Is filtered water better than bottled water?
Usually, filtered tap water is the better everyday choice: it is much cheaper, has a smaller environmental footprint and is about as safe as bottled water. Medical News Today concludes tap water is usually better; a filter can improve taste. Bottled water is useful when tap water is unsafe, during emergencies and for convenience.
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Is filtered water better than bottled water?
For most people at home, filtered tap water wins on cost and environment and is about as safe. Medical News Today concludes that tap water is usually the better choice: it is cheaper, has a much smaller environmental footprint and is about as safe as bottled water. A home filter on tap water can improve taste and, depending on the type, safety.
How do the two compare?
| Filtered tap water | Bottled water | |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | US tap water is among the safest in the world, as the CDC is cited | About as safe as tap water, per Medical News Today |
| Regulation | EPA sets limits and requires public notice of problems | FDA sets standards, but plant inspections are rare |
| Cost | Very low | Roughly 2,000 times more per volume in one estimate |
| Environment | Treatment still uses chemicals and energy, but far less | Bottling, chilling, transport and plastic waste |
What about contaminants and microplastics?
The article notes that not all contaminants are regulated and some limits have not changed in over 20 years, so a filter may still help. It also cites a 2018 study that found microplastic contamination in 93 percent of 11 bottled water brands tested, with about double the amount found in tap water. Researchers are still studying health effects.
What type of filter?
The article says carbon or reverse-osmosis filtering can improve safety and taste. Check that a filter is certified for the contaminant you worry about (for example, look for NSF certification), and change cartridges on schedule, as an old filter can harbor bacteria. That last point is general advice.
When is bottled water the right choice?
- During a boil-water notice or emergency.
- When traveling where tap water is unsafe.
- For convenience on the go; a refillable bottle is a better habit.
Who should ask a doctor?
People with weakened immune systems, who are pregnant or who are older should consult a doctor about their drinking water. Your water supplier publishes an annual report you can read.
This is general information, not medical advice.
People also ask
Is filtered tap water as safe as bottled water?
Medical News Today says tap water is about as safe as bottled water; a filter can improve taste and may remove some contaminants.
Is bottled water regulated?
Yes, by the FDA, but the article notes plant inspections are rare.
Is bottled water worse for the environment?
Yes, in most cases: bottling, chilling, transport and plastic waste have far greater impact than tap water.
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