Do you know what's in your tap water?

We all know that the water that runs from our taps is treated with a range of chemicals in order to make it safe for drinking, washing and bathing in. But many of us are questioning the quality of our tap water, while others of us simply do not like the taste of our tap water, which can be affected by its mineral make-up and the levels of disinfectants used to treat it. So what's in yours?

Depending on the area you live in and your water source, your tap water will have been treated with chlorine, fluoride, and other disinfectants. More recently, however, concerns have been growing about the presence of potentially harmful micro-plastics in our water. In fact, a survey conducted by The Organisation of Responsible Business (ORB) in 2017 found plastic micro-fibres in 83 per cent of the tap water they tested. 

So, what can you do to improve the quality and taste of your tap water? Well, the easiest solution is a good-quality water filter – with the emphasis on the word 'quality'. Water filters come in a variety of formats and at lots of different price points, but some are much more efficient than others. 

Shockingly, poor quality jug filters lose 50 per cent of their ability to remove impurities within just two weeks. What to look for? A ceramic, as opposed to plastic, filter, such as Doulton water filters, will do a better job of filtering your water directly from the tap – and they will do it for longer. Something to think about in this thirst-inducing heatwave.