History

Baleco’s history dates back to 1958, when Lee Hammersmith opened a small business out of his house called Cincinnati Soap Center. The original focus was on direct to consumer sales of household soaps and disinfectants on the west side of Cincinnati. The business quickly grew and the customer base broadened to include industrial soaps and supplies. 

Expansions of Baleco's business included the addition of pool supplies in 1962.  In 1964, Penetration Ice melt was also added to our product offerings.  In early 1970, Baleco moved into a new and larger facility.  With the expansion of the pool business, soap and ice melt businesses were allocated to other businesses’, and the company name was changed to Baleco International Inc.  

Another facility move happened in late 1979, to our current facility in North Bend, Ohio.  The 80’s expansions allowed Baleco to vertically integrate by added injection and blow molding capabilities.   Also introduced are silk-screen capabilities for our various packaging needs.   

In 2017, Baleco International merged with Haviland Consumer Products.  Like Baleco, Haviland is a well-respected company servicing the pool and spa industry.  Now together Baleco-Haviland is a 100-percent employee owned company.   Both companies continue their dedication to customer service and quality.

Link:  Haviland announces sale from family to employees