How to deal with pool water in eyes

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Introduction

Have you ever jumped into a pool and come out with burning, red, or irritated eyes? You’re not alone. Pool water, especially when improperly balanced, can cause discomfort that ruins your swim. In this guide, you’ll learn how to deal with pool water in eyes, from immediate relief techniques to prevention tips for your next swim. Whether you’re a casual swimmer or a pool owner, knowing how to care for your eyes is essential for a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Why Pool Water Irritates Eyes

Despite popular belief, chlorine alone isn’t the main reason your eyes burn after a swim. Eye irritation is usually caused by chloramines — chemical byproducts formed when chlorine combines with sweat, urine, or other contaminants. Other causes include:

  • Imbalanced pH levels
  • Over-chlorinated water
  • Salt in saltwater pools
  • Debris or dirt particles
  • Wearing contact lenses in the pool

When the protective tear film over your eye is disrupted, it can lead to dryness, stinging, redness, or blurry vision.

Step-by-Step Guide to Treating Pool Water in Eyes

Step 1: Exit the Pool Immediately

If you feel a burning or stinging sensation in your eyes, get out of the water right away. Continued exposure can worsen irritation or cause more serious problems like conjunctivitis or corneal abrasions.

Step 2: Rinse Your Eyes With Fresh Water

The first and most important step is to flush your eyes:

  • Use a clean stream of freshwater (bottled, filtered, or tap) to rinse your eyes gently
  • Tilt your head back and flush for 15–30 seconds per eye
  • Use a sterile saline solution if available

💡 Tip: Avoid rubbing your eyes — this can scratch the cornea and increase irritation.

Step 3: Apply Cool Compresses

If discomfort or redness persists:

  • Soak a clean washcloth in cool water
  • Gently press it over your closed eyelids for 5–10 minutes
  • Repeat as needed for relief

Cool compresses help reduce inflammation and soothe dry, irritated eyes.

Step 4: Use Lubricating Eye Drops

Over-the-counter artificial tears can rehydrate your eyes and flush out remaining irritants:

  • Choose preservative-free eye drops for sensitive eyes
  • Apply 1–2 drops per eye up to four times daily
  • Avoid redness-reducing drops, which can worsen symptoms with overuse

⚠️ Caution: Do not use medicated eye drops without consulting a doctor, especially if irritation lasts more than 24 hours.

Step 5: Rest Your Eyes

Give your eyes a break:

  • Stay out of bright sunlight or wear sunglasses
  • Avoid screens and harsh lighting for a few hours
  • Keep eyes closed periodically to let natural moisture build up

Rest allows your eyes to recover more quickly from chemical exposure and dryness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Rubbing Your Eyes
    This can cause micro-abrasions, increase redness, and worsen the irritation.
  2. Using Tap Water With Contact Lenses
    Tap water can contain microorganisms harmful to contact wearers. Remove lenses before rinsing.
  3. Ignoring Persistent Redness
    If symptoms continue for more than 24–48 hours, consult an optometrist to rule out infection or injury.
  4. Not Checking Pool Chemistry
    Frequent eye irritation is often linked to poor water balance. Regular testing prevents repeat issues.
  5. Swimming Without Goggles
    Unprotected eyes are more likely to become irritated from chlorine, salt, and debris.

Extra Tips & Pool Hacks

  • Wear Swim Goggles: Always use properly fitted swim goggles to keep water out of your eyes.
  • Maintain Proper Pool Chemistry: Keep chlorine between 1–3 ppm and pH between 7.2–7.6 for eye-safe water.
  • Shower Before Swimming: Reduces organic contaminants that react with chlorine to form chloramines.
  • Use Saltwater with Caution: Saltwater pools are gentler but can still irritate eyes if pH is off.
  • Install UV or Ozone Systems: These reduce chloramines and make water more eye-friendly.

Want to keep your pool chemistry in check? Read our full guide on [how to test and balance pool water].

Conclusion

Eye irritation from pool water is uncomfortable but manageable with the right steps. By rinsing your eyes, using eye drops, and taking a break from swimming, you can find quick relief. Better yet, prevent the problem altogether by wearing goggles and maintaining clean, balanced water. With these tips, your eyes will stay clear, healthy, and ready for your next swim.

📌 Bookmark this guide so you’re ready next time your eyes need poolside relief!