Oh, so you shocked the pool, tossed in some chlorine tablets, maybe even skimmed the surface like you were auditioning for “Best Neighbor of the Year,” and now you think you’re set? Cute. And yet, here you are, staring at green water that looks more like a pond than a backyard oasis. Let me spell it out for you: skipping brushing is the rookie move that algae loves the most.
Mistake #1: Treating Shocking Like a Magic Wand
Dumping shock in the pool and walking away isn’t “maintenance,” it’s wishful thinking. Chlorine kills algae, sure, but it can’t scrub off the slimy little biofilm clinging to your walls and steps. Algae hides where the sanitizer can’t reach, laughing at your efforts.
Simple Fix: Brush your pool after shocking. Every wall, every step, every corner. Think of it like flossing: annoying but necessary.
Mistake #2: Forgetting the Steps and Ladders
Those pretty little ladders and steps? They’re algae’s favorite hiding spots. You skipped them, didn’t you? That’s why green streaks creep back like an uninvited guest.
Simple Fix: Remove ladders when possible and scrub them separately. Use a brush with stiff bristles to get into crevices where algae loves to party.
Mistake #3: Only Brushing When You See Green
If you wait until algae is visible, you’re already behind. Algae spores are microscopic freeloaders that set up camp long before you notice the green tint.
Simple Fix: Brush at least twice a week, even when your pool looks fine. Preventing algae is easier than battling a swamp.
Mistake #4: Trusting Chemicals Alone
You can pour in every bottle of algaecide at the store, but if you don’t physically disrupt algae’s grip on your pool surfaces, chemicals are just expensive perfume for dirty water.
Simple Fix: Combine chemicals with elbow grease. Sanitizer works best when algae is loosened up by regular brushing.
Mistake #5: Using the Wrong Brush
Plastic bristles on a plaster pool? Weak. Too soft a brush means you’re just petting the algae instead of evicting it.
Simple Fix: Use a nylon brush for vinyl and fiberglass, and a stainless steel combo brush for plaster or concrete pools. Right tool, right job.
The Ranty Reality Check
Your pool isn’t green because chlorine “didn’t work.” It’s green because you treated brushing like an optional chore. Algae doesn’t care how much money you spent on chemicals if you won’t pick up a brush. The truth hurts, but so does staring at a swamp you paid thousands of dollars to install.
Your “Stop Making Excuses” Checklist
- Brush your pool at least twice a week.
- Scrub steps, ladders, and corners every time.
- Match the brush type to your pool surface.
- Always brush after shocking or adding algaecide.
- Treat brushing as essential, not optional.
If you’re serious about ditching green water, it’s time to stop skipping the simplest, most ignored step. Your pool deserves more than a lazy skim and a prayer.
