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Filtering water 4 Alternatives to Reverse Osmosis for Better Tasting Water Ever thought there could be a better, healthier way to purify your drinking water than reverse osmosis? A method that not only purifies but also improves the taste and hydrating power of your water? It's time to explore four game-changing alternatives to reverse osmosis. Benefits and Drawbacks of Reverse of Osmosis Reverse osmosis, a common technology used to purify drinking water, forces water through a membrane, eradicating most contaminants. It's highly effective, eliminating around 90% - 99% of uranium and other impurities, including those referred to as 'Total Dissolved Solids' (TDS), such as salt, bacteria, chemicals, and minerals. However, reverse osmosis is not without its drawbacks. It's costly, and it does not remove some common pollutants like certain dissolved gases, organic volatile compounds, pesticides, herbicides, radon, and chlorine. Critically, it strips the water of beneficial minerals, resulting in less hydrating and potentially stale-tasting water. Here are the 4 best alternatives to RO: 4 Alternatives to Reverse Osmosis Structured WaterActivated Carbon FiltersDistillationUltraviolet Disinfection 1. Structured Water Structured water offers a hydration-boosting alternative to reverse osmosis. It mimics the purity of uncontaminated natural water found in glaciers, free of chemicals, and promotes deep cellular hydration. Structured water is healthier than tap or bottled water; because it is easily absorbed into the body, it provides better hydration, and can even strengthen your immunity. The MAYU Swirl pitcher offers a solution that effectively transforms ordinary tap water into softer, silkier water that your body immediately responds to. When drinking RO water, consider trying MAYU Water's Electrolyte Drops to replenish the electrolytes (magnesium, potassium, and other minerals) removed during filtration. Using Mayu's Electrolyte drops is a healthy and effective alternative to sugary electrolyte drinks. 2. Activated Carbon Filters Activated carbon filters are a safe and affordable way to filter water. They inhibit bacterial growth by trapping contaminants and allowing only smaller particles to pass through. While activated carbon filters are affordable, their capacity to bind and remove contaminates is limited. They cannot remove dissolved solids, sediments, viruses, or bacteria. Also, their lifespan is limited by the filter's adsorption capacity and the amount of contaminants in the water being filtered. 3. Distillation Distillation is a powerful purification process. It vaporizes water and condenses it back into liquid, removing many contaminants without relying on a filter. Distillation does have its share of disadvantages, however. The process is time-consuming and requires significant maintenance. Additionally, it's not practical for home use and, like reverse osmosis, removes many beneficial minerals. » Learn how to drink more water 4. Ultraviolet Disinfection Ultraviolet disinfection exposes water to UV light, eliminating a wide range of microorganisms. This method is environmentally friendly, low-energy, and requires minimal maintenance. Because ultraviolet disinfection only targets the microorganisms, minerals present in the water will remain. However, UV water systems are not filtration systems. That means they do not remove heavy metals, dissolved particulates, or killed microorganisms from the treated water. » What's better for water storage? Glass or plastic Clear Your Way to Healthier, Tastier Water While reverse osmosis is a widespread method for water purification, it's not without its shortcomings, notably the removal of essential minerals and potentially prohibitive cost. But with the alternatives like structured water, activated carbon filters, distillation, or ultraviolet disinfection, you have multiple paths to cleaner, healthier, and tastier water. The question now is, armed with these insights, which water purification method will you choose for better-tasting and healthier water?

