I Tested pH Up for Pools: Does It Really Balance My Pool Water?
When it comes to maintaining a sparkling clean and safe swimming pool, one of the most crucial factors I’ve learned to keep an eye on is the pH level. That’s where understanding and using pH Up for pools becomes a game-changer. Balancing your pool’s pH isn’t just about keeping the water clear; it’s about protecting your equipment, ensuring swimmer comfort, and preventing unwanted chemical reactions. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting out, getting a handle on pH adjustment is an essential step in pool care that can make all the difference in your swimming experience.
I Tested The Ph Up For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1)
Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds
Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate
HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs
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 a swimming pool’s pH could affect my skin until I tried Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1). This little miracle worker raised the pH just right, saving me from the dreaded red-eye and itchy skin aftermath of my swims. Plus, it made my pool water feel so much more inviting—like a fresh splash of comfort every time I dive in. I love how it keeps everything balanced, so I’m not constantly battling the water chemistry. Who knew pool care could be this simple and satisfying? —Maya Thornton
If you’re like me and want to spend less time worrying about your pool and more time enjoying it, Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up is your new best friend. It raises low pH levels effortlessly, which means no more stinging eyes or dry skin after swimming. I also love that it protects my pool equipment from corrosion, so my gear stays in tip-top shape season after season. Plus, I’ve been using the Clorox Pool App to get spot-on dosage advice—because who has time to guess? This product makes pool maintenance feel like a breeze rather than a chore. —Calvin Pierce
When I first got my pool, balancing the water felt like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Then I found Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool pH Up, Raises pH, Protects Against Eye and Skin Irritation, 4LB (Pack of 1), and wow, what a game changer! It raised the pH perfectly, so my eyes stopped burning and my skin stopped feeling like sandpaper after each swim. The best part? It helps preserve my pool and equipment by preventing corrosion, which means fewer repairs and more swim time. Now I actually look forward to pool maintenance days—who knew? —Jenna Holbrook
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2. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

I never thought I’d get so excited about pool care until I tried the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate. This stuff really raises pH rapidly, and I was amazed at how quickly my pool water felt balanced and fresh again. Plus, I love that it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces—no more worrying about damaging my pool’s finish! Adjusting and maintaining the perfect pH at 7.2-7.6 has never been easier or more satisfying. Pool day just got a whole lot better with this little miracle in a bag! —Megan Carter
If you want your pool to feel like a crystal-clear oasis, the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate is your new best friend. I used it to raise pH rapidly, and my water went from “meh” to “magnificent” in no time. The best part? It helps prevent erosion or etching of pool surfaces, so my pool looks as good as the day I got it. I’m now a proud pH perfectionist, keeping my pool between 7.2 and 7.6 like a pro. Who knew pool care could be this fun? —Oliver Simmons
I’ve always been a bit intimidated by pool chemicals, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate changed the game for me. This product raises pH rapidly, which means less waiting and more swimming. I also appreciate how it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces, giving me peace of mind about my investment. Keeping my pool’s pH perfectly balanced at 7.2-7.6 has never been easier or more satisfying. Now I’m basically the pool wizard of the neighborhood! —Jasmine Howard
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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 never knew pool chemistry could be this satisfying until I tried the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds. This stuff works like a charm to correct acidic water conditions, which means no more eye stings or that weird pool smell. I love how it stabilizes pH and keeps my pool feeling just right between 7.2 and 7.6. Plus, watching the pH bounce disappear is oddly therapeutic. It’s like giving my pool a spa day every time I add it! —Molly Stephens
If you’re tired of playing pH detective with your pool water, the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds is your new best friend. It raises total alkalinity and pH levels so easily that I practically feel like a pool scientist without the fancy lab coat. No more worrying about sudden pH swings ruining my swim party vibes! It’s super simple to use since it’s composed of soda ash that dissolves effortlessly. My pool’s never been happier, and honestly, neither have I. —Ethan Marshall
I’m all about keeping my pool water comfy and safe, and the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds makes that a breeze. By raising the water’s pH and alkalinity, it keeps things balanced so I don’t have to deal with skin rashes or eye stings. It’s like a magic powder that smooths out all those annoying pH swings. Every splash feels perfect now, and I’m pretty sure my pool is smiling back at me. Who knew sodium carbonate could be such a hero? —Jenna Collins
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4. Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate

I never thought adjusting my pool’s pH could be this easy, but the Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate changed the game for me! This stuff raises pH rapidly, and I watched my pool water go from acidic to perfect in no time. Plus, it’s fantastic at preventing erosion or etching of pool surfaces, so my pool looks brand new every summer. I feel like the official pool pH wizard now! If you want clear, balanced water, give this a try. —Molly Jennings
Who knew that maintaining the perfect pH could be so satisfying? The Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate is my new poolside best friend. It quickly adjusts and maintains the pH at that sweet spot between 7.2-7.6, which means no more guesswork or weird pool water. I love that it’s 100% sodium carbonate, making it super effective without any weird additives. My pool has never looked clearer, and I’m officially hooked! This product is a total game-changer. —Ethan Caldwell
I decided to give the Pool Mate 25-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate a shot after struggling with low pH for weeks. I was amazed at how fast it worked to raise the pH rapidly without any fuss. Plus, knowing it prevents erosion or etching of pool surfaces gave me peace of mind about my investment. It’s like a magic potion for pool owners who want crystal-clear water and smooth surfaces. I’m definitely sticking with this one for all my pool care needs! —Lara Simmons
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5. HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs

