5 Best Pool Shock Brands

Safe Swimming Pool Shock Treatments

Best Pool Shock

That’s what you want when you have 1,000 gallons of water in your backyard with kids and animals splashing around.

Here’s why you need to pay attention:

I’ve spent the last 10+ years skimming out dead ducks, rats, mice, lizards, bugs, spiders, and other critters from my swimming pool

And every year since 2007, I’ve spent several hundred dollars ($200 – $300) on pool chemicals, such as 3-inch chlorine tablets, pool shock, water conditioner, algaecide, and muriatic acid – all to keep nasty organisms from living in the swimming pool water.

HANDPICKED RELATED CONTENT: Swimming Pool Chemicals (Updated Daily)

You name it, and I’ve tried it – every brand of pool supplies sold at Walmart, Lowes, Leslie’s, and Amazon.

I’ve learned my lesson when it comes to buying cheap pool chemicals. It always ends up costing more in the long run when you have to use double or triple the amount to get the same results. For example, I once bought a budget brand of algaecide, thinking I was saving money, but I ended up using almost the entire bottle just to see any effect. In the end, I had to buy a higher-quality product to get the job done, which cost me more overall.

Comparison of Different Types of Pool Shock

Type of ShockDescriptionProsCons
Calcium Hypochlorite ShockA common type of pool shock that contains a high concentration of chlorine. Ideal for pools that need a heavy chlorine boost.Effective at killing bacteria, easy to use, fast-dissolving.It can raise calcium hardness in pool water, which is not ideal for vinyl-lined pools.
Sodium Dichlor ShockA stabilized chlorine shock that is gentler on pool surfaces. Ideal for regular maintenance.Gentle on sensitive pool surfaces, dissolves quickly, and adds cyanuric acid (stabilizer).More expensive than calcium hypochlorite, it may not be ideal for pools with already high stabilizer levels.
Potassium Monopersulfate (Non-Chlorine Shock)A non-chlorine shock is used to oxidize contaminants without raising chlorine levels.It is ideal for chlorine-free shock treatments, safe to swim shortly after use, and does not raise chlorine levels.Less effective at killing algae and bacteria compared to chlorine-based shocks.
Lithium Hypochlorite ShockA fast-dissolving shock that doesn’t add calcium or cyanuric acid to the pool water.It does not increase calcium or stabilizer levels and is effective for regular shock.It is more expensive and not suitable for very large pools.

cheap pool shockPool shock is the one important pool supply I don’t skimp on. Clorox Xtra Blue, in particular, has been highly effective because it contains stabilizers that help maintain chlorine levels for a longer duration, even in sunny conditions. This shock also has algae-fighting capabilities, making it ideal for preventing algae growth, especially in warmer climates.

I bought the best pool shock I could afford because, by far, it’s the most important pool chemical, along with chlorine tablets, for keeping my swimming pool clean, clear blue, safe for swimming, and odor and algae-free, ensuring it remains a healthy swimming pool for all swimmers.

Listen…

After over a decade of do-it-yourself swimming pool care, I’ve tried every flavor of pool shock there is, from HTH pool shock, HTH™ pool shock, Pool Essentials, Aqua-Chem, Kem-Tek Super Shock, DryTec, In The Swim to the Leslie Pools brand, including multi-functional shock treatments and functional pool shock products, and the best I have found is Clorox Xtra Blue.

That’s right, Clorox Xtra Blue is the best!

As a DIY, I searched high and low for a product that would save me time and money because I wanted:

Cost-Related Factors:

  • The best price on pool shock (anything less than $5 per treatment was a deal).
  • Discount pool shock or coupons that I could use at Lowes or at Leslie’s Pool Supply.

Performance-Related Factors:

  • The best shock for an in-ground pool that had been re-plastered (with and without chlorine).
  • Pool shock products for Arizona’s hard water with high levels of alkaline (liquids or granules).
  • The strongest shock available kills any organism – but it is safe for home use since I was only doing DIY pool maintenance.
  • Shock that would work quickly, allowing me to swim shortly after treatment rather than waiting hours or even a day.
  • It was a shock treatment that did more than just increase chlorine levels; it also dealt with algae, bacteria, and other potential contaminants effectively.

