Salt vs Mineral vs Chlorine Pools: Which is Best for You?
Thinking of installing a new pool or switching your current system? One of the biggest decisions you'll make is what type of sanitising system to use: Salt, Mineral, or Chlorine. Each has its perks — and a few downsides. Let’s break it down to help you choose the best fit for your pool, lifestyle, and budget.
🧂 Saltwater Pools
Saltwater systems use a chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine, which sanitises your pool water.
Pros:
Gentler on skin and eyes – lower chlorine levels feel softer.
Lower chemical handling – salt converts to chlorine automatically.
Less odour – no strong "pool smell."
Cons:
Corrosive to metal – salt can wear down pool fixtures if not maintained properly.
Higher upfront cost – salt chlorinators cost more to install.
Still chlorine – some assume “saltwater” means chlorine-free — it doesn’t.
Best for: Families who swim often and want a low-maintenance, skin-friendly option.
🌿 Mineral Pools
Mineral systems use a blend of minerals (like magnesium or borates) combined with small amounts of chlorine or oxidisers.
Pros:
Luxurious feel – water feels silky and soft on skin.
Can reduce skin irritation – ideal for sensitive skin.
Often uses less chlorine – better for asthma/allergy-prone swimmers.
Health benefits claimed – minerals like magnesium can help muscle recovery.
Cons:
Still needs chlorine – just in smaller doses.
More expensive – minerals cost more to replenish.
Can require extra equipment – not all setups are compatible.
Best for: Homeowners wanting a premium, spa-like swimming experience with low chemical use.
🧴 Traditional Chlorine Pools
The classic method – manually adding chlorine or using tablets to sanitise water.
Pros:
Cost-effective – lowest initial setup cost.
Effective – proven method for sanitising pool water.
Fewer parts to break down – simpler system.
Cons:
Strong odour – classic “pool smell.”
Can irritate eyes and skin – especially if levels aren’t balanced.
More hands-on – regular monitoring and chemical handling required.
Best for: Budget-conscious pool owners or rental properties with lower usage.
🤔 So… Which Pool System Is Best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences:
Want soft, spa-like water? 👉 Go mineral.
Swim often and want a set-and-forget system? 👉 Choose salt.
Looking for affordability and simplicity? 👉 Stick with chlorine.
Still not sure? At Mick’s Pool Care, we help homeowners across Maitland and the Hunter Valley choose and maintain the right system for their lifestyle. If you’re thinking of switching or need help balancing your pool, get in touch — we’re happy to help.