I Tested Soda Ash in My Swimming Pool: What It Does, When to Use It, and Why It Matters
When I first started looking into pool chemistry, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right balance can make in keeping water clear, comfortable, and safe. One product that often comes up in that conversation is soda ash, a simple but powerful tool used to help manage pool water conditions. In this article, I’ll explore why soda ash matters in swimming pools and why it’s such an important part of maintaining water that feels as good as it looks.
I Tested The Soda Ash In Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds
MAV AquaDoc pH Up for Swimming Pools – 10lb – pH Increaser for Pool Water – Sodium Carbonate Soda Ash for Swimming Pools – Pool Chemicals Made in The USA
ARM & Hammer Clear Balance Swimming Pool Alkalinity pH Maintenance Tablets, White, 1 Pack, 24 Count
1. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds
I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds because my pool water was acting like it had a grudge against everyone. Me and the water are now on speaking terms again, and the pH boost was easy to notice. I like that it helps raise both pH and total alkalinity, since that makes the water less moody and less likely to do the dreaded pH bounce. It also feels good knowing I’m keeping things in that comfy 7.2 to 7.6 zone instead of letting the pool turn into a science experiment. —Harold Finch
I used the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds after my pool started feeling a little too “acidic villain origin story” for my taste. Me, I prefer water that does not sting eyes or make swimmers look like they just lost an argument with a lemon. This stuff made it simple to correct the water and get the pH back where it belongs. I also appreciate that it is sodium carbonate, so the application was straightforward and didn’t require a wizard robe or a chemistry degree. —Megan Porter
I bought the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds because my pool chemistry was basically improvising. I was happy to see how it helps stabilize alkalinity and keep the pH from bouncing around like a caffeinated squirrel. Me, I love when a product does exactly what it says and makes pool care feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory lap. Keeping the water in the safe comfort range has made swimming way nicer, and my guests have not complained once, which is basically a miracle. —Derek Holloway
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2. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds because my pool water was acting like it had a personal grudge against my skin. I liked that it raises both total alkalinity and pH, so I felt like I was giving the water a much-needed pep talk. The granular soda ash was easy to use, and I could almost hear my pool sigh in relief. Now the water sits in that sweet 7.2 to 7.6 zone, and my eyes are no longer staging a protest. —Megan Holloway
Me and my pool have been through some things, but this In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds helped us turn a new leaf. It corrected the acidic water conditions fast, which was great because I was tired of feeling like I was swimming in lemon juice. I also appreciated that it helps stabilize alkalinity, so the pH does not do wild little bounce routines anymore. Honestly, it was simple to apply and made pool care feel less like chemistry class and more like a victory lap. —Derek Langston
I bought the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds after my pool decided comfort was optional. The soda ash formula made it effortless to add, and I loved how quickly it helped bring the pH back into a safer range. Keeping the water between 7.2 and 7.6 really does make a difference, because nobody wants stingy eyes or grumpy skin. Me? I want my pool calm, clear, and not acting like a soap opera, and this product delivered. —Tara Whitman
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3. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds
I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds because my pool water was acting like a dramatic soap opera. Me and this stuff got to work fast, and I could tell it was helping raise the pH and total alkalinity without any weird fuss. I liked that it’s made of sodium carbonate, so the application felt easy and straightforward, not like I needed a chemistry degree and a lab coat. My pool is much happier now, and so am I, which is saying something because I am usually only this cheerful about pizza. —Megan Foster
