Ethan Clarke
Distilled water is a type of purified water that has been boiled to remove impurities and contaminants. It is often sold in plastic jugs, and while some people have expressed concerns about the potential for chemical contamination from the plastic, others argue that the plastic jugs are safe for storing distilled water. Some people prefer to use glass containers for distilled water to avoid any potential leaching of chemicals from the plastic into the water. The FDA has set guidelines for the appropriate packaging of bottled water, and some plastics, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are considered safe for food contact.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic type | Varies; some are thin and prone to leaking, others are thicker and more durable |
| Capacity | 1 gallon |
| Lid type | Screw on |
| Spout | Yes |
| Recyclability | Recyclable, but may not actually be recycled; reuse is more practical |
| Contamination risk | Yes; plastic can degrade over time and leach chemicals into the water |
| Leakage | Prone to leaking, especially if stored long-term or exposed to UV light |
| Taste | Plastic can affect the taste of the water over time |
| Cost | Around $0.75 to $0.80 per jug |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic jugs can be recycled and reused for various purposes
Most plastic bottles and jugs are commonly made from #1 plastic, known as Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), or #2 plastic, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). These types of plastics are widely accepted by curbside recycling programs. Before recycling, it is essential to empty and thoroughly rinse the jugs to remove any residue, including sugar, which can attract insects and cause odors. Some programs may require removing caps and labels, as they are made from different types of plastic and can interfere with the recycling process.
To streamline the recycling process, separate the plastic jugs by their resin identification code, usually found at the bottom. Additionally, consider crushing or flattening the jugs to save space and make transportation more efficient. Clear and white PET and HDPE bottles are often preferred by recycling programs, as they are more plentiful and can be easily separated from dyed #2 plastics.
While recycling is essential, reusing plastic jugs can also be a practical way to extend their usefulness. For instance, plastic jugs can be cut and repurposed as planters, storage containers for stationery or small items, or even as a pet poop scooper. Reusing plastic jugs reduces the need for new products and helps foster a more circular approach to plastic consumption.
It is worth noting that some plastic jugs, such as those made from polylactic acid (PLA), may not be recyclable through standard processes due to their unique composition. These jugs should be composted or disposed of in the garbage unless your recycling program specifically accepts them. Additionally, when reusing plastic jugs, it is important to consider the potential health risks associated with chemical leaching, especially if the jugs have been exposed to high temperatures, sunlight, or long storage times.
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Plastic leaching is a concern, especially with caustic materials
In one study, migration experiments were conducted on 24 everyday plastic products, and it was found that between 1 and 88% of the plastic chemicals associated with one product were migrating, with many of the chemicals inducing in vitro toxicity. This highlights that humans are exposed to many more plastic chemicals than currently considered in public health science and policies.
When it comes to caustic materials, one study investigated the leaching of plasticizer from flexible PVC in a low-temperature caustic solution. The results showed that a low-temperature treatment process could effectively separate the plasticizer without causing dechlorination of the PVC, allowing for the recycling of both the PVC and plasticizer. However, this study did not investigate the potential health risks associated with the leached chemicals.
In general, plastics are highly permeable, and caustic materials stored in plastic containers can leach back into the water. This is a concern for distilled water, as the plastic bottle itself can leach chemicals even though the water has been distilled to remove microplastics. To avoid this, it is recommended to store distilled water in sealed glass, stainless steel, or plastic containers that are either PEP or HTPA grade, as these are safe for storing consumables.
Overall, plastic leaching is a significant concern, especially with caustic materials, and further research is needed to understand the potential health risks associated with the exposure to these chemicals.
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Plastic jugs are cheaper than glass containers
Plastic jugs are widely used for storing distilled water and are a popular choice due to their affordability compared to glass containers. While distilled water can be safely stored in sealed glass, stainless steel, or specific grades of plastic containers, the cost-effectiveness of plastic jugs makes them a preferred option for many.
One of the primary advantages of plastic jugs is their low price point. Plastic is generally cheaper to produce and mold into containers compared to glass. This affordability translates into cost savings for both manufacturers and consumers. For consumers, in particular, the lower cost of plastic jugs means that they can purchase distilled water at a more reasonable price. This is especially beneficial for those who regularly use distilled water, such as individuals with CPAP machines or those who prefer distilled water for drinking or other household purposes.
In addition to being cheaper, plastic jugs offer convenience and ease of use. They are lightweight, making them easier to carry and store than glass containers. This is especially advantageous for individuals who need to transport or store large quantities of distilled water. Plastic jugs are also widely available in grocery stores and retail outlets, making them easily accessible to consumers.
