Swimming is an exhilarating sport and a great cardio workout, but swimmers should understand the threats lurking in pool water.
Chlorine, a common chemical in pool water, could negatively affect your swim equipment, leading you to replace your gear much sooner than expected.
Understanding how chlorine can damage your swim equipment will help you take care of it.
The Corrosive Effect of Chlorine
Chlorine is a strong disinfectant that kills bacteria and other microorganisms. This corrosive chemical can wear down your swim gear if you don’t take care of it.
Your goggles, swim caps, and swimsuits can lose their elasticity over time, leading to an ill fit and reduced performance.
Discoloration & Fading
High-quality swimsuits, caps, and goggles may lose their color due to regular exposure to chlorine. Degradation can lead to poor performance and shorter lifespans for your swimming gear.
Swim Cap Damage
Swim caps, especially latex ones, are vulnerable to chlorine damage.
They may become brittle and develop small tears. Regular swim cap maintenance tips include thoroughly rinsing your cap in clean water after each swim and allowing it to air dry away from direct sunlight.
This simple routine can greatly extend the lifespan of your swim cap!
Deterioration of Swimsuits
Quality swimsuits are big investments for regular swimmers. Chlorine can break down the fabric's fibers, causing swimsuits to stretch, sag, and lose their shape. This results in discomfort and drag while swimming.
The Impact on Goggles
Chlorine can damage the lenses and seals of your swim, leading to fogging and leaks in the water. This affects visibility and comfort, which are crucial for an enjoyable swim.
Rinsing your goggles in fresh water after each swim can mitigate chlorine damage.
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While chlorine can maintain a clean and healthy swimming environment in pools, it can also damage your swim gear.
By understanding its effects and taking proactive measures, you can extend the lifespan of your swim equipment and enjoy endless laps in the pool!
