Back in 2007 I stopped buying bottled water and switched to filtered tap water using a pitcher and reusable insulated bottles.
At first I did it mostly for convenience. I hated running out of bottled water and constantly buying more.
But after 333 weeks without bottled water I got curious about something.
How much money does filtered water actually save compared to bottled water?
- Switching from bottled water to filtered tap water can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time.
- A simple setup using a Brita Everyday Pitcher with Elite Filter makes it easy to keep clean drinking water in the fridge.
- Reusable bottles like the Hydrapak Polar insulated bottle for workouts and a Hydro Flask wide mouth bottle for everyday use make it easy to avoid disposable plastic bottles.
- Over 333 weeks this simple system replaced thousands of bottled waters while costing only a few cents per gallon. Saving thousands of dollars.
My Simple Water Setup
This is the exact setup I use every day. It is simple, inexpensive, and has worked great for years.
My go-to bottle for workouts and running. Lightweight, squeezable, and keeps water cooler longer.
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I keep this on my desk all day. It keeps water cold for hours and is perfect for refilling from the pitcher.
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This is the pitcher I use daily. It removes chlorine taste and makes tap water taste significantly better.
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For workouts I use a 20 oz bottle about three times per week. At my desk I refill a travel bottle roughly nine times per week.
That replaces roughly 9 bottled waters per week.
Cost of Bottled Water vs Tap Water
Filtered tap water is dramatically cheaper than bottled water.
Even after buying a pitcher, replacement filters, and reusable bottles, the cost per bottle equivalent is often under $0.07 compared to $0.17 to $1.25 for bottled water.
| Purchase Type | Price Per Bottle | Price Per Gallon | Total Cost (333 Weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 Pack (Sale) | $0.17 | $0.89 | $664 |
| 24 Pack (Regular) | $0.23 | $1.22 | $914 |
| Single Bottles | $1.25 | $6.67 | $4,995 |
Cost of Filtered Tap Water
| Item | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Tap Water | $12 |
| Pitcher + Filters | $225 |
| Reusable Bottles | $38 |
| Total | $275 |
Environmental Impact
Over 333 weeks this prevented nearly 4,000 single-use plastic bottles.
Even when recycled, bottled water requires plastic production, transportation, and packaging.
Filtered tap water has dramatically lower environmental impact.
Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bottled water cheaper than filtered tap water?
No. Even after buying a pitcher and filters, filtered tap water usually costs only a few cents per gallon. Bottled water can cost anywhere from around $1 to over $6 per gallon depending on how you buy it.
Does filtered tap water taste better than tap water?
For most people, yes. Pitcher filters like a Brita remove chlorine and some other compounds that cause the common “tap water taste.” In many cases it ends up tasting similar to bottled water.
How often should I replace my Brita filter?
Most standard filters are rated for about 40 gallons, while Brita Elite filters can last up to around 120 gallons. In a typical household that usually means replacing the filter every 2–6 months depending on usage.
How do you clean a Brita pitcher?
It’s a good idea to wash the pitcher every time you change the filter. Remove the filter first, then wash the pitcher and reservoir with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly before reinstalling the filter. Many pitchers are also top-rack dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer instructions.
How often should you clean reusable water bottles?
If you use a bottle daily, washing it once per day with warm water and dish soap is a good habit. Bottles used for workouts should be washed after each use since bacteria can grow in moist environments.
What’s the best way to deep clean a water bottle?
For a deeper clean, fill the bottle with warm water and add a small amount of baking soda or white vinegar. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub with a bottle brush and rinse well. This helps remove odors and buildup.
Do insulated bottles like Hydro Flask need special cleaning?
No special cleaner is required, but using a bottle brush helps reach the bottom. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals that could damage the stainless steel or seals. Mild soap and warm water usually works perfectly.
How much money can switching from bottled water save?
It depends on how often you buy bottled water. Over long periods the savings can be significant. In my case, after 333 weeks the total cost of filtered water and reusable bottles was far lower than continuing to buy bottled water.
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