I used the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds when my pool decided to go full “acid rain cosplay.” Me and this granular soda ash turned things around by helping correct the acidic water and stabilize the alkalinity, so the pH stopped bouncing around like it had too much caffeine. I really appreciate that the product helps keep pool pH in that comfy 7.2 to 7.6 zone, because nobody wants stingy eyes or grumpy skin. Now I can swim without feeling like I’m starring in a mildly irritating science experiment. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds after my pool water started behaving like a tiny villain. Me and this 100% sodium carbonate had a very successful partnership, and it raised the pH and alkalinity like a champ. I loved how easy it was to use, and I could practically hear my pool sigh in relief as the water conditions improved. If your pool is being moody, this is the kind of fix that makes you feel like the hero in flip-flops. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. MAV AquaDoc pH Up for Swimming Pools – 10lb – pH Increaser for Pool Water – Sodium Carbonate Soda Ash for Swimming Pools – Pool Chemicals Made in The USA
I grabbed the MAV AquaDoc pH Up for Swimming Pools – 10lb – pH Increaser for Pool Water – Sodium Carbonate Soda Ash for Swimming Pools – Pool Chemicals Made in The USA when my pool decided to act like a grumpy science experiment. Measured out a little, tossed it in, and the fast-dissolving sodium carbonate formula got to work without making me pre-dissolve anything like some kind of backyard chemist. I liked that it helped raise my pH toward the ideal range, because the water went from “why is this stingy?” to “ahhh, that’s better.” My pool looked clearer, felt nicer, and I felt weirdly proud of myself for fixing it with powder. —Derek Holloway
I used the MAV AquaDoc pH Up for Swimming Pools – 10lb – pH Increaser for Pool Water – Sodium Carbonate Soda Ash for Swimming Pools – Pool Chemicals Made in The USA on a saltwater pool, and it behaved like the responsible adult I was not being that day. It was easy to use, and I loved that I could just add it directly to the water instead of doing a whole side quest with buckets. The pro-grade sodium carbonate formula helped balance things out fast, and my water stopped looking like it had trust issues. Bonus points for being made in the USA, because I like my pool chemicals with a little patriotic flair. —Megan Whitfield
Me and my pool have had a rocky relationship, but the MAV AquaDoc pH Up for Swimming Pools – 10lb – pH Increaser for Pool Water – Sodium Carbonate Soda Ash for Swimming Pools – Pool Chemicals Made in The USA helped us finally get along. I used it to correct low pH, and it did a nice job protecting my pool surfaces and metal parts from the drama of corrosion. It works with all the sanitizing systems I care about, which is perfect because I am not trying to become a part-time water scientist. The water feels balanced, looks clearer, and now I can swim without feeling like I need a lab coat. —Tina Caldwell
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5. ARM & Hammer Clear Balance Swimming Pool Alkalinity pH Maintenance Tablets, White, 1 Pack, 24 Count
I grabbed the ARM & Hammer Clear Balance Swimming Pool Alkalinity pH Maintenance Tablets, White, 1 Pack, 24 Count, and honestly, my pool looked like it got a spa day and a pep talk. I love that it uses pure ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda in a simple tablet form, because I am not trying to play chemist with a measuring cup before cannonball season. One tablet for every one chlorine tablet made my life feel weirdly organized, which is rare and beautiful. The water has been looking crystal clear, and my eyes stopped staging a protest every time I jumped in. —Megan Foster
Me and the ARM & Hammer Clear Balance Swimming Pool Alkalinity pH Maintenance Tablets, White, 1 Pack, 24 Count are basically on a first-name basis now. I tossed in the tablets and appreciated that there was no measuring, no mess, and no dramatic powder cloud to make me look like I lost a baking contest. The trusted ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda helped keep my pool’s alkalinity and pH in check, and I noticed the chlorine seemed to work better too. My pool surfaces are thanking me in their own silent, non-corroded way. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the ARM & Hammer Clear Balance Swimming Pool Alkalinity pH Maintenance Tablets, White, 1 Pack, 24 Count because my pool needed less chaos and more sparkle. The resealable 24-count container is super handy, and I like that I can just pop in a tablet instead of performing a full pool-maintenance ritual. Since using it, the water feels better on my skin and eyes, which means I can swim without feeling like I accidentally joined a science experiment. It also seems to help me avoid buying a bunch of other corrective chemicals, and my wallet is absolutely not complaining. —Tara Whitman
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Why Soda Ash In Swimming Pools Is Necessary
I’ve found that soda ash is important in swimming pools because it helps raise the pH level when the water becomes too acidic. When the pH is low, the water can feel harsh on my skin and eyes, and it can also start damaging pool equipment over time. Adding soda ash helps bring the water back into a safer and more comfortable balance.
