We used a mesh winter cover this year. I removed it today while the water was still cold (actually has a bit of ice yet) by folding over and pulling towards the edge. The water drained out as I pulled and folded and any leaves and debris came right out as a neat little "package." It still has a bit of ice in spots but by tomorrow it should be melted out. Some bleach went in. The cover got thrown over the clothes lines and sprayed off in sections. It will hang and then we will fold and roll up when dry.