The 2021 Chlorine Shortage, and What Happens Next

A confluence of factors led to chlorine utterly departing shelves in the dog days of 2021. Like many products, chlorine is one of those things that seems like it will always be in stock, and its absence is felt greatly. While we have more or less recovered from the factors that led to 2021's shortage, there's still a lot to be learned that can be applied in the future.

Why was Chlorine so hard to find in 2021?

Supply chain disruptions have become an unfortunately common problem in the last few years. While the bleak days of the Toilet Paper Drought of 2020 are far in the past, 2021 brought with it a raft of new disruptions. Groceries, car parts, and computer chips all fluctuated between available and unobtainable, along with one other, unexpected product: Chlorine.

The 2021 Chlorine Shortage caused a lot of problems for many businesses and individuals across the country. Not only were manufacturers and shipping companies strained under the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the main manufacturing plant that produced chlorine was heavily damaged during a hurricane and ensuing fire, leaving only two domestic manufacturers left in the US.

This shortage led to a 300% markup on all chlorine products on the secondary market. Some saw an opportunity, and began buying and reselling chlorine products at a huge profit. While the main manufacturing plant is allegedly being rebuilt and should be operational by late 2022, supply remains unsteady, and as we return to the hotter months, here are some tips to keep you supplied and chlorinated through the summer.

How to find Chlorine

First, it is important to know where to find chlorine products. Avoid third party sellers unless its absolutely necessary, and try to establish direct contact with a wholesaler. Second, consider stockpiling chlorine products.

A one time bulk purchase makes sense if supply is unsteady. You may not have the opportunity to buy the quantity or product you prefer in the future, so make the most of it when supply is in. Finally, you can resell chlorine products at a profit. The best time to sell is at the start of the season. This would be around April if you live in a warmer area, or May-June in a cooler region.

As unprepared people realize they will not be able to walk into the story and buy chlorine, they will need to turn to you. By following these tips, you can survive and even profit during the Great Chlorine Shortage.

Hiccups in the supply chain seem like they're here to stay, and while chlorine is just one example, the lessons we learn can apply to other products as well. Think in the long-term, and anticipate your needs several months in advance. Just like you can find great deals on snowboards in spring, you should be stocking up on chlorine in the winter.

How did you navigate the supply chain disruptions of 2021? Share your strategies in the comments below!