Filtering water 4 Best Water Types to Drink for Cellular Hydration Proper cellular hydration is crucial for overall health and well-being. It plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, keeping the joints lubricated, supporting organ function, preventing infections, and delivering essential nutrients to cells throughout the body. Adequate hydration also has a positive impact on mood, cognitive function, sleep quality, and energy levels. The body loses fluids through various processes, such as sweating, breathing, and waste elimination, making it essential to drink enough water to replenish these fluids and rehydrate the body. 4 Best Types of Water to Drink for Hydration 1. Structured Water2. Mineral Water3. Spring Water4. Filtered Water 1. Structured Water Structured water (H3O2) is created by altering the structure of its molecules to form a hexagonal cluster, making it similar to pure, uncontaminated natural water found in springs and glaciers. Structured water is the best water for hydration on a cellular level. Drinking structured water provides many health benefits, including: Supporting a healthy immune systemImproving digestionBoosting energyDetoxifying the bodyIncreasing cellular hydrationPromoting better sleep There are several ways to make structured water, and one easy method is by using vortexing technology with the Mayu Swirl. This device can turn regular water into structured water from the comfort of your own home. The swirling motion of the Mayu Swirl aerates the water, oxygenating it, rejuvenating it, and improving its taste, while also infusing it with additional health benefits. 2. Mineral Water Mineral water is a rich source of minerals like magnesium, known for its positive effects on the muscles, and calcium, essential for strong bones. In addition, mineral water provides the body with important electrolytes, such as sodium, which are vital for proper cellular hydration. Drinking mineral water also offers additional health benefits, such as relieving constipation, promoting heart health, lowering blood pressure, and improving circulation. » Find out what is the best water to drink 3. Spring Water Spring water comes from underground sources and naturally rises to the surface. It needs to naturally rise to the surface on its own to be considered spring water. Spring water is beneficial for the body in many ways, including: Contains minerals: Spring water is naturally rich in essential minerals that are beneficial to the body. Magnesium supports healthy bones, potassium helps with nerve signaling and sodium balances fluid levels in the body. In addition, it often contains iron, which aids in the production of hemoglobin and zinc for a healthy immune system. These minerals are important for many bodily functions and can help maintain overall healthBalances your body’s PH levels: Spring water is naturally alkaline, which means it has a higher pH level than tap water. Drinking alkaline water can help balance the body's pH levels and neutralize excess acidity, which can lead to various health issues. Maintaining the proper pH balance is essential for healthy cell function and overall wellness.Does not contain chemicals and bacteria: Unlike tap water, which may contain harmful chemicals and bacteria, spring water is pure and free of toxins, bacteria, and heavy metals. It is not treated with chemicals, making it a healthier and safer option for drinking.Provides the body with oxygen: Spring water provides much-needed oxygen to the body and the brain. It also aids in good digestion: Hydrating with spring water ensures the digestive system works properly. Good cellular hydration helps the body break down food for absorption and reduces the risk of constipation. » Find out how dehydration affects your brain and how dehydration headaches occur 4. Filtered Water Reverse osmosis is a popular method used to purify tap water. It is a highly effective system that removes many contaminants, including lead, asbestos, chemicals, heavy metals, and bacteria, making RO water much safer than bottled water. However, while reverse osmosis eliminates over 90% of impurities from water, it also eliminates essential minerals that are beneficial to your body, like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. If you are filtering your water with a reverse osmosis system or drinking RO water, it is essential to remineralize your water with the Mayu Swirl Essential Mineral Drops. Mayu's essential mineral drops, used in combination with the Mayu Swirl, result in quality water that tastes better and has added health benefits. » Make sure your water is healthier than ever with mineral drops Reap the Health Benefits of Pure Water Water is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. It helps regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, promotes healthy skin, and supports proper kidney function. To ensure that your body receives the necessary hydration and minerals, it's important to drink clean, pure water and aim for at least 2 liters of water per day. By staying properly hydrated, i.e., achieving cellular hydration, you can support the optimal functioning of your body and promote overall health.

Woman pouring water from the tap into a glass

Filtering water Tap Water Filter vs. Reverse Osmosis: Which Is Safer for Drinking?Having access to clean, uncontaminated drinking water is essential for your and your family's health. Although tap water is safe to drink in most countries, there are still some considerations to keep in mind, like the levels of lead, chlorine, parasites, and bacteria present in tap water. That's why many people opt for a tap water filter. However, another popular option for filtering drinking water is a reverse osmosis filter, which is fitted onto your home water supply. Although both tap water filters and reverse osmosis systems have their advantages and ideal use cases, in this article, we'll help you choose the best water filtration system for your needs. » How to make your choice: learn which water filter you should use Tap Water Filter Tap water filters provide instantly filtered water at the turn of a tap. When you turn on your tap, the water first passes through a non-woven screen around the water filter, which traps sediments like sand, dirt, and larger compounds. Next, the