When choosing bottled water, consumers often face a decision between maximum purification and natural sourcing. Distilled and spring water represent opposite ends of this spectrum. Distilled water is produced through a controlled process designed to strip away nearly everything but the water molecule itself. Spring water is collected directly from the earth, valued precisely for the elements it naturally contains. Understanding how each type is sourced helps determine which aligns best with specific needs.
How Distillation Creates Pure H2O
Distillation is a process that mimics the natural water cycle in a controlled environment. The method involves heating water until it boils, converting the liquid into steam or vapor. This vapor is collected and cooled in a separate chamber, causing it to condense back into its liquid state.
Impurities, such as minerals, heavy metals, and microorganisms, are left behind because they have a higher boiling point than water. The result is water that is nearly 100% pure H₂O, possessing a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) concentration of less than one part per million (PPM).
The Source and Mineral Content of Spring Water
Spring water originates from an underground aquifer and flows naturally to the surface. Bottling companies collect this water either where it emerges or via a borehole tapping directly into the source. The water is naturally filtered as it moves through layers of rock and soil.
As the water filters through the earth, it absorbs various naturally occurring minerals and trace elements, contributing to its Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) content. This mineral profile, which may include calcium, magnesium, and potassium, varies significantly depending on the source’s unique geology.
Health Implications for Drinking
For general hydration, spring water is widely considered the preferred choice due to its natural composition. It contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to a balanced diet and support bodily functions such as bone strength and muscle function. The presence of these dissolved solids also provides a more familiar and appealing taste, which encourages adequate water consumption.
In contrast, drinking distilled water long-term is generally not recommended as a primary source of hydration because it is devoid of all minerals. While distilled water is safe to drink, its lack of minerals can contribute to a flat or bland taste. The World Health Organization notes that consuming demineralized water may increase the elimination of electrolytes and lead to changes in nutrient balance. For most people, the trace minerals in spring water offer a modest benefit that distilled water cannot provide.
Practical Applications Beyond Hydration
Distilled water’s ultra-pure composition makes it uniquely suited for uses where mineral deposits, known as scale, would cause damage. Its lack of Total Dissolved Solids prevents the buildup of residue when the water evaporates, which is important for small household appliances using heat or steam.
Specific applications include filling CPAP machines, steam irons, car batteries, and automotive cooling systems to avoid corrosion. For specialized tasks like mixing baby formula, laboratory testing, and medical equipment sterilization, its high purity ensures the absence of contaminants. Spring water is unsuitable for these applications due to the risk of scale formation.