When a storm or a broken main stops the water, the water you have stored becomes the most important thing in the house. Ready.gov suggests storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and basic hygiene.
Boiling is the most reliable method
If the water is cloudy, let it settle and pour the clear water off, or filter it through a clean cloth or coffee filter first. Then bring it to a rolling boil for one minute. If you live above 6,500 feet, boil it for three minutes. Let it cool on its own and store it in clean containers with tight lids.
When you cannot boil, use unscented bleach
Plain, unscented household bleach can disinfect water when there is no way to boil it. Check the label for the strength. For one gallon of clear water, add 8 drops of bleach that is 6% sodium hypochlorite, or 6 drops if it is 8.25%. Stir it and let it stand for 30 minutes before drinking. The water should have a slight chlorine smell. Never use scented, color-safe or "splash-less" bleach.
What boiling and bleach do not fix
Neither method removes chemicals, fuel or heavy metals. If you think the water was polluted by chemicals or floodwater from a road or a factory, find another source.
Sources: CDC and Ready.gov water guidance. This is general reference information, not a substitute for professional medical care or emergency services.