tap water flows through a compact block of zeolite and carbon—each carbon granule in this block contains millions of tiny surface pores that absorb chemicals like chlorine. Tap Water Filter Advantages CheapEasy to installReduces the amount of chlorine, pesticides, and organic compoundsImproves the overall smell and taste of water Tap Water Filter Disadvantages Not a comprehensive solutionDoesn't remove viruses or bacteriaDoesn't remove compounds like arsenic. Although tap water filters have their benefits and are able to remove some potentially harmful elements, they're not a comprehensive filtering solution, making them less safe for filtering drinking water. As an alternative, you can use a structured water solution like Mayu Swirl to ensure the healthiest water for yourself and your family. With Mayu Swirl, you'll be able to make your own structured water to get all its health benefits right at home any time you need it without compromising on convenience, as it's hassle-free and easy to use. Reverse Osmosis Reverse osmosis addresses a more comprehensive range of water issues, so it's of the most efficient ways to filter your drinking water with various advantages. Reverse osmosis is the process of filtering water that removes contaminants by using pressure to force water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane that catches all of the contaminants in the water, ensuring clean, better-tasting water. Reverse osmosis systems are ideal for water that tastes or smells strange, and they remove up to 99% of lead, asbestos, and 82 other contaminants that are important to remove from your water, as they have potentially harmful effects on your health. Reverse Osmosis Advantages Removes dissolved mineralsRemoves heavy metals and compounds like arsenicEliminates viruses and bacteriaCan soften hard water Reverse Osmosis Disadvantages Removes even the essential minerals from drinking waterCan have a fishy smell Although it's a very effective filtering method that removes all harmful elements from water, this also means reverse osmosis removes even the essential minerals from tap water that can be healthy for you. So, to get its full benefits, you'll need to remineralize reverse osmosis water. The easiest way to add back some of the essential minerals is to use essential mineral drops. » Remineralizing RO water: see healthy ways to add minerals back Adding back some of the essential minerals your water should contain has never been easier than with Essential Mineral Drops—simply adding the drops to your drinking water is enough to ensure you get all the minerals you need. Ensure the Safest Drinking Water Overall, the reverse osmosis filtration process provides enhanced quality water and is a healthier option thanks to its high efficiency at removing contaminants. However, because it also filters out the good minerals, it's important to remineralize your drinking water. To get the best of both worlds, opt for the Swirl that purifies the water and Essential Mineral Drops that remineralize it. With the combination of Mayu Swirl, which works to restructure your water and enhance its qualities, and Essential Mineral Drops that ensure you get back all the important minerals your body needs, you can rest assured your family has access to the safest drinking water with all its health benefits.

Glimpse of a torso, with the person wearing a grey shirt and holding glass of water, with a green vase populated with dainty purple and white flowers on a wooden table in the middle of the room

Filtering water Pick the Right Water Filter to Improve Your Home Water Quality Water filters remove potentially harmful compounds and elements that cause drinking water to have an unpleasant taste and smell like bacteria, chlorine, and even metal. Home filtration systems can improve water quality and purity, but how do you pick the right one for you? Read on to find out. How Do Home Water Filters Work? There are many home filters, and each one works differently based on the kind of water it is designed to treat. Here is a look at the top five types of home water filters. Carbon filtration Carbon filters trap and absorb contaminants in the water, including sediment and harsh chemicals like chlorine. The contaminants are drawn to the surface of the activated carbon and bond to it, the same way a magnet attracts and holds iron filings.Ultraviolet filtration A UV filtration system uses UV light to disinfect water by removing harmful bacteria and pathogens.Distillation This filtration method is also called steam filtration and works by heating water until it reaches boiling point. The water vapor is then collected as it condenses. Distillation removes many of the contaminants, including trihalomethanes, in drinking water.Reverse osmosis A reverse osmosis system reverses the natural flow of water so that it passes through a semi-permeable membrane that removes contaminants. However, the reverse osmosis system is part of a comprehensive filter system.Ceramic filtration Ceramic filters stop contaminants larger than pore size, making them good for microbes and bacteria. Home water filters work to change the taste and remove unwanted impurities from the water out the tap like sediment, dirt, organic compounds, odor, and bacteria to create better quality water, generally with mineral content. 10 Different Types of Home Water Filters There are many different home water filter systems available, so we have outlined the top ten: 1. Water Pitcher Filters A water pitcher filter is a large pitcher with a built-in water filter. These are easy and affordable ways to get clean filtered drinking water in your home. 2. Faucet Filters A faucet filter attaches directly to your sink faucet. They have a pass-through that allows the sink to flow freely when the filter is not in use. To get filtered water, you simply flip the switch on the filter to activate it. 3. Countertop Filters There are two types of countertop filters: The first type has a large reservoir on the bottom with a filter on the top. This filter holds much more water than a pitcher but doesn’t fit into the refrigerator.The second type hooks onto your house’s main water at the kitchen sink. It has its own faucet that dispenses filtered water when turned on. These are smaller and take up less counter space. 