It is important to know how to properly clean an inflatable pool float because they can easily get moldy and mildew. Here are some steps you can take to clean your inflatable pool float. Step 1: Fill a bucket with warm water and a little bit of dish soap. Step 2: Dip the sponge in the bucket and scrub the surface of the pool float. Step 3: Rinse off the sponge in the bucket and then dip it into cold water. Step 4: Scrub off any remaining soap residue with a dry cloth or paper towel, then let it air dry naturally on its own.