When you picture your dream pool, you likely imagine crystal clear water that feels refreshing on a hot Gold Coast afternoon. You probably don’t picture red eyes, itchy skin, or the smell of harsh chemicals.
One of the most common questions we get at Lazy Day Pools is: “What is the difference between chlorine, saltwater, and mineral pools?”
To help you make the right choice for your family, we’ve broken down exactly how these three systems work, how they feel, and why the filtration technology makes all the difference.
The 4 Contenders Explained
1. Traditional Chlorine (The “Old School” Way)
This is the system most of us grew up with. It relies on you, the homeowner, acting as the chemist.
How it works:
You manually pour liquid chlorine or add chlorine tablets into the water to kill bacteria.
The Downside:
Because you are adding chemicals in bulk doses, chlorine levels spike. This creates that strong “bleach” smell and causes skin irritation and “red eye.”
Our Verdict:
We generally consider this outdated technology. It requires too much manual effort and offers the poorest swim experience.
2. Saltwater (The Lazy Day Standard)
This is the most popular system in Australia and is included in every Lazy Day Pools Standard Quote.
How it works:
We add bags of salt to your tap water (about 1/10th the saltiness of the ocean). As this slightly salty water passes through the Saltwater Chlorinator unit, electricity turns the salt into chlorine gas.
The Reality:
A saltwater pool IS a chlorine pool. The difference is that it generates its own chlorine automatically and consistently, so it is gentler than the “dump and pour” method.
The Swim Feel:
The water feels softer than traditional chlorine, but it will leave a salty taste on your lips and can leave a “sticky” residue on your skin when you dry off.
Chlorine VS Saltwater Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Chlorine | Saltwater (Standard) | |
| Sanitisation Method | Manual Chemical Dosing | Salt converts to Chlorine | |
| Chlorine Levels | High (Spikes) | Medium (Consistent) | |
| Water Taste | Chemical | Salty | |
| Skin After-Feel | Dry / Itchy | Sticky / Salty | |
| Suitable for Eczema? | No | Sometimes | |
| Maintenance | High (Daily/Weekly) | Low (Automated) |
3.Freshwater
It is designed for homeowners who want to enjoy their pool without the salty taste and feel associated with conventional saltwater systems.
How it works:
The system keeps the pool clean and sanitised while maintaining a freshwater swimming environment.
The swim feel:
The water feels clean and fresh, without the salty taste or sticky residue that can be noticeable after swimming in a conventional saltwater pool.
For families looking for a premium swimming experience that feels closer to fresh household water, Naked Freshwater provides a distinctly different option.
4. Mineral Pool
A mineral pool replaces traditional pool salt with a magnesium-based mineral blend.
How it works:
Magnesium minerals are added to the pool water and work with a compatible chlorination system to keep the water sanitised.
The swim feel:
Mineral pools are known for their soft, smooth water feel and are popular with families wanting an alternative to standard saltwater.
Why choose mineral?
A mineral pool offers the convenience of an automated system while providing the added benefits and swimming experience associated with magnesium-rich water.
Ready to Choose Your Water?
Whether you stick with our reliable Saltwater standard or upgrade to the luxurious NKD-R Mineral system, Lazy Day Pools guarantees a system that is engineered for the Gold Coast climate.
Discuss your filtration options with our Director, Kevin, during your free on-site consultation.
Contact us today!
