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Unveiling the Hidden Truth: Discover the Surprising Cost...
The Importance of Water: A Life-Sustaining Resource Water is a crucial resource, indispensable in our everyday lives. The perception of the merits and pitfalls of bottled water vs filtered water constitute one of the more significant issues in domestic water use and management. Health and safety concerns play a significant role in deciding which type of water source will be used as drinking water, since the quality of tap water continues to raise concerns among the public1. Even though tap water is perfectly safe to drink, many are concerned about it is make up or simply prefer better tasting water only achieved with filtration or buying a mineral water. The Hidden Costs of Bottled Water: An Environmental Perspective The global consumption of bottled water has been consistently on the rise, particularly in developed nations where tap water is safe to drink. The steady growth in the bottled water industry owes much to marketing and branding strategies. These strategies leverage the deep-seated cultural connotations of water, such as its representation of natural power, alongside the symbolism of modern technology and the mastery over water through purification systems2. The real cost of bottled water extends beyond just supply costs, such as energy and packaging, which are 240 to 10,000 times pricier per litre than tap water. It also includes environmental costs like plastic waste, much of which ends up in landfills or contributes to oceanic microplastic concentrations. In fact, the environmental toll of bottled water, encompassing energy needs, CO2 emissions, and waste production, is reportedly 100 times greater than that of tap water. Health Risks of Bottled Water: Microplastics and More Moreover, concerns over the environmental and health impacts of bottled water are escalating. A recent study suggested that bottled water consumers could ingest up to 90,000 plastic particles annually, compared to 4,000 for tap water drinkers. The World Health Organisation has even called for further research into this issue. The cost of bottled water does not stop at environmental or health impacts; it also hits consumers' wallets. As per Harvey Water Softeners, the average cost of tap water in the UK is 0.1 pence per litre, whereas a litre of bottled water costs 65p. The profit margins on bottled water are also substantial, ranging from 50% to 200%. The Rise of In-Home Water Treatment Systems: An Alternative to Bottled Water The use of bottled water is not the only alternative for households dissatisfied with the quality and or taste of their tap water. There is a rapidly expanding market for in-home water treatment systems that, using sophisticated technologies, can substantially improve not only the organoleptic properties of household flows, but also their overall quality8. These systems appear as an alternative to bottled water, but may also be convenient for other household uses, such as washing fruit and vegetables, especially in areas with high water hardness9. The reality is that filtered tap water using in-home water treatment systems can be an effective substitute for bottled water consumption. The Financial Benefits of Using Water Filters: A Case Study Allow us to illustrate the extent of your potential savings when you opt for a water filter to fulfil your hydration requirements, rather than needlessly spending money on bottled water. The NHS (National Health Service) recommends that people should drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water per day, and that is just if you are inactive. For a family of four, that is approximately 9 litres a day. However, relying on 12 500ml plastic bottles can be costly. Assuming a case of water costs about £6 (even more for fancy imported brands), at 40 pence per bottle, a family of four would spend: £0.40 x 5.3 bottles/person = £2.13 x 4 people = £8.53 x 365 (days/year) = £3,114.67 Now let us compare that to using the Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline water filter. The Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline water filter is an excellent investment at £175, This price not only covers