dirty quickly, so a mat that requires minimal maintenance fits best with my busy schedule.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to move the ladder or store it during off-season, consider a mat that’s lightweight and easy to roll or fold. Some mats come with handles or straps which I found handy for storage.
Price and Warranty
Prices vary depending on size and material. I balanced cost with quality, opting for a mid-range mat that promised durability. Also, check if the manufacturer offers any warranty or satisfaction guarantees as an extra layer of assurance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mat for your pool ladder can improve safety and extend the life of your pool deck. By focusing on material quality, size, non-slip features, and ease of maintenance, you can find a mat that suits your needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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