10 Reliable Ways To Purify Water Every Prepper Should Know

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Water is essential for survival. Access to safe drinking water can be the difference between life and death, as dehydration sets in quickly, and without water for just a few days, survival becomes unlikely. In any survival scenario, it’s critical to assume that all collected water may be contaminated. Consuming untreated water can lead to severe illness.

Knowing multiple methods of locating and purifying water is crucial—each additional option increases your security. It’s also important to distinguish between filtering and purifying water. Purifying is more thorough, as filters alone may not remove viruses. Running purified water through a filter can also improve its taste.

Here are some effective ways that you can purify drinking water.

Boiling

Boiling water is one of the most reliable and widely used methods. It kills most pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. At altitudes over 8,000 feet, boil for three minutes. Keep in mind that Excess boiling only wastes water through evaporation.

Water Purification Tablets

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Purification tablets containing chlorine, iodine, or similar disinfectants can purify water within 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the brand and water volume. These tablets are compact and easy to store.

Filtration Systems

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Portable water filters can remove bacteria, protozoa, and sediment. Look for filters with a pore size of 0.2 microns or smaller for the best protection.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal improves water quality by removing contaminants and enhancing taste. You can keep store-bought activated charcoal or use charcoal from a campfire. Crush the charcoal and use it as part of a DIY filter.

Solar Disinfection (SODIS)

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Place water in clear plastic bottles and leave them in direct sunlight for at least six hours. UV rays kill pathogens effectively. On cloudy days, leave the bottles in the sun for two days.

Cloth Filtration

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Using a clean cloth or coffee filter, pour water through to strain out large particles and debris. However, follow up with boiling or chemical treatment to fully purify the water.

Iodine

Add 5–10 drops of iodine tincture to a quart of water, stir, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This is effective for most pathogens, though it may not be suitable for people with shellfish allergies.

Bleach

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Use 2–4 drops of regular, unscented household bleach per quart of water. Stir and let sit for 30 minutes. Be aware that bleach loses potency after six months, so fresh bleach is more effective.

Coconut Husk

The fibrous material of coconut husks works similarly to activated charcoal, filtering out particles. Combine with charcoal to boost the effectiveness of this improvised filter.

Wood Ash

Wood ash mixed with water can settle impurities, though further purification is still advised. Filter the clear water from the top, and repeat the process as needed for clarity.

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