the pillar tap but also includes a Doulton Biotect Ultra filter which itself is worth £35. It’s a fantastic deal that offers excellent value for money. The only extra expense throughout the 12 months will be for the replacement Biotect Ultra filter. Additionally, buying a couple of £10 water bottles per person would amount to £80 annually. As tap water in the UK costs about 1p per litre according to Harvey Water Softeners, the yearly cost of using a water filter from Doulton for a family of four would be:175 (filter) + £35 (replacement filter) + £80 (water bottles) + £32.85 (3,285 litres tap water) = £322.85 The Doulton HIP Biotect Ultra Inline Water Filter: An Investment Worth Making By switching from bottled water to a tap water using a water filter from Doulton, a family of four can potentially save £2,791.82 per year (£3,114.67 - £322.85). Check out our water solutions now! References: March, H., Garcia, X., Domene, E., & Sauri, D. (2020). Tap water, bottled water, or in-home water treatment systems: Insights on household perceptions and choices. Water, 12(5), 1310. March, H., Garcia, X., Domene, E., & Sauri, D. (2020). Tap water, bottled water, or in-home water treatment systems: Insights on household perceptions and choices. Water, 12(5), 1310. Font-Ribera, L.; Colomer Cotta, J.; Gómez-Gutiérrez, A.; Villanueva, C.M. Trihalomethane concentrations in tap water as determinant of bottled water use in the city of Barcelona. J. Environ. Sci. 2017, 58, 77–82. Avio, C.G.; Gorbi, S.; Regoli, F. Plastics and microplastics in the oceans: From emerging pollutants to emerged threat. Mar. Environ. Res. 2017, 128, 2–11. Parag, Y.; Roberts, J. A battle against the bottles: Building, claiming, and regaining tap-water trustworthiness. Soc. Nat. Resour. 2009, 22, 625–636. Cox, K.D.; Covernton, G.A.; Davies, H.L.; Dower, J.F.; Juanes, F.; Dudas, S.E. Human consumption of Microplastics. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2019, 53, 7068–7074. World Health Organization (WHO). Microplastics in Drinking Water; WHO: Geneva, Switzerland, 2019. Mackey, E.D.; Davis, J.; Boulos, L.; Brown, J.C.; Crozes, G.L. Consumer Perceptions of Tap Water, Bottled Water and Filtration Devices; IWA Publishing: London, UK, 2003. Lanz, B.; Provins, A. The demand for tap water quality: Survey evidence on water hardness and aesthetic quality. Water Resour. Econ. 2016, 16, 52–63.
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Plastic Bottle Pollution: Why Are They Harmful to...
It is not only our feet which leave a footprint on sandy beaches, but our heavy reliance on plastic materials is also creating a visible yet pervasive “plastic footprint” in the environment. Reducing plastic water bottle pollution and eliminating the dangers of plastic water bottles to the environment is something we can all tackle in our daily lives. We are now going to share with you some interesting plastic bottle pollution facts, and the negative effects of plastic water bottles on the environment. Then we want you to bring to your attention the harmful bit; what happens if plastic pollution continues? So why are plastic bottles bad for the environment? According to CNN.com, the bottled water industry is a juggernaut. More than 1 million bottles of water are sold every minute around the world and the industry shows no sign of slowing down, according to a new report. Global sales of bottled water are expected to nearly double by 2030. Plastics make up to 12% of the global waste stream but poor waste governance and its persistence in the environment leads to significant environmental pollution (1). There is also a growing body of evidence in research suggesting that the presence of plastics in agricultural soils and in aquatic biota poses potential risks to human health via ingestion in food consumed by humans (5). It is also considered a major threat to both wildlife and human wellbeing. The impacts of plastic water bottle pollution is now ubiquitous in the World Ocean, causing an unprecedented environmental crisis, with an estimated 10 million tonnes of litter leaking into the marine environment every year (2). The main contributor is larger plastic litter, including everyday items such as drinks bottles and other types