When looking at the worst bottled water brands, consumers often consider poor taste, sourcing (i.e., glorified municipal tap water), heavy environmental impacts, and tests showing contaminants like microplastics or heavy metals.
Bottom line: for daily use go with Fiji or Evian, for purity choose Essentia, and for taste and minerals go with Mountain Valley. These are the worst waters we tested in 2026. First on our list is Topo Chico scoring 38 out of 100 due to it having the highest levels of forever chemicals or PFAS of any bottled water.
The top 5 bottled waters include:
12 Healthy Bottled Water Brands
The "worst" bottled waters generally fall into two categories: those criticized for environmental and sourcing practices (glorified tap water) and those that have tested positive for contaminants, including microplastics, arsenic, and PFAS.
Depending on your criteria, the "#1" water varies: Evian is frequently ranked as the top premium/cleanest bottled water, Fiji is the top pick for taste, and Aquafina is the highest-selling by volume. Generally, natural spring waters are considered the healthiest options.
Based on 2024–2025 market sales data, Nestlé Pure Life is frequently ranked as the #1 water brand by sales volume in the U.S.. Other top-selling, ubiquitous brands often cited in sales rankings include Aquafina and Dasani.
Cardiologists warn against drinking from plastic bottled water primarily due to microplastics, nanoplastics, and chemical additives. These contaminants are shed from the bottles themselves and can directly impact your cardiovascular health.
Hawaii consistently ranks as the U.S. state with the cleanest overall tap water, largely due to its protected underground aquifers. Other states frequently topping national quality lists include Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, and Massachusetts.
To avoid microplastics, skip plastic bottles entirely. Choose water packaged in glass or infinitely refillable aluminum, as these materials do not shed microplastic particles into the water.
The Best Bottled Water Brands, Ranked
The top three reusable water bottle brands currently dominating the market for durability, design, and insulation are Owala, Stanley, and Hydro Flask.
There is no single state with universally the "worst" tap water, as quality varies by utility. However, based on high contaminant counts, EPA violations, and population exposure, Texas and New Jersey consistently rank at the bottom.
Top-rated bottled water brands vary based on mineral composition, pH levels, and overall taste. Based on leading taste tests and market data, the top options include Icelandic Glacial, Evian, and Fiji for premium still water, alongside popular everyday choices like Crystal Geyser.
Water that is unsafe to drink includes untreated natural water (which may contain bacteria or parasites), water contaminated with heavy metals or chemicals, and highly distilled water (which lacks necessary minerals for long-term health).
When it comes to the most universally disliked bottled water in the U.S., Dasani (owned by Coca-Cola) takes the top spot in online consensus and taste tests. Consumers widely criticize it for its salty, metallic aftertaste and its status as glorified, purified tap water.
The "healthiest" water depends on your personal nutritional goals—such as needing more electrolytes or a naturally alkaline pH. The top five natural and mineral-rich brands frequently recommended by experts and dietitians include:
Aquafina is generally considered safe, purified drinking water, though whether it is "good" largely depends on personal preference. It is made from public tap water that undergoes a rigorous multi-step purification process, including reverse osmosis.
Boiling is the most effective way to kill waterborne parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (or 3 minutes if you are above 6,500 feet).
The #1 worst drinks for your heart are sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), such as regular sodas, sweetened fruit juices, sports drinks, and energy drinks. Cardiologists and medical bodies consistently rank these highest in danger due to their ability to drive up inflammation, blood pressure, triglycerides, and heart disease risk factors.
Bottled Water Can be Contaminated
Most bottled water is likely safe. However, the bottled water industry does not have a perfect track record. An article from CBS.com states there have been more than 100 recalls of bottled water. The article lists common water contaminants like algae, types of bacteria, and chlorine.
When your heart isn't pumping efficiently, it often sends subtle, "quiet" warning signals long before a major health crisis occurs.
1. Nestle Pure Life
The Owala FreeSip and the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth are widely considered the most popular reusable water bottles right now. Both feature excellent vacuum insulation to keep drinks cold all day, but they cater to slightly different drinking preferences.
When choosing bottled water, prioritize the water source, the treatment method, and the mineral content (TDS). Reading the label helps you find a product that aligns with your hydration needs, taste preferences, and environmental values, while avoiding unwanted additives.