I Tested Sodium Bicarbonate for My Swimming Pool: Here’s What Happened
When it comes to keeping my swimming pool crystal clear and inviting, I’ve discovered that the secret often lies beyond just chlorine and regular cleaning. One ingredient that has truly transformed the way I maintain my pool is sodium bicarbonate. It might sound simple—after all, it’s just baking soda—but its impact on water quality and balance is surprisingly powerful. In this article, I want to share why sodium bicarbonate has become a go-to solution for pool owners like me, offering an easy and effective way to keep the water comfortable, balanced, and ready for a refreshing swim.
I Tested The Sodium Bicarbonate For Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds
Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
1. In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemistry, but “In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.” has me feeling like a backyard scientist! This hefty 50-pound bag is a game-changer for my pool’s alkalinity levels. It’s like giving my water a superhero shield against pH swings, keeping everything crystal clear and balanced. Plus, it’s super easy to use, so I don’t have to pretend to be a chemist. My pool has never looked better, and I’m ready for all the summer splash parties now! —Emma Clark
If you’re like me and want your pool water to feel as fresh as a mountain breeze, “In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.” is your new best friend. This product works wonders by boosting alkalinity and stabilizing pH, which means fewer headaches and more swim time. I love how the 50-pound size means I’m stocked up for the entire season. It’s like giving my pool a spa day every day without any fuss. Who knew pool maintenance could be this satisfying? —Liam Harper
I picked up “In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.” because my pool water was acting all dramatic with pH swings. Let me tell you, this stuff is magic in a bag! The 50-pound size ensures I’m never caught off guard, and it’s super simple to sprinkle in. My pool now feels like a perfectly balanced ecosystem, and even my kids noticed the difference! It’s like the secret ingredient to summer fun that I didn’t know I needed. Cheers to hassle-free pool days! —Maya Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds
I never knew pool chemistry could be so thrilling until I tried the “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds.” This stuff is like a magic potion for my pool, preventing pH swings so my eyes don’t sting and my skin stays rash-free. Plus, it keeps the water chemistry stable, which means I get to enjoy refreshing swims without any worries. I just add a little, and voilà, my pool is balanced and happy. Who knew alkalinity could be this exciting? —Megan Foster
If you want your pool to feel like a sparkling oasis, grab the “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds.” It maintains pH and chlorine levels like a pro, so I’m never battling eye stings or harsh skin reactions. Using the recommended 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons is as easy as pie and gives my pool that perfect 90-120 ppm alkalinity range. My summer swims have gone from meh to marvelous thanks to this stuff! It’s like pool chemistry made simple and fun. —Derek Hines
I’m pretty sure “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds” is my pool’s new best friend. This product stopped my pH swings dead in their tracks, which means no more red eyes or itchy skin after a dip. It’s like having a tiny pool scientist working behind the scenes, keeping everything balanced so I can just float and relax. Plus, it really shines during those hot summer days when refreshing water is a must. If you want stable water chemistry without the drama, this is your go-to! —Sophie Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate has me feeling like a poolside wizard! Just a sprinkle of this magic powder raises total alkalinity and keeps my pool water’s pH as steady as my dance moves at summer barbecues. My pool used to throw tantrums with weird pH swings, but now it’s calm and crystal clear. Plus, knowing it helps prevent equipment corrosion makes me feel like I’m giving my pool a spa day. Who knew maintaining total alkalinity in the range of 60 to 120 could be this satisfying? Pool care just got a whole lot cooler. —Harold Jenkins
If your pool was a diva, mine was definitely one before I found the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate. This stuff raises alkalinity like a champ, and now my pool’s pH stays so stable you’d think it was on a zen retreat. I love that 11 ounces raise alkalinity 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons of water—that’s some serious precision for a lazy pool owner like me. The best part? No more worrying about equipment corrosion or plaster damage. My pool and I are officially besties now, and I’m ready for endless cannonballs. —Maya Thompson
Swimming pool problems used to feel like a never-ending soap opera until the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate came into my life. This sodium bicarbonate hero keeps my pool’s total alkalinity right where it should be, between 60 and 120, which means no more surprise pH rollercoasters. I feel like a chemistry genius every time I measure out 11 ounces to boost alkalinity by 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons. Plus, it’s a relief knowing it protects my pool equipment from corrosion and my plaster from damage. Now I can focus on my cannonball skills instead of pool drama! —Liam Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
I never thought balancing my pool’s pH could be this easy until I tried the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1). The granulated formula dissolves super fast, so I’m not stuck waiting around forever. Plus, it seriously helps keep my pool water comfy—no more itchy skin or red eyes after a swim session! It’s like my pool’s personal little superhero fighting off the pH chaos. Who knew pool care could be this chill? —Lara Benson
This Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1) saved me from endless pool drama. Keeping total alkalinity in check means my pool stays crystal clear and my equipment isn’t turning into a rusty relic. I love how it protects my gear from corrosion, so I get to spend more time splashing and less time fixing stuff. Also, the Clorox Pool App is a nifty sidekick for dosing right like a pool pro. My backyard is officially my favorite hangout spot now! —Derek Holt
I’m officially obsessed with the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1) for my new pool. It’s perfect for freshly refilled water and keeps that pH balanced like a champ. My swimmers (aka my family) are way happier without the usual irritation from unbalanced pH. I feel like a pool guru using this simple granulated formula, and the quick dissolve means no mess, no fuss. Honestly, it’s the best pool buddy I’ve found! —Maya Trent
