how long does bottled water last

As a common item we use every day, water bottles are essential to staying hydrated on the go. Whether you’re going hiking or hitting the gym, carrying a bottle of water with you will keep your body healthy and functioning properly. However, one of the biggest questions people have about bottled water is its shelf life. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the shelf life of bottled water and give you some tips for storing it to ensure it stays fresh and safe to drink.

Shelf life of bottled water

The shelf life of bottled water depends largely on how it’s been stored and the type of water. Generally speaking, the shelf life of bottled water is about one to two years. After this time, the water may start to taste stale or musty, which can make drinking it unpleasant. However, the expiration date on the bottle is not a hard and fast rule, and properly stored water will last longer.

Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of Bottled Water

Several factors can affect the shelf life of bottled water, including:

1. Temperature: Water should be stored in a cool, dry place. Exposure to heat can cause the plastic to degrade, allowing chemicals to leach into the water. Additionally, warm temperatures can provide a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause water to spoil.

2. Light: Light will cause the plastic to decompose, and it can also promote the growth of algae in the water.

3. Oxygen: Oxygen can lead to the growth of bacteria in the water, which can lead to water deterioration.

Tips for Storing Bottled Water

Proper storage is important to ensure your bottled water stays fresh. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep bottled water away from direct sunlight and heat. A cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard is ideal.

2. Keep the bottle airtight: Once you open a bottle of water, air can get in, causing bacteria to grow. Make sure to seal the bottle well to prevent this from happening.

3. Do not reuse plastic bottles: Reusing plastic bottles can cause them to degrade and leach chemicals into the water. Instead, choose reusable water bottles made of stainless steel or glass.

4. Check expiration dates: While expiration dates aren’t an exact science, it’s still a good idea to check expiration dates before drinking water.

5. Consider using a water filter: If you’re concerned about the quality of your tap water, consider using a water filter to purify the water before storing it in a reusable water bottle.

In summary, bottled water has a shelf life of about one to two years, but can last much longer if stored properly. To keep your bottled water fresh and safe to drink, store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and heat, keep bottles airtight, don’t reuse plastic bottles, and check expiration dates. Follow these tips and you can enjoy fresh, clean water anytime, anywhere.