How Long Is Bottled Water Good For After Opening? 

There are several reasons why you should never drink water that has expired. It might not taste the way it did when you opened it, or it might contain pathogenic microorganisms. The only exception to this rule is pure tap water. Thankfully, this is rare. 

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If you are fortunate enough to live in a climate where the weather is conducive to bottled water storage, you can enjoy the benefits of this convenience for up to a year or so. Even if you are unable to store your bottles in a cool, dry place, they will still last a few months if you keep them refrigerated. A good rule of thumb is to store your water in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or closet. But if you are in a warmer region, you should move your water to a cooler area such as the freezer. 

While some companies add a shelf life to their bottles, others don’t. Regardless of your preferred storage method, your bottled water will probably need to be refrigerated for safety purposes. You also need to be careful not to store your bottles next to a heater, or near hazardous household chemicals. Also, storing your bottled water in the trunk of your car is not recommended. 

In the United States, there is no federal law requiring water bottles to have an expiration date. However, there is a law requiring public water systems to test their water for toxins and other contaminants. These tests are important for your health. As a result, you might have to do a little detective work if you suspect that your water is not safe to drink. 

Although there is no law mandating the inclusion of a best-by date on bottled water, you will find that some manufacturers have decided to use one in order to maintain the highest quality. Fortunately, the FDA has deemed this to be a valid claim. 

Bottled water is convenient, but it can also be a major pain in the rear end if it goes bad. One of the best ways to avoid this is to store your water in a refrigerator. Keeping it in the fridge is a good way to prolong its shelf life, as well as ensure that it tastes fresh and delicious. 

Although the FDA doesn’t require an expiration date on bottled water, it does recommend that you consume it within a few days of opening. This is because bottled water can go bad if it is exposed to heat or other factors, especially during the summer. Additionally, if you are traveling to a different location, you will need to make sure that your bottled water has been refrigerated before you can take it along with you. 

Although there is no real scientific proof that bottled water has an actual shelf life, it’s worth noting that some companies do include a “best-by” date on their bottles, which is a nice gesture. Having your bottled water on hand is a smart idea, especially in case of a natural disaster.