How to Choose the Right Bottled Water

When buying bottled water, it can be challenging to choose the right product. This is especially true when you're unsure about the marketing terms on the label. Many bottled water companies advertise their products as being sourced from natural springs, beneficial for health, or of higher quality compared to tap water. However, it is important to take the time to research the various bottled water options available. Having some basic knowledge will help you pick the best bottled water brand for your needs.

Choose Natural Bottled Water. Many bottled water brands are available on the market. However, you should opt for those sourced from natural water sources, such as spring water or artesian well water. Here are a few options to consider:

• Artesian Well Water. This water is extracted from wells filtered through sand or rocks. The filtration layer plays a crucial role in naturally purifying the underground water source.
• Mineral Water. This water contains up to 1 mg of dissolved chemicals per liter, including minerals and trace elements. No additional minerals or elements are added to the product. Common minerals found include calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
• Groundwater. This water is drawn from natural underground streams. The product is collected directly from underground aquifers or municipal water systems that connect to groundwater.
• Soda Water. This type of water contains naturally occurring CO2. After processing, companies may add CO2 to enhance the natural effervescence.

Avoid Buying Bottled Water from the City Water Supply System. Some companies sell products labeled as "tap water" or sourced from municipal water systems. If you're looking for natural water or spring water, you should avoid buying tap water.

• In the United States, purified water must meet the standards of the United States Pharmacopeia. Before being bottled and sold, the water must be distilled, undergone reverse osmosis, or deionized. However, this water is often sourced from municipal water supplies and is essentially the same as tap water.
• The product is labeled as "Distilled Water" or "Purified Drinking Water."
• Although purified bottled water undergoes filtration similar to other types of water, it is not naturally sourced groundwater or spring water.

Read the Label. By looking at the bottom or sides of the bottle, you'll find the plastic type symbol. Many bottled water products use PET plastic, which is commonly used in packaging and is recognized as safe by the FDA.

• Recently, packaging materials containing Bisphenol A (BPA) have been closely monitored. Like PET bottles, BPA bottles are also labeled with BPA. However, after reviewing numerous studies, the FDA has affirmed that BPA is safe for consumers.

Plan Your Bottled Water Budget. Some bottled water products are quite expensive, especially those that are unique or labeled as spring water.

• Before purchasing bottled water, you should determine how many bottles you use daily or your water consumption plan. This will help you calculate the exact amount of bottled water you need to buy each week.
• You can save money by buying bottled water in bulk. Many stores offer discounts for wholesale purchases.
• You may also consider installing a bottled water delivery system at home. Some companies offer large containers and dispensing equipment for home use.

Store Bottled Water Properly. Bottled water, like food and beverages, needs to be stored correctly to maintain its quality and safety.

• Avoid exposing bottled water to sunlight and heat. It's best to store it in a cool, dark place.
• Bottled water stored in a cool and dark location has no expiration date.
• Pay attention to how the product is handled or stored. Make sure to clean the cap or bottle neck, especially if there is no outer protective seal. The cap and neck may become contaminated or exposed to harmful chemicals during transport.

Install a Home Water Filtration System. A home filtration system can save you money over time and reduce plastic waste. There are two types of water filtration systems: whole-house systems (which filter all the water entering the home and tend to be more expensive) and point-of-use systems (which filter water at the moment of use, such as at the faucet or showerhead). Many people opt for point-of-use systems due to their lower cost. These include:

• Water bottles with built-in filters. This option is suitable for people who don't frequently use purified water.
• Water pitchers with filters that purify water as it flows through the filter.
• Under-sink water filters, though these may not always be compatible with your faucet.
• Refrigerator/freezer water filters, which are installed in household appliances to produce purified water and even ice from purified water.

Buy BPA-Free, Reusable Bottles. If you prefer drinking tap water or using a water filter, consider purchasing reusable bottles to help protect the environment.

• Reusable water bottles can significantly reduce waste and prevent unused plastic bottles from piling up.

Drink Boiled Tap Water. Although boiled tap water may taste different from bottled water, it is healthier and more affordable. Properly boiled tap water is safe to drink. If you want extra assurance, you can purchase a filter to further purify the water.

• Tap water is tested more frequently for bacteria and chemicals compared to bottled water. Additionally, tap water is disinfected before being supplied to consumers.
• About one-quarter of bottled water is actually just tap water (so always read labels carefully and understand the marketing terms).

• If you're unable to afford bottled water or can't find the right product, you can use a water filter instead.
• Some bottled water companies provide misleading information about the origin of their water on labels or in advertisements. Always verify information from reliable sources.
• Bottled water can be quite costly, even for the cheaper options. Be sure to calculate your monthly water expenses and stick to your plan.
• Be wary of marketing phrases like "natural spring water from glaciers" or "pure underground water." These are often just purified tap water in disguise.