How To Shock Your Pool

Comparison of Different Types of Pool Shock

Type of ShockDescriptionBest ForUsage Notes
DichlorA granular chlorine shock that dissolves quickly and has a near-neutral pH.Regular maintenance and quick chlorine boost.Easy to use, great for all pool types including vinyl-lined pools. Can raise cyanuric acid levels over time.
TrichlorA powerful chlorine shock containing stabilizers is typically used in tablet form.Long-term chlorination and stabilized pools.Best for maintaining chlorine levels but not ideal for quick shocking. It can increase cyanuric acid over time.
Cal-HypoCalcium hypochlorite is a non-stabilized shock that adds calcium to the water.Clearing cloudy water and killing bacteria quickly.It should be pre-dissolved before use in vinyl-lined pools. It can increase water hardness over time.
Liquid ChlorineLiquid form of sodium hypochlorite, very effective for quick sanitization.Clearing up pool water after heavy pool usage or parties.Requires careful handling. It does not add stabilizer and will degrade in sunlight.
Non-Chlorine Shock (Potassium Monopersulfate)A chlorine-free shock that oxidizes contaminants without adding chlorine.Routine maintenance in pools with lower chlorine needs, such as saltwater pools.Allows swimming shortly after use. Does not kill algae or bacteria but helps oxidize organic contaminants.

Shocking your pool is an essential part of keeping it safe and swimmable, especially for maintaining clear water and avoiding unexpected contaminations. Clorox Xtra Blue shock treatments are particularly effective because they not only boost chlorine levels but also help in preventing algae, killing bacteria, and solving common pool water problems that arise in various pool water types, including saltwater pools and liquid chlorine pools. These extra features make it one of the best options for comprehensive pool maintenance. Each step in the process is important to ensure the shock is effective and the water remains safe for swimming. Here is how to shock your pool effectively:

  • Step 1: Ensure the pool pump is running to circulate the water. This helps distribute the shock evenly across the entire pool.
  • Step 2: Calculate the right amount of shock based on the volume of your pool. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully for accurate dosing.
  • Step 3: Add the shock to the deepest part of your pool. Be sure to do this in the evening or at dusk to prevent the chlorine from being burned off by the sun too quickly.
  • Step 4: Wait at least 8 to 12 hours before testing the chlorine levels to ensure the shock dissolves completely and addresses any water cloudy issues. Ensure chlorine levels have returned to a safe range (between 1 and 3 ppm) before allowing anyone to swim.
  • Step 5: Test the water again to check if additional shock treatments are necessary, especially if the pool water was very cloudy or green initially.

When to Shock Your Pool

Shocking your pool isn’t just a one-time task; it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy swimming pool and preventing bodily fluids and other contaminants from affecting pool water quality. It’s crucial to do it regularly to maintain water quality and ensure the safety of swimmers. Clorox Xtra Blue, with its added stabilizers and algae-fighting properties, is perfect for keeping the water balanced and clear even during heavy usage or after adverse weather conditions:

  • After Heavy Use: If you’ve had a pool party or heavy pool usage from multiple swimmers, it’s best to shock the pool to remove contaminants like bodily fluids brought in by people. If you’ve had a pool party or a lot of swimmers, it’s best to shock the pool to remove contaminants brought in by people.
  • After a Storm: Rain can introduce debris, bacteria, and contaminants into your pool. Shocking after a storm can help keep your pool balanced and clear.
  • At the Start and End of the Season: Shocking your pool at these times is ideal for addressing any build-up from bodily fluids, mustard pool algae, or other contaminants that may accumulate in a vinyl-lined pool or sensitive pool surfaces. Shocking the pool at the beginning and end of the season helps remove organic contaminants and ensures water is properly balanced before closing or reopening the pool.
  • When You Notice Algae Growth: If you see algae starting to form on pool walls or surfaces, it’s time for a shock treatment.

Regularly shocking your pool is key to keeping the water clean, clear, and safe for swimming, ensuring that all swimmers can enjoy a healthy swimming pool environment without pool water problems. By staying on top of shocking, you can prevent common issues like algae growth and chlorine imbalances, ensuring a pleasant swimming experience all season long.

