If you’ve ever emerged from a swimming pool with red, itchy eyes, you’re not alone—many people jump to the conclusion that chlorine is the culprit. However, this is actually a common misconception. The real cause of eye irritation in pools isn’t the chlorine itself, but rather poor pool water balance. In this article, we’ll bust the myth that chlorine is directly responsible for red eyes and explain the real science behind pool eye irritation.
It’s easy to blame chlorine when your eyes start to burn after a swim. However, chlorine—a powerful disinfectant used to kill bacteria and pathogens—is not inherently irritating to the eyes when used in proper amounts. What really causes the discomfort is the presence of chloramines, which are formed when chlorine combines with organic matter like sweat, urine, or body oils.
Chloramines are chemical compounds that result from chlorine reacting with contaminants introduced by swimmers. Unlike free chlorine, which works to sanitize your pool, chloramines are ineffective disinfectants and are largely responsible for:
So, the red eyes you’re experiencing are likely caused by a build-up of chloramines due to unbalanced pool water—not the amount of chlorine itself.
Learn More: Can You Really Get Sick from Swimming in a Pool?
A number of issues can contribute to pool eye irritation, and understanding them can help you enjoy a comfortable, irritation-free swim. Here are the most common causes:
Unbalanced pH and chlorine levels are the #1 culprits. When the water is too acidic or too alkaline, it disrupts the comfort and safety of your swim. Ideally, swimming pool water should have:
Neglected pools with insufficient filtration collect organic material, which reacts with chlorine to form unwanted byproducts. Regular professional maintenance ensures that your pool stays clean, balanced, and safe.
People sometimes mistake eye discomfort for a chlorine allergy. True chlorine allergies are extremely rare. In most cases, symptoms such as red eyes, itchy skin, or coughing result from unbalanced pool chemistry or improper maintenance—not a chlorine allergy.
To prevent discomfort and maintain optimal swimming conditions, pool owners in South Florida must prioritize regular maintenance and water testing. Here are steps you can take:
If you live in Miami-Dade or anywhere across South Florida, M&M Pool & Spa Services provides expert-level pool cleaning and maintenance to help you avoid issues like red eyes and itchy skin. We’re experts at identifying and correcting unbalanced water chemistry before it becomes a problem. Our tailored services include:
Red eyes and strong “chlorine smells” indicate that your pool needs attention—not less chlorine, but better water management. Let our team keep your pool safe and comfortable all year round with our trusted services across Miami and surrounding areas.
We proudly serve residential and commercial pools in:
Stop blaming chlorine and start addressing the real issue—pool water balance. At M&M Pool & Spa Services, we’re dedicated to providing accurate diagnosis and professional solutions to ensure your pool is always ready for a safe and refreshing swim.