Is Swimming Pool Chlorine Good for Wounds?

Chlorine kills bacteria in swimming pools.

Properly maintaining your pool and adding the necessary chemicals makes it a safe place to swim. Although chlorine kills bacteria in your pool, it's unsafe to swim with open wounds.

Considerations

Swimming with open wounds can be dangerous. You're likely to spread germs to other people using the pool. Don't swim until your wounds are fully covered in skin and aren't releasing fluid, according to the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority.

Infection

Although swimming pool chlorine kills bacteria in the water, it can take some time for it work. Some germs, such as Crypto, can survive in swimming pools for several days after chemicals have been added. These germs can enter your wound and cause an infection.

Chemical Exposure

Wounds should never be exposed to undiluted swimming pool chlorine. It can burn your skin or cause serious health problems. If you get chlorine on your skin, wash the area with plenty of water to avoid adverse reactions.

References

• University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority; Wound Care for Open or Sutured Wounds, Mohs Surgery Clinic; March 2009
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Swimming Pool Chemicals, Chlorine
• New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health Services: Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs)

Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Swimming & Recreational Water Topics