Yes, clean drinking water can be stored for later use or in preparation for emergencies, such as natural disasters, unexpected disruptions to your water supply or for staying hydrated on long journeys. Keeping a safe supply of stored water gives you peace of mind that you have access to hydration no matter what happens or where you are.
Read our article on how hydration can boost the performance of your employees.
The length of time water can be stored depends on the container, its condition, and the storage environment. To keep your water safe and fresh, use a food-safe container that’s been thoroughly cleaned before use. Once filled, seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, dark place, like a fridge or pantry, to help prevent bacteria growth and exposure to contamination. How long the water should be stored also depends on the type of water:
Tap water sealed in an air-tight bottle or container can remain safe to drink for up to 6 months if stored properly. However, the type of container and how well it’s sealed play a significant role in preserving the water, so this timing can differ greatly. For example, when exposed to sunlight or heat, plastic bottles can degrade, potentially releasing harmful chemicals like BPA into the water, which could pose health risks. Additionally, if the container hasn’t been properly cleaned or sealed, this risks exposure to bacteria or contamination, making the water unsafe to drink much sooner.
Read more about the safety of tap water in the UK.
Tap water left out in a glass or cup has a much shorter shelf life compared to water that’s properly sealed. This is due to the increased risk of contamination. Experts suggest that open tap water shouldn’t be left for more than 24 hours. Over time, gases like carbon dioxide can enter unsealed water, altering its pH and making it taste stale. Additionally, chlorine, used to treat drinking water, can evaporate when exposed to air, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive.
Discover more in our article about the importance of water pH.
Bottled water is sealed to keep bacteria out and maintain its freshness. However, bottles made from materials like Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) are slightly permeable, which means that gases can seep into the water over time, potentially altering the taste and smell. Additionally, the plastic itself can degrade, releasing chemicals that may affect the water’s quality. Because of this, plastic water bottles often come with a ‘best before’ date, giving a helpful guideline for when the water is at its best in terms of taste and freshness. As long as the seal remains intact, the water is safe to drink. But once opened, it’s important to follow the same precautions as with tap water and consume it within 24 hours.
Filtered water can be safely stored in the fridge for 3-5 days, as long as it’s kept in a clean, sealed container. This makes it a more sustainable way to store water while keeping it fresh. Filtering also helps remove any unwanted tastes or odours that can develop over time.
Though unpleasant, stale or musty-tasting water can still be safe to drink. Thankfully, there are ways to improve the taste of old water, such as filtering. Filtering stored and sealed water is an excellent way to refresh the taste and quality of your workplace drinking supply. Our range of BRITA filters effectively remove impurities, activated carbon, microplastics, and bacteria, ensuring your water is safe and clean.
Alternatively, our BRITA water dispensers, connected directly to your mains water supply, feature the same advanced filtration system, UV-C cleaning technology and a ThermalGate™ technology that prevents external germs from getting to the water. These innovations work together to guard against contamination and to provide a continuous supply of fresh, safe water for your team. Ideal for refilling water bottles for taking on the go or staying hydrated throughout the day, you can have peace of mind knowing your employees always have access to clean, refreshing water.
Some other ways to refresh the taste of your water include:
There are some easy tell-tale signs that your water is no longer safe to drink. Here are some of the key things to look out for:
Choosing a safe and hygienic container and storing your water correctly can mean it’s safer to drink for longer. Follow these steps to keep your water clean and free from contamination:
To prevent the transfer of chemicals like BPA and PET, opt for glass, stainless steel bottles or containers. These materials are also non-porous, so they help to reduce any unwanted smells and tastes, making your water more appealing to consume once you do drink it. If storing your water for an emergency supply, glass and stainless steel are much more durable and can be reused, also making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Learn more about how to reduce single-use plastics in your business.
Water itself doesn’t expire and can be stored. However, proper storage is crucial to ensure its safety and freshness. Use suitable materials to contain the water and store it in an appropriate environment to maintain its quality. To ensure that your water is free from any harmful contamination, a water dispenser from BRITA ensures on-tap clean and filtered water as and when you need it, without the need for harmful plastic bottles or excess storage.
