From Salt to Silk: Why North Shore Families are Switching to Mineral Pools
- Michael Malaga

- Jan 1
- 2 min read

For decades, the backyard pool has been a staple of life in Northern Sydney. But as our focus shifts toward wellness and sustainability, the way we treat our water is evolving. While salt water was once the “gold standard,” a new era of pool technology has arrived on the North Shore.
At Northern Pools, we are seeing a massive surge in homeowners from Hornsby to Mosman making the switch to magnesium-rich mineral systems. Here is why the “From Salt to Silk” movement is the ultimate lifestyle upgrade for your home.
The Science of Softness: What is a Mineral Pool?
Unlike traditional chlorine or standard salt pools, a mineral pool (often utilizing systems like MagnaPool) uses a unique blend of magnesium and potassium chloride.
When these minerals pass through your pool’s chlorinator, they don’t just sanitize the water; they change its molecular feel. The result is water that feels noticeably “softer” or “silky” against the skin, eliminating the harsh, drying sensation associated with high-chemical environments.
Why North Shore Families are Making the Switch
1. Therapeutic Health Benefits
The North Shore is home to an active community—from weekend bushwalkers in the Ku-ring-gai Chase to school-age swimmers.
Muscle Recovery: Magnesium is famous for its ability to relax muscles and reduce aches. Swimming in a mineral pool acts like a giant, liquid Epsom salt bath.
Skin & Allergy Friendly: If your children suffer from eczema or sensitive skin, mineral water is a game-changer. It reduces the need for heavy flocculants and harsh chemicals that typically cause “itchy skin” syndrome.
No More Red Eyes: Because the water is naturally balanced, the stinging “chlorine eye” common after a long afternoon of play is virtually eliminated.
2. The “Mineral vs. Salt Water” Comparison
Many clients ask us: “Isn’t salt water already natural?” While salt pools are better than liquid chlorine, they still produce high levels of sodium chloride. Mineral systems, however, reduce the sodium content, making the water more environmentally friendly and less corrosive to your pool plumbing and surrounding stone coping—a vital consideration for the high-end finishes found in Upper North Shore backyards.
3. Visual Clarity and Maintenance
Magnesium acts as a natural flocculant, filtering out even the tiniest micro-particles. This results in “diamond-like” water clarity. For homes in leafy suburbs like Wahroonga or St Ives, where organic debris can often challenge pool filtration, mineral systems help keep the water looking pristine with less manual effort.
How the Conversion Works: Your Journey to Silk
Converting your existing salt or chlorine pool to a mineral system is more straightforward than most homeowners realize. Northern Pools specializes in seamless system upgrades:
Water Assessment: We test your current chemistry to ensure a smooth transition.
Equipment Upgrade: We install a high-efficiency mineral-compatible chlorinator and, if necessary, a glass media filter for maximum clarity.
The Mineral Infusion: We add the specific magnesium/potassium blend to your water.
The Result: Within 24 hours, your pool is transformed into a private spa.
Ready to Experience the Mineral Difference?
If you are tired of the chemical smell and the dry skin that follows a swim, it’s time to upgrade. A magnesium pool isn’t just a utility; it’s an investment in your family’s health and the value of your Northern Sydney property.
Contact Northern Pools today for a consultation on a MagnaPool conversion in Northern Sydney.





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