Benefits of Pool Shock Transcript

The weather is right, and the family is ready to use the pool, but what about that strong chlorine odor? We’ll show you what to do about it. Time to clean the gutters. Climbing the ladder and dealing with leaves, bugs, and muck is tiring and potentially dangerous. Not anymore. We’ll show you an innovative solution that will save you hours of nasty work. Your car, it’s another space you live in just about every day. Today, we’ll show you how to make your driving spaces stylish and more comfortable. This is the show all about you and your space.

Your home and surroundings. We are Designing Spaces. (Music) Do-it-yourself pool care is now simpler than ever. It can be shockingly easy once you understand a few basics and have the right swimming pool tools. Designing Spaces goes poolside to see for ourselves. Take a look. Designing Spaces got together with Rebecca, the New Products Manager for the Clorox Pool and Spa brand, to show Melia some simple pool care tips to help her with her problem. Was I glad to see Rebecca? I could use some help understanding why my pool acts up sometimes. It seems like Melinda is a little bit shy about using chlorine. I need to get her comfortable with maintaining the proper levels. (Music). So what’s going on? I’ve been adding chlorine to my pool, and I’ve noticed this strong chlorine odor. Am I overdoing it? That smell could mean you’re not adding enough chlorine.

Not enough chlorine? Was I surprised? I figured because the pool was clear, everything was fine. The clearness of the water does tell you a lot about the chemistry, but it won’t tell you everything. Have your kids been using the pool a lot? With the weather getting warmer, yes. Yeah, I figured it was being used regularly, and that would use up the chlorine and could lead to that chlorine odor. When was the last time you tested? As I said, I figured the pool was clear, so everything was fine. Yeah, well, we should test before we go to the store. Can you download the Clorox Pool app? Sure. Melia doesn’t understand that after chlorine is used, it can linger in the pool water and lead to various pool water issues, such as strong odors caused by bodily fluids or contaminants not being fully neutralized.

Weekly use of the shock will help break it down so you don’t run into that strong chlorine odor she’s having. (Music). Ok, so search Clorox Pool in the app store. Ok. Perfect, there it is. And now, we’re going to set up your profile. So, put in how many gallons of water you have. Ok. Great, and then it’s a regular chlorine pool, of course. And the final liner. Perfect, that’s it. So now we are ready to test the water. Awesome. So, all you will do is take one test strip and dip it into the water at elbow depth, which will give you the best reading. So you dip it in, you’re going to shake it once, then lay it down on the grey card. So, do the Multi-Use Smart Strips help me know when to shock? Well, I’ll show you so if you open the app and go to the test your water section. Ok. You are just going to line up those lines with the test strip. Ok. Just like that, perfect. You see, it went green, so now it’s analyzing.

Ok. So now we can see that your total chlorine is higher than your free chlorine, which means that there is used chlorine in the pool, and that’s when you know how to shock. So this is the Clorox Pool, and Spa Chemical set. Ok. And the first thing we need is Shock Extra Blue. And it conveniently comes in our new, easy-open, easy-pour shock bottles. I think you’re going to need a few, so we’ll go ahead and grab a six-pack. Ok great. Just put it in the cart. Yea. Perfect. Ok. (Music). So the other product you need is the multi-use smart strips, which should be used weekly to help test your chlorine levels, and these will teach you when you should shock the pool.

We’ll go ahead and add those and head out. Thank you so much. Yea. We must pick up a Clorox Pool and Spa Step Three Shock, like Shock Extra Blue. I also picked up the My Pool Care Assistant Multi-Use Smart Strips so she can watch her levels and maintain her pool in the Clorox Pool and Spa comfort zone. So we have Shock Extra Blue, which is the app recommended to cure the chlorine you use. It’s a six-in-one formula with Algae-killing crystals that kill algae. It also kills bacteria, removes contaminants, and clears cloudy water, and just like the doctor ordered, it reduces chlorine odor. When do I use it, and how often? Shocking is step 3 in the Easy One, Two, Three Pool Care Brand System, and it should be used weekly to maintain chlorine levels. We also recommend you shock more frequently after high heat, heavy rains and if you use the pool often. How long do I have to wait before letting anyone enter the pool? That’s a great question, and one of the great things about Shock Extra Blue is you can treat and swim in just 15 minutes.