of plastic packaging (3). Plastic pollution threatens global social, environmental, and economic sustainability (4). Many single-use plastic items are difficult to recycle or can only be recycled a few times before they become unsustainable plastic waste which is predicted to reach up to 53 million metric tons annually by 2030 (5). What can you do to help reduce plastic bottle pollution? When your next using a plastic bottle, always remember that only two percent of plastic packaging waste is recycled back into packaging (6). IF JUST ONE IN TEN BRITS REFILLED ONCE A WEEK, WE’D HAVE 340 MILLION LESS PLASTIC BOTTLES A YEAR IN CIRCULATION (7). Check out our water solutions now! REFERENCES 1. Duncan, E. M., Davies, A., Brooks, A., Chowdhury, G. W., Godley, B. J., Jambeck, J., ... & Koldewey, H. (2020). Message in a bottle: Open source technology to track the movement of plastic pollution. PLoS One, 15(12), e0242459. 2. Boucher, J., & Billard, G. (2019). The challenges of measuring plastic pollution. Field Actions Science Reports. The Journal of Field Actions, (Special Issue 19), 68-75. 3. https://www.refill.org.uk/the-problem-with-plastic-3/ 4. Walker, T. R., & Fequet, L. (2023). Current trends of unsustainable plastic production and micro (nano) plastic pollution. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 116984. 5. Walker, T. R., & Fequet, L. (2023). Current trends of unsustainable plastic production and micro (nano) plastic pollution. TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry, 116984. 6. Phelan, A. A., Meissner, K., Humphrey, J., & Ross, H. (2022). Plastic pollution and packaging: Corporate commitments and actions from the food and beverage sector. Journal of Cleaner Production, 331, 129827. 7. https://www.refill.org.uk/the-problem-with-plastic-3/
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What Is The pH of Drinking Water?
Groundwater is the vital resource, necessary for all aspects of mankind and ecosystem survival. Subsequently, drinking water quality is one of the greatest factors affecting human health and is an indispensable resource that humans need to live by. Are you aware of what pH tap water is in the UK? The term pH, potential of hydrogen, refers to a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ion (H+) and hydroxide ion (OH-) in a solution. Although pH usually has no direct impact on consumers, it is one of the most important operational water quality parameters. Careful attention to pH control is necessary at all stages of water treatment to ensure satisfactory water clarification and disinfection. World Health Organisation declares that the pH of water is a measure of the acid–base equilibrium and, in most natural waters, is controlled by the carbon dioxide–bicarbonate–carbonate equilibrium system. In other words, the pH value is used as a standard to measure the properties of water and indicates whether it is acidic or alkaline. What pH should drinking water be and what is a good pH for water? The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 indicating neutral. So, if you’re thirsty and need to quench your thirst, The UK drinking water quality regulations from the Drinking Water Inspectorate (dwi.gov.uk) specify a minimum pH of 6.5 and a maximum pH of 9.0. Any change from these numbers will cause a change in the taste and colour of your water. The best practice is to test the pH of your water every six months so you can enjoy clean and healthy well water every day. If you want to know how to test the pH of water, it’s not really that complicated. There are many types of ready-made pH strips are available on the market with different pH ranges and sensitivities. Check out our water solutions now! References: Fishel, F. M., & Ferrell, J. A. (2016). Water pH and the Effectiveness of Pesticides. US Department of Agriculture. University of Florida IFAS Extention Website: http://edis. ifas. ufl. edu/pi193. https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/wash-documents/wash-chemicals/ph.pdf?sfvrsn=16b10656_4#:~:text=The%20pH%20of%20most%20drinking,higher%20pH%20in%20limestone%20areas. Drinking Water Inspectorate (dwi.gov.uk)
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Is Fluoride in Drinking Water Safe?
