Practical steps to make sure your family is drinking safely.
Just because water looks clear doesn’t mean it’s clean.
Many contaminants have no taste, smell, or color. They slip past our senses and settle into our bodies slowly over time.
One of the biggest myths about tap water is this: “If it tastes fine, it must be safe.” Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Knowing what’s in your water is the first step toward protecting your health.
If you have municipal water, you can start by checking your annual water quality report. It’s usually mailed to you or posted on your water utility’s website. These reports list contaminants detected in your area and whether they meet legal standards.
If you rely on a private well, you are responsible for testing. No one else is checking it for you.
Sometimes, clues appear in your home:
- Rusty stains on sinks or tubs
- A metallic or chlorine taste
- Cloudiness or particles in the water
But often, contamination leaves no sign at all.
“Water is life’s matter and matrix, mother and medium. There is no life without water”
Albert Szent-Györgyi
Testing your water doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
- DIY Test Kits:
These are sold online or at hardware stores. Many can detect lead, nitrates, bacteria, and pH issues. They’re a good first step if you’ve never tested before. - Certified Lab Testing:
For more detailed results, consider sending samples to a certified laboratory. This is the most accurate option and is recommended if your water has ever tested positive for contamination or if you rely on a well.
Quick Tip:
If you have children or are pregnant, it’s worth getting a professional test at least once.
Reading results can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to be a scientist to understand them.
- Lead: No amount is considered completely safe, especially for children.
- Nitrates: Over 10 mg/L is dangerous for infants.
- Coliform bacteria: A positive result means your water could harbor pathogens.
If your tests find contaminants above recommended levels, take action right away.
There are many ways to treat water. The best choice depends on what you’re dealing with.
Pitcher Filters
- Affordable and easy to use
- Great for improving taste and removing some metals
- Must be replaced regularly
Under-Sink Systems
- More thorough filtration for drinking and cooking water
- Good for lead, chlorine, and many chemicals
- Professional installation often needed
Whole-House Filters
- Treats all water coming into your home
- Helps with sediment, chlorine, and some contaminants
- Can be expensive and requires maintenance
No single filter does it all. Always check that your filter is NSF certified for the contaminants you want to remove.
Besides filtration, small habits can make your water safer:
- Flush your taps: Let water run for 30 seconds before using it in the morning.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking: Hot water can pull metals out of pipes.
- Replace old plumbing: Especially if your home was built before 1986.
These steps are simple but can reduce exposure dramatically.
Here are trusted sources to guide you:
You can also find affordable filters at major retailers or request assistance from local health departments.
Pure Water For People 