4. Under-Sink Filters This filter fits underneath the sink and hooks directly onto the main water line, so you get an unlimited capacity of filtered water. They include their own small faucet mounted by the main faucet on the countertop. 5. Whole House Filters Whole-house filters are the largest type of home water filter and are designed to purify all the water for your entire home. These filters hook into the mainline of your house and typically require professional installation. 6. Water Bottle Filters These are some of the smallest and least expensive home water filters on the market. They often feature a filter straw that filters the water on its way to your mouth and is convenient for drinking water wherever you go. 7. Ultra-Violet Filters UV filters work by exposing the water to UV light that kills bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. These filters are small and lightweight and run on batteries. However, they do not remove sediment from the water. 8. Reverse Osmosis As discussed previously, reverse osmosis is a very involved form of filtration that essentially removes everything from the water, including minerals. Reverse osmosis water filters may have to be installed by a professional. 9. Squeeze or Gravity Filter This filter is small, portable, durable, and reliable and is mainly designed for backcountry or emergency use. The gravity filters have you hang the reservoir and allow gravity to pull the water down through the filter. A squeeze filter enables you to force water through the filter using a water bag reservoir. 10. Portable Pump Filter These filters are also designed for emergency or backcountry use. This filter involves you putting a hose into the water source and manually pumping a handle that creates suction. The water is pulled through the filter and expelled from the hose on the other side. Do At-Home Water Filters Remove Bacteria? In general, water filters do not kill bacteria; rather, they may remove some bacteria from the drinking water. Some filters are better at removal than others, which is why it is important to understand the different filters and which are more effective for what you’re looking for when it comes to drinking filtered water. UV filtration, reverse osmosis, and ceramic filters effectively remove harmful bacteria and viruses. It is important to always keep your home water filter clean as some water filters remove biocides, which are substances that control the growth of harmful bacteria like chlorine. Without biocides, the bacteria could regrow, unless the water filter is cleaned and the water is stored in a sterile, cool, and dark place.

Close-up of a woman enjoying a glass of water

Filtering water 4 Key Benefits of Reverse Osmosis Water for Your Health We all want cleaner, safer, and better-tasting water for our homes. Fortunately, installing a reverse osmosis system can bring you just that, and with many positive effects. Reverse osmosis is a water filtration process that removes contaminants from our drinking water by using high pressure to force the water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane. Reverse osmosis filters out contaminants, leaving behind clean, tasty drinking water. Apart from RO water tasting a lot better, it also has various health benefits. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the four health benefits of RO water. 1. Removes Heavy Metals2. Reduces Sodium Levels3. Removes Parasites and Bacteria4. Improves Water Quality 1. Removes Heavy Metals Because the pore size of the reverse osmosis membrane is very small, it effectively removes heavy metals from the water. As it doesn't contain heavy metals, drinking RO water eliminates the risks posed by these metals. Using reverse osmosis to remove metals like lead, mercury, iron, and arsenic is extremely beneficial, as heavy metals have a negative impact on our health. Lead: Most water pipes are made from metal, and they undergo corrosion with age, resulting in lead infiltrating our drinking water. Lead is one of the main contaminants in U.S. drinking water. Even trace amounts of lead are harmful to our health and may cause nerve damage, muscle damage, fertility issues, and developmental problems.Mercury: This dangerous neurotoxin enters our drinking water through rain and snow, which carry this substance through the air into water supplies like rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Mercury also seeps into underground water supplies from industrial waste sites. Prolonged exposure to mercury can cause conditions like kidney damage and negatively impact the nervous system.Iron: This heavy metal enters our drinking water as a result of rainwater dissolving the iron found in the earth's surface, causing it to seep into underground aquifers that serve as groundwater for wells. Iron gives water a metallic taste and encourages the growth of harmful bacteria and organisms.Arsenic: This metal enters our drinking water naturally when mineral deposits like rocks containing arsenic erode and dissolve. It also enters groundwater sources through industrial and agricultural waste. Arsenic is one of the main risk factors for public health, and it can cause nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, high blood pressure, heart disease, and nerve effects, including pain and numbness. » Reverse osmosis vs. tap water filters: learn which is safer for drinking 2. Reduces Sodium Levels Drinking large amounts of unfiltered tap water results in the consumption of high levels of sodium. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart issues, and an increased risk of a stroke. A reverse osmosis filtration system is a good choice for those following a low-sodium diet, as the water filtered in this way will have reduced sodium levels. » Learn the important health benefits of filtered water 3. Removes Parasites and Bacteria Reverse osmosis filters out parasites and bacteria from your drinking water. For example, this filtering system removes cryptosporidium, which is a parasite that affects the small intestine, causing fevers and cramps. As the pore size of a reverse osmosis membrane is typically between 0.5 and 10 nanometers as opposed to the size of bacteria and parasites in drinking water, which is generally between 500 and 5000, reverse osmosis is very effective at removing these particles. RO is highly recommended in areas that have dirty water systems to ensure you're drinking clean, safe water. 