Water fluoridation has been a widely debated topic for many years, raising questions about the safety and health effects of fluoride in drinking water. In this blog post, we will explore the facts about fluoride in drinking water, its health effects, the dangers associated with it, and whether fluoride is considered safe. Let's dive in and uncover the truth about fluoride in water. Check out our water solutions now! What is Fluoride and why is it added to drinking water? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in varying concentrations in water sources worldwide. It is derived from rocks and soil and can enter water supplies through the natural process of water erosion. Water fluoridation is the deliberate adjustment of fluoride levels in public drinking water supplies to achieve optimal concentrations for dental health benefits. The purpose of water fluoridation is to prevent tooth decay and promote good oral health within communities. When fluoride is present in drinking water at the appropriate concentration, it interacts with the enamel of teeth, making them more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars. This process, known as remineralization, helps to prevent cavities and maintain strong, healthy teeth. Water fluoridation is widely regarded as a safe and effective public health intervention. It has been extensively studied and supported by numerous scientific organizations and health authorities around the world, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Dental Association (ADA). How much fluoride is in tap water? The optimal concentration of fluoride in drinking water for dental health benefits is typically around 0.7 milligrams per litre (mg/l), depending on local circumstances and climate. This has been carefully determined through research and ongoing monitoring to ensure both effectiveness and safety. It is important to note that water fluoridation is a controlled process. Health authorities closely regulate and monitor the levels of fluoride added to public water supplies to prevent any potential negative effects. These regulations help to maintain a balance between the oral health benefits of fluoride and the avoidance of excessive exposure. How much fluoride is in tap water in the UK? The fluoride levels in tap water in the UK can vary depending on the water source. In areas where natural fluoride levels are higher, the tap water may contain naturally occurring fluoride. However, in most areas of the UK, the fluoride levels in tap water are relatively low, as water fluoridation is not widely practiced. According to the UK Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), the maximum allowable concentration of fluoride in drinking water in the UK is 1.5 milligrams per litre (mg/l) as specified by the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2000. However, it's important to note that this is the maximum allowable level, and actual fluoride concentrations in water sources may be significantly lower. To obtain specific information about the fluoride levels in your local water supply, it is advisable to contact your local water supplier or consult the annual water quality report, which water suppliers are required to provide to consumers upon request. This report will typically include information about the mineral content, including fluoride, in the water supply. Debunking the Myths about the dangers of fluoride in water Fluoride, a mineral found naturally in water, has long been recognized for its role in preventing tooth decay. However, over the years, a number of myths and misconceptions have arisen regarding the supposed dangers of fluoride in water. These myths have sparked concerns about potential health risks, ranging from cancer to developmental issues. It is important to address these misconceptions and separate fact from fiction. Myth: Fluoride in drinking water is toxic. Fact: The controlled addition of fluoride to drinking water is safe and beneficial for dental health. Extensive research and numerous studies have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness and safety of water fluoridation. The levels added to public water supplies are carefully regulated and maintained within acceptable limits by health authorities. Myth: Fluoride causes serious health problems. Fact: There is no credible scientific evidence to support claims that fluoride, when added to drinking water at recommended levels, causes serious health problems. The concerns related to fluoride toxicity are primarily associated with excessive exposure, such as through ingestion of large amounts of fluoride-containing dental products or industrial accidents. Water fluoridation is carefully monitored to ensure the levels remain within safe limits. Myth: Fluoride is ineffective in preventing tooth decay. Fact: Fluoride has been proven to significantly reduce tooth decay and cavities, particularly in areas with fluoridated water. Numerous studies have shown that communities with fluoridated water experience a decreased prevalence of dental caries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers water fluoridation as one of the top public health achievements of the 20th century. Myth: Fluoride in water causes cancer. Fact: There is no credible scientific evidence linking fluoride in water to an increased risk of cancer. Numerous scientific reviews and studies have been conducted worldwide, including by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Cancer Society, and they have consistently found no association between fluoridated water and cancer. The claims suggesting such a link are based on flawed studies or misinterpretation of the available data. Health effects of fluoride in drinking water The health effects of fluoride in drinking water are primarily positive when fluoride is present at recommended levels. Fluoride plays a significant role in preventing tooth decay and promoting dental health within communities. However, excessive exposure to fluoride can lead to adverse effects such as dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis. To mitigate these risks, water fluoridation programs are carefully regulated and monitored to maintain optimal fluoride concentrations. It is important to note that individual susceptibility to fluoride may vary, and some individuals may have specific health concerns that require personalized guidance. Consulting with dental professionals and healthcare providers can help address specific concerns and provide appropriate recommendations regarding fluoride intake. By understanding the health effects of fluoride in drinking water and following recommended guidelines, individuals can benefit from improved dental health while ensuring overall well-being. In conclusion While concerns about excessive fluoride intake exist, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the benefits of fluoride in preventing tooth decay, especially among children. Water fluoridation, when properly regulated, provides a cost-effective and efficient method to improve dental health. The fluoride content in tap water is regulated to maintain safe levels and promote dental health. It is crucial to rely on reputable sources and scientific evidence when considering the safety of fluoride in drinking water. As you make decisions about your water consumption, it is always a good idea to consult with dental professionals and stay informed about the quality of your local water supply. Doulton is committed to delivering high-quality water filters that ensure the removal of contaminants, providing you with clean and safe drinking water. Remember, the key to a healthy lifestyle lies in making informed choices based on reliable information. Check out our water solutions now!
