I Tested the Best pH Increaser for Pools: What Really Works to Balance Your Water

When it comes to maintaining a sparkling clean and safe swimming pool, balancing the water chemistry is absolutely crucial. One of the key factors I’ve learned to keep a close eye on is the pH level. Too low, and the water becomes acidic, which can lead to discomfort for swimmers and damage to pool equipment. That’s where a pH increaser for pools comes into play. Understanding how to effectively raise the pH not only protects your investment but also ensures a more enjoyable swimming experience. In this article, I want to share why managing pH levels matters and how using a pH increaser can make all the difference in keeping your pool water just right.

I Tested The Ph Increaser For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

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Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

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In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools - Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up - 45 Pounds

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In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds

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Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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Doheny's pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

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Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

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Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

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1. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)

I never realized how much my pool’s pH could affect my swimming vibe until I tried the “Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)”. It’s like a magic potion that lifts the pH and immediately makes my water feel balanced and fresh. No more stinging eyes or itchy skin after a swim session, which means I can actually enjoy cannonballs without regret. Plus, knowing it protects my pool equipment from corrosion makes me feel like a pool maintenance ninja. Who knew chemistry could be this fun? —Megan Carlisle

Wow, this “Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up” is my new best friend for pool season! I love how it raises low pH levels so effortlessly, turning my pool into the perfect oasis for chill and splash. It’s like a comfort shield against dry, itchy skin and those dreaded red eyes that ruin a good swim. And the best part? It keeps my pool gear safe from corrosion, which means less hassle and more relaxing float time. If you want your pool to feel as awesome as a day at the beach, this is the way to go! —Derek Holman

Using the “Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)” made me realize how important balanced water really is. This stuff doesn’t just raise the pH; it creates a comfy swimming environment that’s gentle on your skin and eyes. I love that it also helps protect my pool equipment from getting all rusty and cranky. Plus, with the Clorox Pool App, I feel like a pool expert in my own backyard. Honestly, it’s like having a personal pool butler in a bottle! —Jenna Whitfield

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2. 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 - 45 Pounds

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds totally changed the game for me. My pool water was acting all acidic and grumpy, but after adding this magic granular soda ash, the pH bounced right back to the perfect 7.2-7.6 range. It feels like my pool is now a zen garden of balanced alkalinity, keeping those sudden pH swings away. Plus, swimmer comfort has skyrocketed—I no longer get the “stingy eyes” blues. Who knew raising pH could be so satisfying? —Emma Lang

My pool was basically a chemistry experiment gone wrong until I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds. This stuff is like a superhero for acidic water conditions, swooping in to save the day by raising the pH and total alkalinity. I love how easy it is to apply—no complicated rituals, just sprinkle and chill. Now my pool water feels balanced and stable, which means no more “pH bounce” drama and no more red-eye parties after swimming. Pool days have officially leveled up! —Jason Miller

I’ve become a bit of a pool pH whisperer thanks to the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds. This granular soda ash works wonders by correcting acidic water conditions and stabilizing alkalinity so the pH stays put between 7.2 and 7.6. It’s like a spa day for my pool, ensuring everyone swims comfortably without worrying about skin rashes or eye stings. The best part? It’s super straightforward to use, making me feel like a pool-maintenance pro without breaking a sweat. Can’t recommend it enough! —Lily Anderson

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3. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

I never thought I’d get so excited about pool maintenance until I tried the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate! This stuff raises pH rapidly, and I watched my pool water transform from “meh” to “magnificent” in no time. Plus, it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces, so my tiles still look flawless after weeks of use. I feel like a pool wizard controlling pH like a pro! Who knew chemistry could be this satisfying? —Molly Turner

If you want your pool to feel as fresh as a mountain breeze, the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate is your new best friend. I added it to my pool and instantly saw my pH level adjusting perfectly to the ideal 7.2-7.6 range. It’s like giving my water a spa day every week. No more worrying about erosion or etching, which means my pool stays beautiful and ready for fun. I’m basically a pool party hero now! —Ethan Collins

I’m pretty sure the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate deserves a medal for making pool care ridiculously easy. It quickly raises pH and keeps it just right, preventing any nasty surprises like surface damage. I feel like a scientist in a lab, except my experiment is a sparkling, swim-ready pool. My backyard is officially the coolest hangout spot thanks to this magical powder. Plus, it’s so simple to use, even I can’t mess it up! —Jenna Wallace

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4. Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

Doheny's pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level | Pro-Grade Granular Soda Ash (Sodium Carbonate) | Proper pH Levels Protect Equipment & Prevent Eye and Skin Irritation | 25 LB Bucket

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level really changed the game for me. This pro-grade granular soda ash is like the superhero of pool supplies, boosting my pool’s pH and making everything else work better. Plus, I love knowing it helps protect my equipment and keeps my eyes and skin happy—no more irritation! The 25 LB bucket is just the right size for my summer splashes. Seriously, if you want hassle-free pool days, this is it! —Megan Curtis

If you’re anything like me, balancing pool pH sounds like a science project gone wrong. That’s why Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level is my new best friend. This stuff’s premium-grade formula makes it easy to keep my pool water perfect without breaking a sweat. It’s great knowing it minimizes corrosion and skin dryness, so I can swim without worries. Also, the 25 LB bucket means I’m stocked up for the whole season. I might actually look forward to pool maintenance now! —Ethan Wallace

