Imagine diving into crystal-clear water on a hot summer day. What if that water could be just a little bit softer on your skin and eyes? For many pool owners, that dream is a reality thanks to salt for swimming pools. But navigating the world of salt systems can feel like a puzzle. You might wonder, “Is it really better than traditional chlorine?” Or perhaps, “Which type of salt is best for my pool?” It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices and information out there.
Choosing the right salt can make a big difference in how enjoyable your pool experience is. It impacts everything from water feel to the longevity of your equipment. This post is here to clear the waters and help you understand exactly what you need to know. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident about selecting the perfect salt for your pool, leading to a more refreshing and less irritating swim all season long.
Our Top 5 Salt For Swimming Pools Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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MORTON SALT 3460 Pool Salt | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Professional’s Choice Pool Salt – All-Natural | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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(3 Pack) – 40lb Bags Professionals Choice Pool Salt | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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AquaSalt Chlorine Generator Salt for Swimming Pools – Qty. 6 (40 Lb. Bag) | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Aqua Joe Pool and Spa Salt | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Salt For Swimming Pools Detailed Reviews
1. MORTON SALT 3460 Pool Salt
Rating: 9.4/10
Keeping your swimming pool sparkling clean and inviting is a top priority, and the MORTON SALT 3460 Pool Salt, 40 lb is designed to help you achieve just that. This high-purity salt is specifically made for salt water chlorinator systems, which use a process to create chlorine from salt. It comes in a convenient 40lb bag, making it a good choice for regular pool maintenance. While the power source type is listed as “Air Powered,” this likely refers to the chlorinator system itself, not the salt.
What We Like:
- The high purity of the salt ensures it works efficiently with your salt water chlorinator.
- It’s made to be used with salt water chlorinator systems, so you know it’s compatible.
- The 40lb size offers a good amount of salt for your pool.
- It helps maintain clear and safe pool water.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Air Powered” power source type is a bit confusing and might be better explained.
- Availability might vary depending on your location.
Overall, MORTON SALT 3460 Pool Salt is a reliable option for pool owners. It offers a simple way to keep your pool water clean and healthy.
2. Professional’s Choice Pool Salt – All-Natural
Rating: 9.1/10
This Professional’s Choice Pool Salt is a top-notch option for anyone with a saltwater pool. It’s made from all-natural stuff and dissolves super fast. This means you get cleaner, clearer pool water without all the harsh chemicals. It’s gentle on swimmers and their swimsuits too, making pool time a more pleasant experience for everyone.
What We Like:
- The fine-grade salt dissolves in less than 3 minutes, making your pool water clean quickly.
- It’s all-natural, so it keeps your pool sparkling without adding extra chemicals.
- It’s gentle on skin, hair, and eyes, and it helps prevent swimsuits from fading.
- You won’t have strong chlorine smells because it reduces the need for harsh chemicals.
- The 40 lb bag is easy to handle with its strong handle and a spout that’s simple to open.
- Getting a 2-pack bundle is great for keeping your pool maintained or topping it up.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very large pools, you might need to buy more than the 2-pack.
- While it dissolves fast, some users might still prefer an even quicker option.
This pool salt is a fantastic choice for a hassle-free and enjoyable saltwater pool experience. It delivers on its promises of clean water and comfort for swimmers.
3. (3 Pack) – 40lb Bags Professionals Choice Pool Salt
Rating: 8.7/10
Looking for a better way to keep your pool sparkling clean and enjoyable? This (3 Pack) of 40lb bags of Professional’s Choice Pool Salt is designed to do just that. It’s a high-purity, all-natural option that dissolves quickly. Plus, it’s gentle on you and your pool gear. Pool experts trust this brand, and you will too.
What We Like:
- It’s made with premium quality ingredients for a pure and reliable pool experience.
- The all-natural formula is kinder to your skin, hair, and eyes, meaning less irritation and a more comfortable swim.
- It helps protect your swimwear from damage caused by harsh chemicals, making your suits last longer.
- The salt dissolves super fast, usually in under 3 minutes, so you can start swimming sooner.
- Pool professionals and many homeowners agree that this salt is a top choice.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product name is quite long, which can be a bit tricky to remember or type.
- While trusted, the brand name “RVAISDFITIWHWEOI” seems unusual and might be hard for some to pronounce or recall.
This pool salt offers a superior swimming experience with its gentle and efficient formula. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a cleaner, more comfortable pool.
4. AquaSalt Chlorine Generator Salt for Swimming Pools – Qty. 6 (40 Lb. Bag)
Rating: 9.2/10
Keep your swimming pool sparkling clean with AquaSalt Chlorine Generator Salt. This special salt is made just for your pool’s chlorine generator. It helps turn regular pool water into sanitizing chlorine, keeping your pool safe and inviting. You get a great value with six 40-pound bags, so you’re ready for the whole season.
What We Like:
- It’s 100% pure and certified USP-Grade, meaning it’s the best quality for your pool.
- This salt dissolves quickly when you spread it out, so your chlorine generator can start working fast.
- The 40-pound bag size is easy to handle and store.
- Getting six bags means you have plenty of salt for multiple uses and won’t run out.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to spread the salt evenly to help it dissolve faster.
- Sometimes, you might need to brush the pool bottom a bit if the salt doesn’t dissolve completely on its own.
This AquaSalt is a reliable and high-quality choice for maintaining your pool. It makes keeping your water clean simple and effective.
5. Aqua Joe Pool and Spa Salt
Rating: 9.3/10
Achieve crystal-clear pool and spa water with the Aqua Joe Pool and Spa Salt, Fast Dissolving Formula, AJ-PS40. This 40-pound bag of salt is specifically designed for use with chlorine generators, making pool maintenance a breeze. Its fast-dissolving formula quickly gets to work, helping to balance your water and keep it sparkling clean. Whether you have a brand-new pool or a spa that’s been around for a while, this salt is a great choice for automatic chlorination systems.
