How are pools cleaned between rentals?
Every pool is thoroughly cleaned with a clinical-grade disinfectant between rentals. All disposable items — the liner, hose, strainer, and thermometer — are brand new for each customer. The electric pump also runs through a complete disinfection cycle. During your birth, a single-use liner sits between the water and the pool surface, so the pool never directly contacts birth water. You always receive a hygienically prepared pool.
How big is the birthpool?
The Mini measures 165 × 145 × 71 cm on the outside (114 × 94 × 66 cm inside). The Regular measures 193 × 165 × 71 cm on the outside (142 × 114 × 66 cm inside). Both pools are 71 cm tall with a water depth of 45–55 cm — deep enough to cover your abdomen during labour.
How do I fill the pool?
Connect the hose to your tap using one of the three adapters included in your kit. Let the water run for about two minutes before directing it into the pool — this flushes the line as a Legionella precaution. With a continuous hot water supply, filling takes about 30 minutes. If your boiler runs out, fill to the available level, let it recover for 20–30 minutes, and top up. You can boil kettle water to speed things up, but only add it when there's at least 25 cm of cooler water already in the pool.
How long does setup take?
With the electric pump included in your kit, the pool inflates in about 7–10 minutes. We recommend doing a test inflation as soon as your pool arrives — check that everything is intact, try the hose and tap adapter, and familiarise yourself with the setup. That way, when labour starts, you'll know exactly what to do. Total setup and fill time on the day is typically 40–90 minutes depending on your water supply.
How much water does the pool hold?
The Mini holds approximately 480 litres at the recommended fill level — roughly two bathtubs. The Regular holds approximately 650 litres, or about four bathtubs. A full Mini weighs around 487 kg including water, and the Regular around 659 kg. Standard residential floors handle this without any issues — we've never had a problem in over ten years of rentals.
What temperature should the water be?
During contractions, aim for 32–36 °C — the best guide is your own comfort. At the time of delivery, the temperature should be 36–37 °C (body temperature). Check the temperature at least once per hour using the thermometer in your kit. Thanks to the pool's air chamber insulation, heat loss is typically only about 1 °C per hour. Keep the room warm (22–24 °C) to help.
When should I start filling the pool?
For a first birth, begin filling when your contractions have been regular — every 3 to 4 minutes — for at least one hour. For a second or later birth, start when contractions are about 5 minutes apart, as labour often progresses more quickly. Don't fill too early — the water can cool, and filling takes 30–75 minutes, so factor in lead time. Most midwives recommend getting into the pool once you're in active labour.
When will my pool be delivered?
Your birthpool is shipped around the 36th week of pregnancy, arriving 2–3 working days later via Hermes courier with tracking. The rental period runs from three weeks before your due date through to two weeks after — a five-week window so you're never rushed. If you need the delivery date adjusted, just let us know at no extra cost.
Where should I set up the pool?
Choose a flat, clean surface — most living rooms and bedrooms work well. You'll need a power outlet nearby for the electric pump, and ideally a warm room (22–24 °C) to help maintain water temperature. Leave about 50 cm of space around the pool so your midwife can move freely and support you from all sides. Lay a waterproof sheet or tarpaulin underneath and around the pool for floor protection.
Which pool size is right for me?
The Mini (165 × 145 cm) is our one-person pool — plenty of room for you, and fits in most living rooms. The Regular (193 × 165 cm) is better if you're over 178 cm or your birth partner wants to be in the water with you. Both pools share the same depth, so the water level and comfort during labour are identical. Most families rent the Mini.