I used the cheapest cover option from Donehey's, figuring I'd toss it rather than mess with cleaning, drying, folding, storing. Hate filling up landfills unnecessarily, but I also know plastic covers like these don't store/age well. I used the included cable/ratchet set up to secure, but then added a Harbor Freight spring clamp to each horizontal frame section. We live in the city, with smaller lots and large, dense trees, so we don't get a huge amount of wind. I always tried to leave an inch or so of water on the cover to prevent it from flapping.
Also used the cheapest pump from them (you can somewhat see it in the photo). Next time, I'll get a automatic pump so I don't have to stand out and watch it - it takes longer to pump even a smaller cover like mine than I ever imagined.
I also used one float from Donehey's. I know others have had issues, but I lightly filled it according to the instructions, tied it in two spots, and it held up all winter. SLAMed the pool, lowered the water level, added the float, covered, and brought the pump/filter into the basement. When I opened it up this Spring, I was actually shocked - and quite happy - that the water was crystal clear!