4. Improves Water Quality Contaminated water that contains harmful bacteria, parasites, metals, chemicals, microplastics, and other detrimental substances negatively affects our overall health. Drinking clean water with improved water quality will not only reduce the risk of disease, but it will also be beneficial for hydrating the body. Being properly hydrated helps our bodies naturally flush out toxins, whereas contaminated water results in more toxins entering the body than leaving it, creating a harmful environment for illness and bacteria to spread. Using clean water even just to rinse fruit and vegetables before eating them is important, and the same applies to washing our bodies. » Learn how microplastics are damaging your health Reap the Health Benefits of RO Water Reverse osmosis holds key health benefits, as it removes pollutants, contaminants, and heavy metals from your drinking water. However, as it's such an effective filtering process, it also removes the essential minerals found in our drinking water. So, as water treated in this way doesn't contain any minerals, it's important to remineralize reverse osmosis water to add back some minerals. The easiest way to do this is by adding Mayu's Essential Mineral Drops, which are simply mixed into your drinking water. Adding minerals to water in the form of drops is one of the healthiest ways to remineralize RO water and add back the essential minerals your drinking water should have, ensuring you're drinking the best quality water available.

Filtering water Kidney Health: 4 Best Water Types to Drink for Optimal Hydration The kidneys are essential organs that cleanse the blood of toxins and transform waste into urine. They regulate fluid and electrolyte balance by filtering the blood and producing vitamin D for healthy bones. Drinking good-quality water is one of the best ways to look after your kidneys, as it provides sufficient hydration and prevents the formation of kidney stones. However, individuals receiving dialysis treatment need to restrict water intake. 4 Best Types of Water for Kidney Health 1. Structured Water2. Filtered Water3. Mineral Water4. Lemon Water 1. Structured Water Hydration is essential for optimal kidney function as it helps regulate the supply of fluid to your kidneys. Structured water is a type of water with altered molecular structure, making it similar to pure, uncontaminated natural water like glacier or spring water. Structured water is perfect for kidney rehydration because it helps restore fluid balance in the body, promoting kidney health. Additionally, structured water can have several other health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, improving digestion, and enhancing the quality of sleep. You can create structured water using vortex technology, which mimics the natural flow of water in nature. Vortexing your water is as easy as using the Mayu Swirl, a device that can restructure normal water into structured water, ensuring optimal hydration and kidney health. We encourage you to try vortexing your regular water with Mayu Swirl to reap the benefits of structured water. » Learn how to make structured water 2. Filtered Water Filtered water is good for kidney health because it has fewer contaminants. Reverse osmosis filtration removes impurities like bacteria, organic compounds, chemicals, and heavy metals that can cause diseases. This means that your kidneys have to filter out fewer impurities, resulting in cleaner blood. Reverse osmosis improves the overall quality of water, ensuring that you're drinking clean and safe water that is beneficial for your kidneys. However, reverse osmosis also removes essential minerals like calcium and magnesium from the water. If you're drinking filtered RO water, it is recommended to remineralize your water with Mayu Essential Mineral Drops to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs to maintain kidney health. The mineral drops work wonderfully with the Mayu Swirl to make sure you're only drinking the best water. 3. Mineral Water Mineral water is naturally rich in important vitamins and minerals, which can help support overall health, including kidney function. Drinking around 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day is generally recommended for optimal hydration. However, the actual amount of water you need may vary depending on factors such as your activity level and the climate you live in. For example, if you live in a hot environment or are very active, you may need to increase your intake to ensure you remain properly hydrated. 4. Lemon Water Drinking lemon water may have benefits for kidney health. Here are a few ways that lemon water can support kidney function: Helps prevent the growth of kidney stones: lemons contain citric acid, which can help slow down the aggregation of the crystals that form kidney stones. Citrate, the salt in citric acid, binds to calcium and helps block stone formation. By drinking lemon water, you may be able to reduce the likelihood of developing kidney stones.Helps you stay hydrated: drinking lemon water helps filter toxins from your blood in the form of urine. Because lemon water has a pleasant taste, it can also encourage you to drink more water, resulting in better hydration. Proper hydration is crucial for optimal kidney function.Protects kidney function: The compounds in lemons may reduce the pain of kidney stones as they pass, as well as help break down small kidney stones. Incorporating lemon water into your diet can be a simple way to help protect and support your kidneys. Take Care of Your Kidneys Water is crucial for maintaining optimal kidney function. Proper hydration helps your kidneys do their job of filtering waste from your body, and it keeps your blood vessels open, allowing essential nutrients to travel freely to the kidneys. Drinking clean and pure water is the best option for kidney health, but make sure that you are getting the essential minerals you need as well. If you are drinking reverse osmosis water, which removes essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, it's essential to ensure that you are getting the minerals your kidneys need.

