How to Clean a Stained Pool Liner

Follow manufacturer's instructions for removing the pool lining before cleaning.

Swimming pool owners are faced with a long list of responsibilities that accompany the privilege of taking a swim whenever they'd like. From keeping the pump and filter running flawlessly to maintaining a good pH balance, there is always something to do to keep the pool in prime running condition. A few of the duties of pool owners are infrequent ones, but require some time and elbow grease. One such job is cleaning a stained pool liner.

Things You'll Need

• Bleach Rubber gloves 4 large plastic buckets Large sponge Paper towels or clean, dry rags Soft synthetic scrub brush from pool store

Instructions

1. Drain the swimming pool before even considering taking steps to clean the stained pool liner. While some pool cleaning products claim they can eliminate stains while the pool remains filled, none have actually been proven to work. Follow your pool manufacturer's directions for draining the swimming pool.

2. Remove the stained pool liner. Once again, refer to manufacturer's directions on removing the liner from your swimming pool. Be sure to store all of the liner clips together in a container or sealable bag, as you will need all of them when putting the liner back into the swimming pool.

   Spread the liner on a grassy area or basement or garage floor that has been checked for nails, rocks, or other debris that could potentially tear or puncture it. Secure the edges of the liner using smooth plastic buckets filled with water for weight.

3. 

   Mix a solution of one part bleach to two parts water, using hot water. Using a large sponge, soak the area of the pool liner that is stained. If the stain doesn't immediately begin to dissolve, add a little more of the bleach solution and leave it on the stain for ten or fifteen minutes. Repeat the process as needed until the stain is gone or faded significantly.

4. Scrub the stain gently using a soft synthetic scrub brush for swimming pool and liner use, found in stores that sell swimming pools and supplies. Never use a wire or metal brush as this will tear or puncture the pool liner. There aren't many types of stains that cannot be removed from a swimming pool liner. The fact that there is chlorine in swimming pool chemicals helps prevent most substances from leaving permanent stains.

5. Dry the liner thoroughly using paper towels or clean, dry rags before installing it back into the pool. While many people feel this step is unnecessary, leaving the bleach solution on the liner can cause problems when trying to attain the right chemical balance in the swimming pool after it is refilled.

Resources

• Learn About Pools