25 Best Bottled Water Brands of 2024 [Sip, Savor, & Repeat]

Picture this: you're parched, you've been on the move all day, and all you need is water. Not just any water, but clean, refreshing, reliable hydration. Then you spot it—the answer to your thirst in the form of the best bottled water. We've all been there! Whether you're a fitness enthusiast with hydration always on the mind, a concerned mom hoping to avoid tap water impurities, or someone simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle, bottled water has drastically gained popularity.

Its rise is not unwarranted. The convenience, guaranteed quality, and often enhanced taste have made it an essential daily companion for many. But with the marketplace overflowing, how does one identify the best bottled water? Let's dive into an ocean of options to uncover the top contenders, the rising stars, and why they make quite the splash.

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25 Best Bottled Water Brands of 2024

Underneath the umbrella of the bottled water industry, an array of brands thrive, each with its unique selling points. From classic options offering simple, clean hydration to those adding a twist with enhanced flavors or health benefits, the choices are indeed limitless. In this ocean of brands, we've embarked on a journey to discover those that stand out. This list is like a voyage around the world, covering offerings from the snow-crowned Alps to the pristine springs of the American heartlands.

1. Essentia

When it comes to bottling what we may call 'enhanced water', Essentia takes the crown. With a unique ionization process, it shoots the pH level up to a neat 9.5, making it highly alkaline. Why does this matter, you ask? Alkaline water helps buffer the acid levels in your body, promoting better hydration and contributing to overall wellness. Besides this unique selling point, a taste of Essentia reveals another reason for its rising popularity—it simply tastes good.

The high pH doesn't make it peculiar. Instead, it leaves a clean, refreshing finish that's notably satisfying. Essentia is not just about what’s inside the bottle but also what’s outside of it. They showcase a strong commitment to sustainability with bottles that are 100% recyclable. In the wide expanse of bottled water choices, Essentia has certainly carved out a niche for itself.

2. Eternal Water

Embracing their tagline, "naturally pure & pristine," Eternal Water takes you back to the source of hydrating goodness. Originating from protected underground springs in the USA, it offers water that's naturally alkaline without passing through any human touchpoints. The result? A refreshingly pure drink that allows you to savor the taste of water as Mother Nature intended.

It stands out with a pH balance of 7.7 to 8.2, contributing to the neutralization of acid in the human body. Professional athletes are particularly keen on this as it helps keep their bodies in balance during strenuous activities. The brand also prides itself on offering BPA-free bottles which are environmentally friendly and safe. Eternal Water, therefore, stands as a harbinger of natural goodness and responsibility—not a bad choice for your daily hydration companion.

3. Penta

Few brands are as fastidious as Penta when it comes to purifying their water. A whopping 13 hour, 11-step proprietary process is behind each bottle of Penta water—talk about commitment! This extreme dedication to purity means each bottle offers not just hydration, but the promise of no trace impurities, ensuring the water you drink is as clean as possible. This ultra-purified water has a fresh, crisp taste that's impossible to ignore.

Penta also ensures that their purification process doesn’t strip the water of its essential minerals thereby maintaining a healthy balance. Another interesting fact about Penta is its packaging. They utilize high-density polyethylene, a BPA-free material known for its durability and recyclability. For those who put purity at the top of their priority list in choosing bottled water, Penta is a strong contender.

4. Acqua Panna

The taste of Acqua Panna takes you on a journey right into the heart of Tuscany. Offering a smooth and velvety taste, this bottled water's journey starts from an underground spring in the Apennine Mountains of Italy. The charm of this brand isn't just about the exotic source. Acqua Panna undergoes an incredible 14 year journey underground to acquire the minerals that impart the water's smooth taste.

This lengthy filtration process results in a naturally alkaline water with a pH of 8, along with a unique blend of essential minerals. The brand offers its water in stylish glass bottles, providing a sophisticated feel. If you're seeking to elevate your hydration experience to a form of luxury, Acqua Panna strikes the perfect balance between taste, purity, and style.

5. Ethos

Ethos isn't just a water brand, it's a mission bottled up in a sleek package. For every purchase of Ethos water, a portion of the profits support children's access to clean water in underprivileged parts of the world. But Ethos doesn't stop at just being charitable. The water itself has a light, crisp taste that keeps customers coming back.

