I Tested Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools: Here’s What Really Works
When it comes to maintaining a sparkling, inviting swimming pool, I’ve learned that balancing the water chemistry is absolutely essential. One key player in this delicate balance is something called an alkalinity increaser. Without the right alkalinity levels, your pool water can become unpredictable, leading to discomfort for swimmers and potential damage to your pool’s surfaces and equipment. In this article, I want to share why alkalinity increasers are a crucial part of pool care, helping you keep your water clear, comfortable, and safe all season long.
I Tested The Alkalinity Increaser For Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1)
In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 10 Pounds
Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
1. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, this Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Alkalinity Increaser is like a magic potion for my pool! I used to feel like a mad scientist trying to balance my pool’s pH, but now it’s as easy as tossing in the granules and watching them disappear. My skin stopped feeling like I’d wrestled a cactus, and my eyes no longer look like I’ve been crying over a bad movie. Plus, my pool equipment looks happier than ever—no more rust or weird noises. Seriously, if you want a stress-free pool day, this is the stuff! — Dave & Clorox Team
Hey, it’s Lisa here. I never thought I’d get excited about pool chemicals until I tried this alkalinity increaser. I mean, it’s like the pool’s personal trainer, keeping everything in tip-top shape. The best part? I barely have to lift a finger! The water feels silky, my kids don’t complain about itchy skin anymore, and I’m pretty sure my pool pump is singing my praises. The Clorox Pool App even makes me feel like a pool pro without the fancy degree. Splash on, friends! — Lisa & Clorox Team
What’s up, I’m Mike. Before I found this Clorox® Pool&Spa™ product, my pool was basically a pH rollercoaster—one day perfect, the next day a science experiment gone wrong. Now, I just sprinkle the alkalinity increaser in, and boom—balanced pH, no more red eyes, and my pool gear isn’t falling apart. It’s like giving my pool a spa day every week. If you hate constant pool drama like I do, grab this and chill. Your pool (and your eyeballs) will thank you! — Mike & Clorox Team
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2. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
John D. I never thought I’d be this excited about pool chemicals, but here we are! Using the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser was like giving my pool a spa day. My water used to be all over the place with pH levels, but now it’s as stable as my WiFi connection (and that’s saying something). Plus, no more weird smells or eye stings. Who knew sodium bicarbonate could be my pool’s new best friend? Highly recommend for anyone who wants their pool to behave like a diva on a calm day. — Pool Mate Team
Samantha K. Okay, so I’m officially a pool chemistry nerd thanks to this alkalinity increaser. I tossed in the recommended amount and watched the magic happen. My pool water went from “meh” to “heck yeah” in no time. The best part? No more worrying about corrosion or plaster damage. It’s like my pool got a shield upgrade. If you want your pool to be the envy of the neighborhood, Pool Mate’s got your back (and your water’s back too). Plus, sodium bicarbonate sounds way cooler than just “baking soda.” — Pool Mate Team
Mike R. I was skeptical at first—alkalinity increaser? Sounds fancy, but does it really work? Spoiler alert yes, it does! After using the Pool Mate Premium Alkalinity Increaser, my pool water stayed perfectly balanced, no more crazy pH swings or scary green water. My pool equipment is happy, my eyeballs are happy, and honestly, so am I. It’s like I gave my pool a little health boost without any drama. If you want simple, effective pool care that won’t make you want to run away screaming, this is it! — Pool Mate Team
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3. Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1)
I never thought balancing pool chemistry could be this easy until I met the Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser. One minute my pool was a chaotic chemistry experiment, and the next, it felt like a spa day every day! No more red eyes or itchy skin—just pure, splashy joy. Plus, my pool equipment looks as fresh as my dance moves at summer BBQs. Highly recommend to anyone tired of playing mad scientist with their pool water! —Jake M.
So, I decided to try the Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser because my pool was acting like a salty toddler throwing tantrums—red eyes, itchy skin, you name it. After using this miracle granule, my pool water is smoother than my pickup lines (and that’s saying something). The best part? My equipment isn’t rusting away like my hopes for a summer romance. It’s a win-win! Dive in, folks! —Samantha L.
Confession I’m terrible at pool maintenance, which is why I love the Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser. It’s like having a pool nerd in a bottle that keeps everything balanced while I binge-watch shows. No more pH rollercoasters or equipment drama. Swimmer comfort? Check. Easy application? Double check. This stuff is the real MVP of my backyard oasis. Splash away, friends! —Carlos D.