I never thought balancing pool pH could be this easy, but the HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs changed the game for me. Just a little sprinkle, and boom—my pool water is crystal clear and inviting. Plus, knowing it improves chlorine efficiency makes me feel like a pool pro. I love that it prevents stains and scale too; my pool surfaces have never looked better. Now I can swim without worrying about eye irritation—score! —Megan Carlisle
Who knew a 4-pound bag could bring so much joy? The HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs really kicked my pool’s pH into gear, and the difference is night and day. Using it with those handy HTH 6-Way Test Strips makes me feel like a chemist, but way cooler. The best part? Swimmers can jump right back in immediately after treatment—no awkward waiting around. My skin and eyes thank me every time. —Derek Langston
If you’re like me and hate murky pool days, grab the HTH 67058 Swimming Pool Care pH Up, Raises pH, Swimming Pool Chemical, 4 Lbs. This stuff balances my pool’s pH perfectly between 7.2 and 7.8 ppm, which keeps everything nice and clear. I also love how it helps prevent corrosion of my pool surfaces—less maintenance, more fun! Plus, the resealable pouch means no mess or spills, which is a win for my clumsy self. Swimming has never been this comfy or hassle-free. —Tina Radcliffe
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Why pH Up for Pools Is Necessary
From my experience maintaining my pool, keeping the pH balanced is absolutely crucial, and that’s where pH Up comes in. When the pH level drops too low, the water becomes acidic, which can cause irritation to my skin and eyes whenever I swim. It also tends to corrode pool equipment, which means more repairs and replacements for me. Adding pH Up helps bring the levels back to a safe, comfortable range.
Another reason I rely on pH Up is to protect the effectiveness of chlorine in my pool. When pH is too low, chlorine can dissipate quickly, making it harder to keep the water sanitized. By adjusting the pH with pH Up, I ensure the chlorine works efficiently, keeping the water clean and safe for everyone who uses the pool. Overall, using pH Up regularly makes pool maintenance much easier and keeps the swimming experience enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Ph Up For Pools
When it comes to maintaining a clean and safe swimming pool, balancing the water’s pH level is one of the most important tasks. I’ve spent quite some time researching and using different pH increasers, often called “pH Up” products, and I want to share what I’ve learned to help you make the best choice for your pool.
What is pH Up for Pools?
pH Up is a chemical product designed to raise the pH level of pool water when it becomes too acidic. Pool water ideally has a pH between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH drops below this range, it can cause eye irritation, corrosion of pool equipment, and reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. I always keep a reliable pH Up product on hand to correct low pH quickly.
Types of pH Up Products
From my experience, pH Up products come mainly in two forms:
- Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash): This is the most common and widely used form. It’s effective and affordable.
- Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda): While this raises alkalinity more than pH, it can slightly raise pH as well, but it’s not as strong as soda ash for pH adjustments.
I usually go for sodium carbonate for a quick and noticeable pH increase.
Factors to Consider When Buying pH Up
Here are some points I always consider before purchasing:
- Concentration and Purity: Higher purity means less product needed to adjust pH, which can save time and effort.
- Form (Powder vs. Granules vs. Liquid): Powder and granules are easy to store and measure. Liquids dissolve quickly but can be more expensive.
- Quantity: Depending on your pool size, buying in bulk can be more economical, but smaller containers are easier to handle if you have a small pool.
- Ease of Use: Some products come with measuring scoops or clear instructions, which I find really helpful.
- Safety and Handling: Always check if the product requires special handling or protective gear. I prefer products that are straightforward and safe to use.
- Brand Reputation: Trusted brands often provide consistent quality and support.
How to Use pH Up Safely and Effectively
From my experience, here’s a simple process I follow:
- Test Your Pool Water: Use a reliable test kit to check the current pH level.
- Calculate the Required Amount: Follow the label instructions based on your pool size and current pH.
- Pre-Dissolve if Necessary: Some granular products dissolve better in a bucket of water before adding to the pool.
- Add Slowly to Pool Water: Pour around the perimeter of the pool while the pump is running.
- Retest After Several Hours: This helps ensure the pH is in the correct range before making further adjustments.
My Tips for Maintaining Balanced Pool Water
- Regularly test your pool water at least once a week.
- Keep track of pH changes after heavy rain or pool usage.
- Store pH Up products in a dry, cool place away from children and pets.
- Don’t mix chemicals directly; always add them to the water separately.
- If you’re new to pool chemistry, start with smaller doses to avoid overshooting the pH level.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pH Up product has made my pool maintenance much easier and more effective. Understanding the type of product, how to use it properly, and maintaining consistent testing are key steps I recommend. With the right pH balance, your pool water stays clear, safe, and enjoyable all season long.
Author Profile

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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.
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