Ethos follows a 7-step purification process to ensure the water in your bottle is free from impurities. This includes reverse osmosis and ultraviolet exposure, along with others, to deliver water as clean as its mission. For Ethos, it's not just about quenching thirst, but about making each sip count towards a greater cause, making it a brand that goes beyond the norms of the bottled water industry.

6. Pure Life

Delivering on its name, Pure Life offers not just hydration, but a lifestyle choice. A brand that's known worldwide, courtesy of its parent company, Nestle, Pure Life has carved its niche as a reliable provider of purified water. Their scientists and water experts undergo a 12-step quality process to ensure that every single bottle meets high safety and quality standards.

One of Pure Life's notable features is the effort it puts into recycling. The brand has an ambitious goal of using 50% recycled plastic in their bottles by 2025. This goal embodies Pure Life's commitment to sustaining the environment while delivering high-quality bottled water. It stands testament to the possibility of tasting purity while contributing to planet sustainability.

7. Poland Spring

Poland Spring has a deep-rooted history spanning over 170 years of dedication towards quenching the thirst of millions. Originating from multiple sources of pure spring water in Maine, Poland Spring has held a repute of unmatched natural purity. This cherished brand has earned a niche for being committed to sustainable practices. Their water is 100% natural spring water, supplemented with vital minerals for a balanced taste. With an impressive history and quality, Poland Spring bottles the essence of purity and nature to create a memorable experience with each sip.

8. Arrowhead

Quencher of thirst from the West, Arrowhead, pulls its water directly from carefully selected mountain springs spreading across the Western US. It's not just the origin that's impressive; Arrowhead stands out with its mix of naturally occurring minerals that provide a unique, refreshing taste. The company also proves a trailblazer in sustainable practices with a commitment to using 50% recycled plastic in their bottles by 2025. Arrowhead essentially brings you a taste of the American mountain springs, proudly wearing its origin and sustainability goals on its sleeve.

9. Voss

The remote Norwegian village of Vatnestrøm is what gives Voss its distinct identity. Voss water originates from an underground aquifer shielded over centuries from pollutants by layers of rock and ice. The bottle design is undeniably sleek, futuristic, and easily recognizable.

Voss manages to introduce luxury into everyday hydration, making your water bottle not just a thirst quencher, but a style statement. The natural purity, combined with the unique packaging, lends Voss an edge, making it popular among celebrities and elite parties. If you desire a taste of Norway's untouched wilderness whilst making a statement, Voss won't disappoint.

10. Icelandic Glacial

The land of fire and ice, Iceland, is home to one of the world's purest waters: Icelandic Glacial, the super-premium natural spring water brand. Harvested from the legendary Ölfus Spring, an ancient spring that is naturally replenished by melting glaciers, Icelandic Glacial is unparalleled in its nonpareil purity. The brand also boasts a high alkaline pH level of 8.4. Icelandic Glacial prides itself on using 100% carbon-neutral packaging and shipping processes, in line with Iceland's environmental ethos. The crisp and refreshing taste, as pure as its origin, sets Icelandic Glacial as an excellent choice for discerning water lovers.

11. Evian

As a denizen of the French Alps, the name Evian resonates with prestige in the bottled water market. Sourced from protected springs in the heart of the French Alps, Evian combines a soft taste with a unique mineral balance. The natural filtration process contributes to its impressive mineral content and naturally occurring electrolytes.

Besides, the company's commitment to sustainability includes reductions in plastic usage, with an ambitious goal for all bottles to be 100% recycled by 2025. Drinking Evian is akin to traveling to the Alps, in essence, offering you a sip from the heart of nature, in its purest form.

12. Fiji

Fiji is synonymous with exotic charm and pristine nature, and Fiji Water is no different. Nestled in the remote Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu, Fiji Water emerges as an artesian water drawing from an active ancient artesian aquifer. The water filters naturally through volcanic rock, gathering electrolytes and minerals along the way, which bestow its iconic soft, smooth taste. Distinguished by its signature square design and a lovely hibiscus flower on the label, Fiji Water delivers not only great taste but also incredible aesthetics. If you've ever needed a taste of tropical paradise, Fiji Water is the answer to your quest.

