Is tap water in Thailand safe to consume?

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.

How clean is Bangkok’s tap water and where does it come from?

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 boiling tap water in Thailand enough?

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 brush your teeth with tap water 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 at the airport, in hotels, and on islands

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.

Does Thailand add fluoride or chlorine to tap water?

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 you get a water filter for extra 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.

FAQs about tap water in Thailand