A Guide to Pool Hygiene and Etiquette

Introduction

Whether you’re swimming laps, enjoying a family day at a public pool, or relaxing in a private pool, maintaining proper hygiene and following pool etiquette is essential. Good pool hygiene keeps the water safe and clean, while pool etiquette ensures a positive experience for everyone. This guide covers the best practices for both, making the pool environment enjoyable and safe for all.

1. Shower Before Entering the Pool

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep pool water clean is to shower before entering.

• Remove Body Oils, Sweat, and Lotions: A quick rinse removes sweat, body oils, and any lotions or sunscreen, which helps maintain water quality and reduces the pool’s chemical demand.
• Limit Contaminants: Showering reduces the amount of bacteria and other contaminants you bring into the water, which benefits everyone using the pool.
• Use Soap and Rinse Thoroughly: If possible, use soap to clean your body, especially if you’ve been sweating, as this further minimizes impurities introduced into the water.

2. Use the Restroom Before Swimming

Encouraging everyone, especially young children, to use the restroom before swimming helps reduce contamination in the pool.

• Prevent “Accidents”: Using the restroom beforehand is a simple way to prevent accidents that can contaminate the water and even lead to temporary pool closures.
• Remind Children Regularly: Young swimmers may be so focused on play that they ignore the urge to go to the bathroom. Remind them to take regular bathroom breaks, especially if they’re in the pool for extended periods.

3. Follow Pool Rules and Safety Guidelines

Each pool has specific rules for safety and cleanliness. Observing these guidelines benefits everyone.

• Read and Follow Posted Rules: Most public pools post rules and guidelines. Follow them closely, as they’re designed to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
• Don’t Run on the Pool Deck: Running near the pool can lead to slips and falls, which are dangerous for both the runner and those around them.
• Observe Deep and Shallow Water Zones: Keep in mind the designated deep and shallow areas, especially if you’re swimming with children or new swimmers who may need to stay in the shallow end.

4. Avoid Swimming if You’re Ill

Swimming when you’re not feeling well, especially if you have a stomach virus, cold, or skin infection, can spread germs to others in the pool.

• Stay Out if You’re Sick: Illnesses like gastrointestinal viruses can easily spread in pool water, even with chlorine treatment. Avoid swimming if you’re unwell to protect others.
• Wait 48 Hours After Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Many experts recommend waiting at least 48 hours after experiencing vomiting or diarrhea before entering a pool.
• Avoid Swimming with Open Wounds: If you have cuts, blisters, or other open wounds, it’s best to stay out of the pool to prevent infection for both yourself and others.

5. Be Mindful of Pool Chemicals and Cleanliness

Proper chemical levels are essential to pool hygiene. While pool staff usually maintain chemical levels at public pools, it’s helpful to be aware of best practices in both public and private pools.

• Maintain Proper pH and Chlorine Levels (Private Pools): If you have a private pool, regularly test and adjust the pH and chlorine levels to ensure the water is safe and sanitary. Chlorine helps kill bacteria, while pH balance reduces skin and eye irritation.
• Skim and Clean Pool Regularly: Remove debris, such as leaves or insects, to maintain a clean swimming environment.
• Avoid Bringing Food or Glassware Near the Pool: Eating near the pool can attract insects, and glass can be hazardous if it breaks. Use designated areas for food and drinks, and always keep glass items far from the pool.

6. Practice Proper Swimwear Etiquette

Wearing appropriate swimwear contributes to cleanliness and keeps everyone comfortable.

• Wear Clean, Designated Swimwear: Always wear clean swimwear, rather than street clothes, to avoid introducing extra dirt or fibers into the pool.
• Avoid Baggy or Loose-Fitting Clothing: Loose clothing can get caught on pool equipment or become a safety hazard, especially in crowded pools.
• Use Swim Diapers for Infants and Toddlers: If you’re bringing young children to the pool, make sure they wear swim diapers specifically designed for use in the water. Regular diapers are not effective in containing waste in a pool environment.