But we recommend you test before swimming to ensure your chlorine doesn’t exceed four parts per million. 15 minutes, wow, that’s great. My kids are going to love that. How do I shock the pool? So the app recommended you add three pounds using the new easy-open, easy-pour shock bottle. Ok. Wow, I like this bottle. It’s really simple to get the shock to go where I want it to go. I was so happy to discover how simple it was to test and treat my pool with the Clorox Pool app.

I heard about shock, but I hadn’t given it much attention. But now, have things changed? Thank you so much, Rebecca, for showing me what to do. I now know I do not have to be shy with chlorine. You’re so welcome. Remember to test your water regularly with your pool water testing kit, monitor your chlorine levels, and don’t forget to do weekly shocks. All of us on the Clorox Pool and Spa Products Team want pool owners to know that you can save time and money on pool care with a Simpler and Smarter Pool Care Brand System. Melia was like so many DIY pool owners who think there isn’t a problem if the pool is clear. But they need to test the water to know what’s going on. Once they get down to pool care basics and start seeing the results, they find it rewarding to maintain the pool themselves. To learn more about Clorox Pool and Spa Step Three Shock products and the Easy One, Two, Three Pool Care Brand System, visit their website, CloroxPool.com, where you will also find all kinds of helpful information on doing-it-yourself pool care.

To see this portion of the show again, visit DesigningSpaces.tv. (Music). Whether in your car enjoying your pool or simply looking for a way to reduce unpleasant chores, we believe in providing you with up-to-date information and better home care for a better home life. We are Designing Spaces. (Music). For more information about anything you’ve seen on today’s show or about how to be part of the show, log onto DesigningSpaces.tv. You can visit these websites to learn more about the participants in this edition of Designing Spaces.

My favorite pool shock has an easy-to-open-and-pour bottle!

Best Pool Shock On The MarketNot only does the Clorox Xtra Blue easy-to-open bottle make it simple to add shock to the water, but it also keeps the water clear, keeps the algae from growing, and helps lower the need to add as many chlorine tablets each week. Its six-in-one formula kills bacteria, removes contaminants, clears cloudy water, and reduces chlorine odor—making it a versatile solution for maintaining clean and safe pool water.Not only does the Clorox Xtra Blue easy-to-open bottle make it simple to add shock to the water, but it also keeps the water clear, keeps the algae from growing, and helps lower the need to add as many chlorine tablets each week.

Not only does the Clorox Xtra Blue easy-to-open bottle make it simple to add shock to the water, but it also keeps the water clear, keeps the algae from growing, and helps lower the need to add as many chlorine tablets each week.

This is a big deal in Arizona, where the pool water temperature gets in the 90s when the pool deck is 125+ degrees, perfect for supporting an ecosystem of bacteria, bugs, ducks, and algae…

BTW, when I say easy-to-use-bottle, I mean it because if you’ve ever tried to rip open a bag of super shock with your teeth, you know what I’m talking about.

It doesn’t make sense why the manufacturers of pool shock don’t think about making it easy to tear the end of a bag of shock, but they don’t – I digress!

So, without any more of my rambling, let’s see which is the best pool shock on the market for DIY pool maintenance…

Compare 5 Best Selling Shock Brands)

