Distilled water is often perceived as a completely sterile substance, leading many to wonder if it can still develop mold. While pure distilled water inherently resists mold growth, contamination can alter its properties, allowing fungi to thrive. This article explores the nature of distilled water and the factors that influence its susceptibility to mold.
What Distilled Water Is
Distilled water results from a purification process involving boiling and condensation. Water is heated until it transforms into steam, leaving behind impurities that do not vaporize at or near water’s boiling point. This steam is then collected and cooled, condensing back into liquid water in a separate container. This method effectively removes most dissolved minerals, organic matter, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants present in the original water source. The resulting product is characterized by its significant purity, often having less than 1 part per million of total dissolved solids.
Why Distilled Water Typically Doesn’t Mold
Mold, a type of fungus, requires specific conditions to grow and reproduce, including moisture, suitable temperature, oxygen, and a food source. Pure distilled water lacks the organic matter and mineral nutrients mold needs to thrive. Unlike tap water, which contains various dissolved substances that serve as nutrients, distilled water is largely devoid of these elements. Without a consistent food supply, mold spores cannot germinate or establish a colony. The distillation process removes the components mold utilizes for growth, making it an inhospitable environment, which is why distilled water typically remains mold-free.
How Distilled Water Can Mold
Despite its initial purity, distilled water can develop mold if it becomes contaminated. Mold spores are microscopic and commonly found floating in the air. When distilled water is exposed to the environment, these spores can settle into the water. If organic matter or trace nutrients are also present, the spores can begin to germinate and grow.
Common sources of contamination include dirty containers with residues from previous liquids. Unwashed hands or other objects coming into contact with the water can also introduce organic particles and mold spores. Even minute amounts of dust or airborne particles containing organic material can provide the minimal food source needed for fungi to thrive. Once contaminated, the water is no longer in its pure state, creating an environment where mold can proliferate.
Keeping Distilled Water Mold-Free
To prevent mold growth in distilled water, maintaining its purity after distillation is important. Store distilled water in clean, airtight containers made of non-reactive materials like glass or food-grade plastic to prevent external contamination. Keep containers sealed tightly when not in use to minimize exposure to airborne spores and dust.
Storing distilled water in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat, also preserves its quality. Proper storage practices reduce the chance of introducing contaminants. Avoiding cross-contamination by using clean utensils and preventing contact with unsterile surfaces ensures the water remains in its purified state.