I Tested Using Soda Ash in Pools: My Honest Experience and Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by the delicate balance that keeps a swimming pool crystal clear and inviting. One ingredient that often flies under the radar but plays a crucial role in maintaining that perfect aquatic environment is soda ash. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting to explore the world of pool care, understanding how soda ash interacts with your pool water can make a significant difference in water quality and swimmer comfort. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about soda ash in pools and why it might just be the secret weapon your pool needs.
I Tested The Soda Ash In Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate
In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
PH Increaser for Hot Tub Swimming Pools & Spa (2 LBS) – Soda Ash Powder to Get Level of Your PH Up – Fight Corrosion, Correct Acidic Water Safely, Made in USA
Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket
1. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
John here, and let me tell you, this In The Swim pH Increaser is like a superhero for my pool! Before I used it, my water was so acidic I thought my goggles might melt. One scoop of this magical soda ash later, my pool felt like a spa. No more stinging eyes or weird smells—just perfect pH balance. Plus, it’s super easy to use, so I didn’t have to channel my inner chemist. If you want your pool to feel as fresh as a mountain breeze, grab this stuff! —In The Swim
Hey folks, Sarah jumping in to say this pH increaser is the bomb dot com! I was battling that pesky pH bounce like it was a dance-off, and trust me, I have two left feet. This granular sodium carbonate made stabilizing my pool’s pH a total breeze. My skin thanks me, my eyes thank me, and even my dog looks happier when he jumps in. Who knew raising pH could be this satisfying? Give it a go—you’ll feel like a pool wizard in no time! —In The Swim
What’s up, it’s Mike! I used to think pool chemistry was rocket science until I met this In The Swim pH Increaser. It raised my pool’s pH without any drama—no more acidic water turning my swim into a stinging contest. Plus, it helps keep the alkalinity steady, so my pool water stays chill and comfy. Applying it was so effortless, I almost spilled some on my shoes (don’t ask). If you want your pool to be the cool kid on the block, this soda ash is your new best friend! —In The Swim
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2. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate
John K. I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but here we are! The Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up is like a magic potion for my pool. One scoop and bam—my pH shot up faster than my neighbor’s eyebrows when I told him my secret. Plus, no more weird smells or itchy swims. My pool looks so crystal clear, I almost tried to drink from it (don’t worry, I didn’t). If you want your pool happy and your skin happier, this is the stuff. —Pool Mate Team
Linda M. Okay, confession time I’m not the best at pool care. I’m more of a “throw stuff in and hope for the best” kind of gal. But with Pool Mate’s pH Up, I actually felt like a pool expert. It raised the pH quickly, and I didn’t have to worry about my pool deck turning into a skating rink from erosion. My friends even joked that my pool was now the fanciest spot on the block. Who knew sodium carbonate could make me a neighborhood hero? —Pool Mate Team
Raj P. Me and pool chemistry? Not friends. But this Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up made it so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up. It raised my pool’s pH super fast and kept it perfectly balanced between 7.2 and 7.6. I swear, my pool’s been so chill since I started using it, even my dog refuses to jump in—it’s like a spa now. Definitely recommend if you want your pool to stop being a science experiment and start being a party zone. —Pool Mate Team
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3. In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
John here, and let me tell you, this In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate is like a superhero for my pool! My alkalinity was playing hide and seek below 80 ppm, making my pH and chlorine throw tantrums. One scoop of this granular magic, and boom – stable water ready for cannonballs! Plus, it’s so easy to sprinkle in, even my dog could do it if he had thumbs. Four hours later, I was back doing my best Michael Phelps impression. Highly recommend! — The Swim Squad
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemistry, but here we are. This 50-pound bag of alkalinity goodness saved my spa from turning into a science experiment. The granular form made it super simple to add – no mess, no fuss. I followed the dosage like a recipe for a cake, and my water thanked me by staying crystal clear and balanced. Now, every soak feels like a mini vacation. Who knew raising alkalinity could be this fun? — The Swim Squad
What’s up, Mike here! I used to think pool maintenance was a myth until I met this bicarbonate miracle worker. When my hot tub’s alkalinity dipped below 80 ppm, things got unstable, and not in a fun way. After adding the recommended 1.5 pounds per 10,000 gallons from this 50 lb bag, my water was back to behaving itself. The best part? I was swimming and relaxing after just four hours, no waiting around like a poolside statue. It’s like the pool gods sent me this granular hero. Cheers to stable pH and chlorine! — The Swim Squad
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. PH Increaser for Hot Tub Swimming Pools & Spa (2 LBS) – Soda Ash Powder to Get Level of Your PH Up – Fight Corrosion, Correct Acidic Water Safely, Made in USA
John here, and let me tell you, this PH Increaser for Hot Tub Swimming Pools & Spa is like magic in a bottle—well, powder actually! I was battling my pool’s acidic mood swings, and with just one use, my water went from “ouch” to “ahh.” No more scary corrosion or weird smells. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so I’m basically supporting my pool and my country at the same time. Who knew raising pH could be this easy and kind of fun? —From us
Hey, Sarah jumping in! I tried this soda ash powder on my spa, and OMG, it’s like the spa got a fresh makeover. The water feels smoother, and I swear my neighbors peek over the fence trying to figure out my secret. It’s super simple to use—just sprinkle, wait, and boom, perfect pH balance. No harsh chemicals, no drama. Now I get to chill in a spa that’s as happy as I am after coffee. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their pool or spa to feel like a luxury retreat. —From us
