From public to private, many people don’t realise exactly what is lurking in the deceiving crystal blue waters of pools. You’re probably well aware of the fact that they need to be cleaned regularly in order to maintain their attractive appearance, but have you considered all the hidden nasties that can be found? In this article, we have outlined 5 of the grossest things to keep in mind when it comes to thoroughly pool cleaning.

1.Feces

According to the Centre for Disease Control (or the CDC), the average person contributes at least 0.14 grams of fecal matter to pool water – and this usually occurs within the first 15 minutes of getting in. A report that they released back in 2010 found that nearly 1 in 8 pools posed serious violations that threatened public health, resulting in them being closed immediately upon receiving the results.

2.Bacteria (E. Coli)

Another study released by the CDC found that pool water showed signs of E. Coli, which is the bacteria most commonly associated with fecal matter. Whilst it’s true that improperly toilet trained children can bring fecal matter into the water, adults are also to blame. If you don’t rinse with soap and water before getting in, you introduce fecal matter. Also be sure to change nappies in the bathroom or designated area.

3.Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs)

These are caused by germs that are spread by swallowing contaminated water found in pools, hot tubs, water parks, lakes and even oceans. RWI infections include: diarrhea, gastrointestinal, skin, ear, respiratory, eye, wound and neurologic. Chlorine doesn’t kill germs instantly, plus it’s used up disinfecting pee and swear. This is why keeping chlorine at recommended levels and regularly cleaning swimming pools is a must.

4.Urine

Elite competitive swimmers and everyday water goers have all admitted to peeing in the pool. Not only is it disgusting, it’s incredibly unhealthy. Urine interferes wit the chemically treated water and essentially eats up the chlorine, which is intended to kill harmful germs. If too many people pee in the pool or jump in whilst sweaty, it could mean that there isn’t enough chlorine present to wipe out germs.

5.Chlorine By-Product

Think about it this way – when you enter the water, you’re adding sweat, urine, fecal matter, sunscreen and other lotions to the invisible brew of chemicals and bacteria that are already present in the pool. This is where chlorine comes in. If you notice a strong chlorine smell, however, this isn’t actually a good thing – it indicates that there’s a maintenance problem. A well-chlorinated pool should have very little odor. Many people think that Chlorine is safe or not. They can read here, is chlorine is safe for use in indoor pools. 

On top of cleaning swimming pools regularly, there are some hygiene tips that you can practice to ensure that you stay safe in the water. Wash your hands often (using soap), don’t swallow the water, protect others by not swimming if you have diarrhea, shower before you swim (using soap), wash children before they enter the water, and check children in nappies regularly (change them if they have been soiled) and take care of your pool maintenance. Have a healthy swim!