Fresh Alka WaterChoosing your water
Alkaline Water vs. Purified Water: Which Should You Choose?
It's the question we answer most at the counter. Both are clean, great drinking water. The difference comes down to taste, minerals and what you're using it for.
The quick comparison
| Purified water | Alkaline water | |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Clean and crisp | Smooth, slightly softer |
| pH | Close to neutral | pH 9–9.5 |
| Minerals | Almost none | Calcium and magnesium added |
| Best for | Coffee, tea, cooking, appliances | Everyday drinking |
| Price at our store | 70¢ a gallon | $1.50 a gallon |
When purified water is the better pick
- Coffee and tea. Many people like how purified water lets the flavor of the coffee or tea come through.
- Cooking. Soups, rice, pasta and anything where water is a main ingredient.
- Humidifiers, irons and coffee makers. Low-mineral water helps cut down on mineral buildup.
- Baby formula. Ask your pediatrician which water they recommend for your baby's formula.
When alkaline water is the better pick
- Everyday drinking. It's our most popular water because people love the taste.
- Keeping water on hand. If the smooth taste helps you drink more water through the day, that alone makes it a good pick. Read more about alkaline water.
Is one healthier?
Both keep you hydrated. Mayo Clinic says that for most people, alkaline water isn't proven to be healthier than plain water, and that the most important thing is simply drinking enough (see how much water you need). Pick the one you enjoy, because that's the one you'll drink. If you have kidney disease, ask your doctor before drinking alkaline water regularly.
Can't decide?
A lot of families fill both: a 5-gallon jug of alkaline for drinking and a few gallons of purified for the kitchen. Bring your jugs to our store on Mission Gorge Road and try a cup of each before you fill.