Difference Between Distilled Water and Purified Water

by SuperPure

Aug 20, 2024

Pure Water, Distilled Water

Drinking clean, safe water is essential for maintaining good health and hydration. However, the terms “distilled water” and “purified water” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about the differences between the two. This comprehensive article will explore the key distinctions between distilled water and purified water, helping you make an informed choice for your water needs.

What is Distilled Water?

Distilled water is the purest form of water that can be obtained through a process called distillation. During distillation, water is boiled, and the resulting steam is collected and condensed, leaving behind any impurities or contaminants that were present in the original water source. The resulting liquid is pure, mineral-free water, known as distilled water.

What is Purified Water?

Purified water, on the other hand, is water that has been treated to remove impurities and contaminants, but it may still contain some dissolved minerals. The purification process can involve a variety of methods, such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange, or a combination of filtration techniques.

Feature	Distilled Water	Purified Water
Definition	Water that has been boiled to produce steam and then condensed back into liquid, removing impurities.	Water that has been filtered or processed to remove impurities and contaminants, but may still contain some minerals.
Purity Level	Nearly 100% pure, free from dissolved minerals and contaminants.	Generally very pure, but may retain some minerals depending on the purification method used.
Production Method	Produced through distillation (boiling and condensation).	Produced through various methods such as reverse osmosis, carbon filtration, or UV treatment.
Taste	Flat taste due to the absence of minerals.	Varied taste depending on the mineral content retained after purification.
Common Uses	Medical applications, laboratory experiments, steam irons, and cooking.	Drinking, cooking, and general household use.
Health Benefits	Lacks beneficial minerals; may not be ideal for long-term drinking.	Can provide essential minerals beneficial for health and hydration.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to the distillation process.	Usually less expensive, especially with home filtration systems.

The Difference in Purity

The primary difference between distilled water and purified water lies in their level of purity. Distilled water is the purest form of water, as it is devoid of any dissolved minerals, chemicals, or other impurities. Purified water, while still undergoing extensive treatment, may retain some dissolved minerals, depending on the specific purification method used.

The Difference in Taste

Due to the difference in purity, distilled water and purified water can also have distinct tastes. Distilled water, being completely devoid of minerals, can have a flat or slightly metallic taste, as it lacks the natural mineral content that contributes to the “fresh” taste of water. Purified water, on the other hand, may have a more natural taste, as it retains some dissolved minerals.

The Difference in Uses

The purity and taste differences between distilled water and purified water also lead to different applications and uses. Distilled water is often preferred for use in medical equipment, laboratory settings, and certain household appliances, such as steam irons and humidifiers, where the absence of minerals is crucial. Purified water, with its slightly more natural taste, is more commonly used for drinking, cooking, and general household purposes.

The Difference in Cost

The cost of distilled water and purified water can also vary. Distilled water, due to the more intensive purification process, is generally more expensive than purified water. However, the long-term cost savings of using distilled water in certain household appliances may outweigh the initial higher cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is distilled water safe to drink?

Yes, distilled water is safe to drink. It is the purest form of water and does not contain any impurities or contaminants.

2. Can I use distilled water in my humidifier?

Yes, distilled water is the recommended choice for use in humidifiers. The absence of minerals in distilled water prevents the buildup of mineral deposits in the humidifier, ensuring its efficient and effective operation.

3. Is purified water better than tap water?

Purified water is generally considered to be of higher quality than tap water, as it undergoes additional treatment to remove impurities and contaminants. However, the quality of tap water can vary depending on the local water source and treatment methods.

4. Can I use distilled water for cooking?

While distilled water is safe for cooking, it is not recommended for all culinary purposes. Distilled water lacks the natural minerals that can contribute to the taste and texture of certain dishes, so it may not be the best choice for cooking.

5. Does distilled water have any health benefits?

Distilled water is considered safe for consumption, but it does not provide any additional health benefits beyond basic hydration. In fact, the lack of minerals in distilled water may lead to an imbalance in essential electrolytes, so it is important to supplement with a balanced diet or mineral-rich water when consuming distilled water regularly.

6. Can I use purified water in my car’s battery?

Yes, purified water is often recommended for use in car batteries, as it helps to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits that can interfere with the battery’s performance.

In conclusion, the key difference between distilled water and purified water lies in their level of purity and the resulting taste and applications. While both are suitable for various uses, understanding the unique characteristics of each can help you make an informed decision on the best water choice for your needs. As a leading provider of water distillers and air purifiers, SuperPure is dedicated to helping you enjoy the purest drinking water, stay hydrated, and save money on bottled water.