Distilled water and boiled water are two popular types of water we use daily. Both can be used for drinking and other activities but differ in composition. Distilled water results from distillation, which involves boiling and condensing the water into a pure form. Boiled water, on the other hand, is simply water that has been heated to boiling point. It does not undergo any filtration or purification process.
What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is water that has been boiled to evaporate and then condensed back to its liquid form. The boiling process removes impurities like minerals, salts, metals, and other pollutants from the water. Distillation also eliminates bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause illness.
What Is Boiled Water?
Boiled water is simply water that has been heated until it reaches its boiling point. When heated, the molecules of the water become more and more active until they reach a point where they break away from each other and become steam. This process leaves the minerals behind, making boiled water an excellent choice for drinking or cooking.
Does Boiling Water Make It Distilled?
No, boiling water does not make it distilled. Boiling water is a process of heating water to its boiling point, where it vaporizes and turns into steam. This process kills most organisms and other contaminants in the water and causes some dissolved solids to precipitate out. While boiling removes impurities from the water, it is not entirely pure, as dissolved minerals remain.
Difference Between Distilled Water And Vs. Boiled Water
- Different making methods: Distilled water is produced by boiling water and then condensing the steam into a clean container. Conversely, boiling water is heated to its boiling point of – 212°F (100°C).
- Effect on taste: Boiling water brings out its authentic flavor while distilling it removes many natural minerals. Therefore, distilled water tastes different from boiled water and sometimes has a slightly “off” flavor.
- Application difference: Boiled water can be consumed after cooling, while distilled water must be treated with minerals or other substances before drinking is safe. Distilled water is also used for cooking, including making coffee and tea and cleaning equipment.
- Different trace elements: Distilled water comprises only hydrogen and oxygen molecules, whereas boiled water can contain trace elements like calcium and magnesium. These minerals give boiled water a slightly bitter taste.
- Health Benefits: Distilled water benefits people with certain health conditions such as kidney stones, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Boiled water provides no additional health benefits due to its lack of a purification process.
- Cost: Distilled water typically costs more than boiled water, requiring additional processing to remove impurities.
- Preparation time: The distillation process is time-consuming and challenging to prepare, while water boiling is easy and quick.
How To Prepare The Distilled Water?
Step 1: Obtain a suitable container that can withstand boiling temperatures and allow you to collect the distilled water after boiling.
Step 2: Fill the container with tap or spring water to just over halfway complete, as some water will evaporate during boiling.
Step 3: Place the container on an appropriate heat source and rapidly boil.
Step 4: Continue boiling until all the water evaporates, leaving only the mineral-free distilled water behind.
Step 5: Carefully remove from a heat source and let cool before transferring the collected distilled water into an appropriate storage container.
FAQs
Can you drink distilled water?
Yes, distilled water is safe to drink. Regular tap or healthy water is free from chemicals, minerals, salts, and other impurities. Additionally, it has a neutral pH which makes it ideal for drinking.
What is distilled water good for?
Distilled water is excellent for cleaning and sterilizing. It can clean medical instruments, remove dust and dirt from delicate surfaces, and prepare water for drinking or cooking.
Can I use boiled water instead of distilled water for baby formula?
No, as boiled water has not undergone the same purification process as distilled water. Boiling water will kill most bacteria and organisms present in it. However, some minerals that can interfere with a baby’s absorption of nutrients from the formula may remain.
What is a good substitute for distilled water?
Boiled water is an excellent substitute for distilled water since it can be made cheaply and quickly. Boiling water removes most of the impurities in tap water, making it an excellent alternative for home use.
How long do I boil water to make it distilled?
The time it takes to boil water to distill depends on the water amount and the heat intensity. Generally, boiling a pot or kettle full of water will take several minutes until all steam has risen from the surface.
Conclusion
The main difference between boiled and distilled water is the potential for contaminants. Boiled water may still contain contaminants, whereas distillation removes virtually all of them. Distilled water also has a much lower mineral content than boiled water, making it purer and generally safe to drink. While boiling is an effective way to purify drinking water, go with distilled water if you want the purest and safest option. It may cost a bit more, but it’s worth the extra money to know that your drinking water is free of contaminants.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.