The Ultimate Guide to Clean Drinking Water: Spring, Reverse Osmosis, and More

We all know how important water is—after all, it's essential for staying hydrated and healthy. But have you ever stopped to think about the quality of the water you're drinking? Not all water is created equal, and in today’s world, finding clean drinking water can sometimes feel like a challenge. With so many options—spring water, reverse osmosis, filtered, and more—it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s best for you and your family.

Although our local water was reported to be overall safe for consumption, I kept noticing the taste of chlorine in the tap. After doing some research and learning more about the different types of water, we made the decision to start getting Mountain Valley 5g Spring Water Glass Bottles delivered to our house. The difference it’s made has been amazing, and it’s something we’ve really come to love. Not only does it taste fresher and cleaner, but we feel good knowing it’s a natural source that hasn’t been treated with chemicals. But I know that not everyone has access to spring water delivery, so in this post, I’ll break down the best clean drinking water options available, along with some simple steps for testing your own tap water to ensure it’s safe and healthy for your loved ones.

Understanding Your Water Options

When it comes to drinking water, there are several different types, each with its own benefits. Let’s break down the most common options so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you:

1. Spring Water
   Spring water is one of the most natural options you can choose. It comes from a spring or natural underground source, and it’s often praised for its purity and mineral content. We personally started getting Mountain Valley 5g Spring Water Glass Bottles, and I can honestly say it’s been a game-changer for us. Not only does it taste fresher and cleaner, but we feel good knowing it’s a natural source that hasn’t been treated with chemicals. If you have a local spring water delivery service available, I highly recommend giving it a try. Check out options like Mountain Valley Spring Water or Poland Spring (for bottled options).

2. Reverse Osmosis Water
   Reverse osmosis (RO) is an advanced filtration method that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. It’s a great option for ensuring that most harmful substances like chlorine, bacteria, lead, and nitrates are removed. It’s a good choice for families who want to be sure their water is free of these contaminants. Keep in mind that while reverse osmosis is excellent at removing pollutants, it also strips out beneficial minerals. To remedy this, you can add a mineral filter to reintroduce some of those minerals into your water, or consider drinking a mineral-rich water on occasion. The APEC 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System is a great option for those looking to install an RO system at home.

3. Filtered Water
   If you don’t have access to spring water or prefer an alternative, filtered water is another affordable and effective choice. You can filter your tap water using a countertop filter, under-sink filter, or even a pitcher with a built-in filter. Popular options include Brita filters and PUR pitchers, which are effective at removing chlorine, lead, and some other contaminants. However, while these filters do improve the taste and quality of water, they don’t remove as many contaminants as reverse osmosis systems. If you’re concerned about lead or other harmful substances, a more robust filtration system like Berkey Water Filters is highly praised for its ability to remove a wider range of pollutants.

4. Distilled Water
   Distilled water is created by boiling water and collecting the steam, leaving contaminants behind. It’s a very pure form of water that can remove almost all impurities, including bacteria and heavy metals. For some, distilled water can even help remove radiation, which is crucial in certain areas with high levels of environmental contaminants. However, while distilled water is pure, it also removes essential minerals, so if you choose this option, you’ll need to reintroduce those minerals into the water. If radiation is a concern, distilled water could be an option, but it's important to use a mineral supplement, or look for a mineral drops option to add the necessary minerals back into your water.

The Importance of Avoiding Disposable Plastic Water Bottles

One thing I cannot emphasize enough is the importance of avoiding disposable plastic water bottles. Not only are they harmful to the environment, but they can also leach harmful chemicals into your water. When plastic bottles are exposed to heat or sunlight, substances like bisphenol A (BPA) can leach into the water, which has been linked to various health concerns. Additionally, single-use plastic bottles often end up in landfills, contributing to plastic pollution.

To minimize exposure to chemicals and reduce your environmental footprint, consider switching to reusable glass or stainless steel bottles. These are safer options that won’t leach chemicals and can be used for years, making them a much healthier choice for both you and the planet.

