I close pretty much the same way as Big Dave. I don't use a pillow as I use a safety mesh cover. I used to use pillows but haven't for several years with no problem--but my AG pool is more like an IG structurally and not usual SOP for MOST AGs. I also do one more thing.
I raise the pool to shock level, add 1 quart of Polyquat 60%, wait 48 hours, raise to shock level again, and close.