How to Prevent Slime in a Wading Pool

Slime in a paddling pool is not only unsightly, it can prove dangerous. This slime -- which is typically algae -- is slippery, and can cause slips and falls that led to bodily harm. Furthermore, paddling pools are a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause a layer of slime to attach itself on the bottom and sides of the small pool. Since paddling pools are small and containing nothing more than a receptacle to hold the water, dealing with the slime requires only a few common items.

Tip the paddling pool over and let the water drain out of the pool. Make sure you move the paddling pool to an area where you do not care if the dirty water saturates the ground.

Rinse the inside of the paddling pool with a water hose. Use the pressure from the water hose to dislodge the slime from the sides and bottom of the small pool.

Fill a 5-gallon bucket with water. Add 1 cup of oxygen bleach or 1 cup of borax to the bucket. Stir the powder and water with a spoon until dissolved.

Dampen a soft-bristled scrub brush in the mixture and begin scrubbing the inside of the paddling pool. Scrub all areas of the paddling pool -- not just the areas with the slime -- thoroughly with the brush and mixture.

Rinse the paddling pool clean with a water hose. Prevent the slime from returning by emptying the pool when not in use and cleaning it once a week.