Stay Hydrated for Less

Photo by: mel810

The human body needs 64 ounces of water per day to run efficiently. The type of water we use varies widely from Aquafina to a running faucet. How much do you spend on H2O each month? And does your choice have a positive ecological effect? Check out the most popular thirst quenching options and maybe consider a switch for your pocketbook and the environment.

Bottled Water
We like the sleek bottles that unscrew easily and fit so nicely in the trashcan. No bulky jugs or pitchers to maneuver or occupy space in the refrigerator. The problem is excessive trash caused by bottled water. Sure, an occasional bottle is not a problem. But when your sole source of refreshment comes in small plastics, trash becomes outstanding.

At an average $4.99 a package, buying cases of 16.9 oz. bottles will cost $19.49 per month (114 bottles total). Aside from water delivery services, purchasing bottled water is, by far, the most expensive option for refreshment. If you can't bear to break your bottled water love affair, buy a Camelback or other fancy reusable bottle that you enjoy drinking from.

Brita Pitcher Filter
This is one of my favorite water sources, when I can remember to refill the pitcher. Initial costs are much higher at $25 for the pitcher and filter. Filters cost $7.99 to replace and, if you truly are drinking your full water requirement, need to be changed every month (or you are simply filling the pitcher with tap water). Over the first quarter of use, your cost including tap water is $16 per month. That amount decreases the longer you keep and use the pitcher. Your additional benefit is saving on the amount of water bottles consumed reducing overall waste. Plus you avoid carrying that blasted carton of water in the house every trip.

Water Jug
Another option available for you is the jug of water. Purchased cheaply in orange juice style containers for as little as $.75, jugs can also be refilled at the store for a lower rate. My local grocer refills at $.43 per gallon. Let's assume you buy 4 gallons new and have them refilled for your monthly water intake. You'll spend the cost of gas for 3-4 trips and $7.73 per month. Part of what I don't like about this method is the pain of hauling four-gallon jugs in and out of the house.

Tap Water
Think tap water tastes differently? Indeed, it does, but that doesn't indicate how purified it is. Dr. Henry Kim, a supervisory chemist with the FDA, says "generally, over the years, the FDA has adopted EPA standards for tap water as standards for bottled water." This means that your fancy bottle has roughly the same amount of contaminants as the tap.

Every area is different, so if you are doubtful your supply check with local purification plants for more details. Plus the fluoride found in tap water is beneficial for teeth—if your children exclusively drink bottled water you may need to provide fluoride supplements. The EPA estimates that tap water costs roughly $2 per 1000 gallons, only $.02 per month, by far the most economical choice.

Eliminate excess waste and stay hydrated through the hot summer months with water. Avoid breaking your back and the bank by selecting alternatives to water bottles.

Next: Chapter 2: Green Does a Body Good