DPR Posts Official List of Proper Swim Attire for DC Pools

Back in June a reader wrote in about being banned from Turkey Thicket pool for wearing a “swim shirt”. Here is the definitive list of permitted swim attire from DPR:

The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) reminds patrons of the current DPR Swim Attire Requirements for all District pools; and provides a more illustrated guide.

The current requirements are as follows:

All persons on the pool deck and/or swimming in the pool must have on proper swim attire.
All infants/toddlers that require a diaper must wear swimmer diapers and proper swimwear.
Clean cotton t-shirts and sarongs are allowed on the pool deck, however patrons must have on proper swim attire underneath.

The following attire is not allowed at District pools:

“Street clothes”, Brazil/French-cut, thong style and/or revealing swim wear, cut-off jeans, jeans, skirts, shorts, sport bras, leotards, leggings, dri-fit wear, compression shorts and compression shirts are prohibited. Underwear and undergarments are not allowed to be worn under swimsuits.

Pool patrons often ask, “Why do I have to wear proper swimwear?”. Here are just a few reasons as to why it is important to only wear pool attire in the pool.

1. Street clothes (especially cotton) can transport airborne and ultimately water borne contaminants into the pool.
2. Lycra and Nylon are the best non-absorbent material for swimming and are the best fabrics for proper swim attire.
a. Other absorbent materials (such as cotton) can break down in the water and cause fibers to clog filters.
b. Any “colored” material (unless specifically made for swimming) can bleed into the pool, effecting water chemistry and balance. This is also a reason for turbidity in pools.
3. Cotton and similar materials can absorb the chemicals in the water, causing the water to become less effective at maintaining the proper chemical balance or may cloud the water.

Photo of permitted swimwear after the jump.