Yes, you can store water in plastic, and it's a widely practiced method for both short-term convenience and long-term emergency preparedness, provided you choose the right types of plastic and follow best storage practices.
The Basics of Plastic Water Storage
Plastic containers are a popular choice for water storage due to their durability, lightweight nature, and affordability. However, not all plastics are created equal when it comes to safely holding drinking water. The key is to select food-grade plastics designed for water storage to prevent chemical leaching and maintain water quality.
Choosing the Right Plastic Containers
When selecting plastic containers for water storage, look for specific codes, often found on the bottom of the container, which indicate the type of plastic. The most recommended types for water are those made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Here's a quick guide to common plastic types and their suitability for water storage:
| Plastic Type (Recycling Code) | Common Name | Suitability for Water Storage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 PET or PETE | Polyethylene Terephthalate | Good | Commonly used for single-use bottled water; safe for short to medium-term storage. |
| #2 HDPE | High-Density Polyethylene | Excellent | Opaque, durable plastic often used for milk jugs, detergent bottles, and larger water storage containers. |
| #3 PVC or V | Polyvinyl Chloride | Not Recommended | Can leach chemicals; generally avoided for food and water storage. |
| #4 LDPE | Low-Density Polyethylene | Good | Used for squeeze bottles or plastic bags; generally safe but less rigid. |
| #5 PP | Polypropylene | Good | Often used for yogurt containers, medicine bottles, and some reusable water bottles. |
| #6 PS | Polystyrene | Not Recommended | Used for disposable cups and containers; not suitable for water. |
| #7 Other | Miscellaneous Plastics | Use Caution | Can include various plastics like polycarbonate (which may contain BPA) or newer bioplastics. Look for "BPA-free" labels. |
Always opt for containers labeled "food-grade" or specifically designed for water storage.
Best Practices for Long-Term Water Storage
To ensure the safety and quality of your stored water, follow these critical guidelines:
- Cleanliness is Key: Before first use and between refills, thoroughly clean containers with dish soap and rinse well. For long-term storage, sanitize with a mild bleach solution (1 teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach per gallon of water, let stand for 30 seconds, then rinse).
- Fill Completely: Fill containers completely to the top, ensuring no air space remains. This minimizes the amount of oxygen that can interact with the water, reducing the potential for microbial growth or stale taste.
- Optimal Storage Location: Store containers in a cool, dry location to protect the plastic and water from degradation. High temperatures can cause plastic to leach chemicals more readily.
- Avoid Contaminants: Keep stored water away from petroleum products, insecticide products, strong odor foods, or perfumed products. Vapors from these substances can permeate the plastic and affect the taste and quality of the water, even if the container is sealed.
- Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can degrade plastic over time and promote algae growth in the water.
- Rotate Your Supply: For emergency preparedness, rotate your stored water every six months. This ensures you always have fresh water available.
- Consider Water Treatment: For tap water stored long-term, consider adding a few drops of unscented household bleach (sodium hypochlorite without additives like scents or dyes) per gallon, especially if you're uncertain about the water source's purity, or use a reliable water purification tablet.
Potential Concerns and How to Mitigate Them
While plastic water storage is generally safe, it's wise to be aware of potential concerns:
- BPA (Bisphenol A): Some older or certain types of plastics (especially #7 polycarbonates) might contain BPA, a chemical that can potentially leach into water. Many manufacturers now offer "BPA-free" products, which are highly recommended.
- Microplastics: Research into microplastics is ongoing, but using durable, food-grade containers and avoiding extreme temperatures can help minimize the potential for plastic degradation.
- Taste Alteration: Water stored in plastic for extended periods, especially if not filled completely or kept near strong odors, might develop a "plastic" taste. Following the best practices above greatly reduces this risk.
For more information on safe water storage, you can refer to resources from organizations like the EPA. (Note: This is a placeholder link for illustrative purposes.)
