Water is life. But with so many options—tap, filtered, spring, mineral, alkaline, and sparkling—it’s natural to ask: what is the best water to drink? The short answer is, it depends. Your health, location, lifestyle, and values all play a part. This guide breaks it all down so you can sip with confidence.
Why the Type of Water You Drink Matters
The water you drink affects more than just your hydration levels. It can influence your health, your wallet, and even the environment. Making an informed choice matters, and we’re here to make that choice easier.
Health and Hydration
Your body is around 60% water. Staying hydrated helps with everything from regulating body temperature to supporting digestion and mental clarity. But not all water is created equal—some contain added minerals or may be free from contaminants, while others might be lacking both.
Environmental Impact
Choosing water isn’t just personal—it’s global. Bottled water creates plastic waste and consumes resources in production and transport. In contrast, filtered tap or on-tap systems drastically cut down on waste and emissions. Small change, big ripple.
Cost and Accessibility
Plain old tap water is practically free in most homes, while bottled and specialty waters can be pricey. Then there’s availability. Remote communities may rely on bottled water, while others have access to state-of-the-art filtration at home.
Understanding Water Quality in Australia
Australia has some of the cleanest drinking water in the world, thanks to rigorous standards. But regional differences and aging infrastructure can still raise questions about taste and quality.
Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Australia?
Yes, in most places. Tap water in Australia is treated and regularly tested to meet health guidelines set by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). However, the taste and mineral content can vary between cities and rural areas, which may prompt some people to explore filtration options.
Water Regulations and Monitoring Standards
The ADWG sets standards for microbial, chemical, and physical properties of drinking water. Water providers are required to monitor and report their compliance. These strict regulations help protect public health and maintain trust in the water supply.
Fluoride in Australian Tap Water: Pros and Cons
Fluoride is added to most Australian tap water supplies to reduce tooth decay. This public health measure has been credited with improving dental health across the country. Still, some people prefer to avoid it for personal or medical reasons. A home filtration system can help remove fluoride if desired.
Comparing Different Types of Drinking Water
The water aisle at the supermarket is practically a flood zone—so many labels, so many promises. Here’s what they all mean and how they stack up.
Tap Water
Readily available, affordable, and eco-friendly, tap water is the default choice for millions. It's usually treated with chlorine and sometimes fluoride. While safe, it might carry a slight taste depending on your plumbing or location.
Filtered Water
Filtered water comes from the tap but runs through a filter to remove impurities such as chlorine, heavy metals, and in some cases, fluoride. It’s great for improving taste and peace of mind—especially in older buildings or areas with harder water.
Bottled Spring Water
This water is collected from natural springs and marketed as “pure” or “natural.” It may contain natural minerals and usually undergoes minimal treatment. It's convenient but contributes to plastic waste and often has a high price tag.
Mineral Water
Mineral water comes from underground sources and contains naturally occurring minerals like magnesium, calcium, and sodium. Some people love the taste and the added nutrients, but it’s more of a luxury item than a necessity.
Purified and Distilled Water
Purified water has been filtered or processed to remove almost all contaminants, including minerals. Distilled water is a type of purified water produced by boiling and condensing steam. While incredibly clean, it may taste flat and isn't ideal for everyday hydration due to the lack of electrolytes.
Alkaline Water
Marketed as a way to balance your body’s pH, alkaline water has a higher pH than regular tap water. There’s limited scientific backing for its benefits, but some people report feeling better drinking it. Just don’t expect miracles.
Hydrogen Water
This water has extra hydrogen gas infused into it and is promoted for its potential antioxidant properties. Early research is promising, but far from conclusive. It's expensive and niche—more of a health trend than a daily staple.
Electrolyte-Enhanced Water
Often marketed to athletes, this water contains added electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support hydration during intense physical activity. It can be useful after a sweaty gym session but isn’t necessary for average daily consumption.
Coconut Water and Plant-Based Alternatives
These are technically not water, but they’re often in the hydration conversation. Coconut water is rich in potassium and naturally low in sugar. While refreshing, it’s more of a supplement than a replacement for plain water.
Is Sparkling Water a Healthy Option?
Yes, and no. Sparkling water is essentially carbonated water—often enjoyed for its fizz and flavour. But what’s the catch?
How Sparkling Water Is Made
It’s made by dissolving carbon dioxide gas into water under pressure. You can buy it in bottles, or better yet, make it at home with an on-tap system that uses CO₂ cylinders.
Health Considerations of Carbonated Water
Plain sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water. It's calorie-free and contains no sugar, unless it’s flavoured or sweetened. Some people find the carbonation causes bloating or reflux, but most can drink it regularly without issues.
Is Sparkling Water Hydrating?
