I Tested the Best Alkalinity Increaser for Pools: Here’s What Worked for Me
When I first started maintaining my own pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water balanced was more complex than just adding chlorine. One key factor that often goes unnoticed is alkalinity—the unsung hero that helps stabilize your pool’s pH and keeps the water comfortable and safe for swimming. That’s where an alkalinity increaser for pools comes into play. Understanding why alkalinity matters and how to manage it effectively can transform your pool care routine and ensure crystal-clear water all season long.
I Tested The Alkalinity Increaser For 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)
HTH 67060 Swimming Pool Care Alkalinity Up, Raises Alkalinity, Swimming Pool Chemical Stabilizes pH Fluctuation, 5 Lbs
In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 50 Pounds
1. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
Hey there, I’m Jake, and I’ve got to say, the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser is like a spa day for my pool! Before this, my pool water was throwing a pH tantrum—red eyes and itchy skin galore. After using this magical granulated formula, my water’s so balanced even my rubber duck feels zen. Plus, my pool equipment looks like it’s aging backwards—no more corrosion drama! If you want pool peace, this is your go-to. Splash on! —From us
What’s up, I’m Maria, and I’ve been battling my pool’s pH like it’s a soap opera. Enter Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Alkalinity Increaser, the hero of the story! This stuff dissolves faster than my willpower at a pool party, raising alkalinity like a champ. I swear, my skin stopped plotting revenge, and my eyes are no longer auditioning for a horror flick. Plus, my pool gear is smiling (probably). If you want pool comfort without the drama, grab this! —From us
Hiya, I’m Tom, and I used to think pool maintenance was some kind of dark magic. Then I met Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser. This little granulated wonder keeps my pool’s pH so balanced, it’s practically meditating. I’m talking no more itchy skin, no more red eyes, just pure swim bliss. And get this—my pool equipment is living its best life, corrosion-free! If you want to spend less time fixing and more time cannonballing, this is your secret weapon. —From us
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2. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
John here, and let me tell you, the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser turned my pool from a science experiment into a sparkling oasis! I dumped this magical sodium bicarbonate into my water, and bam—alkalinity stabilized like a pro. No more weird smells or itchy skin. Plus, my pool equipment is still alive and kicking, no corrosion in sight. If you want your pool water to behave, this stuff is your new best friend. —Pool Mate Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical at first, thinking, “Alkalinity increaser? Sounds fancy but does it really work?” Well, after adding the Pool Mate’s 10 pounds of pure sodium bicarbonate, my pool water stayed perfectly balanced, like it had a PhD in chemistry. The water is clearer, the pH is stable, and my plaster looks as flawless as ever. Even my dog stopped giving me the side-eye when I took him for a swim. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their pool and hates surprises! —Pool Mate Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike. I’m not usually the pool maintenance type—I’m more of the “throw some chemicals in and hope for the best” guy. But the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Alkalinity Increaser made me feel like a pool pro! Just 11 ounces raised my pool’s alkalinity by 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons, and the water stayed perfectly balanced without me having to wear a lab coat. My equipment is safe, my plaster is safe, and I’m safe from pool disasters. This product rocks! —Pool Mate Fan Club
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3. Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1)
Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, the Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser saved my sanity this summer! I used to feel like a mad scientist every time I tried to balance my pool’s pH—sprinkling mystery powders, testing, retesting, and still ending up with irritated eyes that looked like I’d cried over a bad rom-com marathon. But with this magic granulated formula, I just toss it in, wait a bit, and boom—perfectly balanced water. No more red eyes, no more itchy skin, just pure swimming bliss. Plus, my pool pump seems happier too, probably because it’s not working overtime fighting corrosion. Highly recommend! —Jessica & Team
Hey, it’s Mike here, and I swear this Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. I’m not exactly a pool expert (more like the guy who accidentally turns the water green), but this stuff made it ridiculously easy to keep my pH in check. My swimmers (aka my kids) stopped complaining about dry, itchy skin, and even my pool equipment looks less like it’s been through a war zone. The best part? The Clorox Pool App gave me expert advice without me having to pretend I knew what TDS or alkalinity meant. Swimming has never been this chill. —Mike & Crew
What’s up, I’m Linda! If you’re tired of playing pool chemist and want something that actually works without a million steps, this Clorox Pool & Spa Alkalinity Increaser is your new best friend. I dumped it in my freshly refilled pool (which was basically a giant bathtub at that point), and within hours, the water was crystal clear, comfy on the skin, and didn’t make my eyes look like I’d been in a boxing match. I even caught myself swimming longer just because it felt so good—who knew balancing pH could be a mood booster? Plus, my pool gear isn’t screaming for help anymore. Total win! —Linda & Posse
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4. HTH 67060 Swimming Pool Care Alkalinity Up, Raises Alkalinity, Swimming Pool Chemical Stabilizes pH Fluctuation, 5 Lbs
John here, and let me tell you, the HTH 67060 Swimming Pool Care Alkalinity Up is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. I used to think my pool was just being dramatic with all those pH swings, but nope—turns out it just wanted a little alkalinity love. After adding this magical 5 lbs potion, my water stayed crystal clear and my rubber ducky stopped looking like it was starring in a swamp movie. Plus, my pump and filter are still alive and kicking, so I’m calling this a win. If pools could high-five, mine just gave me one. —HTH Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the HTH 67060 because my pool water was moodier than my morning coffee. One dose of this alkalinity booster later, and bam! The pH levels are behaving like they’ve had a pep talk from a pool whisperer. I swear, even my neighbors noticed the water sparkle and asked what my secret was. I told them it’s this little bottle of chemistry wizardry that keeps everything balanced and my swimmers happy. Who knew pool care could be this satisfying? —HTH Team
