Binnenbaden

Binnenbaden, the Dutch term for indoor swimming pools, are enclosed facilities designed for swimming, recreation, and training. They are distinguished from buitenbaden, or outdoor pools, which operate seasonally. Indoor pools are typically part of municipal leisure centers, schools, hotels, or private health clubs, and they provide year-round access regardless of weather.

Most binnenbaden include a main swimming pool, a separate shallow or children's pool, and sometimes features such as a thermal pool, a baby pool, a diving or starting block area, and a sliding or play element. Additional amenities may include saunas, steam rooms, fitness facilities, and wellness areas, but these vary by operator.

Operations are usually governed by public safety and hygiene regulations. Pools employ lifeguards, patrols, and clear rules on entry, depth, and conduct. Water quality is maintained through filtration, disinfection (commonly chlorine-based or alternative treatments), and regular testing. Climate control systems manage air humidity and temperature to protect comfort and structural integrity, and energy-efficient technologies such as heat recovery and efficient dehumidification are increasingly used.

In the Netherlands, binnenbaden are a core element of public health and recreation policy. They provide lifelong swimming opportunities, hosting swimming lessons for children and adults, lap swimming for fitness, and community programs. Funding and management are often municipal, though private facilities also operate in the sector.