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5 Unappetising Things That Have Been Found in...
There have been some pretty unpalatable things found in tap water over the years. Things that may make you look at that glass of tap water sitting next to you in a whole new, horrifying light! Ready to be disgusted? Read on. 1. Animal faeces It’s true. There have been incidents where animal faeces have gotten into water supplies. In the town of Walkerton, Canada, water supplies were contaminated by cattle faeces after heavy rainfall. The water wasn’t properly treated and made 2,000 people sick, killing 7. Depending on where you live, water supplies for tap water are disinfected and undergo strict testing for safety. But sometimes, incidents like the one in Walkerton can happen. 2. Harmful microbes Because of animal waste, insects, and even carcasses, microbes that cause sickness can get into tap water. In 2008, 22 people in England’s Lancashire became sick with cryptosporidiosis, a disease with symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever, after a harmful parasite got into the tap water. The parasite that causes this disease is resistant to certain chemicals that are used to disinfect water supplies. But how did that parasite make its way into the water supply in the first place? A rabbit got into one of the water tanks that provided for the region. Check out our water solutions now! 3. Chemicals Chlorine isn’t just in your swimming pool. Chemicals, like chlorine, are often used at small, safe levels to disinfect our tap water, and to protect us from many illness-causing microbes. Sometimes, though, a few too many chemicals can get through – which is exactly what happened to residents in Derbyshire and Leicestershire in 2016. Their water supply became contaminated with unusually high levels of chlorine. Agricultural work can also leak toxic pesticides and herbicides into water supplies. While your water supply is regularly tested for these chemicals, there’s such a wide variety of them, that it can be difficult to detect them all. These toxic chemicals can cause respiratory illnesses and have been linked to a variety of health problems 4. Lead Lead in water can be surprisingly common, and has even been found in the water supply of some schools in the UK. Lead usually gets into water through old pipes. Even though lead pipes aren’t installed anymore, some of these old pipes are still connected to older buildings. If water becomes too corrosive with chemicals like chlorine, small pieces of pipe can get into the water supply. 5. Pharmaceuticals A cocktail of birth control pills, antidepressants, and painkillers has been found in some water supplies. Luckily, only a small amount of them is detected in tap water, and they don’t pose any risk to our health. But there might be some more testing in the future, since pharmaceuticals leaking into bodies of water are known to harm aquatic life. Keep your water pristine While these things have been found in tap water, it is generally safe to drink. Depending on where you live, your water is regularly tested and thoroughly treated for safety. But, as you’ve seen in some of the incidents described here, slip ups do occur. And some of these mistakes have put people in harm’s way. But don’t worry. The good news is that there’s something you can do about it. So, what can you do to protect yourself? Filtering your water is a good way to ensure that what you’re drinking is high-quality – with no unsavoury things lurking around. Doulton’s hand-made ceramic filters, for example, remove up to 99.99% of contaminants like bacteria, microplastics, chlorine, heavy metals, and limescale. Even if the risk is small, it’s best to be safe. Drink mineral-rich water with the peace of mind knowing that it’s truly pristine. Check out our water solutions now!
