Where to Buy Liquid Chlorine

Sodium Hypochlorite is commonly called liquid chlorine or bleach. Most household bleach that you will find in stores in 6% chlorine. Pool chlorinating liquids may be 10% or 12.5% chlorine.

If you buy household bleach, you want pure liquid chlorine with no additives. Additives such as fragrances, thickeners (splashless), or surfactants (outdoor bleach) may cause foaming. Bleach with fabric protectors (chloromax technology) may also cause foaming.

Most Clorox bleach today says it had Cloromax Technology. They are polymers that create foaming and are not suitable for pools. Clorox Germicidal Bleach appears to not have additives.

Check the date code on any liquid chlorine. You want fresh chlorine preferably bottled within the last 3 months. Liquid chlorine strength breaks down with time and temperature.

Don’t buy liquid chlorine if its stored outside in the garden center. The heat and sun weakens the chlorine.

Nationwide

Check your local pool stores for 10% or 12% “liquid shock” or “chlorinating liquid”. They are usually not the least cost but can be available and convenient.

Use their websites to check for availability in stores around you:

Home Depot - HDX 128oz Chlorinating Liquid 3 Pack
Wal-Mart - Pool Essentials Chlorinating Liquid 2 Pack
Lowes - Kem-Tek
Ace Hardware - should have 10% bleach
Ollies Bargain Outlet
check any of your local stores to see who carries liquid chlorine-janitorial services might offer liquid chlorine if you have your own containers