Kiddie Pool Maintenance Tips

Summertime is filled with long, warm days, lots of outdoor activities and the happy noise of children having a great time. The last thing you want is to have one injured or sick from time spent playing in the kiddie pool. While maintaining a kiddie pool is less work than a large swimming pool, there are still measures that must be taken to ensure the health and safety of those who use it.

Chlorine

• Kiddie pools are small, so you may think you don't need to do much to take care of them. While that may be true for cleaning one, the fact is that since small children are in the pool and they don't understand the importance of personal hygiene as well, you may need to pay extra attention to the pool's sanitary conditions. Even though the size is minimal, no one wants to refill a kiddie pool everyday with fresh water, so you must choose a way to chemically treat it.

  The standard sanitizer for kiddie pools is chlorine tablets. These tablets are available in most department stores, lawn and garden shops or pool supply stores. Chlorine will kill bacteria and other germs in the water. With chlorine tablets, the best way to treat the pool is to drop one in the water at night, after swimming for the day is done. This gives the tablet time to dissolve and the water is safe and ready when the kids go back in the next day. See the manufacturer's label on the tablets you purchase for specific instructions and recommendations.

Alternative Options

• Many kiddie pool owners want to stay away from the harsh effects of chlorine, and purchase a product that is friendlier to the environment and the health of their children. Bromine is an alternative to chlorine. It is easier on the skin and lungs. However, bromine tablets take longer to dissolve, so they may not always be the best choice for kiddie pools. Pool and spa supply centers recommend putting the tablets in a pool floater that stays in the pool, so the bromine level remains continuously effective. This will only be effective if you have a larger kiddie pool, and not a small plastic wading pool.

  The best way to keep your kiddie pool clean and sanitary is to change the water after use. This is the most expensive way to go if you pay for your own water, but it is also the most effective as the water is clean and it eliminates exposing the children to harsh chemicals. If you choose to use chlorine or bromine to sanitize the pool, you still need to change the water at least every 48 hours. This is because children often have fecal accidents or urinate in the pool.

Safety and Storage

• To fully enjoy the kiddie pool, take extra measures to keep it safe. Even though it is small, accidents can happen easily and drowning can occur. Don't allow toddlers to be in or near the pool without adult supervision, and don't allow rough play in the water. If children will be outside without adult supervision, the pool should be drained.

  When you put your kiddie pool away for the change of seasons, give it a thorough cleaning before putting it in storage. If it is a blow-up pool, make sure it is completely dry before folding it up to store away, as any moisture left can cause mold and bacterial growth.