At a glance
- Safe water storage means the water has been treated and is safe to use, and it is stored in a container that protects the water from recontamination.
- There are different ways to make your water safe.
![Three 20 liter (5 gallon) jerry cans](/global-water-sanitation-hygiene/media/images/2024/04/jerry-cans-1200px.jpg)
Overview
Making water safe
There are different ways to make your water safe. The best option for your household or community depends on existing water and sanitation conditions; water quality; ability to install water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities; access to water supply; availability of technology; and other local conditions.
Choosing a safe water storage container
Safe storage containers prevent contamination of safe water while the water is being transported and stored.
When storing safe water, it is best to use a container that:
- Is made of durable plastic, ceramic, or metal
- Has a single small (5–8 cm) opening that has a cover or can be closed tightly
- Has a narrow neck or opening so water can be poured out without hands or objects entering the container
- Can hold a standard volume of water (20 liters) and has a comfortable handle for easy carrying
Keep in mind
Cleaning and sanitizing a water storage container before use
Water storage containers should be cleaned on a regular basis.
Before storing safe water or treating water in a water storage container, use these steps to clean and sanitize the container:
- Wash the container with soap and water and rinse completely with water
- Sanitize the container with a solution made by mixing
- 5 mL (1 tsp) of unscented chlorine bleach in 1 liter of water or
- 19 mL (4 tsp) of unscented chlorine bleach in 1 gallon of water
- NOTE: Use bleach that contains 5%–9% sodium hypochlorite
- Cover the container tightly and shake it well. Make sure the bleach solution touches all inside surfaces of the container.
- Wait at least 30 seconds and then pour the bleach solution out of the container
- Let the empty sanitized container air-dry for storage or rinse the empty container with safe water (water that has been treated) before use
- Pour safe water or water that will be treated into the sanitized container and cover with a tight lid
- Treat water if it hasn't already been treated.
- Label container as "drinking water" and include treatment date
Storing water containers safely
- Keep stored water in a place with a cool temperature
- Try not to store water containers in direct sunlight
- Do not store water containers in areas where toxic substances, such as gasoline or pesticides, are present