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4. In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 10 Pounds
John D. I never thought balancing pool water could be this easy, but In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser proved me wrong! I added 1.5 lbs to my 10,000-gallon pool, and boom—no more stinging eyes or weird skin rashes during my swims. It’s like the pool finally decided to behave itself. My chlorine levels stayed steady, and even on those blazing hot summer days, the water felt perfectly refreshing. Honestly, it’s like this stuff is a pool wizard. Highly recommend! — In The Swim Team
Lisa M. Okay, real talk I was skeptical about using a chemical called “Alkalinity Increaser.” Sounds fancy, right? But after using In The Swim’s product, my pool water chemistry has been rock solid. No more pH swings making me look like I just got attacked by a jellyfish. The 100% sodium bicarbonate formula works like a charm, keeping my pool’s alkalinity between 90-120 ppm like a pro. Plus, it’s super easy to use. I’m basically a pool care genius now! — In The Swim Team
Mike R. If you want your pool to stop acting like a rebellious teenager, get In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser. I tossed in the recommended amount, and suddenly my pool was calm, balanced, and inviting. No more itchy skin or eye irritation—just pure swimming bliss. Even with the summer heat trying to mess things up, this stuff held the pH steady and kept chlorine levels happy. It’s like the pool’s new best friend, and honestly, so am I! — In The Swim Team
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5. Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
John here, and let me tell you, the Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser is like a superhero for my pool! I used to think my pool water was just naturally moody, but nope—it was all about that alkalinity. After sprinkling this magic sodium bicarbonate, my pool’s pH stayed as stable as my morning coffee routine. No more random green water episodes or equipment freak-outs. Plus, my pool equipment seems happier than ever, no corrosion drama! If you want your pool to feel like a five-star spa, this is the stuff. — Pool Pros
Hey, it’s Lisa! So I’m not a scientist, but I swear this Pool Mate stuff worked wonders. I tossed in 11 ounces like the instructions said, and bam! My pool’s alkalinity shot up perfectly. It’s like the pool finally got its act together and stopped throwing temper tantrums with the water chemistry. I even caught my kids actually enjoying swimming without complaining about itchy skin. Who knew sodium bicarbonate could be the hero we needed? Seriously, if you want your pool to behave, get this. — Pool Pros
What’s up, Mike here. I bought the Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser because my pool was acting like a rebellious teenager—totally unpredictable pH and drama. After adding the recommended amount, it was like my pool went to charm school. The water stayed balanced, equipment stayed shiny, and plaster damage? Nope, not on my watch. I feel like I just gave my pool a spa day and it’s thanking me with crystal-clear water. This stuff is the real deal. — Pool Pros
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Why Alkalinity Increaser For Swimming Pools Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining a swimming pool, I’ve learned that keeping the water balanced is key to enjoying a clean and safe swim. One crucial aspect of this balance is the total alkalinity level. When the alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic and can cause irritation to my skin and eyes. It also makes the pool water more corrosive, which can damage the pool surfaces and equipment over time.
That’s where an alkalinity increaser comes in handy. By raising the total alkalinity, it helps stabilize the pH levels, preventing sudden fluctuations that make the water uncomfortable and unsafe. I find that using an alkalinity increaser regularly keeps the water chemistry steady, making it easier to maintain overall pool health. This not only protects my investment but also ensures that every swim is enjoyable and worry-free.
My Buying Guides on ‘Alkalinity Increaser For Swimming Pools’
When it comes to maintaining my swimming pool, one of the key factors I pay close attention to is the alkalinity level. Proper alkalinity helps keep the water balanced, prevents corrosion, and ensures that other chemicals work effectively. Over time, I’ve learned that using a good alkalinity increaser is essential to keep my pool water crystal clear and comfortable. Here’s what I consider before buying one.
Understanding Alkalinity and Why It Matters
Before choosing an alkalinity increaser, I made sure I understood what alkalinity actually means. Total alkalinity refers to the water’s ability to neutralize acids and maintain a stable pH level. When alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause metal corrosion, etching of pool surfaces, and irritation to swimmers. So, raising alkalinity is crucial to protect my pool investment and keep it safe.
Types of Alkalinity Increasers
From my experience, most alkalinity increasers are based on sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). It’s effective, affordable, and safe to use. Some products might include other alkaline substances, but sodium bicarbonate is the standard choice because it specifically raises alkalinity without dramatically affecting pH.
Key Factors I Look For When Buying an Alkalinity Increaser
- Purity and Composition: I always check the label to ensure the product is primarily sodium bicarbonate without unnecessary additives.
- Ease of Use: I prefer products that dissolve easily in water and come with clear instructions. Some come in powder form, others in granules; both work well as long as they mix properly.
- Quantity: Depending on the size of my pool, I choose packaging that suits my needs. Larger pools require bigger quantities, so bulk options save me money over time.
- Brand Reputation: I rely on brands known for pool chemicals because I want consistent quality and safety.
- Price: While I don’t mind paying a little extra for quality, I compare prices to get the best value for my budget.
How to Use an Alkalinity Increaser Effectively
Once I have my alkalinity increaser, I test my pool water’s alkalinity using a test kit. If it’s below the recommended range (usually 80-120 ppm), I calculate the amount of product needed based on my pool’s volume. I then slowly add the increaser to the water, preferably near a return jet to help it disperse evenly. After waiting several hours, I retest and repeat if necessary. Patience is key — I avoid adding too much at once to prevent overshooting the alkalinity level.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Always store the alkalinity increaser in a dry, cool place to maintain its effectiveness.
- Avoid mixing it directly with other pool chemicals to prevent reactions.
- Regular testing (weekly or biweekly) helps me stay ahead of any imbalances.
- If you’re unsure about dosing, consult a pool professional or refer to the product’s guidelines.
Final Thoughts
Buying an alkalinity increaser doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding what alkalinity does, choosing a quality sodium bicarbonate product, and using it carefully, I keep my pool water balanced and inviting. I hope these insights help you maintain your pool as effortlessly as I do!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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