When you are trying to drink pure water each day, you usually have two main options such as filtered water or bottled water. They both might look the same in your glass, but there are some huge differences between them.
Many people think about which one is good for their health, budget, and the environment. Filtered water normally comes from your tap and is cleaned using a special filter to eliminate harmful impurities. Bottled water is packaged and sold in stores, often advertised as pure and safe.
In this blog post, we will look at what makes filtered and bottled water different, so you can choose the best one that fits your needs best.
Five Key Differences between Filtered & Bottled Water
Filtered water and bottled water are both highly popular choices, but they have some potential differences. Here are five main differences that will help you understand how you compare in daily life.
- Source of the Water:
Filtered water usually starts as tap water from your local municipal supply. It runs through a water filtration system or a filter pitcher that effectively eliminates chlorine, lead, sediments, and other toxic impurities. You are basically taking regular tap water and cleaning it yourself.
On the other hand, bottled water can come from various places, like some brands that use spring water, which is collected from natural underground springs. Others simply use municipal tap water that is purified and then bottled.
Moreover, plenty of individuals think all bottled water comes straight from pristine mountain springs, but that isn’t always true. So, knowing where the water comes from is important if you really care about the source.
- Taste & Freshness:
Another main difference between them is the taste. Filtered water often tastes fresher as compared to tap water or bottled water because the filter eliminates several harmful chemicals, such as chlorine, that give water a bad taste or smell.
So if you have ever noticed your tap water tastes like a swimming pool, then a water filter will help with that.
While bottled water brands also focus heavily on taste. Several companies add minerals to enhance the taste or use filtration methods like reverse osmosis to create a clean and crisp taste. Some bottled water tastes very pure, while others might have a slight mineral taste depending on the water source.
If you are picky about how your water tastes, then you might find that filtered water has a more consistent taste, while bottled water can taste a little different depending on the water source.
- Cost Over Time:
Cost is also a huge factor when choosing between filtered and bottled water. Initially, bottled water seems like an easy and cheap option, as you just purchase a bottle and drink. But with the passage of time, the cost adds up quickly. If you drink enough bottled water, then you could spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.
On the other hand, filtered water has an upfront cost if you purchase a filter pitcher or install a filtration system. However, after that, you only need to change the filters frequently, which is much cheaper in the long run.
So, if you are on a tight budget or want to save some money over time, then filtered water is the best choice for you.
- Environmental Impact:
One of the biggest differences between filtered and bottled water is how they impact the environment. Bottled water creates plenty of plastic waste. Even if you recycle, many plastic bottles still end up in the landfills or oceans, where they harm animals and pollute the environment badly.
Filtered water is much better for the planet. You use your own reusable bottles or glasses and do not create extra plastic waste every time you have a drink.
If you really care about reducing pollution and living more sustainability, then filtered water is the best choice for you as it is beneficial for the planet.
- Convenience and Portability:
Convenience is a major difference between bottled and filtered water. However, bottled water is not very convenient, this is because it requires you to go to the nearby store to purchase. Now, imagine you are on a tour, then it will ultimately become difficult for you to find purified bottled water.
Fortunately, this isn’t the case with filtered water. You need to fill up a reusable bottle at home at any time. In case you are travelling somewhere, you can consider carrying a portable filtration system with you. Such a system will provide you with purified water on demand, no matter if you are residing in a remote place.
Which one is best for you?
Filtered water is normally an ideal option for most people, as it costs much less over time, so you save a lot of money. It is also better for the environment because you do not throw away plastic bottles every day.
Plus, filtered water usually tastes fresh since it properly eliminates chlorine and other toxic substances that make tap water taste bad. You just need a filter system in your house, and once you get used to filling your own bottle, it is very easy. If you care about your health, your wallet, and your planet, then filtered water is a smart and simple choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which water is more environmentally friendly? Filtered or Bottled Water?
Filtered water is more environmentally friendly because it contributes to reducing plastic production.
Is there a taste difference b/w bottled & filtered water?
Yes, there can be a taste difference in filtered and bottled water. Usually, filtered water tastes good because of its freshness. On the other hand, bottled water taste can vary depending on its brand and especially age.
Which water is cost-effective in the long run?
Filtered water is definitely a cost-effective option in the long run. You will only have to invest one time in a filtration system, and then enjoy clean and safe water for a prolonged period of time.
