Proper Storage of Distilled Water at Home
Distilled water is commonly used in various household and laboratory applications. Storing distilled water at home requires careful attention to ensure its purity and safety for use. This guide provides practical tips for storing distilled water effectively.
Choosing the Right Container
The first step in storing distilled water at home is to choose the appropriate container. It is crucial to use clean, food-grade containers to prevent contamination. Glass and BPA-free plastic containers are ideal options.
Why Glass and BPA-Free Plastic?
Glass containers minimize the risk of leaching chemicals into the water, ensuring its purity. BPA-free plastic containers are also a safe choice as they do not release harmful substances into the water. Any container used should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before use.
Sealing the Containers
Sealing the containers tightly is essential to prevent contamination from dust, insects, or other pollutants. Using airtight, resealable lids helps maintain the integrity of the distilled water. Proper sealing is crucial in maintaining the water's purity and safety for long-term storage.
Avoiding Direct Sunlight
Storing distilled water away from direct sunlight is necessary to prevent degradation. UV light can alter the chemical properties of the water over time, reducing its quality. Store the containers in a cool, dark place to preserve the water's integrity.
Temperature Control
Maintaining a stable temperature is important for proper storage. Extreme heat can cause plastic containers to degrade, potentially leading to contamination. It is advisable to store the water in a cool, temperature-controlled environment to ensure its purity and safety.
Labeling and Dating
For long-term storage, it is recommended to label and date all containers. While distilled water can last indefinitely when stored properly, rotating the supply periodically is a good practice. Labeling helps track the age of the water, ensuring it remains safe for use.
Checking for Contamination
Before using stored distilled water, it is essential to check for signs of contamination. Signs such as unusual odors or cloudiness indicate the presence of impurities and should be avoided. Regular checks can help maintain the purity of the water.
Thoughts from a Professional Chemist
While it is true that water is a natural substance and does not have a specific "best-by" date, storing distilled water properly is still important. Professional chemists often use tap water, especially when beer is an alternative, as it is still a purified water source. However, for home storage, using the right containers and following proper storage guidelines remains crucial.
For unopened distilled water, it can be stored outside or in the refrigerator until the printed expiration date. For opened distilled water, it is best to store it tightly sealed in a cool, dark place, and consume within a week if kept outside or six months if refrigerated.
It is recommended to store distilled water in a glass container. Plastic containers can leach chemicals into the water, potentially contaminating it. Glass is the best option as it has minimal impact on the water over time.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively store distilled water at home while maintaining its purity and safety for use in various applications.