We constantly hear…

"Australia has some of the best tap water in the world!"

Or does it?

It's something we've all heard for years, but just how true is it? 🤔

In recent years, more and more people have noticed their tap water has a distinct smell to it—definitely more than in the past.

If you've noticed this, then you're not alone. 

TAKE THE WATER
TASTE TEST 🚰

We challenge you to play
the water taste game!

HOW TO PLAY?

What you need:

 2 x identical cups or glasses
1 x bottle of still water. 

In each cup, put 
the same amount of
tap water and bottled water. 💧

Now...
ask a family member/friend
to take a blind taste test
from each cup.

Challenge:
see if they can taste
which one is tap water!

Note: tap water will leave a distinct chemical-tasting aftertaste! That’s because of the recent higher levels of chlorine and disinfecting agents added to water, not to mention the rust and heavy metals!

Surprised by the results?

We were, too! So in 2025, we did an independent test of tap water across Australia. See the results on our Aussie Water Quality Map.

(spoiler: the results for some cities are shocking!)

So why does tap water taste…different?

If you’ve noticed a stronger smell or a slightly “chemical” aftertaste, you’re not alone.

There are a few reasons this can happen:

Chlorine levels used to disinfect water; can affect taste and smell.

Seasonal changes (like rainfall or warmer weather) can shift water quality.

Pipes in your home may introduce metallic or stale flavours (especially over time).

Should you just put up with it?

It might not seem like a big deal at first but buying regular bottles of water hurts your wallet, our planet and your own health.

Over time:

Buying bottled water costs the average Aussie $580 a year, while more regular use can be over $1000 a year 💰.

Increased use of 'throw away' plastic waste causes untold damage to our planet 🌏.

Now the kicker:

microplastics are found consistently in bottles of water.

Want to make a real change?

H2O Australia specialises in turning your tap water into ultra-purified, crisp clean water that removes those nasty contaminants.

We have amazing countertop and under-sink systems that use state-of-the-art filtration technology to give you water that is pure, safe and enjoyable.

Learn more at: h2ostores.com