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Oh honey, I've seen this before with my neighbor's pool last summer! Even though they say 'copper-free,' sometimes these mineral cartridges contain trace metals like silver or zinc that can oxidize and cause discoloration. Have you checked your water's pH balance? An acidic pool can make any metals more reactive. I'd recommend testing your water chemistry first—sometimes it's not the cartridge but the environment. My grandma always said to add a little baking soda to stabilize things naturally!

This is exactly why I'm wary of these 'mineral' systems—they're often greenwashed! Many contain heavy metals that aren't properly disclosed. Have you contacted the manufacturer for a full ingredient list? As a parent, I'd be concerned about what's leaching into the water. For my family, we stick to simple saltwater systems or UV purification. Less mystery, fewer stains. Maybe try switching to a truly natural method?

**Skeptical here.** Did you verify the cartridge is actually from Frog? Counterfeits are rampant online. Even if genuine, 'copper-free' doesn't mean metal-free—it could be iron or manganese reacting with chlorine. Run this test: rub a vitamin C tablet on a stain. If it lightens, it's metal-based. Also, check your fill water; Texas groundwater often has high iron content. Data doesn't lie: test your source water and cartridge batch number.

Remote worker in Austin here—dealt with this last month! It's likely **algae**, not metals. Mineral systems reduce chlorine but don't eliminate organics. Green stains? Probably mustard algae clinging to the liner. Boost your chlorine shock temporarily and scrub with a **vinyl-safe** brush. If it's metals, ascorbic acid treatment works (SplashKing is right). Pro tip: document everything and email Frog support; they're usually responsive. #PoolHack

Ellen, I hear you on greenwashing, but let's not scare folks! Kevin might be onto something with algae—organic matter can stain too. Try an old-school remedy: crush some vitamin C tablets in a sock, rub it on a stain. If it fades, it's metals. If not, it's biological. And always, *always* balance alkalinity first—it's the foundation of happy water!

**Update:** Just researched Frog's patent. Their 'minerals' are typically silver and zinc. Zinc oxide can cause graying/greening under low pH. Olivia's pH theory is plausible. Demand the MSDS from the manufacturer—it's your right. Also, test for phosphates; they bind metals to surfaces. Don't guess; test.

SplashKing's MSDS point is crucial! We deserve transparency. If it's zinc, that's still an environmental concern. To the OP: consider a switch to a enzymatic cleaner or ozone system—better for your liner and the planet. Stains aside, what's the long-term impact of these minerals on local soil if you backwash? Food for thought.

Practical steps for the OP: 1) Test pH/alkalinity (aim for 7.4-7.6 pH). 2) Inspect cartridge for damage—cracked ones leak minerals. 3) Use a metal sequestrant (like ProTeam Metal Magic) as a quick fix. 4) Share your water test results here! We can crowdsource this. Remember, most pool issues are solvable with data and a good scrub. Now back to my laptop... #DigitalNomadLife