What Makes Spring Water Different from Purified Water?

When choosing bottled water, you've likely noticed labels like "spring water" and "purified water" on the shelf. While both are safe to drink, they're fundamentally different in source, processing, and mineral content. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice for your hydration needs.

The Source: Where Does the Water Come From?

Spring water comes from a natural underground source where water flows to the surface on its own. By definition, spring water must be collected at the spring or through a borehole that taps the underground formation feeding the spring. The water naturally filters through layers of rock and soil, picking up beneficial minerals along the way.

Purified water can come from any source—municipal tap water, wells, or even springs—but undergoes extensive processing to remove virtually all minerals, contaminants, and impurities. Common purification methods include reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization.

Processing and Treatment

Spring water is minimally processed to maintain its natural mineral composition. While it may be filtered and treated to meet safety standards, the goal is to preserve the water's original characteristics and taste profile.

Purified water goes through rigorous filtration and treatment processes that strip away nearly everything, including beneficial minerals. The result is exceptionally pure H₂O, but without the natural mineral content found in spring water.

Mineral Content and Taste

One of the most significant differences is mineral content. Spring water naturally contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica—minerals that contribute to both taste and potential health benefits. These minerals give spring water its characteristic, often slightly sweet or crisp taste.

Purified water has minimal to no mineral content, resulting in a very neutral, clean taste. Some brands add minerals back after purification for taste, but this is different from naturally occurring minerals.

Health Considerations

Both spring and purified water are safe and healthy choices for hydration. Spring water offers the advantage of naturally occurring minerals that support various bodily functions. These trace minerals are easily absorbed and can contribute to your daily mineral intake.

Purified water is an excellent choice for those who prefer water without any additives or who live in areas where tap water quality is a concern. It's also preferred in certain medical or laboratory settings where mineral-free water is required.

Environmental Impact

The environmental footprint depends more on packaging than water type. However, spring water sourced responsibly from protected aquifers can be more sustainable than heavily processed purified water, which requires significant energy for treatment.

At Little Hampton Spring Water, we source our water from pristine natural springs and package it in recyclable glass bottles and aluminum cans, minimizing environmental impact while delivering the pure taste of Australian spring water.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between spring and purified water comes down to personal preference and priorities:

• Choose spring water if you value natural mineral content, prefer a more distinctive taste, and want water as nature intended
• Choose purified water if you prefer a completely neutral taste or have specific dietary requirements that call for mineral-free water

Both options keep you hydrated, but spring water offers the added benefit of naturally occurring minerals and a taste that reflects its unique source.

The Little Hampton Difference

Our spring water is sourced from protected Australian springs, naturally filtered through ancient rock formations, and bottled at the source to preserve its purity and mineral balance. Every sip delivers the crisp, clean taste of premium spring water in sustainable packaging.

Ready to experience the difference? Explore our range of spring water products and taste nature's perfect hydration.