Yes! Sparkling water hydrates just like still water. The bubbles don’t change its ability to quench your thirst. It’s a great alternative if you’re trying to reduce sugary drinks or alcohol.
Filtered Water: Is It Worth It?
For many households, filtered water strikes a nice balance between affordability and peace of mind. But is it really better?
Types of Home Water Filtration Systems
Common systems include jug filters, under-sink filters, and whole-house systems. Some use activated carbon, others use reverse osmosis. Each varies in what it removes—chlorine, heavy metals, fluoride, or microplastics.
What Filters Remove from Tap Water
Filters can reduce chlorine, sediment, rust, lead, copper, and some bacteria. However, they don’t all do the same job, so choosing the right one depends on your local water quality and personal needs.
Cost Comparison: Filtered vs. Bottled Water
Filtered water is much cheaper in the long run. A basic jug filter might cost $40–$60, with cartridge replacements every few months. Compare that to $3 per bottle at the servo—it adds up fast.
Bottled Water Versus Tap and Filtered Water
It’s convenient and heavily marketed, but bottled water isn’t always better.
Environmental Concerns of Bottled Water
Australia uses millions of plastic bottles every day. Even if they’re recycled, producing and transporting them generates emissions. Many bottles end up in landfills or waterways, where they take hundreds of years to break down.
Is Bottled Water Actually Cleaner or Healthier?
Often, no. Many bottled waters are just filtered tap water. While some spring or mineral waters have natural sources, there’s no guarantee they’re significantly purer than what comes from your tap. It’s the packaging you’re paying for, not the contents.
Labeling, Regulation, and Misconceptions
Unlike tap water, bottled water isn’t subject to the same strict public health monitoring. Labels can be vague, and terms like "pure" or "natural" are unregulated marketing terms. Always read the fine print.
How to Choose the Best Water for You
The “best” water isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your lifestyle, health needs, and preferences.
Factors to Consider: Health, Taste, Convenience, and Values
Think about what matters most—taste, cost, health concerns, environmental impact, or convenience. Maybe you love the taste of sparkling. Maybe you want to reduce plastic. Maybe you just want cold water, fast. All valid reasons.
Best Water for Kids, Athletes, and Seniors
Kids benefit from fluoridated tap water for dental health. Athletes may choose electrolyte-enhanced options during high-intensity activity. Seniors might prefer filtered water for improved taste and fewer contaminants.
Water for People With Specific Health Conditions
People with kidney issues may need to watch their mineral intake. Those undergoing chemotherapy or with compromised immune systems might prefer distilled or filtered water. It’s always best to check with a GP if you have special health needs.
How to Improve the Quality of Water at Home
Worried about what’s in your water? Here’s what you can do.
Using a Water Filter
It’s an easy and effective way to improve taste and reduce impurities. Choose a filter that targets the specific concerns in your area—like chlorine, lead, or fluoride.
Regular Testing of Your Tap Water
You can buy water test kits online or through hardware stores. Some councils even offer free testing. Testing helps identify if a filter is necessary or if you’re already good to go.
Installing an On-Tap Water System
Want chilled, filtered, or even sparkling water on demand? On-tap systems connect directly to your plumbing and use CO₂ cylinders for fizz. They're convenient, cost-effective over time, and a great way to cut down on plastic bottles.
Sustainable Water Drinking Habits
Hydration doesn’t have to cost the earth. Literally.
Reducing Plastic Waste
Switch from single-use bottles to reusable ones. It’s better for the planet and your wallet. A good stainless-steel bottle keeps water cold all day and won’t end up in landfill.
Eco-Friendly Hydration Solutions
Filtered tap water is a great start. But if you love fizz, an on-tap sparkling system paired with refillable CO₂ cylinders lets you enjoy your favourite drink without the plastic guilt.
The Role of Refillable CO₂ Cylinders and Recycling Programs
Refillable CO₂ cylinders reduce waste by replacing disposable ones. Ecovenza’s ReCylinder program even collects and recycles spent cylinders, giving them a second life instead of a one-way trip to landfill.
Conclusion: The Best Water to Drink Depends on You
There’s no single winner in the water wars. The best water for you is the one that fits your health needs, lifestyle, values, and taste preferences. Whether it's tap, filtered, sparkling, or straight from a spring, the key is to stay hydrated and choose a method that works for you—and ideally, the planet too.
Summary of Options
Tap water is safe and accessible. Filtered water improves taste. Bottled water is convenient but costly and wasteful. Sparkling adds fun without the sugar. And filtered sparkling on tap? That’s hydration with a little flair and a lighter footprint.
Making an Informed Choice
Knowledge is power—and hydration. Now that you’re equipped with the facts, you can confidently choose the water that suits your needs without falling for marketing fluff or trends. Drink up!