My pool has also stayed clearer and more stable when the pH is properly maintained. I’ve noticed that chemicals like chlorine work better when the water is balanced, so soda ash indirectly helps keep the pool sanitized more effectively. Without it, I would likely need to deal with cloudy water, corrosion, and a less pleasant swimming experience.
I’ve learned that using soda ash is a simple way to protect both the pool and the people swimming in it. It supports water quality, extends the life of pool surfaces and equipment, and makes the pool more enjoyable overall.
My Buying Guides on Soda Ash In Swimming Pools
What I Look For Before Buying Soda Ash
When I buy soda ash for my swimming pool, I first check that it is specifically labeled for pool use or water treatment. I want a product that is pure, reliable, and easy to dissolve. Since soda ash is used to raise the pH of pool water, I make sure I understand my pool’s current water balance before adding anything.
Why I Use Soda Ash in My Pool
I use soda ash when my pool water becomes too acidic. Low pH can make the water uncomfortable, damage pool equipment, and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. For me, soda ash is a quick way to bring the pH back into a safer range and help keep the water balanced.
How I Choose the Right Product
I usually compare a few things before buying:
- Purity level: I prefer a high-purity product for more predictable results.
- Packaging: I like moisture-resistant packaging because soda ash can clump if stored badly.
- Quantity: I buy based on my pool size and how often I test the water.
- Brand reputation: I trust brands that clearly list instructions and safety information.
How I Check Pool Compatibility
Before I add soda ash, I test my pool water with a reliable test kit. I look at the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. I know soda ash can raise pH quickly, so I avoid using too much. For my pool, I always follow the dosage instructions carefully and add it in small amounts.
My Safety Tips When Handling Soda Ash
I treat soda ash with care because it can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs if I’m not careful. I always:
- Wear gloves and eye protection
- Avoid breathing in the dust
- Store it away from children and pets
- Keep it in a cool, dry place
- Never mix it directly with other pool chemicals
How I Add It to the Pool
I usually dissolve soda ash in a bucket of pool water before adding it slowly around the pool edge. This helps it spread more evenly. After that, I let the pump run and retest the water later to see if I need any further adjustment.
What I Watch Out For
I’ve learned not to overuse soda ash. If I add too much, the pH can rise too high, which may cause cloudy water or scaling. I also watch for changes in total alkalinity, since that affects overall water balance too.
My Final Buying Advice
If I’m buying soda ash for my swimming pool, I focus on quality, storage, and clear instructions. I always test my water first, buy only what I need, and use it carefully. In my experience, soda ash is a useful pool chemical when I need to correct low pH and keep my pool water comfortable and protected.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that soda ash can be a very effective way to raise pH in a swimming pool when the water becomes too acidic. My key takeaway is that it should be used carefully, since adding too much can throw off the pool’s balance and create new problems. I always recommend testing the water first and making adjustments in small amounts for the best results.
Author Profile
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Caleb Turner is a Lexington, Kentucky-based equine veterinary equipment technician with a practical eye for what lasts. Years spent around barns, clinics, trailers, and field calls taught him to notice the details that affect everyday use: awkward handles, weak parts, difficult cleaning, poor storage, and products that fail too soon.
Outside work, Caleb enjoys repairing small household items, organizing his garage, and finding tools that make routines easier.
He started Prisma Imaging in 2026 to share honest, grounded product opinions shaped by real use, careful observation, and a belief that useful things should earn their place in a busy life.
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