---
title: "What Is Sodium bicarbonate? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "Sodium bicarbonate is plain baking soda, and pool owners use it to raise low total alkalinity."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/sodium-bicarbonate
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Water chemistry

# Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is plain baking soda, and pool owners use it to raise low total alkalinity.

Sodium bicarbonate is the gentle way to raise [total alkalinity](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/total-alkalinity). It moves pH only a little, which is why pros use it when alkalinity is low but pH is fine.

The pool grade is the same chemical as the baking soda in your kitchen, but pool packs are cheaper in bulk. Add it in small doses with the pump on, broadcast over the deep end, then wait several hours and retest. Too much makes water cloudy and raises [pH](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/ph) over time. Follow the product label.

[Marina can helpPool Maintenance Services](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/our-services/pool-maintenance-services)

## Related terms

-   [Total alkalinity](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/total-alkalinity)
-   [Soda ash](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/soda-ash)
-   [pH](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/ph)
-   [Water balance](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/water-balance)

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