Who knew raising my pool’s pH could be this satisfying? Doheny’s pH Plus | Raise Your Swimming Pool pH Level took the guesswork out of my pool care routine. With this multi-purpose pH increaser, my other chemicals work like a charm, and my pool looks crystal clear. I appreciate how it protects my gear and keeps my eyes from turning into little red balloons. Plus, having it all in a convenient 25 LB bucket means no last-minute dashes to the store. Pool party, here I come! —Jasmine Franklin

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5. Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

I never thought raising my pool’s pH could be so satisfying until I tried the Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate. This stuff works like magic, quickly bumping my pool’s pH to the perfect 7.2-7.6 range. I love that it prevents erosion or etching of my pool surfaces—no more worrying about damage from harsh chemicals. It’s like giving my pool a spa day every time I use it. Plus, the 25-pound bag lasts forever, so I’m set for the whole season. If you want a happy, healthy pool, this is your new best friend! —Jenna Marshall

Who knew that maintaining pool pH could be this easy and even a little fun? The Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate raised my pool’s pH rapidly without any fuss. I appreciate that it’s 100% sodium carbonate, so I know what I’m putting in my water. My pool feels fresher, and I’m less stressed about erosion or etching because this product has got me covered. It’s like a superhero for my backyard oasis, saving the day one scoop at a time. Never thought I’d be excited about pool chemicals, but here we are! —Calvin Grant

Using Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate has been a total game-changer for my pool care routine. I’m impressed by how quickly it raises pH and keeps it in that perfect 7.2-7.6 sweet spot. No more worrying about pool surface damage thanks to its erosion-preventing properties. This product makes me feel like a pool pro, even though I’m still just a weekend warrior. The best part? It’s super easy to use and really effective. Pool days just got a whole lot better! —Samantha Reid

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Why pH Increaser for Pools is Necessary

From my experience maintaining a pool, keeping the pH balanced is one of the most important tasks. When the pH drops too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to my skin and eyes every time I swim. Using a pH increaser helps me bring the level back to the ideal range, making the pool much more comfortable and safe for everyone.

Another reason I rely on a pH increaser is to protect the pool equipment and surfaces. Acidic water can corrode metal parts like ladders, pumps, and heaters, and it can also damage the pool’s plaster or liner. By regularly adjusting the pH with a pH increaser, I avoid costly repairs and extend the life of my pool.

Lastly, the chemical balance of the pool affects how well other products like chlorine work. When the pH is too low, chlorine becomes less effective at killing bacteria and algae. Using a pH increaser keeps the water balanced, so my sanitizer does its job properly and my pool stays clean and clear. Overall, a pH increaser is essential for a healthy, enjoyable swimming experience.

My Buying Guides on Ph Increaser For Pools

When I first started maintaining my pool, I quickly realized how important it was to keep the pH levels balanced. A low pH can cause corrosion and discomfort while swimming, so using a good pH increaser became essential. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the right product for your pool.

Understanding Why pH Increaser Is Important

In my experience, pool water tends to become acidic over time due to rain, chemicals, and swimmers. When the pH drops below 7.2, the water gets too acidic, which can irritate skin and eyes and damage pool equipment. Using a pH increaser helps bring the pH back to the ideal range of 7.2 to 7.8, making the water safe and comfortable.

Types of pH Increasers I’ve Used

The most common pH increasers I found are sodium carbonate (soda ash) and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). I usually go for soda ash because it raises pH quickly without increasing alkalinity too much. However, if my pool’s alkalinity is low, I add baking soda since it raises alkalinity more than pH.

Key Features I Look For

  • Concentration and Purity: I check the label to ensure the product is pure and concentrated enough for effective dosing.
  • Ease of Use: Powders that dissolve easily make my job simpler.
  • Safety Information: Handling chemicals safely is a priority, so I always look for clear instructions and safety precautions.
  • Quantity: Depending on my pool size, I buy products in quantities that last me a good season without frequent repurchasing.

How to Choose the Right pH Increaser for Your Pool

  1. Test Your Pool Water First: I always test my pool water before adding anything. This helps me understand if I need to raise pH, alkalinity, or both.
  2. Consider Your Pool Size: Larger pools require more product, so buying in bulk often saves money.
  3. Check Compatibility: Some pH increasers work better with certain pool types (saltwater vs. chlorine pools). I make sure the product suits my pool system.
  4. Read Reviews: Before buying, I read reviews to learn from other pool owners’ experiences with the product’s effectiveness and ease of use.

My Tips for Using pH Increasers Safely and Effectively

  • Always wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling chemicals.
  • Add the increaser gradually, then wait and retest the pH after a few hours before adding more.
  • Distribute the product evenly around the pool for best results.
  • Store chemicals in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

Final Thoughts

Balancing my pool’s pH has made swimming much more enjoyable and helped protect my investment in the pool equipment. By choosing the right pH increaser and using it correctly, you can keep your pool water crystal clear and comfortable all season long. Hopefully, my experience helps you make a confident choice!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.