How long does bottled water last?
Commercially bottled water does not go bad as long as the seal stays intact and it is kept cool and out of sunlight; the roughly 2-year date on many bottles is about taste.
| Bottled Water | |
|---|---|
| Unopened | No safety expiry; most brands suggest about 2 years for best taste |
| Opened | A few days; refrigerate once opened |
| Ideal storage | Cool, dark, away from gasoline, solvents and cleaners (plastic absorbs odors). |
Storage tips
- Plan on at least 1 gallon (about 4 liters) per person per day.
- Rotate cases every year or two so the water tastes fresh when you need it.
- Use the water calculator to size your household’s supply.
Signs it has gone bad
- A broken or loose seal on a commercial bottle
- Cloudiness, floating particles, green tint or algae
- A chemical, plastic or fuel smell (plastic absorbs odors from nearby chemicals)
- If in doubt, treat it before drinking (boil, filter, or disinfect) rather than discarding it in an emergency