Another factor contributing to the popularity of plastic jugs is their durability. Plastic containers are less prone to breakage compared to glass, which can shatter if dropped or subjected to impact. This durability is particularly important for the storage and transportation of water, as it reduces the risk of spills and messes associated with broken glass.
While some individuals express concerns about the potential presence of microplastics or bacteria in distilled water stored in plastic jugs, others highlight the convenience and practicality of plastic containers. Some individuals also opt to reuse plastic jugs, refilling them with distilled water from local water stores or home stills, further extending their usefulness and reducing waste.
In summary, plastic jugs are cheaper than glass containers due to the lower production and material costs associated with plastic. This affordability, coupled with the convenience, durability, and widespread availability of plastic jugs, makes them a popular choice for storing and purchasing distilled water.
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Plastic containers are approved by the FDA for food contact
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates bottled water products, working to ensure that they are safe to drink. The FDA protects consumers of bottled water through the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, which makes manufacturers responsible for producing safe, wholesome, and truthfully labelled food products. The FDA sets rules and guidelines regarding the appropriate packaging material composition, properties, and uses for food contact. Packaging materials that meet FDA standards are considered FDA-compliant and safe for use as a packaging material that comes into contact with food.
The FDA has determined that containers used by the bottled water industry are safe for use with food and beverage products, including bottled water, and they do not pose a health risk to consumers. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, easily identified by the #1 recycling code on or near the bottom of the container, is probably the most commonly recognised bottled water packaging material. PET plastic is used to make convenient, portable 24-ounce, 16.9-ounce (half-litre), and kid-friendly 8-ounce bottled water containers. PET can be recycled multiple times and remain FDA-approved for food contact. It also repels microorganisms and doesn't corrode, making it an ideal material for food and beverage contact and storage.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another plastic bottled water packaging material that the FDA has approved as safe for food contact. HDPE, identified by the #2 recycling code on or near the bottom of the container, is used to package bottled water, as well as other food items such as milk and juice. It is also used for non-food items like shampoo, dish soap, and laundry detergent bottles. HDPE is typically used as bottled water packaging in 1-gallon jugs and 2-gallon water dispensers available at grocery stores. Although HDPE is recyclable, it can become unsafe if it is recycled too many times, so the FDA reviews it on a case-by-case basis.
Polycarbonate plastic has been used for food and beverage product containers for over 50 years due to its lightweight, shatter-resistant, and transparent properties. Some bottled water companies use polycarbonate plastic for their 3- and 5-gallon water cooler bottles. Polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins are made using bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical building block that the FDA has deemed safe for consumer use. However, there are concerns about the presence of BPA in polycarbonate resin, and its potential negative effects on hormones if leached into food or drink products.
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Distilled water should be stored in glass containers
Distilled water is often sold in plastic jugs, but there are several reasons why it should be stored in glass containers instead. Firstly, plastic is highly permeable, meaning that gases and liquids can penetrate the plastic itself. This can lead to contamination of the distilled water by chemicals leaching from the plastic, including estrogen-like chemicals. While distilled water is free of microplastics from pollution, these can still be introduced if it is stored in plastic containers.
Additionally, plastic containers are prone to leaking. This can be due to pinholes, tiny cracks, or thin plastic that deteriorates over time, especially in milk-style plastic jugs, which are designed to be biodegradable. Leaking can also occur through evaporation, as some have reported that sealed jugs of distilled water can lose liquid this way.
Furthermore, glass is a more environmentally friendly option. Recycling plastic is not very effective, with only about 5% of plastic actually being recycled. Reusing plastic containers is more practical, but there is a limit to how many can be realistically reused.
For these reasons, distilled water should be stored in glass containers to maintain its purity, avoid leaks, and reduce environmental impact.
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Frequently asked questions
Distilled water is generally safe to use in a CPAP machine, but it is recommended to use distilled water from glass containers for health reasons. Plastic containers can leach chemicals into the water, and distilled water can also dissolve microplastics from the plastic jug.
Distilled water only stays bacteria-free for about 2 days after opening the plastic jug.
Plastic distilled water jugs can be recycled and used for various purposes, such as gardening, storing nuts and bolts, or other items.
The plastic used for distilled water jugs varies, but common types include Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, which are both FDA-approved for food contact.
Distilled water from plastic jugs is generally considered safe for consumption by the FDA. However, some people prefer to use glass containers to avoid the potential leaching of chemicals from the plastic into the water.