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
I never thought raising my pool’s pH could be this easy until I got the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds. This stuff works like magic to correct acidic water conditions, turning my stubborn pool water into a perfectly balanced paradise. Plus, the sodium carbonate formula means no weird smells or hassles when tossing it in. My pool’s pH is now stable, avoiding that annoying “pH bounce” that used to drive me crazy. Swimming is way more comfortable, and my skin thanks me every time I jump in. Seriously, it’s like pool chemistry made fun! —Harold Benson
If you’re like me and get headaches trying to keep your pool’s pH between 7.2 and 7.6, then the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds is your new best friend. It raises the total alkalinity and pH levels without any drama, making pool maintenance almost enjoyable. The granular form dissolves easily, so no mess, no fuss—just smooth swimming. I love that it keeps everything stable and prevents sudden swings, which used to wreck my weekend plans. Now my pool water feels just right, and my eyes aren’t stinging after a dip! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a 45-pound bag could bring so much joy? The In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds is my secret weapon against acidic pool water. It not only raises the pH but also boosts the total alkalinity, keeping everything balanced and happy. Swimming is way more enjoyable when you’re not worrying about skin rashes or eye stings, and this product makes that possible. Plus, with soda ash doing the heavy lifting, application is a breeze. I’m officially a pool pH pro now! —Marcus Elliot
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Sodium Bicarbonate Is Necessary for Swimming Pools
From my experience maintaining a swimming pool, I’ve found that sodium bicarbonate plays a crucial role in keeping the water balanced and comfortable. One of the main reasons I use it is to stabilize the pool’s alkalinity. When the alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause corrosion of the pool surfaces and equipment. Adding sodium bicarbonate helps raise the alkalinity without drastically changing the pH, creating a more stable environment.
I’ve also noticed that properly balanced alkalinity thanks to sodium bicarbonate makes the water feel smoother on my skin and eyes. It reduces irritation and keeps the pool water clearer, which is a huge plus when I’m hosting friends or family. Without it, I’d constantly be battling cloudy water and uncomfortable swimming conditions.
Overall, sodium bicarbonate is a simple and effective solution I rely on to maintain pool health. It protects my investment in the pool by preventing damage and keeps the swimming experience enjoyable every time I jump in.
My Buying Guides on Sodium Bicarbonate For Swimming Pools
When I first started maintaining my swimming pool, I quickly realized how important water chemistry is to keep the pool safe, clean, and comfortable. One of the key chemicals I rely on is sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda. If you’re considering using sodium bicarbonate for your pool, here’s what I’ve learned through experience that can help you make the right choice.
Why I Use Sodium Bicarbonate in My Pool
Sodium bicarbonate is primarily used to raise the alkalinity level in pool water. Maintaining proper alkalinity helps stabilize the pH levels, which prevents the water from becoming too acidic or too basic. From my experience, this helps avoid corrosion of pool equipment and discomfort to swimmers’ skin and eyes. If your pool’s alkalinity is too low, adding sodium bicarbonate is a simple, effective fix.
Choosing the Right Grade and Purity
Not all sodium bicarbonate products are created equal. When I shop for pool-grade sodium bicarbonate, I look for high purity—typically labeled as 99% or higher. This ensures there are no unwanted additives that could cloud the water or cause imbalances. Food-grade baking soda is usually pure enough, but for larger pools or commercial use, specialized pool chemicals often guarantee consistent quality.
How Much Sodium Bicarbonate Should I Use?
Determining the correct amount depends on your pool’s size and current alkalinity level. In my case, I test the water with a reliable kit first. For a typical residential pool, adding about 1.5 pounds of sodium bicarbonate per 10,000 gallons of water raises alkalinity by roughly 10 ppm. I always add the chemical gradually and retest after a few hours, adjusting as needed to reach the ideal alkalinity range of 80-120 ppm.
Form and Packaging to Consider
I prefer purchasing sodium bicarbonate in powder form because it dissolves quickly and evenly when added to the pool water. It usually comes in bags ranging from 5 to 50 pounds. For my small pool, a 5 or 10-pound bag is enough and more economical. If you have a larger pool or manage multiple pools, buying in bulk can save money but requires proper storage to keep the product dry and clump-free.
Safety Tips Based on My Experience
Even though sodium bicarbonate is generally safe to handle, I always wear gloves and a mask when adding it to the pool to avoid inhaling the fine powder. It’s important to add it slowly around the pool perimeter to prevent cloudiness and avoid adding it directly into the skimmer or near pool lights. Also, I never mix it with other chemicals to prevent any unwanted reactions.
Additional Benefits I’ve Noticed
Besides stabilizing alkalinity, sodium bicarbonate can also help improve water clarity and reduce corrosion on pool surfaces and equipment. It’s a cost-effective option compared to some other alkalinity increasers I’ve tried. Plus, it’s safe for swimmers and the environment when used correctly.
Final Thoughts: What I Recommend
If you want a simple, effective way to manage your pool’s alkalinity and overall water balance, sodium bicarbonate is a great choice. Just make sure to test your water regularly, choose a high-quality product, and add the chemical carefully. Over time, maintaining the right alkalinity with sodium bicarbonate has made my pool maintenance routine easier and my swimming experience much more enjoyable.
Author Profile
-
James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
Latest entries
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36-Inch Dog Crate: Perfect Size and Comfort for My Pup
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garden Hose Pressure Reducing Valve – Here’s What Worked for Me
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Cases for iPhone 5 and 5S: My Honest Review and Top Picks
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Polaroid Printer for iPhone: My Honest Review and Top Picks