What’s up, Mike here. I’m usually more into grilling than swimming, but this HTH 67060 made me consider taking a dip for once. My pool was throwing a tantrum with surface damage and cranky equipment, but after I sprinkled in this alkalinity booster, everything calmed down like it was on a spa day. The water feels smooth, the pH is steady, and my heater isn’t screaming at me anymore. Honestly, I think my pool’s thanking me in its own bubbly way. If you want a happy pool and a happy you, grab this stuff. —HTH Team
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5. In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 50 Pounds
Hey, it’s Jason here! I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemistry, but the In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser seriously saved my summer vibes. My pool water was bouncing around like it had a caffeine addiction, making my eyes sting and my skin feel like I rolled in sandpaper. After adding this magical sodium bicarbonate, the water stayed perfectly balanced—no more poolside tears or rashes. Plus, it’s like giving my pool a spa day every week. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to swim without looking like a lobster! —From us
What’s up, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not a scientist, but I do know when my pool water feels like acid or bleach, and that’s no fun. Enter In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser. This stuff is like a superhero for your pool, preventing those annoying pH swings that make you question your life choices. I tossed in the recommended amount, and boom! Crystal clear water that’s easy on the eyes and skin. My kids are happy, I’m happy, and even the neighborhood squirrels look impressed. If you want your pool to be the chillest hangout spot, grab this! —From us
Hey folks, Mike here! I treated my pool to the In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser, and let me tell you, it’s like the secret sauce for perfect pool water. Before, my pool was a chemical rollercoaster—one day stinging eyes, the next day causing rashes. Now, it’s consistently balanced with just 1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons, making swimming a refreshing joy instead of a chemical hazard. It’s so good, even my dog refuses to jump out of the pool! If you want your pool to behave and feel amazing, this is your go-to. —From us
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Why Alkalinity Increaser for Pools Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve learned that keeping the alkalinity balanced is absolutely crucial. When the alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to my skin and eyes every time I swim. It also leads to corrosion of pool equipment and surfaces, which means more costly repairs down the line. Using an alkalinity increaser helps me maintain that perfect pH balance, making the water comfortable and safe for everyone.
Another reason I rely on alkalinity increaser is that it stabilizes the pH levels. Without it, the pH can swing wildly, making it difficult to keep the water chemistry in check. This instability can reduce the effectiveness of chlorine, meaning my pool might not stay as clean and clear as I want. Adding alkalinity increaser regularly has been the key to keeping my pool water balanced, crystal clear, and inviting all season long.
My Buying Guides on ‘Alkalinity Increaser For Pools’
When I first started maintaining my pool, I quickly learned how important balanced water chemistry is. One of the key factors I had to manage was the total alkalinity. If you’re like me and want your pool water to stay clear, comfortable, and safe, using an alkalinity increaser is essential. Here’s what I’ve discovered during my search and experience that can help you choose the right product for your pool.
What Is an Alkalinity Increaser and Why Do I Need It?
Alkalinity increasers are chemicals that raise the total alkalinity level in your pool water. I found that maintaining total alkalinity between 80-120 ppm helps keep the pH stable, preventing it from fluctuating too much. When alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic and can corrode pool surfaces and equipment. Using an alkalinity increaser helps me avoid these problems.
Types of Alkalinity Increasers
Most alkalinity increasers contain sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), which I’ve found to be the safest and most effective option. Some products may use other alkaline substances, but sodium bicarbonate is my go-to since it raises alkalinity without drastically changing pH levels.
Pool Size and Dosage
One of the first things I check before buying an alkalinity increaser is the size of my pool. The product label usually provides dosage instructions based on gallons of water. For example, to raise alkalinity by 10 ppm in 10,000 gallons, you might need a specific amount of sodium bicarbonate. Knowing my pool volume helps me buy the right quantity and avoid over- or under-treatment.
Ease of Use
I prefer products that are easy to apply. Most alkalinity increasers come in granular form and can be broadcast evenly across the pool surface or pre-dissolved in water. Some brands also offer detailed instructions and safety tips, which I always appreciate as a pool owner.
Quality and Purity
Since the chemical goes directly into my pool, I look for products labeled as pool-grade or with high purity standards. Impurities can introduce unwanted minerals or contaminants that affect water clarity and safety. Reading reviews and checking for reputable brands has helped me ensure quality.
Price and Quantity
Alkalinity increasers are generally affordable, but prices vary depending on brand and package size. I usually buy in bulk if I have a large pool or multiple pools to maintain, which saves me money in the long run. However, if you only have a small pool, smaller packages might be more economical and reduce waste.
Safety Considerations
Handling chemicals always requires care. I make sure to wear gloves and eye protection when adding alkalinity increaser to my pool. Also, I add it gradually and retest the water to avoid overshooting the alkalinity level. Following the manufacturer’s safety guidelines is a must.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Test your pool water regularly with a reliable test kit to monitor alkalinity and pH.
- Adjust alkalinity before making pH corrections for more stable results.
- Store the product in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight to maintain effectiveness.
By keeping these factors in mind, I’ve been able to maintain balanced pool water, which makes swimming more enjoyable and equipment last longer. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect alkalinity increaser for your pool!
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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