Are you wondering what the difference between distilled water and purified water? Understanding the differences between these two types of water can help you determine which one might be better for a particular application or use. In this post, we’ll take an in-depth look at how each type of water is produced, their key characteristics and benefits, as well as scenarios where you might choose to purchase either distilled or purified water. By the end of this article, you should have a thorough understanding of what sets them apart so that you’re able to make an informed decision.
What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is created by boiling source water, such as fresh or saltwater, and then condensing the vapor into a clean container. This process eliminates any inorganic minerals, bacteria, viruses and other contaminants from the water. The end result is pure H2O with no other elements or components present. Because it has been stripped of its natural minerals, however, distilled water does not have a pleasant taste and may need to be fortified with minerals before it is suitable for drinking.

What Is Distilled Water Used For?
Distilled water has multiple uses because of its purity. It is often used as a feedstock for steam-powered machinery, in car batteries and window washer fluid, and even mixed with other elements to create homeopathic remedies or intravenous solutions. Some aquariums and laboratory settings also require the use of distilled water, as it provides an ideal environment for aquatic life or testing purposes.
How To Make Distilled Water?
Making distilled water is a relatively simple process and can be done at home if you have the right equipment. To begin, fill a large pot with source water and place it on a stove or hot plate. Next, place an inverted lid in the pot that has been fitted with tubing running out of one of its sides. Now, turn on the heat and wait until the water begins to boil. Once the steam starts to rise, it will travel through the tubing leading from the lid and into a separate container that is positioned above the pot. As this steam condenses, it creates a liquid known as distilled water.
What Is Purified Water?
Purified water is produced through a process known as reverse osmosis, which uses semi-permeable membranes to filter out contaminants from source water. Unlike distilled water, purified water does not require boiling and instead relies on pressure to push the source water through a series of filters. This process can remove bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, salt, inorganic minerals and other contaminants from the water.
What Is Purified Water Used For?
Purified water is often used in food preparation, medical applications and in industry. It is also becoming increasingly popular for drinking purposes due to its relative purity compared to tap or bottled waters. Unlike distilled water, however, it has not been stripped of all of its minerals and still contains some trace amounts which allow it to have a more pleasant taste than distilled water.

How To Make Purified Water?
The process of creating purified water is slightly more complex than making distilled water but can still be done at home with the right equipment. To begin, source water must first pass through a sediment filter which removes any large particles or debris from the liquid. Next, it is pushed through a carbon filter to remove chlorine and other contaminants. Finally, the water passes through a reverse osmosis membrane which removes any remaining impurities while allowing beneficial minerals to remain in the liquid.
Difference Between Distilled Water And Purified Water
Collection Process
Distilled water is produced by boiling water and collecting the steam that rises from it. The steam is then condensed back into liquid form and stored in a container. The process of distillation removes dissolved salts, minerals, and other contaminants leaving the resulting water free of these substances.
Treatment Methods
Purified water is produced using a variety of treatment methods including reverse osmosis, deionization, carbon filtration and distillation. While each method varies slightly, the goal is to remove contaminants from the water through physical or chemical means. Depending on the treatment method used, purified water may also contain trace amounts of dissolved minerals that were not removed during the process.
Contaminants
Distilled water will be completely free of contaminants, while purified water may contain trace amounts depending on the treatment method used. Distillation is to remove a wide range of contaminants bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and other dissolved solids. Purified water may not provide the same level of protection since some contaminants may still remain in the water after purification.
Mineral Content
Distilled water contains no minerals, while purified water may contain trace amounts of some minerals. The presence of these minerals can vary depending on the treatment method used and the source of the original water. In general, purified water will have a lower mineral content than regular tap water but higher than distilled water.
Taste
Distilled water has a flat, slightly chemical taste due to the lack of minerals. Purified water may have a slightly better taste due to the presence of some minerals that were not removed during purification.
After knowing the answer to the question what is the difference between distilled water and purified water. Join us to find out more interesting information about the question of the day.
Are Distilled Water And Purified Water Interchangeable?
The difference between distilled water and purified water are numerous and each type of water has its own benefits. Distilled water is created through a boiling process, while purified water goes through reverse osmosis filtering to remove contaminants. The two types of water have different levels of mineral content, taste differently and are subject to different regulations/standards. As such, they cannot be easily interchangeable and each should be used for the purpose it is intended. For example, distilled water may be ideal for certain industrial or medical uses while purified water might be better suited for drinking or food preparation.
How To Store Distilled And Purified Water?
Distilled and purified water should be kept in a clean container with a tight-fitting lid. It is also important to ensure that the container has not been used for any other purpose, as this can contaminate the water. Distilled and purified water should be stored away from direct light and heat sources to maintain its purity. It is generally recommended to use the water within a few weeks of storage for optimal freshness.