Man pouring water into a glass jug from a tap with an RO filter

Filtering water 4 Considerations to Make When Choosing a Reverse Osmosis System Reverse osmosis water is considered one of the cleanest forms of water. There are many benefits to reverse osmosis water, as these systems remove up to 99% of lead, asbestos, and 82 other water contaminants. Installing a reverse osmosis system in your home ensures you always have access to quality water that's safe from bacteria, parasites, chlorine, heavy metals, and other potentially harmful contaminants, which is essential in areas with unsafe drinking water. Although an RO filter is a great investment, it can be tricky to choose the perfect system for your household. To help you make the best choice, below we've outlined four important things to consider before you choose a reverse osmosis system for your home. » Learn the health benefits of reverse osmosis water 1. Good Balance of Cost and Quality One of the first aspects you'll need to think about is your reverse osmosis system budget. RO systems can be quite pricey, but it's worth spending a little more to get the desired results. The more expensive systems often feature more stages, or the number of filters used. They also have the ability to filter larger volumes of water at a time and have added features like autoflush. Some of the more high-end RO filters are also able to add valuable nutrients back to the drinking water after the potentially harmful ones have been filtered out. On the other hand, as with any other product, the RO systems on the lower end of the price range might leave you feeling disappointed. They could be made from cheap materials that don't last or filter properly. When it comes to the mid-range systems, they function well enough to get the job done properly, but the higher-end options come with some added nice-to-have features. 2. Water Pressure When choosing your water filter, you'll need to know you have sufficient water pressure for a reverse osmosis system to function properly. The ideal water pressure for an RO system is 60 PSI (pounds per square inch). Any pressure below 40 PSI is considered insufficient, and you'll likely need to boost your water with a pressure booster pump. Low water pressure will result in the RO system filtering less water at a reduced quality. » RO vs. water softener: learn which is better for drinking 3. City Water vs. Well Water When looking to install a reverse osmosis system, you should also know whether you'll be using it to filter city water or well water. City Water City water is supplied from local treatment plants, and it primarily comes from surface or groundwater supplies. The water that enters the treatment plants may contain all sorts of contaminants like arsenic, herbicides, pesticides, parasites, bacteria, and heavy metals. Once it's in the treatment plant, chlorine is added to disinfect the drinking water. Reverse osmosis is a good option for drinking water supplied from the city because it could contain potentially harmful substances that your RO system will remove. Well Water Although most wells get their water from underground aquifers, well water is still susceptible to impurities like microorganisms, nitrate, heavy metals, and other chemicals. Well water isn't treated with chlorine, but reverse osmosis is still a good choice for removing all these potentially harmful substances. » RO water vs. tap filter water: learn which is safer for drinking 4. Dangers of Reverse Osmosis Water While reverse osmosis is highly efficient at removing contaminants and harmful compounds from drinking water, it has its downfalls. Reverse osmosis filtration also removes essential minerals from tap water, including sodium, manganese, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and copper. As some of these minerals are actually good for you, consuming demineralized water can have negative side effects and even cause health issues, as your body doesn't get the nutrients it needs from drinking water. Consuming RO water that's been stripped of minerals for a long period of time can lead to various problems, including gastrointestinal issues. To avoid these dangers, you should remineralize your RO water with solutions like Mayu's Essential Mineral Drops. Adding minerals back to water in the form of drops is among the healthiest ways to remineralize your RO water, and Mayu's Essential Mineral Drops are a convenient way to reap the benefits of RO water without having to worry about the potential dangers. Choose Your RO System Wisely Installing a reverse osmosis system is a great way to ensure you have clean, uncontaminated water. However, it's important to carefully consider the factors that play a role in picking the perfect filter that will improve your water quality while suiting your specific needs. When it comes to reverse osmosis systems, the most important thing to keep in mind is that RO water doesn't contain any minerals and should be remineralized to provide the essential minerals your drinking water should have. Mayu's Essential Mineral Drops are an easy way to achieve this and reap all the benefits of RO water in your home.