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World Water Day: You Could be Running Out...
Did you know that we’re in a water crisis? Out of all the water that we have on Earth, just 3% is fresh water - only 0.5% of that is available for drinking. That doesn’t seem much to quench the thirst of 8 billion people, and millions of animals, does it? If you’re reading this, you probably have water on tap at home. You can take showers, wash your hands, and flush the toilet. You’re lucky, because 40% of the world’s population is affected by water scarcity. And it’s only getting worse. Check out our water solutions now! We’re using water at such unsustainable levels that by 2025 two-thirds of the population will experience water shortages. Droughts and floods are increasing due to climate change. Vital ecosystems are disappearing. Water sources are drying up or being polluted. There’s not going to be much water left if we carry on the way we are. And not many of us know that. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! That’s why World Water Day (22nd March 2023) exists; to raise awareness about the issue and encourage us to take action. There are easy steps that we can all take to turn this situation around for the better. Here’s how you can help save the world: Save water Just saving water can work wonders (and save you money). You can do this easily by: Not leaving taps running while doing dishes or brushing your teeth. Using the small flush button on the toilet (if available). Or switching to a low-flow toilet. Taking shorter showers. Keep your showers to 5 minutes or less and you’ll be doing a world of good. Love listening to music while showering? Time your shower to one song. But how does using less water help exactly? It helps preserve ecosystems like wetland habitats, which many animals like otters, birds and fish depend on. With climate change, droughts are increasing. Since we only have a limited supply of water, by saving it you’re ensuring that future you will still have easy access to it. It’s a win-win. Fix leaks Know of any pipes or taps in the home that are dripping? Each one of those drops adds up over time; it could actually be wasting your money as well as your water. It’s estimated that you could save up to 10% on your water bill by fixing some of those small leaks around the home. In England alone, 3 billion litres of water are wasted every day by leaky pipes. It’s time to fix those leaks. Watch what goes down the drain You could be regularly polluting water without knowing it. Putting bits of food, fat, chemicals, medicines and oils down the sink or toilet often ends up polluting water sources. What’s more, household cleaners can also pollute water sources by flowing down the drain. On average, 40% of household wastewater gets treated. The rest of it can return to water sources and ecosystems which causes further pollution. So, watch out for anything going down your drain and make sure you put waste in the bin instead. You can also use environmentally friendly household cleaners which are available. Avoid bottled water You’ve probably seen images of islands of plastic in the ocean. But did you know that plastic is the main pollutant of freshwater too? You can help by refusing to drink bottled water. 86% of water bottles turn into rubbish in the United States, and the process to make plastic bottles requires fossil fuels, which furthers climate change. Bottled water can also contain contaminants. Almost all brands have microplastics, with some containing traces of pharmaceuticals, heavy metals and chemicals. Plastic is damaging both our freshwater sources as well as our own wellbeing. By using a water filter and a reusable water bottle you’ll be helping to stop this damage. Doulton water filters reduces up to 99.99% of contaminants including microplastics, keeping you safe. You can install one at home or have a portable filter to take with you when you’re exploring the outdoors. The future is in your hands This World Water Day, remember how precious water is. It’s the foundation to life on our planet, and there’s only so much of it. By taking the easy steps described above, you’ll be making a big difference. You’ll be ensuring that you and everyone around you continues to have access to plenty of water for years to come. Because at the end of the day, by damaging our freshwater sources and ecosystems, we’re only hurting ourselves. Spread the word about World Water Day and ditch plastic with the right water filter for you. Check out our water solutions now!
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5 Tips on How to Protect Yourself From...
