What is the difference between purified and filtered water?

We all want to live healthier, longer and happier and in our quest to achieve these goals, we focus on the obvious—eating right, moving our bodies and avoiding stress. But one area of forgotten wellness is getting a lot of attention these days and it may be lurking in the most common of places: our drinking water.

Most of us take for granted that the water that streams from our tap is free of toxins, bacteria and chemicals. But the scary truth is that there is much more to our drinking water than meets the eye. And it could be making you sick. In fact, one 2024 study indicated that “almost half of the tap water in the United States is contaminated with chemicals known as “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to everything from cancer and chronic disease to hormone issues and decreased fertility.” Reducing exposure to these chemicals, also known as PFAS or per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances, is an ongoing source of concern for communities, workplaces and families. And while the discussion surrounding PFAS and clean drinking water is ongoing, most of us just want to feel safe when we take a sip. The good news is that there are ways you can improve the safety and taste of your drinking water right now.

Many companies will offer your business bold promises to clean your water, throwing around complicated terms meant to impress and confuse. But what is most important in the quest for clean drinking water comes down to two main processes: purification and filtration. So what exactly is the difference between purified water and filtered water? And what are the impacts of these water treatment methods on your health? Read on to find out.

Purified water and filtered water are both treated to make them safer and more pleasant to drink, but they differ significantly in their methods and levels of “cleanliness”. Filtered water typically passes through a physical or chemical barrier—like activated carbon or ceramic filters—that removes larger particles, chlorine, and some contaminants. This process enhances the taste and smell of the water and may be effective for everyday use. However, filtered water may still contain microscopic impurities, such as bacteria, viruses, and dissolved minerals, depending on the type and quality of the filter used.

On the other hand, purified water undergoes a more advanced and thorough treatment process designed to remove nearly all contaminants, including microorganisms, heavy metals, and dissolved solids. Common purification methods include reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization, all of which meet strict purity standards. As a result, purified water is necessary in medical settings, laboratories, and by individuals with compromised immune systems or specific health requirements. While both types of water are generally safe to drink, purified water offers a higher level of purity, making it the better choice when maximum cleanliness–and taste–is essential.

So what should you be looking for from a company that promises your business “clean water”? Nothing less than the best. Michigan Clear Water’s bottleless water systems come equipped with our unique Pure Filtration Technology that both cleans and purifies your water through a multi-stage process, so you can be sure that every sip is free of sediments, PFAS and other harmful chemicals.

We offer the highest level of filtration available, as well as state-of-the-art purification processes. These include a reverse osmosis membrane that reduces the presence of heavy metals such as lead and arsenic up to 99%, as well as an Activated Carbon Filter that leaves your clean water tasting great. Finally, we use activated oxygen injection to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses.