Having a swimming pool in your backyard can be an absolute bliss until it requires regular maintenance to keep the amenity in tip-top shape. Even though it’s ideal to keep the debris away from water but due to winds and other circumstances, there is a higher chance of the debris, stains, and grimes collecting near the pool’s waterline. So, if you’re one of those swimming pool owners who enjoy taking care of the pool themselves - this article will perfectly guide you way through!
The pool waterline tiles often accumulate grime from body oil, sunscreen, and other natural deposits. So, it’s ideal to clean as soon as you notice a pattern in discoloration of the tiles or a greasy waterline surface. Now here’s a step-by-step guideline on how to clean the pool waterline tiles.
Step 1 - Remove all Debris from the Pool
Prior to cleaning, use a net skimmer to simply wipe off all the existing debris from the pool water. This debris could be fallen leaves, grass clippings, or any other form of organic matter floating.
Step 2 - Drop the Waterline Level
Generally, it’s recommended to drop the waterline before you start cleaning the surface. This way, you can clean off the tiles much more easily without intervening with the pool water.
Step 3 - Time to Use the Scrub Brush
Use a stiff-bristled scrub brush to wipe off the mineral deposits and other greasy substances from the pool waterline surface. You must run the brush in a circular motion to deeply clean the accumulated debris. If you have glass mosaic tiles, it’s better to opt for a soft-bristled brush whereas in the case of smaller tiles, an old toothbrush might work as well.
Step 4 - Remove Dirt
Now that you’ve loosened the debris deposits from the pool waterline surface, it’s recommended to scrub off the surface using a chemical agent. You can either use dry baking soda with a few drops of water to create a paste or use a one-quarter cup of dishwashing liquid with a gallon of water. Dip your brush into one of these mixtures and repeat the process by scrubbing and cleaning it.
Step 5 - Use a Pumice Stone or Commercial Cleaner
Made of volcanic rock, the pumice stone is recommended if the above-mentioned cleaners didn’t work efficiently. So, in the case of hard mineral deposits, simply scrub the surface gently with a wet pumice stone to clear off the accumulated debris. Avoid the dry pumice since that will potentially allow too much scrubbing which can cause the tiles to get damaged.
Meanwhile, if the pumice stone didn't work as well - you must try a commercial cleaner that contains sulfamic acid which is quite harsh. After using these cleaners with extreme care, allow a few days to pass before you can get into the pool again.
So, are you geared to start cleaning your pool waterline tiles? Well, it’s important that you clean them regularly to reduce the calcium buildup on your swimming pool. In case you observe a little presence of scum or deposit, use a natural cleaner like baking soda, vinegar, or toothpaste to gently clean the surface.