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FAQ: Difference Between Distilled Water And Purified Water
Is distilled water the same as pure water?
Purified water is more than just distilled water. It undergoes a thorough purification process that includes ion exchange and reverse osmosis to eliminate all impurities. While distilled water is only purified through distillation, purified water is the ultimate in pure, clean water.
What is the process used to produce distilled and purified water?
Distillation, a purification method that uses evaporation, eliminates impurities from water. Water that is contaminated is heated, transforming to steam. Large non-volatile organic molecules and inorganic compounds are not vaporized with the water and remain behind. Subsequently, the steam cools and turns into purified water.
Is drinking distilled water better than purified water?
Purified and distilled water offer excellent health benefits and are mostly identical. The key variance lies in the fact that purified water does not strip away the essential minerals found in water like distilled water does.
Is the taste between distilled and purified water the same?
Distilled and purified water have an indistinguishable taste, as both lack minerals. Purified water undergoes a carbon filtration process and may contain trace minerals which can marginally elevate its taste.
Is distilled or purified water better for cooking?
Pure, distilled water is highly recommended for appliances such as irons and steamers. Without any minerals present, the water is scale-free, which not only enhances efficiency but also prolongs the appliance’s lifespan.
What are the uses of distilled water compared to pure water?
Distilled water is a highly potent method for eliminating harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa (such as giardia), and chemicals like lead and sulfate. Its superior purity makes it a frequent choice in both medical facilities and laboratories.
Which is more expensive, distilled or purified water?
Distilled water is typically more expensive than purified water due to the energy required for the distillation process. Purified water can be produced through a variety of filtration methods, so it tends to be less costly than distilled water.
Can you use distilled or purified water for medical purposes?
Both distilled and purified water can be used for medical purposes. Distilled water has the advantage of being free of any contaminants, which is why it is often preferred for laboratory experiments or other sensitive tasks.
Is distilled water or purified water better for the skin?
Safeguard your skin with ease by washing your face with distilled water. Unlike traditional tap water, distilled water is free of hard minerals and impurities that can cause irritation, dryness, and breakouts. To make the switch, simply attach a water filter to your sink or shower for a refreshed cleansing experience. Protect your skin and achieve a flawless complexion effortlessly with this easy solution.
Does distilled water have the same shelf life as purified water?
Discover the secret to making your store-bought distilled water last indefinitely! Proper storage is key to longevity. If you’re using purified or distilled water for your household appliances, unopened bottles will stay fresh for a few years. Once opened, with a little care, it can last another year or two.
Conclusion: Difference Between Distilled Water And Purified Water
The main difference between distilled water and purified water is their collection process and treatment methods. Distilled water is produced by boiling, while purified water is produced through a variety of filtration methods. Distilled water will be completely free of contaminants, while purified water may contain trace amounts depending on the treatment method used. Both types of water should be stored in a clean container away from direct light and heat sources to maintain its purity. It is important to understand the differences between distilled and purified water in order to ensure that the correct type of water is used for the intended purpose.

Nia Grace is the owner and head chef of The Underground, a new quick-service restaurant in Memphis. After surveying the area’s dining landscape and speaking with local residents, she determined that there was a lack of restaurants offering international cuisine. Drawing on her own multicultural background (her parents are from Guyana and Jamaica), Nia has created a menu that features dishes from all over the world. Her goal is to provide Memphians with a variety of flavorful options that reflect the city’s diverse population.