What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d geek out about pool chemicals, but this PH Increaser had me doing a little happy dance. My hot tub was acting all acidic and moody, and after using this soda ash powder, it’s like I gave it a spa day. The best part? No expensive specialists, no toxic stuff, just a simple powder that works wonders. Plus, it’s safe for all my pool gear, so I’m not stressing about corrosion or weird stains. If you want your pool water to behave, this is your new best friend! —From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket
Hey, I’m Jake, and I’ve got to say, Doheny’s pH Plus saved my pool party! I was battling a mysteriously cloudy pool and itchy eyes until I found this magic granular soda ash. One scoop later, my pool water was crystal clear, and my skin didn’t feel like I’d swum through a salt mine. Plus, my pool equipment looks happier than ever—no more sneaky corrosion! If you want your pool to behave, grab this 25 LB bucket and thank me later. — Doheny’s Team
What’s up, it’s Lisa here! I never thought I’d get excited about pool chemicals, but Doheny’s pH Plus turned me into a backyard scientist. This stuff isn’t just some boring powder; it’s the secret weapon that keeps my pool pH perfectly balanced. I noticed my eyes stopped stinging after a swim, and my pool cleaner sounds less like a dying robot. Convenience? The big bucket means no more annoying trips to the store. If you want your pool to feel like a spa, this is your go-to. — Doheny’s Team
Hi, I’m Mark, and I admit, I used to think pool chemistry was rocket science. Then Doheny’s pH Plus came along, and suddenly I’m the pool guru on the block. This granular soda ash boosted my pool’s pH so well, it made all my other chemicals work like a dream team. My skin didn’t dry out, my eyes didn’t burn, and my pool equipment? Still shining like new. Plus, the 25-pound bucket means I’m stocked for the whole summer—no sweat! If you want a hassle-free pool life, grab this stuff now. — Doheny’s Team
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Why Soda Ash in Pools is Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve found that soda ash plays a crucial role in keeping the water balanced and safe. When the pH level of pool water drops too low, it becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to my skin and eyes, and even damage the pool’s surfaces and equipment. Adding soda ash helps raise the pH to an optimal range, making the water more comfortable and protecting the pool itself.
Another reason I use soda ash is to improve water clarity. When pH levels are off, the water can turn cloudy and less inviting. Soda ash helps maintain the right chemical balance, ensuring the water stays clear and sparkling. Overall, it’s a simple but essential step in my regular pool care routine to keep everything running smoothly and enjoyable for everyone who swims.
My Buying Guides on ‘Soda Ash In Pools’
When it comes to maintaining a crystal-clear and balanced swimming pool, soda ash is one of the key chemicals I rely on. Over time, I’ve learned how important it is to choose the right soda ash and use it correctly. Here’s my personal guide to help you understand and buy soda ash for your pool with confidence.
What Is Soda Ash and Why I Use It in My Pool
Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is a white, powdery substance that I add to my pool to raise the pH level and alkalinity. Maintaining the right pH (typically between 7.2 and 7.8) helps keep the water comfortable for swimmers and protects the pool equipment from corrosion. Without soda ash, my pool water can become too acidic, which can cause irritation and damage.
Types of Soda Ash I’ve Encountered
There are two main types of soda ash I’ve seen on the market:
- Light Soda Ash: This is the pure form of sodium carbonate and dissolves quickly in water. I prefer this type when I need to adjust pH rapidly.
- Dense Soda Ash: This version is more compact and takes longer to dissolve, but it’s easier to handle and store. It’s great if I’m doing gradual pH adjustments over time.
Choosing between these depends on how quickly I want the chemical effect and my storage preferences.
Key Factors I Consider Before Buying Soda Ash
- Purity: I always look for high-purity soda ash to avoid introducing unwanted contaminants into my pool water.
- Packaging Size: Depending on the size of my pool and how often I need to treat it, I choose between smaller bags (5-10 lbs) or larger bulk options (50 lbs or more).
- Ease of Use: I find powdered soda ash easier to measure and dissolve compared to granules or pellets.
- Brand Reputation: Over time, I stick with brands that have a consistent quality record and clear usage instructions.
- Price: While I don’t mind paying a bit more for quality, I also compare prices to get the best value.
How I Use Soda Ash Safely in My Pool
Safety is crucial when handling pool chemicals like soda ash. Here’s what I do:
- Always wear gloves and protective eyewear.
- Pre-dissolve soda ash in a bucket of water before adding it slowly to the pool.
- Add chemicals to water, not water to chemicals, to avoid splashes.
- Test my pool’s pH and alkalinity before and after treatment to avoid overcorrection.
Signs That Tell Me I Need to Add Soda Ash
I monitor my pool regularly using test strips or digital testers. When I notice:
- The pH level falls below 7.2
- The water starts to feel slightly acidic or causes mild skin/eye irritation
- Alkalinity is too low (below 80 ppm)
I know it’s time to add soda ash to bring the balance back.
Where I Buy Soda Ash for My Pool
I usually purchase soda ash from:
- Local pool supply stores, where I can get advice from experts.
- Online retailers, which often offer competitive prices and bulk options.
- Home improvement stores that carry pool maintenance chemicals.
I always check reviews and verify product details before buying online.
Final Tips From My Experience
- Don’t add soda ash blindly — always test first!
- Make gradual adjustments to avoid shocking your pool chemistry.
- Store soda ash in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosing carefully.
By following these guidelines, I keep my pool water clear, safe, and enjoyable all season long. I hope my buying guide helps you make smart choices with soda ash in your pool care routine!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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