Every pool has its stories. Maybe you heard them whispered by kids at summer camp, sworn by your cousin during a family cookout, or dramatically delivered by that neighbor who “read it online.” Pools bring people together—and with them come myths that refuse to die.
So grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into some of the most common poolside legends, bust them wide open, and add a splash of truth to your next pool party conversation.
Myth #1: Chlorine Turns Your Hair Green
The tale: “Don’t go blonde and dive in—you’ll come out looking like the Grinch.”
The truth: Chlorine has been framed. The real criminal here is copper. Tiny amounts of copper, often from old pipes or certain algaecides, can cling to hair and cause that green tint. Chlorine just makes it easier for copper to bind.
The fix: Rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming, and use a clarifying shampoo occasionally. Or lean in—green streaks might be your new summer look.
Myth #2: There’s a Chemical That Turns the Water Blue If You Pee
The tale: “If you pee in the pool, the water will turn blue and everyone will know.”
The truth: Sorry, parents—this magical shame-inducing potion doesn’t exist. It was invented to terrify kids into better bathroom habits. While there’s no “pee detector dye,” chlorine does work overtime to break down… let’s call it “organic material.” The result? Chloramines. And they don’t just sound gross—they smell gross (see Myth #3).
The fix: Let’s keep it simple: just get out and go. Everyone will thank you.
Myth #3: The Stronger the Smell of Chlorine, the Cleaner the Pool
The tale: “Wow, this pool smells super chlorinated. Must be sparkling clean!”
The truth: Nope. A properly balanced pool should barely smell at all. That strong chemical scent comes from chloramines—compounds formed when chlorine binds with things like sweat, sunscreen, body oils… and yes, bathroom accidents. Instead of meaning “extra clean,” it usually means the water chemistry needs adjusting.
The fix: Regular pool maintenance and water testing keep everything fresh. If your pool smells like a science experiment, it’s time to call in reinforcements.
Myth #4: If You’re a Strong Swimmer, You Don’t Need Pool Safety Rules
The tale: “I’m basically Michael Phelps. Rules don’t apply to me.”
The truth: Even Olympians can slip on a wet deck, misjudge a dive, or get tired. Safety rules—like no running, no diving in shallow areas, and always keeping an eye on kids—are non-negotiable. They exist to protect everyone, from dog-paddlers to cannonball champions.
The fix: Respect the rules, model good habits, and yes, leave your gold medal at home.
Myth #5: Saltwater Pools Don’t Use Chlorine
The tale: “Owning a pool is constant work. You’ll spend more time cleaning than swimming.”
The truth: With today’s technology—automatic cleaners, smart pumps, and even apps that monitor water chemistry—pool care is easier than ever. A little routine upkeep goes a long way, and professional services can take the hassle completely off your hands.
The fix: Don’t let this myth stop you from enjoying the pool life. Think of it like owning a car—you can maintain it yourself, or you can let the pros handle it while you just enjoy the ride.
Myth #7: Pools Are Dangerous If You Have Kids
The tale: “A pool is basically an accident waiting to happen.”
The truth: Pools do require responsibility, but they aren’t inherently unsafe. With proper supervision, barriers like fences and covers, and teaching kids how to swim early, pools can be both fun and safe. In fact, pools encourage kids to be active, social, and confident in the water.
The fix: Make safety a priority, and your pool will be a source of family fun—not worry.
The Bottom Line
Pools attract myths the way sunscreen attracts sand. Some are funny, some are gross, and some are downright dangerous if you believe them. But here’s the truth: when cared for properly, pools are safe, enjoyable, and one of the best ways to bring people together.
So next time Uncle Bob swears your hair will turn green or that chlorine smell means “super clean,” feel free to set him straight. (Or better yet, send him this blog.)
Make a Splash with Newtown Pools
Newtown Pools, we know pools inside and out—myths included. From design and installation to maintenance and upgrades, we’re here to make sure your backyard pool is nothing but fun, safe, and stress-free. Let’s bust the myths and build your dream pool.
(203)270-1733