Traditionally chlorine is used to purify swimming pools, being added directly to the water to keep it crystal clear and bacteria free. However, today there are other options, the most common being the saline or salt-water system, also referred to as a soft-water pool. Salt is added directly to the water and a chlorine generator is installed elsewhere in the filtration system so - they are not completely chlorine free, but the water develops a silken feeling and they are kinder to sensitive skin. Look in our FAQs for more detail of skin-friendly pools.