If you want to maintain the water in your pool healthy for you and your children, natural sanitizing methods could be a healthy alternative. Here are seven natural pool cleaner alternatives to chlorine.
7 Natural Pool Cleaners
1. Hydrogen Peroxide
Unlike chlorine, hydrogen peroxide is a naturally occurring chemical molecule generated by the human body and found in rainwater. The job of hydrogen peroxide in our bodies is to guarantee that our cells operate correctly and in a healthy manner.
In reality, most cancer patients benefit from swimming in pools loaded with hydrogen peroxide as an additional kind of treatment.
Hydrogen peroxide is a more potent sanitizer than chlorine. After adding this natural pool cleaner to your pool and exposure to direct sunlight, hydrogen peroxide breaks down the nutrients that algae and bacteria feed on. Thus, adding hydrogen peroxide keeps a natural swimming pool practically free of chloramines, algaecides, and pathogens.
Swimming in a pool loaded with hydrogen peroxide has several additional health advantages as well, including improved cell activity, smoother skin, and lustrous hair.
A cup of peroxide added to a hundred gallons of water can assist in keeping bacteria at bay. You’ll need 35% peroxide, which you can purchase online. (Some hydrogen peroxide has been diluted to ensure safe storage and longer shelf life, you just need to use three times the optimal quantity to get the same outcomes as 35 percent peroxide.)
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural pool cleaner alternative for pool owners looking to protect their pool. If the owner of a pool spends money on expensive products, like algaecides and shock treatments, the chemicals can be quite harmful to swimmers. The use of baking soda instead is an eco-friendly option that can also be used to remove algae and provide better swimming conditions.
It is important to follow the instructions and test the pH level before adding it to the pool. The pH level can be measured by using a testing kit or by getting help from experts.
3. Add Some Plants
Adding plants to your pool will work as a natural pool cleaner without the use of chemical treatments. The plants will also help to absorb excess chemicals and provide a cleaner living environment for swimmers.
Leafy green plants provide oxygen, which aids in the development of beneficial microorganisms. This good bacteria feeds on algae and other organic matter found in your pool. If you want this additional protection, place your plants right by the edge of the pool.
If you feel like turning your pool into a natural water garden often seen in Europe, you can put plants in your pool. This practice creates a living oxygenation and filtration system and works as a great natural pool cleaner.
4. Non-Chlorine Shock
We have found the use of non-chlorine shock to be a good natural pool cleaner alternative to swimming pools. It prevents the damage caused by chlorine and is better for the environment. For example, chlorine can cause redness to people’s eyesight when they are exposed too often, and it can also have negative effects on animals’ lungs if they are in close contact with it.
By using non-chlorine shock instead of chlorine, we can reduce these risks, as well as lower your pool maintenance cost.
Oxidizing pollutants reduces chloramine concentrations (CC), allowing chlorine to function more efficiently. Non-chlorine shock is ideal for pools with a greater bather load or for pools that are enclosed. However, due to the lack of direct sunlight in indoor pools, owners have limited choice but to rely on non-chlorine shock.
5. Borax
If you do your laundry regularly, you may be familiar with Borax. It is considered to be a laundry booster and is particularly effective in eliminating odors from clothing. Apart from that, it’s a natural cleanser that’s safe to use throughout the house, particularly around the pool.
Borax is a natural anti-corrosive substance that removes the sludge lining and causes the buildup of organic compounds. It does a great job as a natural pool cleaner, it is not harmful to live organisms, does not break down into these compounds, and does not lead to an imbalance of pH levels. This is an eco-friendly substance that can eliminate root growth pools, walls, and surfaces.
6. UV Light
UV light works by killing bacteria, such as E. coli and algae, in swimming pools. This method of treatment is chemical-free and is considered to be the most effective disinfectant.
It also has a cheaper operating cost than other alternatives like chlorine gas or tablets, which can be used in your pool without the need for any extra equipment or chemicals.
The UV light used for water treatment should emit at least the optimal wavelength to kill harmful bacteria like E. coli and algae found in your swimming pool.
