Is Filtered Water the Same as Bottled Water? Not Quite

Filtered water and bottled water are often treated as equivalent — but they’re not the same thing, and in most cases filtered tap water is the better choice. Here’s a clear comparison.

Browse our water filter range or see our guide: Is Filtered Water Better Than Tap Water?

What’s Actually in Bottled Water?

Most bottled water sold in Australia is either spring water (sourced from a natural spring) or purified municipal water (filtered tap water). The label matters — “spring water” has a natural mineral profile; “purified water” or “drinking water” is typically filtered tap water, often using reverse osmosis or carbon filtration.

Bottled water is regulated under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, but it’s not inherently purer or safer than well-maintained filtered tap water.

Filtered Water vs Bottled Water: A Comparison

The Verdict

For most Australian households, a quality home water filter produces water that is equal to or better than bottled water — at a fraction of the cost and with no plastic waste. The only scenario where bottled water has a clear advantage is when you’re away from home and don’t have access to filtered water.

Frequently Asked Questions