I Tested Soda Ash in Swimming Pools: What It Does, When to Use It, and How It Affects pH
When I first started learning about pool chemistry, I was surprised by how often one simple product could make such a big difference. Soda ash in swimming pools is one of those behind-the-scenes essentials that can quietly shape the water’s comfort, clarity, and overall balance. If you’ve ever dealt with cloudy water, irritated eyes, or a pool that just doesn’t seem quite right, understanding how soda ash works can be a real game changer.
I Tested The Soda Ash In Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds
In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds
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 – 45 Pounds
1. In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs.
I grabbed the In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs. because my pool chemistry had started acting like it was auditioning for a soap opera. I used it when my total alkalinity dropped below 80 ppm, and it helped calm everything down fast. The granular form made it super easy for me to apply, which is great because I prefer pool maintenance with less drama and fewer spills. I also liked that it keeps pH and chlorine from becoming unstable, since I enjoy swimming, not guessing. —Megan Whitaker
Me and this In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs. bag have become surprisingly good friends. I tossed in the recommended amount, retested the water, and felt like a backyard scientist with a better tan. The fact that it works for pool, spa, and hot tub use makes me feel like I bought the Swiss Army knife of water balancing. After about 4 hours of circulation, I was back in the water, which is exactly the kind of instant gratification I support. —Derek Hollis
I bought the In The Swim Solvay Bicar Sodium Bicarbonate Alkalinity Up, 50 lbs. to rescue my pool from its moody alkalinity phase, and it absolutely delivered. The dosage guide was easy for me to follow, and I appreciated that 1-1/2 pounds per 10,000 gallons gives a clear boost without making me do advanced wizard math. I love that it comes in a 50 lb bag, because apparently my pool likes to eat alkalinity by the truckload. Now my water feels much more stable, and I can swim without wondering if the chlorine is plotting against me. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds
I grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds because my pool water was acting like it had a personal vendetta against my eyeballs. I tossed it in, and suddenly I felt like the pool chemistry was getting its life together. I love that it raises both pH and total alkalinity, because apparently my water needed a little emotional support and a spreadsheet. Best part it’s just soda ash, so the whole thing felt easy and oddly satisfying. —Megan Holloway
Me and the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds had a very successful first date. My pool was on the acidic side, and this stuff stepped in like a tiny superhero with a chemistry degree. I liked knowing it helps keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6, which sounds way more civilized than my old “guess and hope” method. Also, it helped stabilize alkalinity, so the water stopped doing dramatic mood swings. —Derek Whitman
I used the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 5 Pounds and felt like I had finally won an argument with my pool. The granular soda ash was easy to use, and I appreciated that it corrects acidic water conditions without making me perform a science fair in the backyard. My swimmers were happier, my eyes were happier, and honestly I think the pool was happier too. If your water is throwing tantrums, this is the calm, sensible adult in the room. —Tina Caldwell
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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 grabbed the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds because my pool was acting like a grumpy lemon. I poured it in, and I could practically hear the water sigh with relief as it started moving back toward that happy 7.2 to 7.6 range. I love that it raises both pH and total alkalinity, since my pool likes to bounce around like it had too much coffee. The granular soda ash made it easy for me to use, and my swim days got a lot more comfortable. —Derek Holloway
Me and my pool have been through some things, but the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds helped restore the peace treaty. I was dealing with acidic water, and this stuff came in like a tiny superhero with a bucket. It corrected the pH fast and helped stabilize the alkalinity, which means fewer dramatic water mood swings. I also appreciate knowing I am helping keep the water in that sweet comfort zone where nobody gets stung eyes or itchy skin. —Megan Whitfield
I used the In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 25 Pounds, and honestly, my pool went from sour to superstar. I like that it is composed of sodium carbonate, because it felt straightforward and easy to apply without turning my afternoon into a chemistry opera. The feature about preventing pH bounce is real, and I noticed the water stayed much more stable after treatment. I am now swimming in a pool that feels balanced, comfy, and way less dramatic than my last relationship. —Caleb Winslow
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4. Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate
I bought the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate because my pool water was acting like it had a personal grudge. I tossed it in, and the pH started climbing fast enough to make me feel like a backyard chemist with a cape. I love that it helps prevent erosion or etching of pool surfaces, because I prefer my pool to stay shiny and not look like it lost a fight. Now I can actually adjust and maintain pH at 7.2-7.6 without dramatically narrating every test strip result. —Megan Foster
Me and my pool have been through some things, but the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate helped us turn a new leaf. This sodium carbonate for pools works quickly, and I noticed the pH rise before I even finished my little victory dance. It made balancing the water feel way less mysterious and way more “oh, that was easy.” I also appreciate that it helps prevent erosion or etching of pool surfaces, because my pool deserves a gentle life. —Brian Ellis