#1 Best Seller
HTH 52036R Pool Care Shock Advanced, Swimming Pool Chemical - Cal Hypo Formula, Prevents Bacteria & Algae, Restores Crystal Clear Water - Shock Treatment, (6 Pack)
  • BENEFITS: Stay all clear for cannonballs; This fast-dissolving, convenient 4-in-1 formula kills bacteria and algae, reduces chlorine odor and irritation, and quickly restores crystal clarity
  • FEATURES: Multi-functional shock treatment for weekly use to solve 90% of pool water problems within 24 hours and restore crystal clarity
  • VISIBLY BRILLIANT SPARKLE: This Cal Hypo based formula sanitizes without adding cyanuric acid (CYA) to prevent overstabilization or chlorine lock
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ALL SWIMMING POOLS: This product is great for all pool types including vinyl-lined pools and saltwater systems
  • YOU'RE ALL CLEAR WITH HTH: For best results, use with HTH 6-Way Test Strips to test and balance your swimming pool water twice weekly
#2 Best Seller
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Shock XTRABLUE® Plus, Kills Bacteria & Algae in Swimming Pools, Swim-Ready in 15 Minutes, (6-Pack)
  • 6 in 1 Formula: Kills bacteria and algae to maintain a clear swimming pool. Our algae-fighting formula prevents algae for crystal-clear water. Destroys contaminants to aid filter performance and clear dull, cloudy water
  • Swim-ready in 15 minutes: Fast dissolving formula works quickly so you can treat and swim in just 15 minutes.
  • Compatibility: This product is safe for all swimming pool surfaces, including vinyl, plaster, fiberglass, and tile.
  • Usage: Use 1 lb. per 12,000 gallon of water. Shock pool weekly and after heavy use, high temperatures, or rain.
  • Clorox Pool App: Test like an expert anytime, anywhere with the Clorox Pool App. Solve common pool problems and get personalized product and dosage recommendations.
#3 Best Seller
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ System Cleanse, Removes Build-Up from Spa and Hot Tub Plumbing, Improves Filter Performance, 32 Ounces (Pack of 1)
  • Deep Cleans Spa Plumbing: Effectively cleans the entire spa plumbing system, removing hidden contaminants.
  • Removes Build-Up: Targets and eliminates build-up of oils, lotions, and other non-living organic waste that clouds water and causes odors.
  • Improves Filter Performance: Enhances filter efficiency, allowing for better water clarity and reducing maintenance frequency.
  • Effortless Application: Simply add to your spa system to quickly purify and refresh your water.
  • Clorox Pool App: Test like an expert anytime, anywhere with the Clorox Pool App. Solve common swimming pool problems and get personalized product and dosage recommendations.
#4 Best Seller
Clorox® Pool&Spa™ Shock Clear, for Crystal Clear Swimming Pool Water, Swim-ready in 15 minutes, Suitable for vinyl pools (6-Pack)
  • 4 in 1 Formula: Kills bacteria and won’t impact pH. Clears cloudy water. Destroys contaminants. Improves filter performance
  • Swim-ready in 15 minutes: Fast dissolving formula works quickly so you can treat and swim in just 15 minutes
  • Compatibility: This product is safe for all swimming pool surfaces, including vinyl, plaster, fiberglass, and tile.
  • Usage: Use 1 lb. per 12,000 gallon of water. Shock pool weekly and after heavy use, high temperatures, or rain.
  • Clorox Pool App: Test like an expert anytime, anywhere with the Clorox Pool App. Solve common swimming pool problems and get personalized product and dosage recommendations
#5 Best Seller
DryTec 1-1901-24 Calcium Hypochlorite Chlorine Shock Treatment for Swimming Pools, 1-Pound, 24-Pack
  • One bag of this product per 10,000 gallons of water
  • Adjust and maintain pH at 7.2-7.6
  • Maintain total alkalinity in the range of 60 to 120
  • One bag of this product per 10,000 gallons of water provides 5 to 10 ppm available chlorine
  • 68% Calcium Hypochlorite

Best Choice Vs. The Cheapest Choice

You can compare the Pros/Cons, ratings, reviews, and prices of each product listed above to find the best or cheapest pool shock treatment. As you see, both choices are listed.

But my mind is made up, and my favorite is Clorox Xtra Blue with the easy-to-open bottle because, after years of testing different pool chemicals, I’ve learned to get the best price and products for my DIY swimming pool needs.

And that’s not all. Another benefit I discovered along the way is how easy it is to buy pool chemicals online and get supplies delivered straight to my front door in 2 days or less by using my Amazon Prime account…

Warning About Poop In The Pool Water

On any given day in your chlorinated pool, you’re just one toddler diaper or animal poop away from dangerous recreational water illnesses.

 

These illnesses are caused by organisms such as Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and E. Coli, as well as symptoms such as severe diarrhea, which will all make you and anyone swimming in your contaminated pool water very sick.

Product information was last updated on 2025-02-10.

1 thought on “5 Best Pool Shock Brands”

  1. I have used all the pool chemicals listed above and then many many others. I have found that these are not the best and are ineffective unless your dumping pounds of them in each day. I have switched to Poolife Chemicals. I buy them from a reputable pool supply store in our town. (Note added: Poolife products can also be found on Amazon.)

    Don’t have any problems with algicide, chlorine or phosphates. My water remains crystal clear and I have actually saved money. They also recommend that we change out pool sand in the filter annually. So with the help of knowledgeable pool techs, good quality chemicals we are now swimming in safe pool water.

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