Many parents have heard the same thing: for a baby, bottled water would be safer for their health.
But recent analyses of several bottled waters, as well as the presence of microplastics and pollutants in certain brands, have raised doubts about its composition.
What if giving tap water to babies was ultimately the best solution for your child?
Good news: in France, tap water can be used from birth to prepare milk bottles, with a few simple tips.
In this article, find out at what age a baby can drink tap water, how to consume it safely, and what solutions can improve its quality.
Can babies drink tap water from their first months?
Contrary to a still widespread belief, the French health authorities recommend the consumption of tap water from birth. However, depending on the baby’s age, diet, and needs, the way to offer water evolves gradually.
Here’s what you need to know to adapt to each stage of their growth.
Before 6 months: milk naturally hydrates the baby
During the first months, breast milk or infant formula covers the baby’s water needs. Whether your child is breastfed or fed with formula, their diet already provides all the necessary water on a daily basis.
This is particularly explained by the composition of breast milk, which contains nearly 87% water, helping the baby stay well hydrated.
Tap water can be used from birth with milk, as recommended by French health authorities, with a few guidelines.
Before introducing solid foods, breastfeeding and bottles are sufficient to meet the nutritional needs of the infant, even if, in certain situations, small amounts of water may be indicated.
After 6 months: water becomes essential daily
From 6 months onwards, the baby’s body evolves with the introduction of solid foods. Even though milk remains important, water gradually becomes the preferred drink. It is at this time that the baby starts to drink a few sips of water.
At first, it is perfectly normal for them to take very small amounts. They need to gradually get used to the taste. You can therefore offer it to them several times a day, without forcing them.
Tap water can be perfectly suitable, provided certain preparation rules are followed. And of course, it is better to avoid sugary drinks for their health.
How to safely prepare a bottle with tap water?
In France, tap water is the most controlled food and can be used from birth to feed the child. However, since the immune system of infants is still fragile, certain hygiene rules remain important.
Temperature, cleanliness of the tap, chosen water… A few good reflexes allow for consumption with complete peace of mind.
With LAVIE: purifying bottle water in minutes
With LAVIE, there is no need to accumulate packs of bottled water at home. The purifier improves the composition of tap water in just 15 minutes thanks to its patented UV-A technology.
A practical, economical, and more sustainable solution for parents on a daily basis.
To prepare bottles with LAVIE:
- Fill your LAVIE bottle with tap water.
- Plug the purifier into a power outlet and then place the bottle in the case.
- For 15 minutes, the UV-A LEDs trigger a photolysis process that eliminates bacteria, viruses, pesticide residues, pharmaceutical residues, and chlorine present in the water.
- Once the cycle is complete, the water is ready: just add the powdered milk.
A simple way to preserve the baby’s health through water.
Without purification: a few precautions to take
Even without a purification system, tap water can be used to prepare baby meals. But a few simple gestures can help limit microbiological risks and consume better quality water.
To prepare a bottle with tap water:
- Always use cold water, as hot water may contain more contaminants.
- Let the water run for a few seconds before filling the bottle or the pot.
- Avoid letting the container touch the tap spout directly to reduce the risk of bacteria.
- For babies under 6 months, it is strongly recommended to boil the water for one minute and then let it cool before adding the powdered milk.
A few recommendations that help support the baby’s hydration safely.
Bottled water or tap water: what to choose for infants?
For a long time, bottled water has been presented as the best water for babies. However, amid recent controversies, microplastics, nitrates, and other pollutants, as well as the accumulation of plastic in the environment, more and more parents are looking for healthier and more sustainable solutions.
So, should we still buy packs of water?
Should we choose low-mineral water?
Many waters (mineral or spring) for infants highlight their low mineral content as a safety argument. As a result, parents think that water rich in calcium or magnesium would be less suitable for their child’s health.
This idea is false.
No scientific study shows that a baby needs low-mineral water. Breast milk, considered the ideal food for toddlers, naturally contains calcium, magnesium, and other essential minerals for their development.
As highlighted by pediatrician Emmanuel Delmas: “Mineral water is not at all necessary for children’s development, for their nutritional needs.”
The WHO also reminds us that baby water with a minimal mineral content cannot be considered safe to drink as it dangerously approaches distilled water.
Are water bottles safe?
Big brands, sealed bottles, mentions “special for infants”… Some parents think that water bottles, whether mineral or spring, are safer.
However, several analyses have revealed the presence of microplastics, PFAS, pesticides, and chemical residues in some of these waters. Substances far from harmless.
Recent controversies surrounding certain big brands have also raised doubts. Not to mention the ecological impact: plastic bottles, transportation, and unrecycled waste that end up in the environment.
Today, water filtration appears to be one of the best alternatives. A more practical, economical, and sustainable solution for the whole family.
How to improve the quality of tap water for babies?
What if it were possible to prepare baby bottles with better quality water, directly at home?
In France, tap water is highly regulated, but its composition can still vary depending on the regions, the state of the pipes, or the treatments used in the drinking water network.
It may therefore contain certain pollutants such as pesticides, nitrates, PFAS, pharmaceutical residues, microplastics, or even viruses.
To support families, LAVIE offers two complementary solutions:
- The LAVIE purifier: thanks to its patented UV-A purification technology, it eliminates bacteria, viruses, chlorine, pesticide residues, and pharmaceutical residues, without filters or chemicals. A practical technique for preparing baby meals.
- The Opropre under-sink filter: installed directly under the sink, it targets PFAS, heavy metals like lead, microplastics, and sediments through a combination of activated carbon and specific resin. Its recharge system also helps reduce waste in the long term.
A simple way to enjoy healthy water, both for babies and for future mothers who wish to drink tap water during pregnancy safely.
