Is tap water in Thailand safe to consume?

[CharlieH]

 

Wondering if you can drink the tap water in Thailand? From brushing your teeth to filling up a bottle, it’s helpful to understand a few basics. Tap water safety in Thailand varies by location, and while some people use it without issue, others avoid it completely. Here’s a guide on what’s safe, what’s not.

Bangkok's tap water cleanness

The journey of Bangkok’s tap water starts with the Chao Phraya River and other sources. The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority (MWA) treats it according to WHO guidelines, so technically, it leaves the plant clean and safe. But the real issue can be in the journey from the plant to your tap. Pipes in some areas, especially older neighbourhoods, can be a bit risky.

 

For instance, a recent incident in Bangkok’s Lat Phrao district highlighted the risks of older pipes and contamination. In this case, water in a condo’s tank got polluted with bacteria and chemicals, leaving residents at risk. Cases like this are a reminder of why many locals and expats rely on bottled or filtered water instead of drinking straight from the tap.

 

Is it okay to drink the tap water in Thailand after boiling?

Boiling tap water in Thailand can reduce some risks, as it kills bacteria and other pathogens. But if the water contains heavy metals, chemicals, or other toxins (which sometimes sneak in through old pipes), boiling won’t remove these contaminants. As a safe option, many locals and expats use water filters for extra protection or rely on bottled water.

Can you use tap water for brushing teeth in Thailand?

Yes, you can brush your teeth with tap water in Thailand, and many people do it. The amount of water you swallow while brushing is small, so it’s unlikely to cause health issues. The MWA does treat the water to be generally safe for non-drinking purposes. Just avoid swallowing it, and use bottled or filtered water if you want to be extra careful.

 

 

Drinking tap water in other places of Thailand

When you’re at Bangkok’s main airports, Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang, you’ll find drinking water stations with filtered water, which are safe to use. Many people refill bottles here without issue. However, outside the airport, it’s safest to stick with bottled water. Most hotels in Thailand provide complimentary bottled water for guests, and while you can use tap water for brushing or boiling, it’s best to avoid drinking it straight from the tap.

 

In more touristy areas like Phuket or Pattaya, the story’s the same: it is generally safe for things like brushing teeth, but not recommended for drinking unless filtered. On islands like Koh Samui, where water often has to travel farther and faces storage challenges, it’s especially wise to avoid drinking straight from the tap.

 

Are there fluoride or chlorine in tap water of Thailand?

Thailand’s tap water usually contains chlorine to kill bacteria, which is why you might notice a slight chlorine taste. For most people, this isn’t harmful in small amounts and is safe for brushing or showering. However, if you’re particularly sensitive, a filter that reduces chlorine might help.

 

 

Fluoride, on the other hand, isn’t commonly added to Thai water. If you’re concerned about your dental health, especially for long-term expats, consider fluoridated toothpaste or other fluoride sources.

Should I use water filter for more safety?

Many locals and expats prefer using a water filter to be on the safe side, especially if they’re regularly using tap water for cooking or filling up bottles. Filters come in different types, from simple carbon filters to more advanced systems like reverse osmosis, which removes a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, heavy metals, and microplastics. If you’re planning to stay in Thailand long-term, a filter could be a good investment to reduce both cost and plastic waste from bottled water.

The general rule of thumb is to avoid drinking tap water directly in Thailand unless you’ve taken steps to ensure its safety, like boiling or filtering. Bottled water remains the safest choice and is widely available and affordable. Whether you’re in Bangkok, Phuket, or Koh Samui, knowing the ins and outs of water safety can help you stay healthy while enjoying all Thailand has to offer.

Questions asked about tap water in Thailand

 

Is tap water safe to drink in Phuket?

Similar to Bangkok, while Phuket's tap water meets treatment standards, many locals and tourists choose bottled or filtered options due to concerns about infrastructure and potential contamination.

 

Can you drink tap water in Pattaya?

Tap water in Pattaya is also treated but may not be considered safe for drinking without boiling or filtering first; bottled or filtered water is recommended instead.

 

Can you drink hotel tap water Thailand?

The safety of hotel tap water varies by establishment; some hotels may have their own filtration systems. It's advisable to check with hotel staff regarding the safety of their tap water.

 

 

 

 

 

[3NUMBAS]

micro plastics are the   threat now  all is polluted with micro plastics 

[3NUMBAS]

Boil tap water to eliminate micro Plastics

[novacova]

The water in our tambon in cm is pretty clean, it tastes no different than when it goes through the filter. Though the wife will not drink, cook or wash vegetables with the filtered tap water due to superstition I suppose, so in addition we have bottled water delivered weekly. Though the tambon water up at her house in Lampang is pretty hard and shower filters are a must.

[billd766]

Here in rural Kamphaeng Phet the government water is dirty, even after being filtered at source.

 

I have 20 ongs cross connected and most of the bigger dirt sinks to the bottom of them. Between the ongs and the pump I have 2 x 5 micron filters. I replace the first one after 3 to 4 weeks as it gets blocked up by dirt bigger than 5 microns and the 2nd filter is replaced wvwry couple of months,

 

Would we drink that water? Not a chance.

 

It is not too bad for cooking, showers and the toilet, but not for anything else. But you can still see the dirt stains in the toilet and on the shower floor, no matter how many times it get scrubbed.

[impulse]

1 hour ago, 3NUMBAS said:

Boil tap water to eliminate micro Plastics

 

Boiling water doesn't remove micro plastics (or most chemicals, it's in the OP).  That requires a filter.

 

 

[NativeBob]

Ok. The water at reservoirs in Bangkok are very clean and yes, drinkable. But the pipes and so-called "last mile pipe" are often old and [well] filthy. 

Filtering through triple passive filter will not do any good. 

UV treatment is pure BS

Boiling - as a part of overall treatment process is OK, but you have to boil is for some time.

RO is the only solution as long as you can monitor membrane's usage. 

 

We use triple filter and RO device. 

Edited 9 hours ago by NativeBob