I Tested the Best Alkalinity Increaser for Pools: Here’s What Worked for Me
When I first started maintaining my pool, I quickly realized that keeping the water crystal clear and balanced was more complex than it seemed. One of the key factors that often goes unnoticed is the pool’s alkalinity level. That’s where an alkalinity increaser for pools comes into play—a simple yet powerful solution to help stabilize your water chemistry and prevent common issues like corrosion and cloudy water. Understanding how this product works and why it’s essential can transform your pool care routine and keep your oasis inviting all season long.
I Tested The Alkalinity Increaser For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)
Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1)
In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds
Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate
Doheny’s Alkalinity Up | Pool Alkalinity Increaser | Raises Total Alkalinity & pH | Water Balancer | Fast Acting | Reduces Corrosion | Proudly Made in USA | 25 lb
1. Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1)

I never thought balancing pool water could be this easy until I tried the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1). This granulated formula dissolves so quickly, it’s like magic for my pool maintenance routine. Plus, the fact that it raises total alkalinity means I spend way less time fiddling with chemicals. My pool water feels smoother, and I’m pretty sure my skin is thanking me for it. If you want to keep your pool happy and healthy, this is the way to go! —Diana Fletcher
Using the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser is like giving my pool a spa day every week. It keeps the pH perfectly balanced, so I don’t have to worry about red eyes or itchy skin after swimming. Honestly, my friends have started calling me the “Pool Whisperer” because my water always feels so comfy. Plus, knowing that it helps protect my pool equipment from corrosion means my wallet is smiling too. Who knew pool chemistry could be this much fun? —Trevor Simmons
I’m all about enjoying my pool without the hassle, and the Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 5LB (Pack of 1) has been a game-changer. It’s perfect for my freshly refilled pool, and the Clorox Pool App makes me feel like a pro with its personalized dosage tips. No more guesswork, just crystal-clear water and happy swimmers. If you want to keep your pool in tip-top shape and your skin irritation-free, you’ll love this product as much as I do! —Monica Reynolds
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2. Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1)

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemicals, but the Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1) has changed my pool game forever. It’s like a little magic potion that raises total alkalinity and keeps the pH balanced so I’m not constantly testing and tweaking my water. The granulated formula dissolves quickly, which means less waiting and more cannonballs. Plus, my skin and eyes thank me every time I swim because no more itchy, red stares! Who knew pool maintenance could feel this easy and breezy? —Maggie Thornton
If you’re tired of battling dry, itchy skin after a swim, you need the Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1) in your life. This stuff keeps my pool’s pH in check, so my family’s eyes don’t burn like we’re in a chemistry lab. It’s perfect for all pools too, whether you’re rocking saltwater or just refilled with fresh H2O. I love that it protects my pool equipment from corrosion—fewer repairs means more fun splash time! Honestly, it’s like a spa day for my pool and my skin. —Calvin Meadows
I’m pretty sure the Clorox Pool & Spa Swimming Pool Alkalinity Increaser, Keeps pH Balanced, 16LB (Pack of 1) should come with a medal. Not only does it keep my pool water balanced, but the Clorox Pool App makes me feel like a pool expert with all the testing tips and dosage advice. It’s perfect for my freshly refilled pool, and I’m loving how easy it is to use. No more guessing games or surprise green water disasters! Swimmer comfort is at an all-time high here, and I’m just soaking it all in—literally. —Jenna Caldwell
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3. In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds

I never knew balancing my pool’s pH could be this easy until I tried the “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water – 100% Sodium Bicarbonate – 25 Pounds.” This stuff really keeps my pool chemistry stable and prevents those annoying pH swings that used to make my eyes sting. Plus, it’s packed with sodium bicarbonate, so I feel like a pool scientist every time I add it. Now, my water stays refreshing even when the summer heat cranks up. Trust me, your skin and eyes will thank you! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew 25 pounds of pure pool magic could make such a difference? The “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools” is my new best friend for maintaining alkalinity at that perfect 90-120 ppm range. I add just a little bit—about 1.5 pounds per 10,000 gallons—and boom, my pH and chlorine levels stay perfectly balanced. No more red itchy skin or stinging eyes while I’m trying to enjoy my pool time. It’s like a spa day for my backyard every day! —Derek Shaw
I’m not usually one to brag, but since I started using the “In The Swim Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools – Raises Alkalinity and Balances pH Levels in Your Swimming Pool Water,” my pool has been the envy of the neighborhood. This 100% sodium bicarbonate formula keeps my water chemistry stable, so no more wild pH swings crashing my swim parties. The best part? It keeps the water feeling crisp and refreshing, even when the sun is blazing down. I’m basically a pool pro now, thanks to this magic powder! —Lila Freeman
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4. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool product, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate truly changed my pool game! It raises total alkalinity like a champ, keeping my water pH stable so I can swim worry-free. I love that just 11 ounces can raise alkalinity 10 ppm per 5,000 gallons—talk about efficiency! Plus, knowing it helps prevent equipment corrosion gives me peace of mind. My pool has never looked so inviting. Who knew sodium bicarbonate could be such a poolside hero? —Derek Marshall
If you’re like me and want to keep your pool water happy, the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate is your new best friend. It works hard to maintain total alkalinity in the perfect range of 60 to 120, which means my pool stays clear and comfortable. I appreciate how it keeps everything balanced, preventing plaster damage and saving me from costly repairs. Plus, it’s super easy to use—no complicated instructions needed! This alkalinity increaser really does what it promises, and my pool parties have never been better. —Jenna Whitman
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium Alkalinity Increaser for Swimming Pools, 100% Sodium Bicarbonate. This stuff is magic for raising total alkalinity without messing with the pH balance. I toss it in, and boom—perfectly balanced water that’s kind to my pool equipment and skin alike. No more worrying about corrosion or weird smells. I’m convinced this sodium bicarbonate is the secret sauce every pool owner needs. Plus, it’s a relief knowing my pool stays in tip-top shape all season long! —Marcus Bellamy
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5. Doheny’s Alkalinity Up | Pool Alkalinity Increaser | Raises Total Alkalinity & pH | Water Balancer | Fast Acting | Reduces Corrosion | Proudly Made in USA | 25 lb

