Savvy Talks: The Pool Habits That Matter More Than You Think

 
Originally aired on 7/31/2026 for WGN Radio 720.

A swimming pool may look crystal clear, but that doesn't mean it's germ-free.

The good news is that properly maintained pools are generally very safe. The bad news? Many of us assume chlorine instantly kills everything, so we don't think twice about our own habits.

Infectious disease physicians and water-quality experts say a handful of simple behaviors can make a real difference—not only for your own health but for everyone sharing the pool.

Here are the mistakes they see most often.

1. Assuming Chlorine Solves Every Problem

Chlorine is one of the best tools we have for keeping pool water safe, but it isn't instantaneous. While many bacteria are killed quickly, some viruses take longer, and certain parasites can survive much longer than most people realize.

That means swimmers still play an important role in keeping pool water clean.

Do this instead: Treat pool water as shared water, not as a disinfectant. Wash your hands after diaper changes, avoid swallowing pool water, and don't assume chlorine eliminates every risk.

2. Skipping the Shower

Most public pools provide rinse stations, but many people walk right past them.

A quick shower removes sweat, sunscreen, body oils, cosmetics, and bacteria before they enter the water. Showering afterward also helps remove chlorine and anything else your skin picked up while swimming.

Do this instead: Spend 30 seconds rinsing off before you get in and again when you're finished.

3. Swimming With a Healing Wound

Small scratches usually aren't a major concern, but larger cuts, abrasions, and healing surgical incisions deserve more caution.

Although chlorine reduces the number of germs in the water, it doesn't eliminate them completely.

Do this instead: Wait until significant wounds have healed before swimming. If you have a minor cut, cover it with a waterproof dressing.

4. Treating the Pool Like a Bathroom

Everyone knows they shouldn't pee in the pool, yet many people still do.

Besides the obvious hygiene issue, urine reacts with chlorine and reduces its ability to disinfect the water. That familiar "chlorine smell" around many pools is often the result of chlorine reacting with contaminants—not a sign that the pool is especially clean.

Do this instead: Take the two-minute walk to the restroom.

5. Staying in a Wet Swimsuit for Hours

Warm, damp fabric creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast, especially during long summer days.

Do this instead: Change into dry clothing as soon as you're finished swimming and rinse off afterward.

6. Never Washing Your Swimsuit

Your swimsuit doesn't clean itself simply because it spent the day in chlorinated water.

It still collects sunscreen, skin oils, and microorganisms.

Do this instead: Rinse it after every use and wash it regularly according to the manufacturer's directions.

7. Forgetting About Your Ears

Water trapped inside the ear canal creates a moist environment where bacteria can multiply.

Do this instead: Tilt your head to drain excess water and gently dry the outside of your ears after swimming.

8. Sharing Towels

Towels can transfer bacteria, fungi, and certain skin infections from one person to another.

Do this instead: Bring a clean towel each time you swim and avoid sharing it.

9. Returning to the Pool Too Soon After Diarrhea

This recommendation surprises many people.

Health experts advise waiting two weeks after diarrhea has completely resolved before swimming because some parasites can continue to spread long after symptoms disappear.

Do this instead: If you've recently been sick, give it the full two weeks before getting back in the water.

If You're Bringing Kids...

Children need a little extra attention around pools—not just for safety, but for hygiene.

Build bathroom breaks into the day, change diapers away from the water, wash little hands with soap instead of rinsing them in the pool, and remind kids that pool water isn't for drinking.

The Bottom Line

Swimming is one of the best ways to cool off, exercise, and enjoy summer. The goal isn't to make anyone afraid of pools.

It's simply to remember that chlorine isn't a substitute for good hygiene.

A quick shower, a clean towel, a bathroom break when you need one, and a little consideration for the people sharing the water go a long way toward keeping everyone healthier.