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13. Ice Mountain

Aside from being a well-regarded brand, Ice Mountain makes a strong case for regional sourcing. Originating from springs across the Midwest, Ice Mountain satiates your thirst with a fresh and fulfilling taste that only local sourcing could procure.

Its lightweight, easy-to-handle packaging combined with its invigorating taste makes Ice Mountain an excellent everyday hydration companion. Whichever way you look at it, there's something undeniably comforting about drinking water sourced right from your home ground, combined with the assurance of the Ice Mountain brand.

14. Ozarka

Texas pride runs deep, and Ozarka, with its Texas roots, upholds this wonderfully. Drawing its water from three Texas springs, Ozarka offers a unique and naturally occurring blend of minerals that gives it a distinctly crisp and refreshing taste. This homegrown brand embraces its Texas heritage down to its packaging, with its clear red top and Texas star, mirroring the local pride. Ozarka is more than just bottled water. It's a little piece of Texas tradition, brought to life in every bottle.

15. phURE Alkaline Water

Gone are the days when water was just water. In the health-obsessed world of today, phURE Alkaline Water leads the pack with its high pH level, proving that water can be both refreshing and health-enhancing. At an optimal pH of 9.5, phURE raises the bar on water quality, offering a hydrating experience that is meant to keep you running at your best. If optimal health is a priority for you, phURE Alkaline Water's mineral-enhanced, juniper-infused, and refreshing solution might be your best pick. It's more than water; it's a step towards better health.

16. Core Hydration

Core sets itself apart with the scientific formulation behind its water. This brand not only gives you hydration, but it also does so while maintaining your body's natural pH balance of 7.4. Core water is ultra-purified and balanced with electrolytes and minerals to work in harmony with your body's natural pH of 7.4. This perfect pH, coupled with the brand’s innovative and recyclable packaging, makes Core Hydration the go-to choice for health-conscious consumers. Essentially, Core Hydration isn't just hydrating; it's about benefiting your body in a way that few other brands can offer.

17. Bai

Let's be honest, sometimes plain water can be a bit…well, plain. If you ever crave a hint of flavor without compromising on the healthy aspect of water, Bai might be the brand for you. Bai offers a line of antioxidant-infused water flavors with exotic fruit names such as Costa Rica Clementine, Brasilia Blueberry, and Molokai Coconut.

Each bottle is filled with exhilarating flavors, yet contains only 5 calories and 1 gram of sugar. Bai’s approach is a departure from traditional water that delivers a flavorful, beneficial boost of antioxidants. When you need to liven up your hydration, there's something obviously unique about Bai.

18. Hint

Hint is like the understated cousin of Bai. Rather than capturing a full-blown fruit flavor, Hint water infuses a mere suggestion, or 'hint', of natural fruit flavor, with no sugars, sweeteners, or calories. With an impressive variety including flavors like watermelon, blackberry, and peach, the brand successfully breaks the monotony of plain water without making you feel guilty about indulging in a flavored beverage. Their take on water is straightforward - pure water, with a hint of natural flavor. Drink guilt-free, interesting water the Hint way.

19. Glaceau SmartWater

As well as being a smart choice for hydration, Glaceau Smartwater showcases innovation by integrating the basics of natural hydration with modern scientific knowledge. Glaceau's distilled water process gives it an incredibly pure base, which is then enriched with just the right amount of electrolytes for a clean, crisp taste. Not only is SmartWater committed to delivering superior hydration, but also pioneering “smart” and sustainable practices for packaging. So, Glaceau is offering not just smart water, but also a smarter choice for the environmentally conscious consumer.

20. Just Water

Founded by Jaden Smith, Just Water aims to fulfill your hydration needs in the most ethically and environmentally sound way possible. The brand uses 100% spring water, but what sets it apart from the rest is its significant contribution to the environment. Just Water's eco-friendly packaging consists mainly of renewable resources like paper and plant-based plastic.

Plus, the water is sourced from a watershed in New York, contributing to the local community. So, opting for Just Water is not only a hydration choice but also a lifestyle choice that leans towards sustainability and community commitment.

21. LifeWtr

If water could be chic, LifeWtr would certainly qualify. Beyond its purified water enhanced with electrolytes, LifeWtr aims to inspire with its unique, artist-created labels. Every bottle doubles up as a canvas, sporting vibrant, dynamic artworks from upcoming global artists. LifeWtr, thus, not only quenches your thirst but also offers you an aesthetically pleasing bottle that converts hydration into an immersive experience. It's art-meets-life in the realest sense. LifeWtr is where hydration meets inspiration.