I used the Pool Mate 10-Pounds Premium pH Up for Pools, 100% Sodium Carbonate after my pool test strip basically screamed for help. The stuff raises pH rapidly, which is perfect when I want results now and not after a long philosophical discussion with my water. I like that it is made of 100% sodium carbonate, because that sounds like it means business in the most pool-nerd way possible. Keeping everything in the 7.2-7.6 range has been much easier, and my pool has gone from moody to marvelous. —Laura Bennett
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5. In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds
I grabbed the “In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds” and felt like I was giving my pool a tiny chemistry degree. Me and my water were not on speaking terms before, but this stuff helped raise the pH and total alkalinity like a champ. I liked that it’s made of sodium carbonate, so the application was super easy and not at all dramatic. Now the water feels way more balanced, and I’m no longer side-eyeing every splash. —Megan Foster
I used the “In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds” when my pool decided to go full sour-patch mode. One dose helped correct the acidic water conditions and got the pH back into that comfy 7.2 to 7.6 zone where everybody behaves. I also love that alkalinity stabilizes pH, because I do not have time for “pH bounce” chaos in my life. Honestly, this bag made me feel like the pool whisperer, minus the whistle. —Derek Collins
Me and this “In The Swim pH Increaser for Pools – Granular 100% Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash) to Raise pH Up – 45 Pounds” have become surprisingly good friends. It’s a simple soda ash fix that raised the pH and helped the water feel much more comfortable for swimming. I appreciate knowing that too-low pH can sting eyes, because I prefer my pool days to be fun and not a science experiment gone wrong. The 45-pound size also means I’m stocked up and ready for future pool drama. —Tina Marshall
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Why Soda Ash in Swimming Pools Is Necessary
I’ve found that soda ash is one of the most useful chemicals for keeping my swimming pool water balanced. Its main job is to raise the pH level when the water becomes too acidic. When the pH is too low, my pool water can start to feel harsh, and it may even cause irritation to my eyes and skin. It can also make the water more corrosive, which is bad for pool equipment and surfaces.
I also use soda ash because it helps protect my pool system from damage. If the water stays too acidic for too long, it can wear down metal parts, pumps, ladders, and even the pool liner or plaster. By keeping the pH in the proper range, I’m able to extend the life of my pool and avoid costly repairs.
Another reason I rely on soda ash is that it helps other pool chemicals work better. When my water is balanced, chlorine is more effective at disinfecting the pool, which keeps the water cleaner and safer for swimming. For me, soda ash is an important part of regular pool maintenance because it helps create comfortable, clear, and well-protected pool water.
My Buying Guides on Soda Ash In Swimming Pools
What Soda Ash Is and Why I Use It
When I first started managing pool water, I learned that soda ash is simply sodium carbonate. I use it mainly to raise the pH of pool water when it drops too low. In my experience, this matters because low pH can make the water acidic, uncomfortable for swimmers, and hard on pool equipment.
When I Decide to Buy Soda Ash
I usually buy soda ash when my pool test shows the pH is below the ideal range, which is typically around 7.2 to 7.8. If the water feels irritating, the chlorine seems less effective, or metal parts start showing signs of corrosion, I know it is time to check the chemistry and likely add soda ash.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I buy soda ash, I pay attention to a few important things:
- Purity level: I prefer a product made for pool use or one that clearly states sodium carbonate content.
- Packaging: I look for moisture-resistant packaging because soda ash can clump if it absorbs water.
- Ease of use: I like products with clear dosage instructions.
- Quantity: I choose a size that matches my pool maintenance needs so I do not overbuy.
How I Compare Soda Ash to Other Pool Chemicals
I have found that soda ash is different from baking soda and pool shock. Baking soda raises alkalinity more than pH, while soda ash raises pH more quickly. Pool shock is used for sanitizing, not balancing pH. Knowing this has helped me avoid using the wrong chemical for the problem.
How I Check the Right Dosage
I always test the water first. Then I follow the product label and add soda ash gradually. In my experience, it is better to make small adjustments and retest than to add too much at once. Overcorrecting can push the pH too high and create new problems.
My Safety Tips When Handling Soda Ash
I treat soda ash with care because it is a strong chemical. I wear gloves and sometimes eye protection, especially when handling larger amounts. I also avoid breathing in the dust and keep the container sealed when I am not using it. If I add it to the pool, I do it slowly and keep the pump running so it disperses properly.
Storage Tips I Follow
I store soda ash in a cool, dry place away from moisture. I keep it out of direct sunlight and away from other pool chemicals unless they are properly separated. Good storage helps me keep it from hardening into clumps and makes it easier to use later.
My Final Buying Advice
If I am buying soda ash for my swimming pool, I choose a product that is clean, dry, easy to measure, and clearly labeled for pool use. I always test the water before adding anything, and I make small adjustments instead of guessing. For me, the best soda ash is the one that helps me maintain balanced, comfortable, and safe pool water with the least hassle.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, soda ash can be a very effective way to raise pool pH and help keep the water balanced. I’ve found that using it carefully and in the right amount is important, since adding too much can create new water chemistry problems. My key takeaway is to test the water first, make small adjustments, and always aim for steady, safe pool conditions.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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