Testing Your Tap Water: Know What’s in It

Before making any changes to your drinking water, it’s a good idea to know what’s actually in your tap water. There are several ways to test the quality of your water:

1. Check Your Local Water Quality Report
   Your city or county is required by law to provide an annual water quality report, often called a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). This report will tell you about the levels of contaminants in your water, such as lead, chlorine, or pesticides. You can typically find this report on your local water utility’s website.

2. Home Water Testing Kits
   If you want a more detailed analysis, you can purchase a home water testing kit to test for specific contaminants like lead, nitrates, pH levels, and more. These kits are affordable and easy to use. Options like the WaterSafe Home Water Test Kit are great for testing common contaminants. Simply collect a sample of your tap water, send it in for analysis, and you’ll get a report on what might be lurking in your pipes.

3. Radiation Testing
   If you're concerned about radiation in your water (such as from local environmental factors), you may need specialized testing. Most home water test kits don’t check for radiation, but there are radiation detection kits available that can measure beta and gamma radiation. For more thorough analysis, you can send a water sample to a certified lab like TestAmerica or Accutest, which offer radiation testing services. These tests will give you peace of mind and a detailed analysis of potential radiation levels in your water.

4. Hire a Professional
   If you want an even more thorough analysis, consider hiring a professional to test your water. Many environmental testing companies offer detailed water testing services, and they can analyze your water for a wide range of contaminants that might not show up in a standard test.

Actionable Tips for Getting Clean Drinking Water

Now that you know the types of water available and how to test your tap water, here are some practical steps to help you ensure you’re drinking the best water for you and your loved ones:

1. Start with a Test
   Whether you choose to use a home test kit or check your water utility’s report, understanding what’s in your tap water is the first step. This will help you determine if filtration is necessary and which type of filter or water source is best for you.

2. Invest in a Quality Filter or Water Delivery Service
   If you find that your tap water contains contaminants, investing in a filter system is an excellent choice. From pitcher filters to more advanced systems like reverse osmosis or Berkey, there’s an option for every budget. Alternatively, if you have access to spring water delivery in your area, it’s an easy way to have clean, natural water delivered to your door.

3. Consider a Whole-House Filter System
   For families with a well or hard water, a whole-house filter system can help remove contaminants from all of your water sources. A system like the Aquasana Rhino Whole House Filter provides clean water for drinking, bathing, and cleaning.

4. Hydrate with Glass or Stainless Steel
   Once you’ve found your preferred water source, be sure to store it in clean, non-toxic containers. Glass and stainless steel are great options that avoid leaching chemicals that can be found in plastic bottles.

5. Stay Consistent
   Clean water is essential to your health, so make it a daily habit to drink plenty of it. Staying consistent with your water quality will help ensure that your family stays hydrated and healthy.

The Right Water Dispenser for Your Home

If you opt for bottled spring water delivery, having an easy-to-use water dispenser is key. We love our bottom-loading water dispenser, which makes it so much easier to switch out the 5-gallon jugs without having to lift them overhead. It’s also a huge relief that it’s child-friendly—no more worrying about the kids accidentally tipping over a heavy jug. Plus, the dispenser gives us the convenience of having hot, cold, or room-temperature water whenever we need it, making it a breeze to brew tea or enjoy a refreshing glass of water on the go.

Conclusion: Make Clean Water a Priority for Your Family

Finding clean drinking water is an essential part of supporting your family’s health. Whether you opt for spring water delivery, install a reverse osmosis system, or use a reliable water filter, the important thing is to take the time to understand your options and test your water. With a little effort and research, you can ensure that the water you're drinking is clean, pure, and healthy for everyone in your household.

I can honestly say that switching to Mountain Valley Spring Water Glass Bottles has made a huge difference for our family, and I hope this guide helps you find the best clean water solution for yours.