Water is passed through a UV-light-filled tube. The light kills pathogens trapped in the filtering mechanism. A decent UV filter will cost around $500 but will endure for years. However, you may still need to add chlorine to help fight the contaminant load.
7. PHMB
Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), known as SoftSwim™ or Baquacil™, is a good alternative to chlorine when treating swimming pools. Other advantages of PHMB are that it does not have the smell of chlorine – which is unwelcome in most homes – and there are no skin or eye irritations that may arise from its use.
The only disadvantage of using PHMB is that it has a lower oxidation potential than chlorine, but this can be solved by adding a small amount of free available chlorine for assistance. It makes use of good bacteria that destroy pathogens in the water.
First, it will infiltrate cell walls, causing them to rupture and explode. Then it surrounds them in a gel, making them heavy, causing them to drop to the bottom of the tank and be filtered. This is one of the more pricey pool chlorine options at around $800 for a 10,000 gallon of water.
Greener Ways to Maintain Pool Clarity and Cleanliness
Pools have always been a centerpiece for relaxation, enjoyment, and rejuvenation. As concerns grow about the environmental and health impacts of chemicals like chlorine, the quest for alternative, eco-friendly ways to maintain a clean pool becomes even more relevant. There are several greener ways to keep your pool pristine, and here’s how:
1. Revisiting the Traditional: Vinegar’s Cleaning Magic
If you’ve ever wondered about pool clean alternatives, you’ll be pleased to know that vinegar isn’t just for your kitchen. White vinegar possesses acidic properties that can efficiently tackle calcium buildup and other stubborn stains found in swimming pools. It’s similar to how you’d use vinegar to clear up calcium in your coffee pot.
Make a paste by adding some water and apply this mixture to scrub away residue or slippery spots within the pool. Given the natural potency of vinegar, it not only cleans but does so without introducing harmful chemicals into the pool’s ecosystem.
2. The Charm of Natural Pools and Ponds
Inspired by nature, natural pools resemble ponds and are gradually becoming a popular choice for homeowners. According to Clemson’s College of Agriculture, certain plants can anchor themselves at the base of the pond while allowing their foliage to float on the surface. These free-floating plants, however, need regular attention. Without proper care, they can overgrow and make your swimming pond seem untidy.
That’s when tools like pool or pond vacuums come in handy to keep the floor of the pool spotless. The significant aspect of these pools is the regeneration zone or biofilter. This zone, filled with plants and rocks, plays a pivotal role in keeping the water clean, naturally.
3. The Salty Alternative: Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools present another excellent alternative for those looking to reduce chlorine usage. Such pools are self-sanitizing, utilizing salt to break down bacteria and germs naturally. While they do offer a more eco-friendly option than conventional chlorine pools, the absolute pinnacle of environmental friendliness is still a natural pool.
4. The Balance of Chlorine Levels
Although we aim for natural methods, it’s worth understanding the role of chlorine. By superchlorinating or shocking your pool, you raise the chlorine level to eliminate bacteria and algae. But remember, moderation is key. Regular household bleach, which contains sodium hypochlorite, can serve as a substitute for chlorination. This ingredient can also be effective in addressing hard-to-remove stains, especially from pool tiles. Using bleach gives you the sanitizing power of chlorine without many additional chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I completely replace chemicals with natural cleaners?
While natural cleaners can reduce the need for chemicals, some level of chemical treatment, like chlorine, is often still necessary for complete disinfection.
Are natural pool cleaners safe for all pool types?
Most are safe for various pool types, but it’s important to check compatibility with your specific pool material.
Can I make my own natural pool cleaner?
There are DIY options, like using baking soda for alkalinity, but commercial natural cleaners are specifically formulated for effectiveness and safety.
Can I swim immediately after using a natural cleaner?
Most natural cleaners are safe for immediate swimming, but check the specific product instructions.
Are natural cleaners effective in all climates?
They are generally effective in various climates but may need to be adjusted for extreme temperatures.
You can find articles on our website about swimming pools. Maintaining your swimming pool and cleaning it is easier than you think. Listed below are some useful pool guides. Enjoy a clean, safe pool with your family!
