Looking for something less toxic than chlorine to control swimming pool bacteria and algae? Check out these alternatives:
• A chlorine replacement called PHMB or biguanide (polyhexamethylene biguanide) is less irritating than chlorine. Brands include Baquacil (Baquacil.com) and SoftSwim (BioGuard.com).
• Ozone cleaning system: Installed into your pool to keep water naturally sanitized without chlorine; effectively used in Europe for more than thirty years. Brand suggestions: SunshinePool.com, OzonePureWater.com.
• Mineral treatments: Minerals such as silver and copper destroy bacteria and algae, reducing the amount of chlorine you need by about 90 percent. Brands include Nature2 (Nature2.com).
For more information: Chlorine-Free Products Association, (847) 658-6104.