The tap water in Belarus is often untreated or poorly regulated—avoid drinking it directly.
Belarus struggles with outdated infrastructure and inconsistent treatment standards. Heavy metals and microbial contamination have been reported, especially in older buildings.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
Even if you only use it once or twice, a solid filter bottle can more than pay for itself—by saving you from buying bottled water at airports, hotels, or tourist shops. We don’t sell any products, but we’ve researched and reviewed top-performing filter bottles that travelers consistently trust to stay healthy, hydrated, and plastic-free. You can explore our best picks below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even if the tap water is safe for residents, foreign travelers often face higher health risks due to exposure to unfamiliar organisms and differing hygiene standards.
You may be exposed to:
- Bacteria like E. coli, causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, from untreated or contaminated water sources
- Viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A, spread through unclean water systems
- In some countries, chemical toxins from old pipes or agricultural runoff
Contamination is most common in:
- Regions without consistent municipal treatment
- Areas impacted by seasonal flooding or unreliable sanitation
- Buildings with aging infrastructure or poorly maintained tanks
Remember: clear water isn’t always safe water. Invisible contaminants can still cause serious issues, from mild digestive discomfort to prolonged illness.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Belarus, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Belarus
Belarus has a wide-reaching water supply system, but a lot of it is outdated. Around 15% of the population still doesn’t have access to piped water. In some areas, high iron levels affect water quality. Many people rely on old-school purification methods—like letting water settle, boiling, or even freezing it—while others turn to filters or bottled water.
FAQs About Tap Water in Belarus
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
To stay on the safe side, use bottled water to brush your teeth—ingesting even a little contaminated water can cause problems.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
For basic hygiene like washing your face, tap water is usually fine—just don’t rinse your mouth with it.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Ask if the ice is made from bottled or treated water—if not, it’s safer to go without.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Most people shower without issues, but be cautious not to get water in your mouth or eyes.
If you’re looking to be on the safe side—or just want to be kind to your skin and hair while you’re abroad—a travel-friendly shower filter can be a smart add-on. You can usually screw it right onto the showerhead in just a minute. Just make sure the connection point is exposed. Some showers are built into the wall, and in that case, a filter won’t do much good. Check the latest price here.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Many travelers use bottled water to rinse fresh produce, especially in areas without strong water treatment systems.
Is bottled water expensive in Belarus?
While it might cost more in remote areas, bottled water is generally accessible and not too expensive.
Belarus is surrounded by major overland travel corridors in Eastern Europe. If your itinerary also includes Poland, Russia, or Ukraine, make sure to check how their water quality compares.