When visiting or living in Germany, one of the first things you might wonder is, „Is tap water safe to drink?“
The good news is, Germany’s tap water is safe— in fact, it’s some of the highest quality in the world.
Whether you’re in a bustling city like Frankfurt, Berlin, or Munich, or in a quiet, rural village like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you can trust what flows from the tap.
As Natives, we’ve been drinking it our entire lives without a second thought. Bottled water? We rarely buy it. Instead, we prefer to fill our reusable bottles straight from the tap, confident in both its safety and taste.
In this guide, we’ll explore why Germany’s tap water is so reliable, answer common questions, and share tips for those curious about water quality in Germany.
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Is Tap Water in Germany Safe to Drink?
Yes, the tap water in Germany is safe to drink. It meets all of the strict standards set by the German Drinking Water Ordinance (Trinkwasserverordnung), ensuring high quality and safety across the country.
Germany’s water quality is no joke—it’s backed by some of the most stringent regulations worldwide. The German Drinking Water Ordinance is a comprehensive set of rules that ensures that German tap water is drinkable. This law covers everything from chemical contaminants to bacterial safety, and the water is constantly monitored to ensure it meets these high standards.
Do Locals Drink the Tap Water in Germany?
Yes, locals in Germany drink the tap water. It’s not only trusted for its high quality and safety, but it’s also much less expensive than buying bottled water. Most people fill reusable bottles directly from the tap.
Water Quality in Germany: What you should know
The “Trinkwasserverordnung”, Germany’s Drinking Water Ordinance, plays a crucial role in maintaining the high quality of tap water across the country.
However, this regulation only ensures water quality up to the property line. Beyond that point, the responsibility for water quality shifts to the landlord or homeowner.
While lead was once a concern in older plumbing systems, it is no longer permitted for use in water pipes in Germany.
Are there Contaminants in Germany’s Tap Water?
Germany’s tap water is generally safe, but like any water supply, it can contain certain contaminants like bacteria in rare cases.
In such instances, local authorities might issue a boiling advisory (in German = Abkochgebot) to ensure safety, and waterworks may temporarily chlorinate the water to disinfect it. As a result, you might notice a slight chlorine taste in the water for a few days, but this is a temporary measure to ensure the water remains safe to drink.
While these occurrences are uncommon, they highlight the importance of regular water monitoring and the high standards maintained across Germany to ensure the water remains safe for consumption.
Can You Drink Bathroom Tap Water in Germany?
Yes, you can drink bathroom tap water in Germany. Generally speaking, there’s no significant difference between the water that comes out of the bathroom tap and the kitchen tap. Both are sourced from the same supply and undergo the same rigorous treatment and testing to ensure they meet Germany’s high safety standards.
One safety tip is to let the water run for a few seconds before filling your glass, particularly if the tap hasn’t been used for a while. This can help flush out any stagnant water that’s been sitting in the pipes. It’s also a good idea to check with your landlord or hotel reception if you’re concerned, especially in older buildings.They can provide peace of mind, if necessary.
There’s a common misconception that bathroom tap water is somehow less safe than kitchen tap water, but in Germany, this isn’t the case. Drinking bathroom tap water is perfectly safe.
Is German Tap Water Hard or Soft?
The hardness of tap water in Germany varies depending on the region.
Water hardness is determined by the amount of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, present in the water. This hardness is measured in degrees of German hardness, or °dH (Grad deutscher Härte).
In some parts of Germany, particularly in southern and eastern regions, the water is considered „hard“ because it has a higher mineral content. Conversely, in areas like the northern and western regions, the water tends to be „softer“.
Water hardness can have a noticeable impact on daily life. For example, hard water can leave mineral deposits, known as limescale, on appliances like kettles, coffee makers, and washing machines. Over time, this buildup can reduce the efficiency of these appliances and even shorten their lifespan. You might also notice that soaps and shampoos don’t lather as well in hard water, and it can sometimes leave your skin feeling dry or your hair less soft after washing.
If you live in a region with hard water, there are a few steps you can take to manage it. One common solution is to use a water filter installed directly into your home’s plumbing system or attached to your water unit for specific appliances. Additionally, regularly descaling appliances can help prevent limescale buildup and keep them running smoothly.
The Alternative to Tap Water in Germany: Bottled Water or a Water Bottle with Filter
If you’re just unsure or it feels weird to you to drink tap water, then you can go with bottled water. In Germany, carbonated (sparkling) water is very common.
If you’re not a fan of carbonated water, make sure to look for “still” water, which is non-carbonated. Mineral water is usually labeled with „classic“ or simply „Mineralwasser,“ indicating that it’s carbonated.
Bottled water is convenient, and it comes in various options to suit your taste—whether you prefer sparkling, mineral-rich, or still. However, it can be more expensive over time, and the environmental impact of plastic bottles is significant. Additionally, you should be aware of Germany’s deposit system (in German = Pfandsystem) when buying bottled water in plastic. You’ll pay an extra of maximum 25 cents on top of the price, which you can get back by returning the bottles at any supermarket that sells beverages. This system encourages recycling.