It happened in Walkerton, Canada. As well as in Camelford and Newent in the U.K. And Flint, Michigan in the U.S.A. The drinking water supply in all these towns around the world has, at one time or another, been contaminated. In the case of Walkerton, over 2000 people fell ill. 6 people died. We can usually depend on our local government body to ensure that our tap water is safe to drink, but the truth is that contamination can happen. There’s even debate as to whether the level of contaminants in your drinking water at the moment is even safe. But there are ways you can protect yourself: Check out our water solutions now! 1. Get your water tested If your water isn’t clear, comes out a certain colour and has a strong odour or metallic taste, it’s a good idea to get it tested by a professional. If your water is contaminated, a professional can recommend what further steps you can take. But even if your water passes regulatory standards, some argue that these standards are too lenient. Harmful contaminants like PFAS are already known to be present in tap water. And some pesticides can’t always be detected, since there are so many kinds of them. 2. Don’t drink the water You’ll think it obvious, but simply avoiding drinking water that you suspect is contaminated is an easy way to protect yourself. But what do you replace your drinking water with? If you use bottled water, it can still contain contaminants like microplastics. In fact, 25-30% of bottled water brands are actually tap water, and some may contain traces of pharmaceuticals, heavy metals and chemicals. And almost all of them contain microplastics. 3. Boil your water If your water contains bacteria and viruses, boiling it is one of the best ways of removing them. That being said, boiling doesn’t completely purify your water of all contaminants. While it does kill harmful pathogens, it doesn’t remove toxic chemicals, sediment, heavy metals, microplastics, or other contaminants. 4. Keep your pipes and taps clean Sometimes your pipes and taps can be the culprits when it comes to water contamination. Make sure you regularly clean them every 6 months: Cleaning your taps – Lead, bacteria, mould and other debris can get stuck in the aerators (the little mesh at the end of your tap). Remove the aerators and soak them in white vinegar for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a brush. Flushing your pipes – This can help remove contaminants from your water. It’s great to do if there’s been construction in your neighbourhood that’s disrupted your water supply. Remove the aerators and turn on all hot water taps (including bathtubs and showers) for 15 minutes. Turn them off, and then switch on cold water taps starting from the bottom floor (if your house has multiple levels) and work your way up, until they’re all on. Leave them running for 30 minutes. Then turn off all taps starting from the top floor and work your way down. 5. Filter your water Installing a water filter in your home is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from contaminated water. Doulton’s hand-made ceramic filters reduce 99.99% of bacteria, sediment, microplastics, heavy metals (including lead) and microplastics. They also leave healthy minerals in your water, so you know that you’re getting the most benefit out of drinking it. You deserve to feel safe. It’s a real concern to know that tap water can be prone to contamination – putting your wellbeing at risk. You deserve to know you’re safe when you have a glass of water. With these 5 tips, you’ll be able to feel safer when drinking water. But the easiest way to protect yourself is to filter your water. With a filter, you’ll be drinking clean and pristine water that contributes to your wellbeing. Want to find the right filter for your home? Check out our water solutions now!
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4 Harmful Contaminants That Might Be in Your...
