Why You Should Always Shower Before Getting Into the Pool
Why You Should Always Shower Before Getting Into the Pool
We've all seen the sign at hotels and public pools: "Please shower before entering." Most people ignore it. But that quick rinse matters more than you might think, for your health, your comfort, and your pool.
What You Bring Into the Water
Even if you feel clean, your body carries a lot into the pool: sweat, body oils, sunscreen, lotion, deodorant, makeup, hair products, and small amounts of dirt. When several people swim, all of this adds up fast.
The Real Reason Your Eyes Burn
Many people think a strong "chlorine smell" means the pool has too much chlorine. It's usually the opposite. That smell comes from chloramines, which form when chlorine reacts with sweat, oils and other things from our bodies.
Chloramines are what cause:
Red, burning eyes
Itchy or dry skin
Coughing and irritation, especially in covered or indoor pools
That strong chemical smell
A clean pool with properly balanced water should have very little smell at all.
Less Protection Against Germs
Chlorine's main job is to kill bacteria and germs. When it's busy reacting with sweat and lotion, there is less chlorine available to keep the water safe. Showering first helps your chlorine do what it's supposed to do: protect swimmers.
Better for Your Pool and Your Wallet
Showering before swimming also helps your pool itself:
Clearer water: fewer oils and lotions mean less cloudy water.
Less scum line: oils and sunscreen build up along the tile line.
Cleaner filter: body oils can clog your filter faster, reducing its performance.
Lower chemical costs: less contamination means you use less chlorine and other chemicals to keep the water balanced.
How Long Should You Shower?
It doesn't take much. The CDC says that rinsing off for just one minute removes most of the dirt and sweat on your body. No soap needed for a quick rinse, although it helps if you're wearing a lot of sunscreen or lotion.
An outdoor shower or even a garden hose near the pool makes this easy for family and guests.
A Few More Healthy Pool Habits
Don't swim if you have diarrhea
Take kids on regular bathroom breaks
Don't let pets use the pool as a bathtub
Keep your water tested and balanced
Let Braspools Services Keep Your Water Healthy
Good swimming habits and regular professional maintenance go hand in hand. At Braspools Services, we keep your water clean, safe and balanced, so your family can enjoy every swim.
