Ethan Clarke
Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, with around 400 million tonnes of plastic waste produced annually, and 60% of this waste ending up in our environment. Plastic containers can contaminate drinking water with microplastics and chemicals, such as BPA, posing serious health risks. To avoid this, water can be stored in glass containers, such as jars or jugs, or in food-grade stainless steel containers. Water can also be stored in thick-walled polyethylene containers, which are less permeable to vapours than thin-walled containers. It is important to ensure that containers are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before filling them with water and to store them in a cool, dark place, away from toxic substances. Additionally, it is recommended to replace the water every six months to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
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What You'll Learn
Store water in glass containers
Glass is a safe alternative to plastic for storing water. The FDA classifies glass as "GRAS," which stands for "Generally Recognized as Safe." Glass containers can be used to store water for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth.
When storing water in glass containers, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure the water remains safe and fresh. Firstly, it is crucial to use only containers manufactured for food use. Avoid using containers that have previously held toxic substances or other materials such as oils, chemicals, or food items like milk, soda, or beer. Even if washed thoroughly, it can be challenging to eliminate all traces of sugars and bacteria from these containers.
Before filling glass containers with water, they should be cleaned and sanitized. Wash the inside and outside of each container with soap and hot water. Then, sanitize the containers with a solution of unscented liquid household bleach and water. Close the container tightly and shake well, ensuring that the bleach solution comes into contact with all internal surfaces. Rinse the container thoroughly with clean water before filling it.
Label the container as "drinking water" and include the date of storage. It is recommended to replace the water every six months to ensure freshness and safety. Store the glass containers in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Keep the containers away from toxic substances such as gasoline, pesticides, and other chemicals, as vapors can contaminate the water.
Additionally, when storing water in glass containers, it is important to consider the potential disadvantages of glass. Glass containers can be heavy and more prone to breaking compared to plastic. To reduce the risk of breakage, wrap the glass containers with newspaper or cardboard.
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Use food-grade plastic containers
If you want to store water without using plastic, you can use food-grade plastic containers. These containers are made of plastic that has been approved for food contact by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Polyethylene plastic is one such type of plastic that is commonly used for containers of various sizes, including large 55-gallon drums.
When using food-grade plastic containers for water storage, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the containers are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before filling them with water. You can wash the containers with soap and hot water, and then sanitize them with a solution of unscented household bleach and water. Rinse the containers thoroughly before filling them with water.
It is important to use only clean water to fill the containers. If your water source is questionable, purify it before storage to kill any pathogens. Boil the water or add chlorine to purify it. Label the containers as "drinking water" and include the date of storage. Replace the water every six months to ensure freshness and safety.
It is also crucial to store the containers properly. Keep them in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing them near toxic substances such as gasoline, kerosene, or pesticides, as vapors from these substances can penetrate plastic and contaminate the water. Additionally, do not store water in containers that have previously been used for other purposes, such as milk jugs or soda bottles, as they may be difficult to clean properly and can affect the water's quality.
Using food-grade plastic containers is a safe and effective way to store water without the use of plastic bottles or other non-durable plastic containers. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your stored water remains safe and fresh for drinking, cooking, and other purposes.
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Avoid toxic containers
If you're looking to store water without using plastic, it's important to avoid toxic containers that can contaminate your water supply. Here are some tips to ensure you're storing water safely and avoiding potential health risks:
Firstly, never use containers that have previously held toxic substances. This includes containers that have been used for chemicals, oils, or cleaning products like bleach. Even after thorough rinsing, these containers may still have residue that can leach into the water over time. Bleach containers, for example, are not made of food-grade plastic and should be avoided for drinking water storage.
Secondly, when choosing a container, opt for those manufactured for food use. Look for containers labelled as "food-grade" or "food-safe". These containers are made of materials that will not transfer harmful chemicals or toxins into the water. Examples include thick-walled polyethylene containers, which are less permeable to vapors than thin-walled containers.