A close-up of water being poured into a glass from a glass jug

Filtering water Reverse Osmosis vs. Water Softener: Which Is Better for Drinking?A new year usually means new goals too, especially when it comes to your health. One of the ways to ensure you're staying on top of your health is by drinking cleaner water in your home. Two common options for improving your home water quality are reverse osmosis filters and water softeners. However, these play two different roles in the water treatment process. While reverse osmosis systems filter the water with the use of a membrane, water softeners soften the water by removing certain minerals. Choosing between reverse osmosis and a water softener can be confusing, so we've outlined the essentials of each method to help you make an informed decision. » Reverse osmosis vs. water softener: learn whether you need both Reverse Osmosis The reverse osmosis system works to purify your water by using a semi-permeable membrane to filter any contaminants in the water. This filter pushes water under high pressure through the membrane, where its tiny pores remove up to 99% of lead, asbestos, and 82 other contaminants like chlorine, mercury, arsenic, microplastics, salt, herbicides, pesticides, dissolved minerals, and other chemicals. The reverse osmosis system is also a great idea if your water has an unpleasant taste or smell, in addition to being effective at softening hard water. Benefits of Using a Reverse Osmosis System Better-tasting water: RO water typically tastes better than tap water because the reverse osmosis system filters out the minerals and contaminants that make the water taste bad.Removed chemicals: Reverse osmosis is highly effective at removing unwanted contaminants in drinking water. It works to filter out most bacteria, parasites, chemicals, heavy metals, and organic compounds thanks to its efficient filtering membrane.Healthier water: RO water has various health benefits because it contains no harmful contaminants that could cause health issues, like parasites and heavy metals.Environmentally friendly: Reverse osmosis is one of the greenest solutions for filtering water because it doesn't use any chemicals to clean the water, and there's no single-use plastic involved in the process. However, despite the benefits outlined above, reverse osmosis water results in water that's completely free of minerals, even those minerals from tap water that may be healthy. As there are some essential minerals your drinking water should have, reverse osmosis water should be remineralized to add these back. As one of the healthiest ways to remineralize your RO water, consider using Essential Mineral Drops to get the job done. By adding minerals to your water in the form of drops, you'll be opting for a simple way to ensure you're getting all the health benefits your body needs from your drinking water. Water Softener Water softeners work to reduce the hardness of your water by removing certain minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause the water to be hard and replacing them with ones that make it softer. As opposed to reverse osmosis, water softeners do preserve some minerals in water that are good for you. Water softeners use an ion exchange process. The resin beads inside the water softener trap calcium and magnesium molecules and replace them with sodium and potassium. Once the resin beads are full of calcium and magnesium, a very concentrated sodium or potassium solution removes the hard minerals from the beads. Benefits of Using a Water Softener Good for appliances: Soft water is an appliance-friendly solution, as it prevents the damaging effects of hard water on dishwashers, heaters, ice makers, coffee machines, and washing machines. Hard water causes scale to build up on the inside of these appliances, which reduces their efficiency and lifespan.Shinier dishes: Hard water causes a cloudy appearance on dishes as soon as they dry. Water softeners resolve this problem by removing the minerals that cause this cloudy film. Softer water also fuses more efficiently with detergents and soaps, meaning there's more cleaning action.Reduced clogged pipes: The calcium and magnesium minerals in hard water form a scale build-up that eventually clogs your pipes. This can cause irreversible damage to your plumbing system, whereas soft water has no detrimental effects on pipes and plumbing.Softer hair and skin: Water softeners are very beneficial for your skin and hair if you use soft water for showering or bathing. The minerals that make water hard prevent it from being completely soluble in soaps, resulting in soap residue. Using soft water means your skin holds moisture easier because it contains fewer minerals that usually prevent this absorption. What's more, soft water will balance the pH of your hair, making it softer and shinier. » Compare different water types: learn which is the healthiest for you RO vs. Water Softener: Choose the Healthiest Option Both reverse osmosis and water softeners are useful in their specific areas. While water softeners don't work to purify water, they do prevent other serious issues like plumbing damage. However, when it comes to drinking water, reverse osmosis systems are better for filtering it from harmful contaminants, but they also remove the essential minerals that your body needs. That's why it's important to remineralize your reverse osmosis water with drops like Mayu's Essential Mineral Drops, which will provide you with a simple and convenient way to ensure you're drinking the healthiest water available.

