The Evolution of Swimming Pool Sanitisation: From Chlorine to Freshwater

For decades, the goal of swimming pool owners has remained the same: to maintain clean, safe, and enjoyable water. But how we achieve that has evolved dramatically over time. From the harsh chemicals of the early chlorine days to the latest advancements in freshwater systems, the swimming pool industry has seen incredible innovation—all in the pursuit of healthier, more sustainable water. Here’s a look at how pool sanitisation has progressed through the years.

The Chlorine Era: Effective but Harsh

Chlorine was introduced as a pool sanitiser in the early 20th century and quickly became the gold standard. It’s highly effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and algae, making it a reliable choice for public and private pools alike.

However, chlorine comes with a cost:

• Strong chemical smell
• Skin and eye irritation
• Fading of swimwear
• Long-term environmental concerns

While chlorine is still in use today, many pool owners have sought alternatives to reduce exposure to these harsh chemicals.

Saltwater Systems: An Automated Alternative

In the 1980s, saltwater chlorination gained popularity. These systems use electrolysis to convert salt into chlorine, offering a gentler feel on the skin and eyes compared to traditional chlorine pools.

Benefits of saltwater systems:

• Softer water feel
• Lower chlorine odour
• Less frequent chemical handling

Limitations:

• Still reliant on chlorine (just generated on-site)
• Corrosion of pool equipment and surfaces
• Higher upfront installation and maintenance costs than direct chlorine

Though an improvement over direct chlorine dosing, saltwater systems still don’t eliminate chemical dependency entirely.

Mineral Pools: A Step Above Salt Systems

As awareness around health, wellness, and sustainability grew, mineral pool systems started making waves. These systems use minerals like magnesium chloride or potassium chloride to sanitise and soften the pool water.

Benefits of mineral pools:

• Softer, gentle feeling water
• No chlorine smell
• Reduced chlorine usage when combined with a secondary system

Challenges:

• Still often require supplementary chlorine or oxidisers
• Mineral costs are higher over time
• Requires the same chemicals as salt and chlorine pool systems

Mineral systems bridged the gap between chemically sanitised and natural swimming experiences but weren’t the final evolution.

Freshwater Systems: The Future Is Here

The latest innovation in pool technology is freshwater sanitisation, pioneered by systems like Australia’s favourite Naked Pools Freshwater System. These systems use natural minerals like copper and silver, combined with low levels of oxidisation, to maintain pristine, safe water without heavy chemical reliance.

Why freshwater systems are changing the game:

• Crystal-clear, virtually chlorine-free swimming
• No chemical smell or taste
• Safe for sensitive skin, eyes, and hair
• Water can be repurposed for gardens and grey water
• Lower running costs and simpler maintenance
• Better for the environment and pool equipment and surrounds

Freshwater systems offer a true alternative to salt and chlorine. With Naked Pools’ technology, swimmers enjoy the purest water experience—closer to nature, better for health, and easier to maintain.

Conclusion: A Clear Future

From chlorine to salt to minerals and now to freshwater—pool sanitisation has evolved to meet the modern pool owner’s desire for cleaner, safer, and more sustainable swimming. With systems like those from Naked Pools, the future of pool water is not just clear—it’s fresh.

If you’re considering upgrading your pool to a healthier, chemical-free experience, contact us today to explore our bundle offers and installation options. Discover why more Australians are choosing Australia’s favourite Naked Freshwater Systems as the smart alternative.