Imagine this: you’re thirsty, really thirsty. You reach for a drink, and instead of a plastic bottle, you grab a can. Yes, a can! Canned water might sound strange at first, like something from the future or a camping trip gone wrong. But it’s becoming more common, popping up on shelves right next to the familiar plastic bottles.
Why should you care about water in a can? Well, plastic bottles create a lot of trash, and many people worry about chemicals leaching from plastic. But switching to cans brings its own questions. Is it safe? Does it taste different? Are you actually helping the planet? These are the real questions people ask when they see a can of H2O.
This post cuts through the fizz—or lack thereof—to give you the honest scoop on canned water. We will explore the good, the bad, and the bubbly (or not so bubbly) facts. By the end, you will know exactly how canned water stacks up against bottled water and tap water, helping you choose the best drink for your thirst and your values.
Top Canned Water Recommendations
- Don’t Be Scared. It’s Just the Greatest Water on Earth
- Natural Mountain Source
- Ice Cold Cans
- Eight (8) 12-ounce sleek cans of Smartwater Premium Canned Drinking Water
- Same crisp, refreshing taste as smartwater bottled water
- Vapor-distilled process, electrolytes added for taste and purely balanced pH
- NATURALLY ALKALINE: Icelandic Glacial is naturally alkaline with a pH level of 8.4.
- EXCEPTIONALLY PURE: Sourced from Iceland, one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth, for an exceptional taste.
- SUSTAINABLE SOURCE: Bottled at the Legendary Ölfus Spring in Iceland, one of the world's largest natural springs that is constantly replenished by rainfall and snowmelt.
- CANNED WATER IN ECO-FRIENDLY ALUMINUM, NOT PLASTIC - Open Water uses sustainable packaging made of 100% recyclable BPA-free aluminum. Our 12 ounce aluminum cans get recycled more often than any other beverage container material including plastic, glass, and even cartons. Aluminum is also infinitely recyclable, which means it can be recycled over and over without losing quality or volume.
- CONVENIENT AND SUSTAINABLE - Canned Water! You know what they say... Great things come in small packages. Well, now our deliciously fresh ultra-purified water is available in a compact little can that's easy to throw in a backpack, cooler, or lunchbox. Made and adventure-tested right here in the U.S.
- CLEAN, PURE TASTE - Our ultra-purified canned water has a balanced pH and goes through a multi-step purification system. We then add plenty of electrolytes for a clean, balanced taste.
- Don’t Be Scared. It’s Just the Greatest Water on Earth
- Natural Mountain Source
- Ice Cold Cans
- USE LESS PLASTIC - Recyclable aluminum bottles.
- COOLS IN 20 MINUTES - Here's some science: plastic is less thermally conductive than aluminum. That means colder water faster with RAIN Water.
- BOTTLED AT THE SOURCE - Collected using no mechanical energy, underground pressure brings the spring water to the surface.
- Includes 18 (11.6 fl oz) cans of Gatorade Thirst Quencher Sports Drink, 6 lemon Lime, 6 Fruit Punch and 6 Orange
- Enjoy the same Gatorade Thirst Quencher you love in a can
- Gatorade Thirst Quencher Sports Drink cans contain 80 calories
- Includes twenty-four 11.15 fl oz (330 mL) cans of S.Pellegrino Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
- This Italian mineral water offers unmistakable taste and gentle bubbles
- S.Pellegrino sparkling mineral water is low in sodium, and contains zero calories, with no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
The Ultimate Buying Guide to Canned Water
Canned water might sound strange at first. You usually see water in plastic bottles or glass. But canned water is becoming popular. It offers unique benefits for certain situations. This guide helps you choose the best canned water for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
1. Can Material and Lining
- Aluminum: Most canned water uses aluminum. It is lightweight and easy to recycle.
- Lining: Check the inside lining. Good quality cans use a non-BPA liner. This keeps the metal from touching the water. This is important for taste.
2. Water Source and Filtration
The source matters a lot. Some canned water comes from springs. Others are purified municipal water. Look for clear labeling.
- Spring Water: Often tastes very clean and natural.
- Purified Water: Water goes through heavy filtering. It usually has a neutral taste.
3. Can Size and Quantity
Cans come in different sizes. Small cans (8 oz or 12 oz) are great for lunchboxes. Larger cans (16 oz or 17 oz) suit hiking or workouts. Buying in bulk packs saves money.
Important Materials and Safety
The container material greatly affects the water’s quality. Aluminum is the standard material.
BPA-Free Assurance
BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical sometimes found in plastic linings. While most aluminum cans use safe liners, always look for “BPA-Free” written on the packaging. This gives you peace of mind. High-quality brands ensure their liners protect the water.
Recyclability
A big plus for canned water is recycling. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable. Choosing canned water supports a greener planet. Remember to recycle the cans after you drink the water.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Taste Purity
The biggest concern people have is a metallic taste. Good canning processes prevent this. Water that tastes metallic usually means the inner lining failed or the can is old. Fresh, well-stored cans taste neutral, like bottled water.
Storage Conditions
How you store the cans matters. Extreme heat or cold can affect the can lining over a very long time. Keep your supply in a cool, dark place. Sunlight reduces quality over months.
Shelf Life
Canned water has a very long shelf life, often lasting years past bottled water. This makes it excellent for emergency kits. Always check the “Best By” date, though.
User Experience and Use Cases
Canned water shines in specific situations where plastic bottles might fail.
Portability and Durability
Cans are much harder to crush than plastic bottles. You can toss them into a backpack without worrying about leaks. They hold up well during travel.
Perfect for Emergency Preparedness
Because of the long shelf life and durability, canned water is a top choice for disaster kits. It stays safe longer than many other supplies.
Outdoor Activities
Hikers and campers prefer cans because they take up less space when empty (they can be crushed flat before recycling later). They are also often lighter than glass bottles.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Canned Water
Q: Does canned water taste metallic?
A: No, good quality canned water should not taste metallic. Manufacturers use protective linings inside the cans to keep the water pure and fresh.
Q: Is canned water safe to drink long-term?
A: Yes, canned water is very safe. Due to the sealed environment, it lasts much longer than plastic-bottled water, making it great for storage.
Q: How is canned water different from bottled water?
A: The main difference is the container. Cans protect the water better from light and oxygen. Cans are also easier to recycle than most plastic bottles.
Q: Can I reuse the aluminum cans?
A: While you can technically refill them, it is best not to reuse them for drinking. The can material is meant for single use to ensure the best taste and safety.
Q: What is the typical shelf life of canned water?
A: Most brands offer a shelf life of two to five years. Always look at the date printed on the can.
Q: Is canned water more expensive than bottled water?
A: Sometimes the initial purchase price is slightly higher, especially for single cans. However, buying in large multi-packs often makes the per-can cost very competitive.
Q: Where is the best place to store my canned water supply?
A: Store your cans in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Q: Are the cans recyclable?
A: Absolutely. Aluminum is one of the most recycled materials in the world. You should always recycle your empty cans.
Q: What should I check for before buying a can?
A: Check the seal to make sure it is not dented or leaking. Also, verify that the can has a clear BPA-free lining listed.
Q: Is canned water good for kids’ lunch boxes?
A: Yes. Cans are durable and won’t leak if squished in a backpack, making them a great, spill-proof option.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!