More people than ever are questioning the quality of their drinking water. Concerns around tap water treatment, taste, microplastics, and the long-term storage of bottled mineral water are leading many households to look for alternatives.
One option that is increasingly discussed is distilled water — but is it safe to drink, and what’s the right way to use it?
This guide explains what distilled water is, when it may be appropriate to drink it, why remineralisation matters, and how to follow best practice if you’re considering switching.
👉 You can view our high-purity distilled water range here, with free next working day delivery available.
Why are people becoming wary of tap and bottled water?
In the UK, drinking water is tightly regulated, but that doesn’t always mean it meets everyone’s expectations. Common concerns include:
- Chlorine taste and odour
- Limescale and mineral variability by region
- Growing awareness of microplastics
- Single-use plastic bottles used for many mineral waters
- Heat and UV exposure during storage and transport
As a result, many people are looking for greater control over what’s in their water — and how it’s stored.
What is distilled water?
Distilled water is produced by boiling water into steam and then condensing it back into liquid form. This process removes dissolved minerals, salts, metals, and many impurities.
A common question we hear is whether distilled water is simply boiled water. While boiling kills bacteria, it does not remove dissolved minerals or contaminants. We explain this in more detail in our guide on is distilled water just boiled water?
The result of distillation is high-purity water, with no mineral content by design.
Because of this consistency, distilled water is widely used in:
- Laboratories
- Medical and dental equipment
- CPAP machines
- Steam irons and humidifiers
If you’re looking to buy distilled water in the UK, you can also read our dedicated guide on where to buy distilled water in the UK.
Is distilled water safe to drink?
Yes — distilled water is safe to drink in the short term.
However, it’s important to understand one key consideration:
Distilled water contains no minerals, so long-term exclusive consumption without remineralisation is not generally recommended.
Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium contribute to electrolyte balance and hydration. While many people obtain minerals from food, drinking water can also play a supporting role.
If you’re comparing different types of purified water, we also explain the difference between distilled and deionised water in our comparison guide: distilled vs deionised water.
For this reason, best practice suggests remineralising distilled water if you intend to drink it regularly.
Why remineralisation matters
Drinking water isn’t just about hydration — it can also contribute trace minerals that support normal bodily function.
Without remineralisation:
- Water may taste “flat”
- Long-term exclusive use may not be ideal
- Electrolyte balance may be affected
With appropriate remineralisation:
- Taste improves
- Mineral intake becomes more balanced
- Distilled water can be used more confidently as part of a wider diet
How to Remineralise Distilled Water (Best Practice)
Because distilled water is free from minerals by design, many people who choose to drink it regularly prefer to remineralise it first. This helps improve taste and supports normal electrolyte balance.
Remineralisation isn’t about adding large quantities of minerals — it’s about reintroducing trace amounts in a controlled and consistent way.
Common remineralisation options include:
-
Trace mineral drops
Designed specifically for purified, distilled, or reverse-osmosis water. -
Electrolyte mineral blends
Typically containing measured amounts of magnesium, potassium, and sodium, without added sugars or flavourings. -
Mineral cartridges or post-filtration systems
Used by some households to reintroduce minerals after purification.
If you’re unfamiliar with remineralisation, general guidance on trace mineral products designed for purified water is available from specialist retailers. For example, you can find an overview of trace mineral drops here.
We recommend avoiding “DIY” approaches such as adding unmeasured salts or powders, as balance and consistency are important.
Please note: We specialise in the manufacture and supply of high-purity distilled and deionised water. If you choose to remineralise, suitable products are widely available from specialist retailers.
Does the container matter? HDPE vs other plastics
Many bottled mineral waters are sold in single-use PET plastic bottles, which can be more sensitive to heat and long-term storage conditions.
Our distilled water is supplied in HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) containers, which are widely regarded as one of the safest plastics for water storage.
Why HDPE is commonly used for purified water:
- BPA-free
- No plasticisers such as phthalates
- Very low chemical migration
- Stable across a wide temperature range
- Commonly used in laboratory and medical settings
No plastic is completely zero-risk, but HDPE is considered one of the lowest-risk options available, particularly when compared with disposable PET bottles.
Who might consider drinking distilled water?
Distilled water may appeal to:
- People who want greater control over mineral intake
- Short-term use or rotation with other water sources
- Individuals already using distilled water for appliances
- Those following professional or dietary guidance
It isn’t a miracle solution — but used responsibly, it can be a practical and informed choice.
Why buy distilled water from The Somerset Clear Water Company?
We manufacture and supply high-purity distilled water here in Somerset, serving homes and businesses across the UK.
Our customers choose us because we offer:
- High-purity distilled water
- Manufactured in the UK
- Supplied in HDPE containers
- Competitive pricing
- Free next working day delivery
- Multiple sizes to suit home and commercial use
👉 Explore our distilled water collection here.
Final thoughts
Drinking distilled water isn’t about rejecting tap water or bottled water — it’s about choice, clarity, and control.
If you choose to drink distilled water:
- Understand what it is
- Remineralise appropriately
- Store it correctly
- Use it as part of a balanced lifestyle
Used responsibly, distilled water can be a valuable option for households seeking transparency and consistency in their water choices.