What We Like:
- Supports clean and clear water for pools and spas.
- Works fast because of its quick-dissolving formula.
- Perfect for pools and hot tubs that use automatic chlorine systems.
- Works great for both new and old pools or spas.
- A large 40-pound bag means you won’t run out of salt quickly.
- This bag can raise your pool’s salt level by a good amount (480 ppm per 10,000 gallons).
What Could Be Improved:
- The portable bag could be easier to carry if it had stronger handles.
- While it dissolves fast, users might need to recheck water balance after heavy use.
The Aqua Joe Pool and Spa Salt is a reliable option for effortless pool care. It simplifies the process of maintaining clean and inviting water.
Choosing the Right Salt for Your Swimming Pool
Having a sparkling clean and inviting swimming pool is a dream for many homeowners. Saltwater pools offer a gentler, more natural way to keep your pool water pristine. But not all salt is created equal when it comes to pool care. This guide will help you pick the best salt for your pool, ensuring a fun and healthy swimming experience.
What is Pool Salt?
Pool salt is a special type of salt designed to be used in saltwater chlorine generators (SWGs). These devices use electrolysis to convert salt into chlorine, which sanitizes your pool water. This process creates softer, less irritating water compared to traditional chlorine shock treatments.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re in the store or browsing online, keep these features in mind. They will help you make a smart purchase.
Purity is Paramount
What makes pool salt pure?
The purest pool salt is almost entirely sodium chloride (NaCl). Look for labels that say “99.8% pure” or higher. This means there are very few other things mixed in.
Grain Size Matters
What grain size is best?
Salt for pools usually comes in a few sizes. Medium to large grains are generally best. They dissolve more slowly and evenly. Smaller grains can sometimes clog your SWG. Check the packaging for descriptions like “medium grain” or “crystal.”
Additives: Less is More
What additives should I avoid?
Some salts have anti-caking agents or other additives. While these help keep the salt from clumping in the bag, they can build up in your pool and cause problems over time. Look for salt that is labeled “no additives” or “pure.”
Important Materials
The main material in pool salt is, of course, salt itself!
Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
What is sodium chloride?
Sodium chloride is simply the chemical name for salt. For your pool, you want high-quality, food-grade or salt-grade sodium chloride. This is the same basic stuff you find in your kitchen, but it’s processed for pool use.
Other Minerals (Usually Not Wanted)
What other minerals might be in pool salt?
Sometimes, other minerals like magnesium or calcium can be present. While a little bit of calcium can be good for your pool’s plaster, too much of other minerals can lead to scale buildup. Stick with as close to pure NaCl as possible.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make your pool salt work better or cause issues.
Factors That Improve Quality
- High Purity: As mentioned, pure salt works best. It dissolves cleanly and doesn’t leave behind unwanted residue.
- Proper Dissolving: Salt that dissolves easily and completely ensures your SWG gets the right amount of salt to work effectively.
- Consistent Grain Size: Uniform grains help salt dissolve at a steady rate.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Impurities: Dirt, sand, or other minerals can clog your SWG and create cloudy water.
- Additives: Anti-caking agents can leave a film on your pool surfaces and equipment.
- Very Fine Grains: These can dissolve too quickly and may not be filtered out efficiently by your pool’s system.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using the right pool salt makes a big difference in how you enjoy your pool.
Easier Pool Maintenance
How does salt make maintenance easier?
When you use the correct salt, your SWG works perfectly. This means less manual adding of chemicals. Your pool water feels softer and is less likely to irritate your eyes and skin. Many pool owners say saltwater pools feel more natural and pleasant.
Ideal for Regular Swimmers
Who benefits most from saltwater pools?
Saltwater pools are fantastic for families with children, people with sensitive skin, and anyone who spends a lot of time swimming. You get the benefits of clean water without the strong smell and drying effects of traditional chlorine.
Important Note: Salt is Not a One-Stop Shop
What else do I need for my pool besides salt?
Even with a saltwater pool, you still need to test your water regularly. You’ll need a good test kit to check the salt level, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Your SWG also needs occasional cleaning. Salt is just one part of keeping your pool in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use table salt in my pool?
A: No, you should not use table salt. It contains iodine and anti-caking agents that can harm your pool equipment and water chemistry.
Q: How much salt do I need?
A: The amount of salt depends on your pool size and your SWG’s recommendations. Always check your SWG manual for the specific salt level required.
Q: How often do I need to add salt?
A: You don’t add salt every day. You only add it when your SWG indicates the salt level is too low, which happens gradually as water evaporates or splashes out.
Q: Will the salt make my pool water taste salty?
A: Saltwater pools have a much lower salt concentration than the ocean. You won’t taste it, and it won’t make your pool water taste like seawater.
Q: Does pool salt expire?
A: Pool salt doesn’t really expire. However, it’s best to store it in a dry place to prevent clumping.
Q: What’s the difference between pool salt and water softener salt?
A: Water softener salt is often made of potassium chloride or has more impurities. Pool salt is specifically sodium chloride for chlorine generation.
Q: Can I use pool salt if I don’t have a saltwater chlorine generator?
A: No, pool salt is only for use with saltwater chlorine generators. It won’t sanitize your pool on its own.
Q: How do I add salt to my pool?
A: You usually dissolve the salt in a bucket of pool water first, then pour it around the perimeter of your pool while the pump is running.
Q: What if I add too much salt?
A: If you add too much salt, you can drain some of your pool water and refill it with fresh water to dilute the salt level.
Q: Is pool salt safe for my pool liner?
A: Yes, high-purity pool salt is generally safe for most pool liners, including vinyl and fiberglass.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.