Absolutely everything you need to throw an epic pool party

When the heatwave hits, there’s no greater excuse for a pool party. Before friends and family come over, make sure you have all the elements you need for water-based fun, such as inflatable accessories, practical servingware and outdoor furniture

FOR THE POOL

Have floats to lie back on; supply some games or a ball for entertainment; and provide enough towels for poolside lounging.  Why not capture the fun with a water-proof camera?

Intex Lively beach ball. R24.99. Crazystore.co.za

Telefunken action video camera with waterproof case. R849. Game.co.za

Oversize striped beach towel. R499. Woolworths.co.za

Swimline Smiley Face island float. R399. Superbalist.com

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FOR REFRESHMENT

In the heat of the day, stay hydrated with ice-cold drinks. Concoct summery cocktails and choose glassware that can be used outdoors. Similarly, don’t go for delicate dinnerware, but put out more practical plastic and Perspex crockery and cutlery for snacks.

Mason jars. R120 each. Boardmans.co.za

Footed drinks cooler. R1,150. Woolworths.co.za

Jamie Oliver melamine salad serving set. R399. Yuppiechef.com

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FOR WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN

The party doesn’t have to end as the sun sets. Ensure that there is enough outdoor light to create an inviting ambience and that there is protection against mosquitoes.

Smart and Green LED Bubble light. Price on request. Oraoutdoor.com

Glass large rope lantern. R149.95. Boardmans.co.za

Vibia Wind outdoor lamp. From R25,415. Establishment.co.za

Geometric cut-out metal hurricane, including three citronella candles. R99.99. Mrphome.com

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FOR SUN PROTECTION

As much as you might feel cool after a dip, the summer sun can be fierce, so provide shade, and don’t forget to apply suncream regularly.

Small gazebo. R10,899. Patiowarehouse.co.za

Eclipse umbrella. R29,695. Patiostyle.co.za

Kids’ play tent. R399. Cottonon.co.za

FOR MAKING GUESTS COMFORTABLE

In between pool time, your guests need a place to sit and socialise. Create areas for relaxation including outdoor seating, tables for drinks and food, and weatherproof cushions.

Airflower inflatable PVC armchair. R3,480. Roche-bobois.com

Parabella outdoor cushions. From R340 each. Mobelli.co.za

Zanotta Nuvola armchair. R9,500. Afritaly.com

Flamingo side table. R3,080. Robert-thomson.com

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POOLSIDE PRACTICALITIES

Provide sunscreen: Avoid guests getting burnt by having sun protection close at hand, making it convenient to apply. Also have regular breaks from the sun.

Keep a close eye on children: Even if kids can swim independently, accidents can happen. Always have adult supervision for children in the water, and discourage running on wet paving, which can be dangerous.

Say bye-bye to bugs: From mosquitoes to flies, pests can be a pain at an outdoor party. Cover all food and drink when not in use, remove food waste from the entertaining area, burn citronella candles and offer guests insect repellent.

Stay hydrated: In the heat, it’s important to keep drinking to keep your body refreshed. Alcohol doesn’t count, as it is a diuretic, which can leave you dehydrated, so add water, fruit juices and plenty of ice to the bar shopping list.

Tips for a sparkling pool:

•  A pool party requires a clean pool, but you don’t want to overload the water with too many chemicals just before guests dive in. A few days before the event, check the pH (ideally it should be between 7.2 and 7.6) and chlorine (should be 1.5 to 2ppm) levels, and adjust if necessary, preferably at night.

• On the day, give the pool a good sweep and remove any floating debris, such as fallen leaves.

• If you have an automatic pool cleaner, remember to store this out of the way for the party, as not only can it be an obstacle in the water, but broken parts can be expensive to replace.