Are you drinking tap water? Then it’s likely that you’re drinking contaminants on a daily basis. Of course, what kind of contaminants they are, and what levels of them are present, really depends on where you live. But there are 4 contaminants that are the most common. Read on to find out what they are and what you can do. Check out our water solutions now! PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) These are toxic man-made chemicals that are used for things like firefighting foam, non-stick frying pans and food packaging.They’re also known as “forever chemicals”, because they’re designed to last in the environment. And there has been some debate around them. They are known to be present in tap water in the UK, for example, and while they don’t exceed British safety levels, they do exceed European safety levels. The debate has been focused on the fact that there should be more limits on their presence in water, because of the known impact that they have on our health. They’re linked to cancer, miscarriage, endocrine disruption, and a variety of other conditions. Lead Lead can be surprisingly common in your drinking water, because it can leak into your water supply through old pipes. But how is lead harmful? Like PFAS, it’s likely to be carcinogenic, and can harm the kidneys as well as increasing blood pressure. It can also affect children in the long term. It impacts brain development and can cause behavioural and learning problems. Pesticides and Herbicides Agricultural work can leak these toxic chemicals into water supplies. They can cause respiratory illnesses, allergic reactions, nausea and vomiting, as well as Parkinson’s disease and cancer. Yes, your water supply is likely to be regularly tested for pesticides, but the trouble is that they’re not always detected or removed. That’s because there’s such a wide variety of these chemicals, that it’s difficult to spot them all. Microplastics Now we’re discovering that microplastics are everywhere. And that includes your tap water, not just bottled water. While we’re still finding out all the harmful effects that microplastics can produce, and whether there’s any safe level of exposure, they’re thought to leak toxic chemicals (since they’re made from petrochemicals, after all). These chemicals don’t just have the potential to cause cancer. But they can even damage your DNA. A buildup of microplastics in your system can cause swelling and blockages, impair your immune system and nervous system responses and contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. So what can you do? Even if you try to avoid drinking tap water by consuming bottled water, you’ll still end up consuming microplastics. It might seem like there’s no escape from these harmful contaminants, but there are solutions available which can protect you. A good option is to filter your water so that any contaminants are removed. Doulton’s hand-made ceramic filters can do just that. What’s more is that Doulton's ceramic water filters don’t remove any nourishing minerals from the water. These remain so that you get the greatest benefit from drinking water. Order a filter now – for the sake of your wellbeing. Check out our water solutions now!
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The Dangers Lurking in Your Glass of Water:...
Do you ever stop to think about what’s in your glass of water? You might assume that the water coming out of your tap is safe to drink. But the truth is that there could be contaminants lurking in your glass of water – which may affect your health and that of your family. Find out just what kind of contaminants might be hiding in your tap water and what you can do to help protect yourself and your loved ones. Check out our water solutions now! What are water contaminants? And why should you be worried? Water contaminants are potentially harmful substances that make their way into your water supply. While your tap water is usually subject to very strict standards and closely monitored by a government body (depending on where you live), there are some contaminants that may slip through. That’s a real worry. Some common types of contaminants include: PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) – These are toxic man-made chemicals that are used for things like firefighting foam, non-stick frying pans and food packaging. They are linked to cancer and a variety of other illnesses and are known to be present in your tap water. Lead – Can be surprisingly common in your drinking water. That’s because it can leak into your water supply through old pipes. It’s prossibly carcinogenic, and can damage the kidneys as well as increase blood pressure. In the long term, it can affect your child’s brain development which could cause some behavioural and learning problems. Pesticides and Herbicides – These can get into water supplies from agricultural work. They’re toxic and can cause respiratory illnesses, allergic reactions, nausea and vomiting, as well as Parkinson’s disease and cancer, among other conditions. Although your water supply is probably regularly tested for pesticides, there are such a wide variety of these chemicals that not all of them are always detected or removed. Bacteria and viruses – While your water supply is regularly tested and treated for bacteria and viruses, they can very occasionally appear. They can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and sometimes more serious illnesses. They may turn up because of rodents (and other animals), insects and faeces. Microplastics – Even these can get into your tap water. While it’s not yet known if there are any health effects from consuming them, some think that they may leak some toxic chemicals. How you can protect yourself If these contaminants are in your tap water, is there anything you can do to protect yourself? There is. A water filter can help provide clean, pristine water – so you can rest assured that what you’re drinking is of the highest standard. Filters trap contaminants like the ones mentioned above, ensuring that what you drink is better for you. Doulton has a variety of hand-made ceramic water filters that reduce up to 99.99% of bacteria, heavy metals, certain chemicals and even microplastics – while still keeping healthy minerals in. Hydration without the harm Clean water is a human right, and you should be able to drink water while knowing that it’s completely safe. Yes, it’s a real concern that there are potentially harmful contaminants lurking in your glass of water, but you can rest easy; with a high-quality filter, you’ll protect yourself and your family. You’ll have water that is at it should be: pristine. Check out our water solutions now!
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