Water is the healthiest beverage choice to quench thirst and stay hydrated, but this simple drink can quickly become unappealing and risky to consume if not handled properly. Follow these smart water storage and serving tips to keep your family drinking fresh, clean water every day.
Use Quality Containers
Investing in proper water vessels pays dividends through better taste and reduced waste. The people at Alive Water say that reusable glass water jugs, pitchers, and dispensers are ideal choices because they don’t leach chemicals or impart flavors. Replace old, cracked plastic gear that could harbor bacteria. Pick jugs and bottles with tight lids and spouts that don’t drip and select sizes suitable for your daily household usage so that you aren’t dealing with excess sitting around too long.
Keep It Cold
The key to making water irresistible to drink is keeping it deliciously chilled. Store pitchers and bottles in the main body of the refrigerator, not just the door. The colder environment between 35-45°F slows chemical changes so water maintains peak flavor. It also prevents microbial growth. Consider upgrading to a fridge model with a water dispenser if dealing with large volumes.
For super cold water without dilution, keep reusable ice cubes made of stainless steel or silicone rings on hand or get a countertop icemaker dispenser. This makes it easy to fill water bottles before heading out.
Light and Air Exposure
Chemical reactions accelerated by heat and light are water’s worst enemies when it comes to taste and safety. Store all jugs, carafes, pitchers, and bottles in dark enclosed cabinets or the refrigerator whenever possible. Never leave vessels sitting out on the counter overnight. The darkness prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria and algae.
Also minimize oxygen exposure by keeping containers tightly sealed when not in use. Fill pitchers and bottles to the brim before refrigerating to limit air space. Discard any water sitting at room temperature longer than 6-8 hours.
Serve Properly
Any remaining water sitting in cups or glasses breeds bacteria. Never let it hang around longer than necessary. Pour cups as needed instead of pre-filling a pitcher full to sit out at meals.
If serving a pitcher, replenish with fresh chilled water from the fridge. Provide ice cubes so water stays cold. And empty any leftovers rather than letting sit until the next meal.
For parties and gatherings, use large commercial beverage dispensers full of ice water. Keep back-stock bottles handy to continuously replenish so the supply stays fresh.
Thorough Cleaning Is Key
It’s critical not only to wash water pitchers and jugs after use, but to also periodically give them deeper cleanings. Over time, mineral deposits from the water, bacteria, and soap scum build up along the interior walls and corners of containers. At least weekly, do a hot water rinse followed by a soak using either a diluted white vinegar solution, baking soda scrub, or lemon half squeezed over surfaces, especially in nooks a sponge cannot always easily reach. Let soak for 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse well. Alternatively, boil some water and pour into containers to loosen stubborn residue so it’s easily swiped away. Wiping down exterior surfaces with a disinfectant spray adds a finishing touch to kill off any remaining lurking microbes.
Conclusion
It only takes small effort to transform everyday drinking water into a cool, great tasting beverage by properly caring for storage and serving vessels. Success hinges on clever equipment choices, cold temperatures, minimal light and air exposure, and perfect hygiene. With these simple tips, your family can enjoy fresh, thirst-quenching water anytime.
