Owning a pool is great until you have to maintain it. The chemical balancing, the testing, the algae scares. We put together the essential supplies that make pool maintenance straightforward, even if you're brand new to it.
In This Guide
1. Taylor K-2006 Test Kit
Taylor K-2006 Complete Test Kit
Professional-grade liquid test kit. Tests chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid.
Why we like it: The gold standard for pool testing. More accurate than test strips. Lasts all season.
Check Price on Amazon →Test strips are convenient but often inaccurate. The Taylor K-2006 is what pool professionals use, and it's worth the upgrade. Once you learn the drop-count method (takes 5 minutes), you'll never go back to strips.
2. Clorox Pool & Spa 3-Inch Chlorine Tabs
Clorox Pool 3-Inch Chlorinating Tabs (25 lbs)
Slow-dissolving stabilized chlorine tablets for floaters or automatic chlorinators.
Why we like it: Trusted brand, dissolve evenly, stabilized formula protects against UV breakdown. One bucket lasts most of the season.
Check Price on Amazon →3. In The Swim Pool Shock (24 Pack)
In The Swim Chlorine Pool Shock (24 Pack)
Calcium hypochlorite shock treatment. 24 individual 1-lb bags for easy dosing.
Why we like it: Pre-measured bags make dosing foolproof. Clears cloudy water fast. Stock up for the whole season.
Check Price on Amazon →4. Rx Clear Spring Pool Opening Kit
Rx Clear Spring Opening Chemical Kit
All-in-one kit with shock, algaecide, stain preventer, and water clarifier for pools up to 30,000 gallons.
Why we like it: Everything you need to open your pool in one box. Takes the guesswork out of spring startup.
Check Price on Amazon →Pool Maintenance Basics
Test your water 2-3 times per week during swim season. Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6. Run your pump 8-12 hours a day. Shock weekly or after heavy use. Brush walls and vacuum weekly. It sounds like a lot, but once you get a routine going it takes about 15 minutes a day.