The duration you can safely store water in a container depends significantly on whether it's commercially packaged or home-filled, with commercially packaged water lasting about 5 years and home-filled water requiring annual changes.
Understanding Water Storage Durability
Storing water properly is crucial for emergency preparedness and daily use. The shelf life of stored water varies primarily based on its source and the container type.
Commercially Bottled Water
Commercially packaged water, often found in sealed bottles, generally has a long shelf life. According to common guidelines, it can be stored for about 5 years from its production date. This extended duration is due to the purification processes it undergoes and the sealed, sterile conditions of its packaging.
- Factors influencing shelf life:
- Storage Conditions: Store bottled water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, chemicals, and strong odors. Extreme temperatures can degrade plastic bottles and potentially affect water quality over time.
- Container Material: High-quality, food-grade plastic (like PET) or glass containers are ideal for long-term storage.
- Sealed Integrity: Ensure the bottles remain sealed and undamaged to prevent contamination.
Home-Prepared Water
For water you collect and store yourself, the storage guidelines are different due to potential variations in initial purity and container conditions. Home-filled stored water should be changed annually. This recommendation ensures the water remains fresh and safe for consumption, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth or chemical leaching from the container over time.
- Best Practices for Home Water Storage:
- Container Selection: Use clean, food-grade plastic or glass containers. Avoid using containers that have previously held non-food items, as residues could contaminate the water.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean and sanitize containers before filling them. A mild bleach solution (e.g., 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach per gallon of water) can be used for sanitization, followed by a good rinse.
- Water Source: Use treated tap water, as it contains chlorine that helps inhibit microbial growth. If using untreated water (e.g., well water), consider treating it with purification tablets or by boiling before storage.
- Labeling: Label containers with the date of storage to keep track of when they need to be replaced.
- Storage Environment: Like commercial water, store home-filled water in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and potential contaminants like gasoline, pesticides, or cleaning supplies.
Addressing "Flat" Water
Stored water, especially for longer periods, can lose its dissolved gases and taste "flat." This is a common occurrence and doesn't indicate that the water is unsafe to drink.
- Aeration: To improve the taste of flat water, you can aerate it prior to consumption. This is easily done by pouring the water between two clean containers a few times. This process reintroduces air, making the water taste fresher.
Summary of Water Storage Durations
| Water Type | Recommended Storage Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Commercially Bottled | About 5 years | Store in a cool, dark place; keep sealed. |
| Home-Filled | Annually (Change every year) | Use food-grade containers; clean & sanitize; label. |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a reliable supply of safe drinking water for various needs, from daily consumption to emergency preparedness.