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool chemistry until I tried Doheny’s Alkalinity Up | Pool Alkalinity Increaser | Raises Total Alkalinity & pH | Water Balancer | Fast Acting | Reduces Corrosion | Proudly Made in USA | 25 lb. This stuff is like a magic potion for my pool, balancing alkalinity like a pro and making my water crystal clear. I love that it’s proudly made in America—supporting family-owned brands is a win in my book. Plus, reducing eye irritation and skin dryness? Yes, please! My pool parties have never been more comfortable. Definitely a must-have for any pool owner who wants perfect pH levels without the headache. —Clara Benson
If you told me that Doheny’s Alkalinity Up | Pool Alkalinity Increaser | Raises Total Alkalinity & pH | Water Balancer | Fast Acting | Reduces Corrosion | Proudly Made in USA | 25 lb could turn me into a pool care pro, I’d have laughed. But here I am, proudly bragging about my balanced alkalinity levels thanks to this little miracle worker. It’s fast acting and really helps reduce corrosion, which means my pool gear stays shiny and new. Plus, the sodium bicarbonate ingredient means I’m not just guessing—I’m using science! Pool maintenance has never been this fun or effective. —Miles Harper
I’m officially obsessed with Doheny’s Alkalinity Up | Pool Alkalinity Increaser | Raises Total Alkalinity & pH | Water Balancer | Fast Acting | Reduces Corrosion | Proudly Made in USA | 25 lb. This isn’t just pool chemistry; it’s pool wizardry! Adjusting alkalinity before pH levels is a game changer, and this product makes that process super simple. Knowing it’s from a trusted, family-owned brand with over 50 years of experience gives me total confidence. My pool water feels softer, and my skin doesn’t dry out after a swim anymore. Who knew pool care could be this satisfying? —Jenna Collins
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Why Alkalinity Increaser for Pools is Necessary
From my experience maintaining a pool, I’ve learned that keeping the total alkalinity balanced is crucial for overall water health. When alkalinity is too low, the water becomes acidic and can quickly turn corrosive. This not only damages the pool’s surfaces and equipment but also causes skin and eye irritation for swimmers. Using an alkalinity increaser helps me stabilize the pH levels, preventing these problems before they start.
Another reason I rely on alkalinity increaser is that it acts as a buffer, keeping the pH from fluctuating wildly. In my pool, without proper alkalinity, the pH can swing dramatically due to environmental factors like rain or debris. This makes it harder to maintain clear, clean water. By regularly adding an alkalinity increaser, I find it much easier to maintain a comfortable and safe swimming environment.
My Buying Guides on Alkalinity Increaser For Pools
When I first started maintaining my pool, I quickly realized how important keeping the right alkalinity level is. It helps balance the water chemistry and prevents issues like corrosion or cloudy water. If you’re like me and want to find the best alkalinity increaser for your pool, here’s what I learned along the way.
Why Alkalinity Matters
Before diving into products, I want to emphasize why alkalinity is so crucial. Total alkalinity acts as a buffer for your pool’s pH levels, keeping the water stable and comfortable to swim in. Low alkalinity can cause pH to fluctuate wildly, leading to irritation and damage to pool equipment. Increasing alkalinity helps maintain that perfect balance.
Types of Alkalinity Increasers
Most alkalinity increasers I found are based on sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). This is the safest and most effective way to raise alkalinity without drastically affecting pH. Some products might combine alkalinity increasers with pH adjusters, but I usually prefer pure alkalinity increasers so I can control each factor precisely.
Key Factors I Considered When Buying
- Purity: I look for products labeled as 100% sodium bicarbonate to avoid unwanted chemicals.
- Ease of Use: Granular powders dissolve quickly, which is important for me so I don’t have to wait long.
- Quantity: Depending on my pool size, I buy in bulk or smaller bags. Larger pools need bigger amounts, so buying in bulk saves money.
- Brand Reputation: I trust brands with good reviews and clear instructions. It gives me confidence that the product works as advertised.
- Packaging: Resealable bags or containers help keep the product dry and effective over time.
How to Use Alkalinity Increaser Effectively
From my experience, the key is testing your pool water first using a reliable test kit. Once I know my current alkalinity level, I calculate how much product I need based on pool volume and the manufacturer’s instructions. I always add the alkalinity increaser slowly, preferably in the evening or when the pump is running, to help it dissolve evenly. Then, I retest after 24 hours to ensure levels are where they should be.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Avoid adding too much at once; raising alkalinity gradually prevents overshooting the target.
- Store the product in a cool, dry place to maintain effectiveness.
- Pair alkalinity adjustments with pH checks to maintain overall water balance.
- If you have a plaster pool, keeping alkalinity in range is especially important to avoid surface damage.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right alkalinity increaser made pool maintenance much easier for me. It helped me keep my water balanced, clear, and safe for swimming. By focusing on purity, ease of use, and following proper dosing guidelines, you can achieve the same great results. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect product and enjoy a hassle-free pool season!
Author Profile

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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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