Filtering water Why Reusing Plastic Water Bottles Is Damaging Your Health One million plastic drinking bottles are bought around the world every single minute. This creates a huge amount of waste that ends up in oceans and landfills. It's common practice for people to reuse plastic water bottles by refilling them. It saves money, avoids having to repeatedly buy new bottles, and reduces the amount of plastic waste. However, these bottles were not meant to be reused. Recent revelations about the toxic chemicals found in plastic bottles should be enough to prevent anyone from reusing them—or buying them in the first place. While reusing your plastic bottle is convenient, we've outlined why it’s not the best idea to carry on with this practice. Risks of Reusing Plastic Water Bottles Apart from the environmental impact of plastic water bottles, there are two significant health risks associated with reusing these bottles. Chemical leaching Most single-use plastic bottles are made from flimsy material, which gets damaged through normal wear and tear, and while being washed. Repeatedly using a plastic bottle significantly increases the chance that chemicals will leak out of the tiny cracks in the bottle that develop over time. One of these chemicals is bisphenol A (BPA), which has been linked to some serious health risks like fertility issues, breast and prostate cancer, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.Bacteria Plastic bottles also harbor harmful bacteria, which can be just as dangerous, if not more dangerous, than chemical leaching. Scratches and cracks can not only cause chemical leaching, but are the ideal spot for bacteria to thrive. Bacterial growth happens very quickly by simply placing your mouth on your bottle and it can be difficult to remove, even with a thorough cleaning. Studies have revealed that water bottles that go uncleaned for a week contain 300,000 bacteria cells per square centimeter, which is more bacteria than in a dog’s water bowl. How Long Can You Reuse A Plastic Water Bottle? Most water bottles will display a number printed inside a triangle, which shows what kind of plastic the bottle is made from. That number also determines how often the bottle can be reused before it becomes unsafe. Here are three of the most common plastics water bottles are made from: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) If there is a "1" in the triangle, it means it was made using PET plastic. This is a very lightweight plastic that's commonly used for water bottles and containers like nut butter, sauce bottles, and other food packaging. It's intended for single-use applications, and repeated use increases the risk of leaching and bacterial growth.High-density polyethylene (HDPE) If there is a "2" in the triangle, it means it was made using high-density polyethylene. HDPE is a more sturdy, durable plastic, which makes it a good material for detergent bottles, soap bottles, and gallon-size liquid containers. HDPE is reusable.Other (BPA, Polycarbonate and LEXAN) If there is a "7" in the triangle, it means it was made using materials that don’t fit under any other category. Some water bottles in this category may contain BPA. These plastics are not for reuse. Safe Alternatives to Plastic Bottles There are several water bottle materials that are safe alternatives to plastic bottles, including: Glass Glass as opposed to plastic bottles may be fragile, but they are sterile, don't affect the taste of the water, and don't leach any harmful chemicals.Stainless Steel Stainless steel bottles are typically lined so that there's no metallic taste in the liquid they hold. They are sterile and durable.Reusable Plastic Bottles Plastic water bottles are not all bad. It depends on the type of plastic used to make the bottle. Most reusable plastic water bottles are manufactured from plastic polymers like polypropylene and copolyester. Make sure that the bottle you are choosing is BPA-free. Conclusion Reusing a plastic water bottle might feel like an eco-friendly alternative because you’re not throwing the bottle away after every use. However, with the potentially harmful effects of reusing plastic water bottles on human health and their impact on the environment, the best decision is to skip single-use plastic altogether.