Artesian well water. This is water that is bottled from a well that contains either sand or rock that acts as an aquifer. [2] X Research source Aquifers are important as they are a natural filter for the ground water. [3] X Research source Mineral water. This type of water contains no more than 250 parts per million of dissolved solids — it contains both minerals and trace elements. No minerals or other elements that are not already present can be added to the product at any time. [4] X Research source Common minerals found include: calcium, magnesium, and potassium. [5] X Research source Spring water. This must be collected from an underground source that flows naturally to the ground’s surface. This type of water must be collected only from the spring or a tapping system that’s directly accessing the spring. [6] X Research source Sparkling water. This type of water contains carbon dioxide naturally. After treatment, companies may add carbon dioxide back into the carbon dioxide content. [7] X Research source

Purified water must meet the standards laid out by the US Pharmacopoeia. It must go through either distillation, reverse osmosis, or deionization prior to being bottled. [8] X Research source However, this is often collected from municipal sources and is generally the same as the water that comes from your tap. You may see these labeled as “Distilled Water,” or, “Purified Drinking Water. " Bottled purified water is generally not thought to be inferior to other forms of bottled water, however it should be known that it does not come from a natural spring source and is not considered artesian water.

The chemical Bisphenol A (also known as BPA) has come under a lot of scrutiny lately. As with PET, you will see this labeled on products that contain any BPA. [10] X Research source However, the FDA has reviewed multiple studies and has stated that BPA is safe for consumers. [11] X Research source

When thinking about purchasing bottled water, you need to consider how many bottles of water you drink daily or plan on drinking. This daily count will help determine how much you should purchase each week. It might be more cost-effective to purchase bottled water in bulk. Many stores give discounts when you purchase larger quantities. You may also want to consider a home bottled water delivery system. Some companies will send large jugs of water and a dispenser that you can use in your home to fill reusable bottles.

Keep bottled water out of the light and heat. It’s ideal to store it in a cool, dark location. There is no expiration date for bottled water as long as it’s stored still sealed in a dark, cool location. [13] X Research source Keep in mind how the bottles of water were handled or stored. You may want to consider washing off the top or lid, especially if it doesn’t have an outer protecting film. The top and lid could have bacteria or other contaminants on it from its handling process. [14] X Research source

Personal water bottles that have a built in filter. Great for on the go people who might not always have access to purified water. Pitchers that have a built in filter and purify water as it drains through the filter. Faucet purifiers that attach directly to the kitchen sink. However, many times specialty faucets are not compatible with these. [16] X Research source Refrigerator/freezer purifiers. These are usually built into your appliance and allow you to have purified water and ice cubes that are frozen from purified water as well.

Using a reusable water bottle can help cut down on the amount of trash and plastic bottles discarded.

Tap water is tested more frequently and for more bacteria and chemicals than bottled water. [17] X Trustworthy Source National Resources Defence Council Multinational environmental advocacy group focused on grassroots activism and legislative action Go to source In addition, it’s required to go through a disinfection process prior to consumption. [18] X Trustworthy Source National Resources Defence Council Multinational environmental advocacy group focused on grassroots activism and legislative action Go to source Up to 1/4th of bottled waters are actually just bottled tap water (this is why it’s important to read and understand the labels and marketing terminology). [19] X Trustworthy Source National Resources Defence Council Multinational environmental advocacy group focused on grassroots activism and legislative action Go to source