By Vijender-Reddy-Muthyala
You might not drink tap water but it’s still an essential part of your daily life. Whether you use it to wash your hands, take a shower, or clean your dishes, it’s something you use every day. But, with growing concerns about water pollution and contamination, it’s natural to question whether the water flowing from your tap is truly clean and safe, even if you’re not directly consuming it.
There are several myths and misconceptions about tap water and its usage. Let’s debunk some of these myths today so that you and your family can lead a healthier lifestyle.
Myth 1: Tap water is safe for all uses
It’s common to think that tap water is universally safe, especially since it’s used for various purposes like washing hands and cleaning dishes. But the truth is that in some places, old pipes and outdated treatment systems might allow contaminants like lead or chemicals to seep into the water, making it unsafe for consumption.
Myth 2: Boiling tap water makes it 100% safe
While boiling can kill certain bacteria, it doesn’t remove all contaminants. Chemicals, heavy metals, and pollutants may still remain in the water, posing long-term health risks. Relying solely on boiling may not guarantee that your tap water is safe for use.
Myth 3: Tap water that looks clean is clean enough for consumption!
Many people believe that as long as tap water looks clear and clean, it must be safe to drink. But, this is not always the case. There are invisible contaminants such as bacteria, chemicals, and heavy metals, that may still be present in seemingly clean water. These contaminants can pose serious health risks. This makes the appearance of tap water not a reliable indicator of its safety.
Myth 4: Tap water is free from heavy metals
While tap water does go through treatment, it doesn’t always mean it’s free from heavy metals. Old pipes, factories nearby, and natural deposits can add heavy metals like lead and arsenic to the water. Even if you can’t taste or smell them, these metals, even in small amounts, can be harmful to your health. That’s why the taste and odour of tap water can’t be taken into account when determining its quality.
Myth 5: Tap water is free from microplastics and emerging contaminants
Recent studies show that tap water can contain microplastics and traces of medications. These pollutants get into the water from plastic waste, runoff from sewers, and discharge from factories. While authorities do keep an eye on traditional contaminants, several new pollutants are emerging, making it risky to consume tap water as it is.
So, even if we’re not directly consuming tap water, we’re still exposed to its contaminants through daily activities. Therefore, ensuring the safety of your tap water quality is super-important for your family’s health and well-being. Taking proactive steps such as regular water quality testing can provide insight and help guarantee its safety.
The author is co-founder and CEO of DrinkPrime. Views are personal.
