9 Healthier Alternatives to Chlorine for Swimming Pools

Chlorine, as a purification agent, has been used for water treatment and swimming pools since the early 1900s. While it is highly effective at killing bacteria and keeping pool water clean, many pool owners today are searching for a chlorine alternative for pool maintenance due to growing concerns over health and environmental effects.

It is well documented that chlorine, when combined with organic matter, can produce toxic byproducts such as trihalomethanes (THMs). The health risk of THMs to swimmers is increased as chlorine levels are higher and the organic load is heavier (leaves, algae, dead skin, hair, cosmetics, and urine for example). Chlorine, even at proper levels, can cause rashes and allergies in some people. Chloramines (another byproduct of chlorination) is known to irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Those suffering from asthma and bronchitis are at a higher risk.

Many consumers lack the knowledge and understanding to properly maintain the chemistry of their pool. Confusion on terms such as total chlorine, combined chlorine, and free and available chlorine is common. Since chlorine cannot stabilize in the water on its own, a dry stabilizer (cyanuric acid) is added to the water to make it resistant to sunlight. Many end users are not using the correct levels of the stabilizer which increases chlorine consumption or could be damaging to the surface of their pool.

Salt water pools are becoming more prevalent as people believe it is a chlorine alternative and less maintenance. These saltwater pools, which convert sodium chloride into chlorine, still require proper balancing of the water chemistry. Not doing so will drastically increase maintenance costs and the electrical cost can soar. Salt damage is prevalent and can corrode the coping, decking, walls, and pool floor.

Despite these drawbacks, chlorine is the most commonly used pool sanitizer in the world today. It is effective as it curbs the growth of algae and bacteria, oxidizes particulates to make the water clear, and it sanitizes the water. However, more than ever, consumers are looking for a chlorine-free pool or at least a system that reduces dependency on chlorine. So, if you are searching for effective alternatives to chlorine in pools, the post below discusses nine healthier and environmentally-friendly options to chlorine for swimming pools.

Alternatives to Chlorine You Could Consider

Chlorine, nowadays, does have several alternatives for treating swimming pool water that fulfill at least the basic criteria of safety. There are tried and tested alternative pool systems and research is still being continued to this day. Other aspects one needs to consider are cost, maintenance, and suitability to your requirements. Here are nine alternatives you may want to consider:

Bromine:

A halogen like chlorine, bromine is commonly used in spas and heated pools because it remains effective at higher temperatures.

Pros: It’s gentler on skin and eyes and produces fewer irritating byproducts.
Cons: Bromine is more expensive than chlorine and degrades quickly in sunlight, making it less ideal for outdoor pools.

Ozonation

You can easily install an ozone generator. These systems generate ozone gas, which oxidizes and destroys bacteria, viruses etc.

Pros: It does help reduce the amount of chlorine you use in the pool. Also, it helps degrade organic contaminants.
Cons: It is not an independent alternative and must be used in conjunction with chlorine or another sanitizer. This is because ozone does not have sufficient residual capabilities as the gas is short lived. Also, it is expensive as for the initial investment.

Reduction in Water Temperature

Lowering pool water temperature helps slow the growth of bacteria and algae, reducing the need for chlorine.

Pros: It slows microbial growth and reduces chlorine usage. The method can be implemented using chillers, aeration, or adjusting thermostats.
Cons: It is not a standalone solution and can be uncomfortable for swimmers. Also heaters and chillers are very expensive in comparison to other pool equipment options. Their cost may outweigh the benefits as chlorine or other sanitation systems, still must be used in lower quantities.

PHMB (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide)

PHMB is a non-chlorine pool sanitizer developed by certain brands such as Baquacil and Softswim. It is known for being stable in sunlight and gentle on skin.

Pros: The sanitizer doesn’t require a stabilizer; gentle on eyes, skin, and pool surfaces. It is also stable in sunlight and doesn’t corrode pool components.
Cons: More expensive and requires hydrogen peroxide and regular filter cleaning. Switching from chlorine requires draining the pool to remove any traces of chlorine, else it may react with PHMB.

UV Light

UV light systems sanitize water by destroying bacteria and viruses, working alongside minimal chlorine use for maintaining the residual effect.

Pros: Installing a UV light system in your pool reduces chlorine use and eliminates chloramines. It is effective against many pathogens when properly sized.
Cons: UV doesn’t provide sanitation residual and many microorganisms can reproduce at a faster rate. It also requires proper flow rate and has a high upfront cost.

Ultrafiltration

The ultrafiltration method comprises the use of a fine sieve to remove extremely small microbes, human skin fragments, hair and so on once the basic filtering is done. This advanced filtration method removes fine particles and microorganisms without relying heavily on chemicals.

Pros: It filters out tiny contaminants and minimizes chemical use. The advanced technology helps in delivering high water clarity and purity.
Cons: The installation and maintenance is extremely expensive. It still requires some chlorine and isn’t cost-effective for most residential pools.

Mineral Water Pool Systems

Systems like Nature 2 or Pool FROG use minerals like copper and silver to control algae and bacteria. These pool chlorine alternatives can reduce chlorine usage by up to 50%.

Pros: These systems are easy to install and maintain along with being gentler on skin and eyes. It also reduces chlorine dependency significantly.
Cons: The cartridges must be replaced frequently in larger pools. It still requires some chlorine use for complete sanitation.

Pristine Blue

Pristine Blue is a proprietary technology developed by Earth Science Laboratories. Its main ingredient comprises copper sulfate pentahydrate which constitutes up to 19.8% of its active ingredients This technology uses the positively charged copper ions to destroy all the negatively charged bacteria and other germs in the pool.

Pros: It is effective and provides long-lasting sanitation with low chlorine use. Pristine Blue is also gentle on swimmers and pool components.
Cons: One of the most expensive systems to maintain. It may require regular monitoring and maintenance.

Copper Ionization:

For those wondering how to clean a pool without chlorine, copper ionization is one of the best solutions available. There are no residual chemicals which can cause irritation to eyes and skin. It is more cost effective and produces healthy pool water.

The copper ionization system comes with an electronic control unit, test kits, and a copper electrode. The ionization process releases metallic ions that are introduced into the water by using a low voltage current. These positively-charged, copper ions are attracted to the negatively-charged bacteria and algae and penetrate their cell membranes. As the water is recirculated, more such ions are produced.

Copper ions are not affected by sunlight and hence do not require a stabilizer. Unlike chlorine and salt systems, ionizers are pH neutral so pH maintenance is easier. These systems are easy to install and maintain and can be retrofitted to your existing chlorinated pool.

Why Consumers Are Switching to Non-Chlorine Pools

Modern consumers are doing more research before choosing a pool sanitation method. From eco-conscious families to health-aware individuals, the demand for chlorine alternatives for pools is growing. With innovations in water treatment technologies, pool owners now have more options than ever to create a safer, more enjoyable swimming experience.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building a new pool or upgrading your existing one, choosing the right alternatives to chlorine in pools depends on your priorities like health, cost, or environmental impact. At Intec America, we’re committed to helping pool owners find effective, low-chemical solutions backed by science and experience.

As the first U.S. company to bring NASA-developed copper ionization to the public, Intec America continues to lead in offering healthier, smarter water treatment technologies.