As summer temperatures ease, many are still heading to their local lido for a dip. But a growing number of swimmers are skipping the pre-swim shower, earning the nickname ‘dry strokers.’
These rule-breakers head straight into the pool without rinsing off, leaving behind sweat, oils, dead skin cells, cosmetics, deodorant, and sunscreen. The practice has sparked debate online, with many calling it ‘gross’ and a hygiene risk.
Why Showering Before Swimming Matters
GP Dr Ross Perry explains that showering before entering a pool is ‘not just a courtesy, but an important hygiene measure that helps protect both you and other swimmers.’ He notes that throughout the day, skin accumulates substances that are washed off into the pool if not removed first.
While disinfectants like chlorine are designed to kill harmful micro-organisms, they have to work harder with a higher load of organic matter. This can affect water quality and increase the likelihood of skin, eye, and ear irritation for others.
The Gross Reality: Reddit Poll and Personal Accounts
The issue has been hotly debated on the r/Swimming Subreddit, where a poll asked users whether they shower before swimming. Out of 2,700 votes, 1,200 said yes, while 1,400 said no.
One user, @16km, shared an anecdote about a landscaper who jumped in without rinsing, causing ‘a cloud of dirt and foliage’ to engulf the pool. Another user, @RevHenryMagoo, said they asked two men to rinse off after the sauna but were met with hostility: ‘They got an attitude and said: “This is a public pool and it’s bound to be gross.”’
Health Risks and Chemical By-Products
Dr Ross warns that skipping the shower can increase exposure to irritants and reduce the effectiveness of the pool’s sanitation system. When sweat, urine traces, cosmetics, and personal care products mix with chlorine, they can create chemical by-products known as chloramines.
These are often responsible for the strong ‘chlorine smell’ associated with pools and can cause red eyes, respiratory irritation, and skin discomfort. ‘A quick rinse with soap before swimming significantly reduces the amount of contaminants entering the pool,’ he adds.
A Simple Step for a Healthier Pool
Despite the debate, some admit to skipping the step. @CurseUmbreon wrote: ‘[I’ve] been swimming competitively since I was four years old and I’ve never once rinsed off before getting in.’ They were told by commenters that ‘nothing should go in the pool but you.’
So next time you head to the pool, make a stop at the shower cubicles first. It’s a simple step that helps maintain cleaner water and a healthier environment for everyone.
