Distilled vs. Purified Water: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing the right type of water to suit your needs or preferences, you may be confused between distilled and purified water. While these two types of water may seem similar, there are some key differences between them. In this article, we will explore the differences between distilled and purified water, so you can decide which one is right for you.
Distilled Water
Distilled water is water that has been boiled and then cooled, removing any impurities, minerals, and contaminants. This process leaves behind a clean, pure liquid that is free from any chemicals, minerals, or bacteria.
Distilled water is commonly used for laboratory experiments, medical procedures, and in certain industrial applications. Because it contains no minerals, distilled water can be used to clean and maintain delicate equipment without the risk of leaving any residue behind.
While distilled water is great for certain purposes, it is not recommended for daily consumption, as it lacks essential minerals that are important for your body to function properly. Drinking distilled water for extended periods of time can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which can cause a variety of health problems.
Purified Water
Purified water, on the other hand, is a more general term that refers to any water that has been filtered, but not necessarily distilled. Purification methods can include reverse osmosis, micron filtration, carbon filtration, and UV treatment, among others.
Purified water is generally safe for daily consumption, as it typically contains essential minerals that are important for maintaining good health. It is also less expensive and more widely available than distilled water.
When choosing purified water, it is important to read the label or inquire about the specific purification process used. Some processes may leave behind traces of minerals or chemicals, which may not be preferable for certain applications.
In conclusion, while distilled and purified water may seem similar, they are different in terms of their methods of production and usage. Distilled water is best suited for laboratory, medical, and certain industrial applications while purified water is a more general term that refers to any water that has been filtered, but not necessarily distilled. When choosing between distilled and purified water, it is important to consider the purpose and usage of the water, along with any health considerations.
Table difference between distilled and purified water
| Distilled Water | Purified Water |
|---|---|
| Water that has been boiled and the steam cooled and condensed into a clean container | Water that has undergone a process of filtration, reverse osmosis or distillation to remove impurities |
| Is completely devoid of salts, minerals, and dissolved impurities | May still contain trace amounts of minerals, salts and other impurities depending on the purification process used |
| Used often in industrial processes, laboratories and household appliances | Often used in households for drinking, cooking, and other daily activities |
| May have a flat taste due to the removal of minerals and other natural elements | Taste may vary depending on the purification process used, but it usually has a refreshing taste |
| May still contain trace amounts of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms if not properly sealed and stored | Can be free of bacteria and viruses if properly sterilized and stored |