Can Babies Safely Drink Distilled Water?

When it comes to your baby’s health, even the smallest decisions can feel huge—like choosing the right kind of water. Between tap, bottled, filtered, and distilled options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re preparing formula or offering that first sip. You’re not just picking water—you’re picking peace of mind.

Distilled water often pops up in parenting forums and pediatrician visits, but is it the safest choice for your little one? Before you head to the store or turn on the tap, let’s break down what experts say and how to keep your baby hydrated and healthy.

Is Distilled Water Safe for Babies?

Distilled water can be safely used for babies in certain situations. Because it doesn’t contain impurities or added minerals, many parents prefer it for mixing infant formula. It’s also less likely to have bacteria or chemicals that might be found in tap water. This makes distilled water a popular choice, especially in households where tap water quality is uncertain.

However, babies shouldn’t drink large amounts of plain distilled water on its own. Too much water—distilled or not—can disrupt a baby’s electrolyte balance and lead to water intoxication, which is a serious health risk. Always talk with a pediatrician about when and how to safely introduce water. Breast milk or formula should remain the main source of hydration in a baby’s early months.

Safe Age for Giving Distilled Water to Infants

Once you know distilled water is safe, the next question is when to introduce it. Most babies can begin having small amounts around six months of age—typically when they start eating solids and learning to use a sippy cup. Before this age, all fluids should come from breast milk or infant formula, since young babies have developing kidneys and can’t handle extra water well.

When introducing distilled water, start with a small amount—usually about half an ounce to one ounce per day. Because distilled water doesn’t contain fluoride, parents may want to ask their doctor if fluoride supplements are needed after six months. Be sure to confirm with your pediatrician that the timing and amount are right for your baby.

Using Distilled Water for Mixing Baby Formula

Many parents choose distilled water for preparing powdered infant formula because it doesn’t contain minerals or impurities. This helps maintain the proper balance of nutrients already included in the formula, ensuring that babies get exactly what they need. Since infant formula is designed to provide complete nutrition, adding minerals through water isn’t necessary.

To mix the formula correctly, parents should carefully measure both the powder and the water. Following the exact formula-to-water ratio is key to keeping feedings safe and nutritious. Still, some parents prefer distilled water to eliminate concerns about unwanted minerals or contaminants.

Purified Versus Distilled Water

Babies can safely drink various types of water, including tap, bottled, purified, and distilled. Parents don’t need to rely only on distilled or purified water unless there are specific health concerns or local water issues. If the household tap water is tested and safe, it’s generally fine for preparing formula or drinking.

Purified and distilled water both go through processes to remove most minerals, impurities, and fluoride. This can be helpful if the home’s water contains high mineral levels or potential contaminants. Fluoride is often added to tap and bottled water to help protect teeth, but too much can cause dental fluorosis. Some nursery water brands also include added fluoride.

If using well water, it’s especially important to have it tested for nitrates and heavy metals, which can be harmful to infants. Ultimately, babies can try different types of water based on what the family uses—just make sure it’s been tested and approved, especially for infants under 1 year old.

FAQs

Is Distilled Water OK for Infants?

Yes, distilled water is safe for babies once they’re around six months old. For more on safety and when to introduce it, see the sections above on distilled water use and age guidelines.

Is Boiling Necessary Before Giving Distilled Water to Babies?

No, boiling isn’t needed. Distilled water is already free from bacteria and contaminants. This can be especially helpful for parents during late-night feedings or when in a hurry.

Where Can Families Find Distilled Water?

You can find distilled water in most grocery stores and pharmacies, usually sold in large containers. If making it at home, boil tap water and collect the steam—but always let it cool and use clean bottles for storage.

Choosing the right water for your baby may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on their health and development. Distilled water is a safe, reliable option—especially for mixing formula and easing into first sips—when used at the right age and amount.

As with any new step in your baby’s routine, it’s always smart to check with your pediatrician. Whether you’re filling bottles or baby cups, knowing what’s in your water means one less thing to worry about on your parenting journey.