What Is Potable Water? How to Make It

1. Boil the Water

   The most common method of treating water is to boil it. Boiling for a sufficient time will kill microbes and may also drive off some toxic chemical contaminants.

   You can use a variety of heating methods to bring the water to a boil. These can include a stovetop burner, microwave, or electric kettle. Then take these steps:

   • Place the water in a pot or microwave-safe vessel.
   • Place the container on the heat source or in the microwave, and heat the water to a rolling boil.
   • Keep the water at that rolling boil for one minute.
   • If you're microwaving the water, stir it after one minute of boiling to ensure all the water has heated sufficiently.
   • Allow the water to cool before pouring it into a clean container for use.

   What Are Toxic Chemical Contaminants?

   Some chemical contaminants that can be found in water include lead and other metals, pesticides and fertilizers, drugs, and bleach. These chemicals can be naturally occurring or manmade.

2. Use Chlorine Bleach

   Unscented household bleach can be used to kill bacteria in the water if you aren't able to boil the water. Bleach contains chlorine, which is what is used to make municipal water supplies potable (this is known as chlorinated water). If the water is cloudy, you should filter it through a cloth before treating it. Here's what to do:

   • Add 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops) of unscented household bleach to 1 gallon (16 cups) of water.
   • Mix the water and bleach well.
   • Allow the water to sit for at least 30 minutes before drinking it or cooking with it.

   Bleach can also be used to sanitize the containers where you will store water in. Here are the steps:

   • Make a sanitizing solution of 1 teaspoon of bleach in 1 quart (4 cups) of water.
   • Pour this solution into the container or wipe it inside the container to coat it.
   • Allow it to sit for 30 seconds, then pour out.
   • Let the container air dry or rinse it with treated water.

   It is important to note that if your water is contaminated with a chemical, disinfectants will not make it drinkable.

   Warning

   Measure correctly to ensure you use enough bleach, but not too much. Bleach can be toxic in excess.

3. Use Iodine

   Iodine solution, crystals, or tablets are often sold for hikers to easily add to water bottles while on the trail. Iodine can kill viruses and bacteria and is easy to use (though it is not effective against more resistant organisms like Cryptosporidium). The downside is that it gives the water an aftertaste.

   Follow the directions provided on the product as the amount used will vary for the solution, crystals, and tablets. In general, follow these steps:

   • Add the iodine to the correct amount of water in your container. Use warm water, if possible.
     
   • Mix the iodine well with the water, ensuring some of the solution also coats the lid and threads if using a screwcap bottle.
   • Allow the water to sit for 30 minutes after the iodine has fully dissolved before using it.
   • If your water is cold (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit), wait 60 minutes before using it.

4. Use a Water Purification Filter

   Water purification filters can remove bacteria and protozoans from the water. A carbon filter gets rid of some chemicals and "off" tastes. Be sure to carefully read the instructions for your water purification filter to use it correctly and to understand what it will and will not remove. You will need to ensure that the particles in the water do not clog the filter. Follow these tips before using the filter:

   • Allow cloudy water to settle for several hours.
   • Pre-filter the water through a pre-filter or cloth.
   • Then pass the pre-filtered water through the water purification filter.

5. Use an Ultraviolet Light Water Purifier

   Ultraviolet (UV) water purification lights can be used to kill bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. UV lights may be built into water bottles, but one common format is a pen-shaped light powered by batteries.

   Before using this method, filter the water through a cloth to remove any solid particles; the light won't be able to sanitize the interior of such particles. It also may not be effective if the water is cloudy.

   • Turn the light on and drop it into a container with the water.
   • Swish the light around in the water for a couple of minutes, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   • Remove the light from the water after the proper period of time. It's now safe to use.

6. Use Bottled Water

   Commercially bottled water should be safe to use when you don't have access to a potable water supply. Depending on the brand, it may be tap water that has been actively carbon filtered. Some bottled water manufacturers promote their brands as being UV filtered, assuring consumers that bacteria has been removed, or it has been through water distillation or the reverse osmosis process. Before using, consider these tips:

   • Check the bottled water container for any signs it has been previously opened and refilled.
   • Check the expiration date, if one is present.
   • Check the bottle carefully for cracks.
   • If you are in doubt about the safety of the water, boil or treat the bottled water before using it.

When to Call a Professional

There may be occasions when municipal tap water contains higher levels of harmful contaminants like metals, lead, or salt that are not removed by the methods listed. Follow the advice of your local municipality or consult a water technician.

If you live in a rural area with various water sources, you need to make sure your water is safe. Your best option is to consult with a water technician, have your existing tap water analyzed, and then follow their recommendations for making it or keeping it potable.

There are various water filtration systems and products you can buy to help you with this task. Selecting the right one depends on the state of your existing water and what microbes or metals are in it. These filtration systems are much more affordable and easier to install than they used to be. This is the best way to ensure safe water in some areas.