Chloramines form when free chlorine combines with nitrogen-based contaminants in the water. These contaminants usually come from swimmers themselves:
- Sweat
- Urine
- Body oils
- Cosmetics and lotions
When chlorine does its job—sanitizing the water—it binds with these contaminants. The byproduct of that reaction is chloramines.
That sharp, irritating smell people associate with “too much chlorine”?
That’s actually a sign of not enough effective chlorine, not too much.
Why This Myth Persists
The myth survives because it feels intuitive. Strong smell = strong chemical, right?
In reality, a well-balanced pool with proper free chlorine levels often has little to no odor at all. The pools that smell the strongest are frequently the ones struggling with:
- Poor swimmer hygiene
- Inadequate breakpoint chlorination
- Insufficient air circulation (especially indoors)
- Inconsistent testing and adjustment
When patrons complain about the smell, itchy skin, or burning eyes, the instinct is often to blame chlorine. The real issue is usually combined chlorine that hasn’t been properly addressed.
Why This Matters Beyond Water Chemistry
This isn’t just a technical detail—it’s a communication issue.
When staff understand and can explain the difference between chlorine and chloramines, it changes the conversation with members and parents. Instead of defensiveness, you can offer clarity:
- The water isn’t “over-chlorinated”
- The pool isn’t unsafe
- The solution isn’t less sanitation—it’s better sanitation
That shift builds trust.
It also reinforces the importance of simple behaviors like showering before entering the pool and taking regular bathroom breaks—especially in programs with high youth participation.
Myth-Busting as Member Education
Aquatic facilities that actively educate their members tend to see better outcomes across the board. Clear, simple myth-busting helps:
- Reduce complaints
- Improve swimmer cooperation
- Support staff confidence
- Elevate the professionalism of the facility
When members understand why certain rules exist, they’re more likely to follow them.
The Bigger Picture
Chemical balance isn’t just about numbers on a test strip. It’s about creating an environment where swimmers feel comfortable, staff feel confident, and facilities operate with intention.
Myth-busting—like clarifying that chlorine doesn’t smell—is one small but powerful way aquatic professionals can lead with knowledge instead of noise.
And in a field where misinformation spreads easily, clear expertise is one of the most valuable tools we have.
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