How do you purify water in a kiddie pool?

A kiddie pool provides a cool place for children to splash and enjoy the water. Safe use requires weekly maintenance, which includes emptying and scrubbing the pool. Chlorine bleach and a chlorine test kit provide the necessary tools for purifying the water.

1. Clean the pool

   A kiddie pool doesn't have a filtration system, so it's more difficult to keep clean than a larger, above-ground pool equipped with filtration. Before the first use, and at least once a week thereafter, empty the water from the pool and scrub all its surfaces with a wet rag soaked in a solution of one part bleach to four parts water. Remove signs of bacterial growth and algae from the pool surfaces.

2. Fill the pool

   Fill the pool with clean water. Add 1/4 teaspoon of bleach for every 10 gallons of water. Test the chlorine level in the pool using a test kit. If the chlorine level is below 2.0, add more bleach, mix the water and allow the pool to stand for 10 minutes before entry.

3. Keep the water clean

   If a child has an accident in the pool, drain the water and clean it again. Allow a minimum of four hours for the pool to air dry before refilling it.