Summer Pool Safety For Children: Chemicals You Need To Avoid

Pools are a staple of summer fun, but for parents seeking a non-toxic lifestyle, there’s a growing concern: chlorine. While chlorine is essential for sanitizing pools, it comes with some serious side effects, especially for babies and young children with delicate, developing systems.

The answer? We're sharing a simple, effective DIY pre-pool spray you can make at home and introduce you to our Sun Milk, a nourishing, non-toxic sunscreen made with love by Tallow Twins.

Why Chlorine Exposure Matters: Especially for Kids

Chlorine is widely used to keep pool water clean by killing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. However, while chlorine does serve an important public health function, prolonged or frequent exposure can cause unintended harm, especially in small children.

1. Chlorine and the Skin Barrier

Children’s skin is thinner and more absorbent than adults’, which makes it more vulnerable to harsh chemicals. Chlorine strips the skin of natural oils, causing:

• Dryness and irritation

• Rashes and eczema flare-ups

• Disruption of the skin microbiome

2. Chlorine and Respiratory Health

When chlorine reacts with organic matter (like sweat or urine), it forms chloramines, which can become airborne and irritate the lungs.

• Children are more likely to develop coughing, wheezing, and asthma-like symptoms

• Increased risk for chronic lung issues with repeated exposure

3. Chlorine and Hormonal Disruption

Studies suggest that chlorine byproducts (like trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids) may act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone development.

• Potential long-term impact on thyroid function and reproductive hormones

• Greater concern during developmental years

Signs Your Child Might Be Reacting to Chlorine

It’s not always obvious that your child is sensitive to chlorine. Here are some symptoms to watch for:

• Itchy, red, or flaky skin after swimming

• Chronic ear infections

• Frequent coughing or throat clearing post-pool

• Congestion or asthma flare-ups

• Irritability or sleep disturbances after swimming

Natural Solutions: How to Protect Your Child from Chlorine

While avoiding chlorine altogether isn’t always practical (unless you have a saltwater or ozone pool), there are steps you can take to minimize your child’s exposure and support their natural detoxification systems.

1. Pre-Pool Barrier Protection

Creating a barrier on the skin helps prevent chlorine from being fully absorbed.

• Apply a natural oil-based product before swimming.

• Use a homemade mineral-rich spray to neutralize chlorine.

2. Post-Swim Rinse & Detox

• Rinse off immediately after swimming with clean, filtered water.

• Follow with a nourishing balm to repair the skin barrier.

3. Use Non-Toxic Sunscreen

Most conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that react with chlorine and increase toxicity. We offer two solutions to conventional sunscreens: Sun Proof and Sun Milk. 

DIY Pre-Pool Chlorine Neutralizing Spray

This easy-to-make spray uses vitamin C, which neutralizes chlorine on contact. It’s gentle, effective, and safe for babies and kids.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp sodium ascorbate (vitamin C powder)

• 1 cup distilled or filtered water

• 1 tsp aloe vera juice (optional)

• Glass spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Add the vitamin C powder to the water.

2. Shake until fully dissolved.

3. Add aloe vera juice for soothing properties (optional).

4. Pour into a glass spray bottle.

To Use: Spray generously onto your child's skin and hair before they enter the pool. Let it absorb or gently rub in.

Meet Sun Milk: Your Non-Toxic Poolside Essential

At Tallow Twins, we believe sun protection should never come at the expense of your child’s health. That’s why we created Sun Milk, a gentle, non-toxic sunscreen designed for even the most sensitive skin.

Why Moms Love Sun Milk:

• Made with grass-fed tallow, non-nano zinc oxide, calendula, chamomile, and jojoba oil

• Broad-spectrum protection without synthetic chemicals or a white cast

• Safe for babies, kids, and sensitive skin types

• Water-resistant and reef-safe

• Handcrafted in small batches with organic ingredients

Sun Milk not only protects your child from harmful UV rays but also supports the skin barrier with nourishing, bioavailable ingredients. 

Tip: Apply Sun Milk after your chlorine-neutralizing spray and before your child is exposed to sun for best results.

How to Create a Non-Toxic Pool Routine

Use this checklist to keep pool time fun, safe, and clean:

1. Pre-Pool

   • Spray your DIY Vitamin C spray

   • Apply a layer of Sun Milk

2. During Pool Time

   • Keep kids hydrated

   • Use shade, hats, and UV clothing when possible

3. Post-Swim

   • Rinse with filtered water

   • Follow up with nourishing balm or lotion

   • Offer detox-friendly foods (berries, cucumbers, coconut water)

Their Skin Deserves the Best

We believe that summer memories with your kiddos shouldn’t come with a toxic trade-off. Whether it’s chlorine-heavy pools or conventional sunscreens filled with questionable ingredients, we’re here to help you protect what matters most, your child’s health.

☀️ Ready to stock up on summer essentials?

Explore our full Pre & Post Sun Care Collection for everything you need to care for skin before and after the sun.