The one thing everyone can agree on is that drinking enough good quality water is essential to your best health. But, it’s important to remember that not all water is created equal! Some are filtered in different ways, some are packed with electrolytes, and some contain essential minerals with a whole host of benefits.

But, with all of the different types of water lining the shelves it can be hard to decide which option is healthiest and which is right for you! So, to help you heal through hydration, we have created this easy guide all about the healthiest water to drink. Keep reading to discover which types of H₂O to fill up on!

Spring Water

At the very top of our list is spring water because it naturally filters harmful contaminants — all through the incredible process of mother nature! Because it comes directly from an underground source, it does not go through additional filtration. Therefore, it retains a high content of essential minerals like calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium, making it slightly alkaline and oh so great for your health! But, before you head to the store to fill up on spring water, be sure to find a reputable brand and choose plastic-free water bottles to avoid chemical and microplastic contamination.

Mineral Water

Mineral water is a type of spring water but with a few key differences. This type of water is naturally carbonated and is sometimes artificially enhanced by dissolving salts or aerated with CO2 to increase the carbonation. Experts say that mineral water can help heart health, lower blood pressure, and improve symptoms of constipation. To enjoy the best benefits safely, we recommend checking the ingredients to see if the water is natural, or made artificially, and purchasing in glass or stainless steel water bottles.

Coconut Water

An excellent, natural source of water that is often overlooked is coconut water! It is packed with electrolytes to increase hydration and help reduce cramping after exercise. Plus, it is especially refreshing on a hot day. We recommend swapping your kiddo’s surgery sports drink for this, much healthier alternative. If they don’t like the taste, no problem! Mix in just a little bit of their favorite fruit juice to sweeten it up without overloading on the sugar.

Alkaline Water

Alkaline water is highly regarded as one of the healthiest waters to drink. That’s because it has a higher pH (8 or above) than normal water which has a neutral pH (7) — which gives it a higher content of calcium, bicarbonate, and magnesium. This is thought to help fight free radicals in the body that cause inflammation and disease. However, we recommend being cautious about drinking a lot of this type of water and suggest not offering it to your little ones, as it can alter your body’s natural pH and lower stomach acid.

Filtered Water

Filtered or purified water is generally what we think of as regular bottled or tap water. While it is often the most convenient and affordable option, in many places, tap water is not safe to drink. Even though tap water is usually filtered, sometimes through a variety of methods, it can still have small amounts of heavy metals, chemicals, and microplastics lurking inside. Instead, we recommend adding a filter to your tap or using a water filter jug to continue to purify your water another time just before adding it to a safe, plastic-free water bottle like the ones from Pura Stainless.

Distilled Water

Distilled water is the purest form of water — but not necessarily the healthiest water to drink! That is because it is the collection of steam after water has been boiled to a vapor, like raindrops! As a result, all the extras, good and bad, that are often found in water are removed, and with them much of natural water’s health benefits. While not ideal, this is still a great choice for families concerned about contamination or pollution to the water source for their community. Distilled water also commonly comes in plastic containers which can contain chemicals that leach into the water, delivering a product that is not quite as pure as promised.

At Pura Stainless, our mission is to provide the safest reusable water bottles on the market so, no matter which water you choose, your bottle is not impacting the flavor, quality, or health benefits in a negative way. We hope this guide helps you select the cleanest, healthiest water that works for your family. To start sipping a little bit safer, head to our website and shop our 100% plastic-free, water bottles and other eco-friendly products!