22. Waiākea

For those who favor a touch of the tropical and the exotic, Waiākea offers a genuinely unique prospect. Sourced from the peaks of the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii, Waiākea water carries the essence of its volcanic origin. A natural filtration through porous volcanic rock lends this water a distinctive mineral profile and a high pH, making it naturally alkaline. The water is rich in electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are beneficial for your body. Plus, its smooth, sweet taste further sets it apart. With every sip of Waiākea, you're transported to the Hawaiian paradise and its refreshing tropical vibes.

23. Dasani

A household name globally, Dasani has resonated with the common masses and provided reliable, consistent hydration across continents. Dasani's purified water undergoes a distinct mineral-addition process to bring consistency in taste and satisfy your thirst. The standard Dasani bottle might be the most common sight, but the brand has branched out, offering flavored waters, sparkling water, and even its own line of water dispensers. When it comes to Dasani, you're choosing a brand that promises familiarity, trust, and variety all in a bottle.

24. Aquafina

Another giant in the bottled water world, Aquafina keeps it uncomplicated, focusing on delivering pure water with a distinct and reliable taste. The brand prides itself on its rigorous, multi-step filtration process known as HydRO-7. This intensive purification process carefully removes impurities and ensures you're savoring water in its most untainted form. With its global presence and unwavering commitment to purity, Aquafina is a trusted choice for those valuing reliable consistency.

25. Deer Park

In a world where exotic water sources are becoming increasingly popular, Deer Park celebrates its all-American, genuine 100% natural spring water. The brand is proud about its regional sourcing, taking water from carefully selected springs across the country and offering a refreshing taste that's as real as its source. The balanced, full-bodied taste of Deer Park water is a reminder that when it comes to water, sometimes the best option is simply keeping it natural and real.

What Makes Some Bottled Water Brands Stand Out?

When it comes to determining which bottled water brands are truly a "cut above," several elements come into play. It's not just about quenching your thirst, but also considering several criteria that distinctively mark those bottles filling the shelves.

Purification Process

One of the key aspects that set some brands apart from the rest is the purification process. Some companies, like Penta, have invested in complex filtration and purification systems to remove harmful impurities, while others, like Glaceau SmartWater, use distillation—a process boiling the water to remove contaminants and then condensing the steam back into liquid form.

Source of Water

The source of the water, whether it's a mountain spring or an artesian well, can make a massive difference in the taste and overall quality of the water. For instance, Fiji Water is sourced from an underground aquifer in the remote Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu.

Mineral Content and pH Balance

The distinct taste of the bottled water often comes from its mineral content. Higher mineral content could result in a taste that's crisp and refreshing. For instance, Evian has a naturally balanced mineral content resulting from being sourced from the French Alps. On the other hand, phURE Alkaline Water stands out with an optimal pH level, serving to benefit people who want to balance their body's acidity.

Packaging

The packaging of bottled water, both in terms of aesthetics and sustainability, can make a brand stand out in the crowd. Just Water is a great example, they've prioritized renewable resources making their packaging almost entirely from plant-based material.

Added Enhancements

This could range from additional flavorings like in Bai, which have antioxidant-infused, fruity flavored versions of their water, to electrolyte enhancements in brands like Glaceau SmartWater and Core Hydration, which aim to replenish your body post-workout.

Remember, at the end of the day, the best bottled water is one that caters to your needs, be it in taste, source, or added enhancements. Rest assured, there’s a perfect fit out there for everyone!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Navigating through the diverse array of bottled water brands may initially seem like an overwhelming task. However, understanding the uniqueness of each brand and what each one brings to the table can simplify the process considerably. The best bottled water for you ultimately is a matter of personal preference, balancing taste, source, pH level, packaging, and even philosophical alignment with a brand's ethical commitments.

Whether you're satiating post-workout thirst with Essentia, enjoying the craft packaging of Just Water, or opting for the classic appeal of Poland Spring, the perfect bottled water is out there waiting for you. So here's to quenching your thirst with quality and purpose - getting the hydration you need while enjoying every drop.