Sofia Martinez
Water can be stored in plastic jugs in several ways, depending on the situation. For emergency water storage, the CDC recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days, while the Utah Department of Environmental Quality recommends one gallon per person per day for two weeks. It is important to use clean containers and water, and to replace the water every six months. Water stored in plastic jugs should be kept in a cool, dry location, away from toxic substances and strong odours, as vapours can permeate the plastic and affect the water.
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What You'll Learn
Use food-grade plastic containers
When storing water in plastic jugs, it is important to use food-grade plastic containers. These containers are marked with a food-grade rating that ranges from 1 to 7, indicating their safety for storing food and drinks. The safest options are plastics with ratings 2, 4, and 5, which are considered food-safe and prevent accidental toxin ingestion. These plastics do not contain dyes, additives, or harmful products, and they meet the regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Food-grade plastic containers come in various materials, such as HDPE, LDPE, PP, and polypropylene. HDPE containers are commonly used for potable water jugs ranging from 3 to 7 gallons and are known for their chemical-resistant properties. Polypropylene containers, on the other hand, have high heat tolerance, ensuring they do not leak toxins when breaking down. They also have excellent thermal resistance, making them safe for microwave and dishwasher use.
When choosing plastic containers for water storage, avoid using containers with a rating of 1, as they are designed for single use only and can leach a plastic taste into the water if heated. Containers with a rating of 3 and 6 should also be avoided, as they are known to leach chemicals. Additionally, do not use containers previously used for toxic substances, such as bleach or pesticides, as these can contaminate the water.
To ensure the safety of your stored water, always use clean containers and fill them to the top to eliminate air space. Store the containers in a cool, dry location, away from strong odours, toxic substances, and direct sunlight. It is also important to label the containers with the storage date and replace the water every six months to maintain its freshness and potability.
By following these guidelines and using food-grade plastic containers, you can safely store water in plastic jugs for emergency preparedness or everyday use.
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Store in a cool, dry location
When storing water in plastic jugs, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry location. The ideal temperature range for storing water is between 50°F and 70°F. Keeping the water in a cool, dry place helps to prevent the growth of microorganisms, which can occur at higher temperatures. Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight can cause the plastic to deteriorate, allowing chemicals to seep into the water and rendering it undrinkable.
To maintain a cool temperature, avoid storing plastic water jugs on a concrete floor. The temperature difference between the concrete and the room can cause abrasion and scratching on the jugs. Instead, consider placing a barrier, such as a piece of plywood, between the concrete and the jugs.
It is also important to keep the water jugs away from strong odour sources, such as perfumed products, gasoline, pesticides, or food. Vapours from these substances can permeate the plastic and affect the quality of the stored water. Thick-walled polyethylene containers are recommended as they are less permeable to vapours compared to thin-walled containers.
Storing water in a cool, dry location also helps to prevent fluctuations in temperature, which can impact the water and the container. Keeping the storage temperature as steady as possible is beneficial. Changes in temperature can affect the pressure within the container, potentially forcing trapped air or vapour out and then back in when the temperature cools.
By following these guidelines and storing water in a cool, dry location, you can help ensure the quality and safety of your stored water while also maintaining the integrity of the plastic jugs.
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Avoid concrete floors
While storing water in plastic jugs, it is best to avoid placing them on concrete floors. This is because concrete easily changes temperature, which can affect the taste of the water. Concrete can also be damp, potentially leading to mould growth on the outside of the container.
Some sources claim that concrete attracts fluids and can cause chemicals from the floor to leak into the plastic and then into the water, making it unbearable to drink. However, there is no credible scientific evidence to support this claim. Concrete has been used for cisterns, dams, wells, and pipes for centuries, and direct continuous contact with water would produce far more contamination than what could possibly filter through a plastic container.
Instead of placing plastic jugs directly on a concrete floor, it is recommended to place them on a small platform, such as a wood board, cardboard, or a pallet, to allow for air movement and prevent any potential leaching of chemicals or odours from the concrete.
Additionally, it is important to store water in a cool, dark area that is not near harsh fumes or chemicals. This will help ensure that the water remains clean and pure for consumption.
By following these guidelines and avoiding direct contact with concrete floors, you can effectively store water in plastic jugs while maintaining its quality and safety for future use.
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Replace water every 6 months
When storing water in plastic jugs, it is important to replace the water regularly, ideally every six months. This is because plastic containers are slightly permeable, and the water can absorb undesirable odours and tastes from the surrounding environment. For example, if plastic water bottles are left in a hot car, the water can take on a plastic taste.
Water stored in plastic containers should be kept in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, and potential pollutants such as petroleum, insecticides, strong-odoured food, and perfumed products. Algae or mould may develop in water that is exposed to extended periods of direct sunlight or heat sources, although this is not considered a general concern for public health.
The quality of the water can also be affected by the type of plastic container used. It is recommended to use containers made from polyethylene plastic, which is approved for food contact and commonly used for containers of various sizes, including large 55-gallon drums. On the other hand, thin plastic containers, such as milk jugs, are not ideal for long-term water storage as they are prone to leaking and can impart a plastic taste to the water.
To improve the taste of stored water that has become flat, pour it back and forth between two containers several times. Additionally, water stored in plastic containers should be filled to the top so there is no air space, and the containers should be labelled with the date and information on the method of disinfection used.
By following these guidelines and regularly replacing the water every six months, you can ensure that your stored water remains safe and palatable.
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Label and date containers
When storing water in plastic jugs, it is important to label and date the containers. This is a crucial step for several reasons. Firstly, labelling the containers as "drinking water" clearly indicates the contents of the jugs and their intended purpose. This is especially important if you are storing water in containers that were previously used for other substances, such as bleach, which could be dangerous if mistakenly consumed.
Additionally, including the date the water was stored helps you keep track of how long the water has been in storage. This is essential because water should be replaced periodically, typically every six months, to ensure its freshness and safety for consumption. Storing water for extended periods may result in a flat taste, and the plastic from the container may start to leach into the water, affecting its taste and potentially your health.
The label should also include information on the method of disinfection used, if any. This is important because different disinfection methods may have specific guidelines or expiration dates. For example, bleach-treated water is generally considered safe for consumption for about six months. By noting the disinfection method and date, you can better manage your water storage and ensure you are consuming safe and fresh water.
Labelling also helps with inventory management and rotation of water supplies. When you label and date your containers, you can easily identify which jugs to use first and maintain a proper rotation system. This is particularly useful if you store water for emergency preparedness and want to ensure your supply is always fresh and reliable.
Finally, labelling can be a safety precaution, especially if you have children or pets in your household. Clearly labelled containers reduce the risk of accidental consumption of potentially unsafe water. It also helps to store the water in a designated area away from other liquids to further minimize any confusion or accidental consumption.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you replace the water in your plastic jugs every six months.
It is recommended that you store at least one gallon of water per person per day. The Utah DDW recommends storing one gallon per person per day for two weeks.
It is best to use FDA-approved food-grade water storage containers. These containers will not transfer toxic substances into the water. If you are unable to use food-grade containers, ensure that the container has a top that can be closed tightly.
Plastic water jugs should be stored in a cool, dry location away from toxic substances such as gasoline, pesticides, and strong-odour food or perfumed products. Vapours from these substances could permeate the plastic and affect the water.
