Swimming pools are a source of relaxation, exercise, and entertainment, especially in hot climates like Nigeria and other West African nations. However, many misconceptions about pools persist, deterring some from enjoying them fully or leading others to engage in unsafe practices. In this article, we debunk common pool myths and present the facts so you can swim with confidence and safety.
Myth 1: If the Pool Water Smells Like Chlorine, It’s Clean
Fact: A Strong Chlorine Smell Often Indicates Poor Water Quality
Many people believe that a strong chlorine smell means a pool is heavily sanitized and safe. However, the opposite is often true. That strong odor is caused by chloramines—compounds formed when chlorine reacts with sweat, urine, and other contaminants. A well-maintained pool should have minimal odor.
To ensure water safety, pool managers should regularly test and balance chlorine levels. If you’re using a public or private pool and notice an overpowering chlorine smell, it might be time to question the pool’s maintenance.
Myth 2: You Can Get Sick from Swallowing Pool Water
Fact: While Pool Water Isn’t for Drinking, Properly Treated Water Won’t Make You Sick
Swallowing large amounts of pool water isn’t advisable, but properly chlorinated water significantly reduces the risk of infection. That said, if a pool isn’t well-maintained, harmful bacteria like E. coli and cryptosporidium can survive, potentially causing stomach illnesses.
To stay safe, always swim in pools with proper maintenance, avoid swallowing water, and shower after swimming. Parents should also teach young children not to drink pool water.
Myth 3: Chlorine Can Turn Hair Green
Fact: Copper, Not Chlorine, Is the Culprit
Many swimmers, especially those with light-colored or treated hair, worry that chlorine will turn their hair green. The truth is that chlorine itself doesn’t cause this color change—copper in pool water does. Some algaecides contain copper, and when the metal binds to hair proteins, it creates a greenish tint.
To prevent this, rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming. You can also wear a swim cap or use leave-in conditioners that create a protective barrier.
Myth 4: You Can Get a Rash from Too Much Chlorine
Fact: Skin Irritation Is Often Due to Imbalanced Pool Chemicals
While high chlorine levels can cause irritation, most pool-related skin rashes result from imbalanced water chemistry rather than excessive chlorine alone. If pH and chlorine levels aren’t properly regulated, the water can become too acidic or alkaline, leading to dry skin or rashes.
If you frequently experience irritation after swimming, check if the pool is being properly maintained. Using a moisturizer after swimming can also help prevent dryness.
Myth 5: You Should Wait 30 Minutes After Eating Before Swimming
Fact: It’s Safe to Swim After Eating in Moderation
A long-standing belief suggests that swimming immediately after eating can cause cramps, making it dangerous. While intense exercise after a heavy meal may cause discomfort, moderate swimming is generally safe. The body does divert some blood flow to digestion, but not enough to impair swimming ability significantly.
However, it’s still advisable to avoid heavy meals before swimming to prevent discomfort. Light snacks, such as fruits or nuts, are better options before a swim.
Myth 6: Pool Water Can’t Cause Eye Irritation If It’s Clean
Fact: Even Well-Maintained Pools Can Cause Temporary Eye Discomfort
Many believe that properly treated pool water should never cause eye irritation. However, even well-maintained pools can lead to mild discomfort due to chlorine’s effect on the delicate eye membrane. Factors like pH imbalances or contaminants reacting with chlorine can exacerbate irritation.
To reduce discomfort, wear swim goggles and rinse your eyes with clean water after swimming.
Myth 7: Peeing in the Pool Is Harmless Because of Chlorine
Fact: Urine and Chlorine Create Harmful Chemicals
Some swimmers think urinating in a pool is fine because chlorine will neutralize it. However, urine reacts with chlorine to produce chloramines, which not only create the strong “chlorine smell” but also cause eye and skin irritation.
To keep pools safe and hygienic, always use restrooms before swimming, especially for children. Pool managers should also enforce strict hygiene policies.
Myth 8: A Pool’s Blue Color Comes from Added Dyes
Fact: The Blue Appearance Is Due to Light Reflection
Some people believe pools contain special dyes that make them appear blue. In reality, the blue hue results from how light interacts with water. Water absorbs red and yellow light wavelengths while reflecting blue, giving the pool its color. The depth of the water also affects how blue it looks.
Myth 9: Pool Water Can Reveal If Someone Urinates in It
Fact: There’s No Special Dye That Turns Colors When Someone Pees
One of the most popular myths is that pools contain a chemical that changes color when someone urinates. While this idea may have been invented to discourage bad habits, no such chemical exists.
Instead, maintaining proper pool hygiene and educating swimmers is the best way to keep pool water clean.
Myth 10: Dark-Skinned People Don’t Need Sunscreen in the Pool
Fact: Everyone, Regardless of Skin Tone, Needs Sun Protection
In Nigeria and across West Africa, many people believe that darker skin provides complete protection from sunburn. While melanin does offer some natural UV protection, prolonged exposure to the sun can still cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be applied before swimming, and reapplication is necessary after getting out of the water. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and shaded areas also help protect against UV rays.
Conclusion: Swim Smart, Swim Safe
Many myths about swimming pools persist, but understanding the facts helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience. Whether you’re in Lagos, Accra, or anywhere in West Africa, always prioritize hygiene, proper pool maintenance, and safe swimming habits. By separating fact from fiction, you can enjoy pools with confidence, knowing you’re making informed decisions.