Yes, you can safely drink the tap water in the United States without any special precautions.
The United States has one of the most developed water infrastructures globally. While taste and hardness vary by region, the water is treated and monitored for safety nationwide.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink Common Risks: Minimal — high quality standards Brush Teeth? ✅ Yes, no concerns Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ✅ Yes, safe to use tap water Use Ice in Drinks? ✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ❌ No, not necessary
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across the United States.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve evaluated the best filter bottles for travelers using real user reviews, lab data, and product performance. They’re ideal for staying healthy, limiting plastic use, and avoiding daily bottled water expenses—and if you want to bring one on your next trip, you’ll find our trusted picks listed below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Tap water may be officially safe, but real-world conditions can shift slightly with the seasons or geography. Travelers may encounter small changes in taste, pressure, or clarity — not dangerous, but worth noticing.
Possible mild effects:
- Heavy rainfall or droughts might temporarily affect water clarity
- In remote areas, testing frequency may differ from major cities
- Local restaurants usually serve purified ice and rinsed food, but standards aren’t always uniform
- Unfamiliar water chemistry might mildly affect digestion
- Consider easing in by drinking small amounts before going full tap
In safe-water countries, risks are low — but a bit of extra caution can make the transition smoother.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in the United States, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in the United States
In the U.S., it’s generally expected that tap water will be served for free in restaurants, although during droughts in states like California, you may have to ask for it. Many Americans use home water filters, especially in areas with hard water or aging plumbing systems.
Water purification systems are often highly advanced. Cities like Phoenix and El Paso are investing in Advanced Water Purification (AWP) to recycle wastewater into clean drinking water through a multi-step process. In Boston, orthophosphate is added to protect against lead pipe corrosion. Growing concerns about PFAS—found in nearly half of U.S. tap water—have led to more investment in filtration technologies.
What travelers often don’t realize is that water quality in the U.S. varies widely depending on location, infrastructure, and local policy. Some utilities even set their own standards. A national zip code lookup tool lets residents and visitors check exactly what’s in their local tap water.
FAQs About Tap Water in the United States
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
No worries—tap water in the United States meets health standards and is safe for all daily hygiene.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Yes, the water here is clean and fine for washing your face, shaving, or rinsing.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
There’s no need to ask—ice cubes here are safe across the board.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
You can use it for showering, washing your hair, and everything else.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
There’s no need to use bottled water for food prep here.
Is bottled water expensive in the United States?
It’s not very expensive, but you can skip it since tap water is safe to drink.
The United States is frequently combined with Canada, Mexico, or The Bahamas. Water safety can differ greatly between regions.