7. Follow Lap Swimming Etiquette

For those swimming laps, especially in public pools, there are specific guidelines that help ensure everyone has a positive experience.

• Choose the Right Lane: Many lap pools designate lanes based on speed (slow, medium, fast). Choose a lane that matches your pace to avoid disrupting others.
• Share the Lane: If you’re sharing a lane, communicate with other swimmers about the best approach. Usually, swimmers circle swim in a counterclockwise direction, staying to the right side of the lane.
• Respect Others’ Space: Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid cutting off or crowding other swimmers. If you need to pass, do so carefully and with plenty of room.

8. Be Considerate of Pool Noise and Behavior

Pools are social spaces, but it’s essential to respect others’ need for a peaceful environment.

• Keep Voices Down: If you’re chatting poolside or in the water, keep your voice at a moderate level. Loud conversations or yelling can be disruptive, especially in indoor pools where sound echoes.
• Avoid Splashing in Lap Zones: Avoid excessive splashing near lanes designated for lap swimming, as it can disrupt those focused on their workout.
• Respect Other Swimmers’ Space: Give others enough space to move freely, especially in crowded pools. Avoid sudden stops or changes in direction that could surprise nearby swimmers.

9. Don’t Spit or Blow Your Nose in the Pool

This might seem obvious, but it’s an important hygiene rule that helps keep the water clean.

• Use the Restroom for Breaks: If you need to spit or blow your nose, exit the pool and use the restroom facilities. Bodily fluids can introduce bacteria and irritants into the water.
• Avoid Spitting in the Pool Area: Germs can spread even on the pool deck. Use tissues and discard them in the trash to maintain cleanliness.

10. Respect Pool Furniture and Facilities

Maintaining the pool area also means respecting poolside furniture and shared facilities.

• Dry Off Before Using Pool Furniture: If possible, dry off before sitting on pool chairs or lounges to keep them clean and prolong their lifespan.
• Dispose of Trash Properly: If you bring snacks or drinks to the pool, dispose of trash in designated bins to prevent littering or attracting pests.
• Report Any Issues to Staff: If you notice any hazards, such as broken tiles, loose railings, or malfunctioning equipment, inform the pool staff to help maintain a safe environment.

11. Supervise Children Closely

If you’re at the pool with children, always supervise them, even if lifeguards are present.

• Stay Within Arm’s Reach: For young children or inexperienced swimmers, stay close by and keep them within reach. Pool incidents can happen in seconds.
• Encourage Safe Play: Teach kids not to run, push, or engage in rough play around the pool, as these behaviors can lead to accidents.
• Use Proper Flotation Devices: For children who need them, provide properly fitted life jackets or other Coast Guard-approved flotation devices rather than relying on inflatable toys.

Conclusion

Following pool hygiene and etiquette best practices makes swimming safer and more enjoyable for everyone. From showering before you swim to respecting other swimmers’ space, each small action contributes to a clean, safe, and friendly environment. Whether at a public facility or a private pool, practicing good pool hygiene and etiquette ensures a positive experience for all.

FAQs

1. Why is it important to shower before swimming?

• Showering removes sweat, body oils, and other contaminants that can affect water quality and increase the need for pool chemicals. It keeps the pool cleaner and safer for everyone.

2. Can I bring food and drinks to the pool area?

• It’s best to avoid eating near the pool to prevent spills and food debris. Many pools have designated picnic areas where food and drinks are allowed. Avoid bringing glassware near the pool for safety reasons.

3. What’s the purpose of swim diapers for young children?

• Swim diapers are designed to contain waste, helping prevent contamination. Regular diapers are not effective in water and can leak, causing sanitation issues.

4. What should I do if someone in my lane is swimming at a different pace?

• If you need to share a lane, communicate with the other swimmer about circle swimming and use the designated lane that best matches your speed.

5. Are public pools safe if people follow hygiene guidelines?

• Yes, public pools are generally safe when proper hygiene and chemical balance are maintained. Following guidelines, like showering before swimming and avoiding swimming when ill, helps keep the pool environment healthy.