Thirdly, avoid storing water in disposable plastic containers like milk jugs or thin-walled plastic bottles. These containers can be hard to clean properly and may develop leaks, allowing bacteria to contaminate the water. If you must use a plastic container, choose a heavy-duty option with a tight-fitting lid to prevent spills and contamination.
Finally, always store your water in a cool, dark place. Avoid direct sunlight and keep the containers away from heat sources. Light and heat can damage containers, especially plastic ones, and promote the growth of algae or mould. Additionally, keep your water containers away from toxic substances like gasoline, kerosene, or pesticides. Vapors from these substances can permeate plastic and contaminate your water supply.
By following these guidelines, you can avoid toxic containers and safely store water without relying on plastic. Remember to regularly replace your stored water every six months to ensure its potability and freshness.
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Store in a cool, dark place
If you're looking to store water without using plastic, there are several options to consider. It is important to remember that water should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Here are some detailed instructions to help you store water effectively without relying on plastic containers:
Firstly, identify suitable storage containers that are non-plastic and approved for food use. Glass containers, such as jars or jugs, can be excellent alternatives to plastic. Ensure that any containers you use are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before filling them with water. Boil water before storing it in glass containers to eliminate any potential contaminants. If you opt for glass, it is advisable to wrap the containers in newspaper or cardboard to minimize the risk of breakage.
Another option is to use stainless steel containers, which are durable and environmentally friendly. Stainless steel bottles or containers are a safe choice for storing water without the risk of chemical leaching, which can occur with some plastics. Look for food-grade stainless steel options to ensure the containers are safe for storing water.
You can also consider using ceramic containers, which are inert and non-toxic. Ceramic water filters are also available, which can be useful in emergencies when access to clean water is limited.
Additionally, there are water storage systems designed for long-term use, such as the 5-gallon Legacy Premium Water Storage System, which is made from durable materials and provides a reliable solution for storing water without plastic.
When storing water, always label the containers with the date and the words "drinking water." It is recommended to replace the water every six months to ensure its freshness and safety. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or pantry, where the temperature remains relatively stable. By following these instructions, you can effectively store water without relying on plastic containers.
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Replace water every 6 months
If you are storing water in containers, it is important to replace the water every six months. This is because water can breed harmful bacteria if it is not purified or stored in safe conditions. The other risk is chemical contamination, either from certain types of plastic containers or from chemical vapours that pass through the walls of the water containers.
Water stored in non-durable plastic containers may become toxic over time due to the breakdown of the plastic container walls. Even if stored properly, plastic containers should be occasionally replaced, and water should be replaced every six months.
If you are filling containers with water to store, it is best to use FDA-approved food-grade water storage containers. They can be found at surplus or camping supply stores. Contact the storage container manufacturer if you are unsure whether the container is food-grade. Food-grade storage containers will not transfer toxic substances into the water.
If you are unable to use a food-grade water storage container, ensure that the container you choose has a top that can be closed tightly. Never use a container that has held toxic substances. Examples of containers that can be used include a 5-gallon heavy-duty plastic container with a spigot, a 6-gallon Mylar water storage bag, a 2-litre plastic drink container with a screw-on lid, or a 1-gallon glass jug.
It is important to note that water should be stored in a cool, dark place. Light and heat can damage containers, especially plastic ones. Sunlight can also cause algae or mould to grow in clear containers, even sealed, store-bought bottles. Water should also be stored away from gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, or similar substances, as vapours from these materials can penetrate plastic.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. However, you should try to store a 2-week supply if possible.
You can use glass containers or containers made from polyethylene plastic, which is commonly used for containers of various sizes, including large 55-gallon drums. If you are filling containers with water, it is best to use FDA-approved food-grade water storage containers.
Wash the inside and outside of each container with soap and hot water. Then, sanitize the containers with a solution of 1 teaspoon of non-scented household bleach per quart of water. Close the container tightly and shake well, making sure that the bleach solution touches all of the internal surfaces of the container.
Keep the containers in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and sources of toxic substances such as gasoline, kerosene, or pesticides. Vapors from these substances can penetrate plastic and contaminate the water.
