You’ve probably heard the advice a million times: Drink more water. Seems easy, right? But when you head to the tap, grab a bottle, or fill up your filter jug, the real question kicks in—what kind of water should I actually be drinking?

Is tap water safe? Is bottled water worth the cost (or the plastic guilt)? And what exactly makes filtered water so special?

If you’ve ever felt low-key confused by all the hydration options out there, don’t worry—you’re not the only one. With so much conflicting information out there, choosing can feel more like a science exam than a simple hydration decision. But don’t stress—we’ve poured through the facts so you don’t have to.

Let’s break down the differences between filtered water, tap, and bottled water—from taste and safety to environmental impact and cost—so you can make the best choice for your hydration needs.

Tap Water: Convenient, But Is It Clean?

Let’s start with the obvious: tap water is everywhere. It’s cheap, always available, and requires zero planning. But the big question is—what’s in it?

The Truth Behind the Tap

Australian tap water is generally treated and regulated, but that doesn’t always mean it’s free from nasties. A recent report even warned that drinking water across every state and territory was found to contain carcinogenic PFAS ‘forever chemicals’, prompting experts to advise Australians to use water filters.

And if that doesn’t raise an eyebrow, studies have linked long-term exposure to chlorinated drinking water with a 27% increased risk of bladder cancer and certain types of birth defects.

What Tap Water Might Taste Like

That slightly metallic or earthy taste? It’s probably thanks to chlorine, rust from old pipes, or naturally occurring minerals. While not necessarily harmful in the short term, it’s not exactly what you’d call “refreshing”.

Tap Water: The Verdict

Pros:

  • Super accessible

  • Inexpensive

  • Regulated

Cons:

  • Potential exposure to chlorine, lead, and other contaminants

  • Inconsistent treatment in different areas

  • Taste isn’t always pleasant

Bottled Water: Expensive and Not so Pure

Bottled water has long been seen as the “clean” option—but is it really?

Bottled Water ≠ Better Water

Here’s something surprising: many bottled water brands are just filtered tap water in disguise. That fancy mountain spring label? It’s often more about marketing than minerals.

And let’s talk about plastics. A 2008 EWG investigation found that PET plastics (the ones with the “1” on the bottom) can leach dozens of chemical byproducts into the water—yes, the water you’re drinking.

Plus, 28.3% of the Australian population drinks bottled water and is exposed to roughly 400 microplastics per year. That’s a hard no from us.

Environmental Toll

Globally, the bottled water industry produces a jaw-dropping 25 million tonnes of plastic waste every year. And despite good intentions, the majority of that plastic still ends up in landfill or oceans.

Bottled Water: The Verdict

Pros:

  • Convenient on the go

  • Perceived to be “clean”

Cons:

  • Expensive (you’re literally paying hundreds of times more than tap)

  • Major plastic pollution

  • Chemical leaching from bottles

  • Often no better than tap water

Filtered Water: The Clear Winner?

If you’re looking for the middle ground between convenience, safety, taste, and sustainability, filtered water might just be the perfect one for you.

How Water Filters Work

Water filters (especially the good ones) remove a wide range of contaminants—chlorine, lead, heavy metals, pesticides, you name it. Basic filters are a decent start, but higher-quality options like Earths Water filters take things further, delivering clean, crisp water you can feel good about.

The Filtered Water Taste Test

Filtered water often tastes better because it is better. No weird smells, no chlorine, no funky aftertaste—just pure, refreshing water the way it should be.

Filtered Water: The Verdict

Pros:

  • Removes harmful contaminants

  • Great taste

  • Reduces need for plastic bottles

  • Saves money over time

  • Easy to integrate into daily routine

Cons:

  • Upfront cost (but it pays off quickly)

  • Needs occasional filter changes

Why Earths Water Is a Smarter, Sustainable Choice

At Earths Water, we believe in making clean, healthy hydration accessible to all Australians. Our filters go beyond basic—in fact, we collaborate with CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, to continually improve and be always at the cutting edge of water filtration technology. Because when it comes to what you put in your body every day, “good enough” just doesn’t cut it.

But we’re not just about clean water. We’re also about clean living. Our commitment to reducing plastic waste means we use recyclable packaging and encourage reusable alternatives every step of the way.

Which Earths Water Filter Suits Your Lifestyle?

Not all lifestyles call for the same water filter. Whether you’re always on the go or managing a busy household, there’s an Earths Water filter that fits seamlessly into your day-to-day.

On-the-Go Options

Perfect for students, travellers, commuters, and anyone who’s always out and about. Our water filter bottles make it easy to sip fresh, clean water wherever life takes you. They’re lightweight, BPA-free, and use advanced filtration technology to remove nasties while you hydrate.

Household Favourites

If you’re after clean, great-tasting water at home without the daily refill hustle, Earths Water’s benchtop, jugs, and carafe filters have you sorted. Designed for everyday ease and eco-friendly living, these beauties look great on your counter and deliver continuous filtration with zero electricity.

Clean Water Without the Clutter

Want clean water straight from the tap without cluttering your kitchen? Our Under Sink RO Water Filter goes the extra mile—tucked out of sight but packed with powerful filtration tech. Ideal for health-conscious households who want premium water quality with no visible fuss.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Be Drinking?

At the end of the day, water should be simple—but the choices around it don’t always feel that way.

Tap water can be hit-and-miss. Bottled water? Pricey, wasteful, and not always better. But filtered water—done right—ticks all the boxes for taste, safety, cost, and sustainability.

If you want peace of mind with every sip, filtered water is the clear winner.
And when it comes to filters, Earths Water has your back—with trusted tech, smarter design, and a passion for protecting both people and the planet.