Keeping your swimming pool clean isn’t just about appearances — it’s about safety, hygiene, and protecting your investment. Whether you’ve got a family pool in New Milton or a relaxing spa in the New Forest, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping the water crystal clear and healthy.
At New Forest Pools, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the dos and don’ts of pool cleaning to help you avoid common mistakes and keep your pool in perfect condition all year round.
The Dos of Pool Cleaning
1. Do Clean Your Pool Regularly
Skim the surface daily to remove leaves, insects, and debris. Regular brushing and vacuuming prevent algae buildup and staining on the walls and floor of your pool.
2. Do Check and Balance Your Chemicals
Testing your pool water at least once a week helps maintain the right balance of chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. Balanced water keeps it safe for swimming and protects your pool’s surfaces and equipment from damage.
3. Do Run Your Pump and Filter Every Day
Good circulation is key to clean, clear water. Run your pool pump for at least 6–8 hours a day to help distribute chemicals evenly and trap dirt in the filter.
4. Do Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even with regular care, your pool needs expert attention. New Forest Pools provides flexible one-off or ongoing maintenance visits to deep-clean your pool, check equipment, and make sure everything is working efficiently.
5. Do Shock Your Pool When Needed
After heavy use, storms, or hot weather, bacteria and algae can build up. A chlorine shock treatment restores water clarity and sanitises your pool.
The Don’ts of Pool Cleaning
1. Don’t Ignore Cloudy or Green Water
Murky water is a sign that your pool’s balance is off. Ignoring it can lead to algae growth and unsafe swimming conditions. Call New Forest Pools for fast, professional help before the issue worsens.
2. Don’t Overuse Chemicals
Adding too much chlorine or pH adjuster can cause skin irritation and damage your pool liner or equipment. Always test before treating — or let our experts handle it for you.
3. Don’t Forget to Clean the Filter
Your filter does the hard work of trapping dirt and debris. A clogged filter reduces water flow and can cause cloudy water. Clean or backwash it regularly to keep your system running smoothly.
4. Don’t Leave Water Levels Too Low
Low water levels can cause air to enter the pump, leading to damage. Keep the waterline at about halfway up the skimmer opening for optimal performance.
5. Don’t Skip Winter Maintenance
Even when you’re not swimming, your pool still needs care. Proper winter cleaning and chemical balancing prevent algae growth and make reopening in spring much easier.
Let the Experts Handle It
Keeping up with all these dos and don’ts can be time-consuming. That’s where New Forest Pools comes in. We provide reliable, professional pool cleaning and maintenance across New Milton, Lymington, Highcliffe, Christchurch, and the wider New Forest area.
Whether you need a one-off deep clean or a regular care plan, we’ll ensure your pool stays sparkling, safe, and ready to enjoy.
👉 Contact New Forest Pools today to book your pool cleaning service or request a free quote.