Distilled water is a highly purified form of water, created by boiling it into vapor and then recondensing it. This distillation process effectively separates water from impurities, minerals, and other dissolved solids. The resulting liquid is essentially pure H₂O, making it suitable for applications where mineral-free water is necessary.
Distilled Water Availability at Lowe’s
Finding distilled water at Lowe’s can depend on store inventory and regional variations. While Lowe’s Home Improvement stores may not consistently stock general-purpose distilled water like a grocery store, it is often available in specific departments. Customers typically find it in the automotive section, as it is commonly used for car batteries, or potentially within cleaning supplies or plumbing aisles. Always check the store’s online inventory or inquire with a store associate before visiting.
Most distilled water is sold in gallon jugs, which is a convenient size for various household and specialized uses. While Lowe’s Home Improvement may have it in limited sections, Lowe’s Foods, a separate grocery chain, regularly carries distilled water in their beverage aisles. This distinction is important for shoppers, as understanding the store type helps locate the product efficiently.
Common Uses for Distilled Water
Distilled water’s purity makes it valuable for applications where mineral deposits or impurities could cause issues. Many use it in humidifiers to prevent white mineral dust and extend appliance life. Similarly, it is recommended for steam irons to avoid mineral buildup that can clog vents and stain fabrics. CPAP machines require distilled water in their humidifiers to ensure clean air delivery and prevent mineral scaling.
In automotive contexts, distilled water is essential for topping off lead-acid car batteries, as tap water minerals can corrode battery plates and reduce their lifespan. Gardeners with sensitive houseplants, such as orchids or carnivorous plants, often prefer distilled water to prevent salt and chemical accumulation from tap water that can harm roots or alter soil pH. While some plants benefit from tap water minerals, distilled water can help flush growing mediums to remove mineral buildup, especially in hard water areas.
Important Considerations When Buying Distilled Water
When purchasing distilled water, carefully examine the label to ensure it explicitly states “distilled water.” Other types of purified water, such as “purified water” or “deionized water,” undergo different purification processes and may still contain trace minerals. For example, purified water may be treated through reverse osmosis, which removes many impurities but not necessarily all minerals, while deionized water specifically removes mineral ions but might not eliminate all biological contaminants.
This distinction is significant because these alternatives may not offer the same level of mineral removal as distilled water, which is critical for sensitive equipment or plant care. Distilled water is widely available beyond hardware stores, at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and general merchandise retailers. While prices can vary, it is generally sold in gallon jugs, providing a cost-effective solution for various household and specialized needs.