What is the best water to use for baby formula? The difference between soft and hard water and how to choose.
What kind of water should I choose for baby formula?
Many people probably wonder what kind of water they should use when making baby formula.
Especially when living abroad, the differences in water types and components can be confusing.
Since the water used for baby formula is something you use every day, you want to choose it with peace of mind.
What is the difference between soft water and hard water?
Water is broadly divided into "soft water" and "hard water."
The difference lies in the amount of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.
・Soft water: Low in minerals, with a gentle taste.
・Hard water: High in minerals, with a robust taste.
Japanese water is mainly soft water and is known as easy-to-drink water for daily consumption.
Why soft water is chosen for making formula
Since babies' digestive systems are still developing, it is considered important to be mindful of the water's composition.
In general, soft water, which is low in minerals, is often chosen for its:
・Minimal impact on formula ingredients
・Unchanging taste
・Gentle mouthfeel
These are some of the characteristics that lead to its selection.
Precautions in other countries (Thailand)
In other countries, including Thailand, a lot of water with high mineral content (hard water) is widely available.
Therefore, if you choose water with the same感覚 as in Japan, you may notice differences such as:
・A change in the taste of the formula
・Difficulty drinking it
When choosing water, it's reassuring to check the following points:
・Hardness (mineral content)
・Ease of drinking
・Reliability of quality control
Characteristics of Onsensui 99
Amidst these conditions, "ultra-soft water" is attracting attention.
Onsensui 99 is natural water sourced from deep underground in Tarumizu Onsen, Kagoshima Prefecture, and is ultra-soft water with an extremely low hardness of 1.7.
Additionally, despite being alkaline with a pH of 9.9, it is characterized by a mellow and easy-to-drink taste.
Therefore, it is chosen not only for daily hydration but also as water that is easy to use for making formula.
*Please use at your discretion for specific purposes.
Tips for daily life
Because making baby formula is an everyday task, it's important to have an environment that allows you to continue it without stress.
For example,
・Choosing water that is easy to drink
・Choosing water of reliable quality
・Choosing something that is easy to use daily
These efforts lead to peace of mind.
Summary
When choosing water for baby formula, it is important to select based on "gentleness" and "peace of mind."
Soft water, in particular, is chosen by many for its ease of drinking and usability.
Choosing water that you can use with confidence in your daily life may lead to a more comfortable parenting experience.
■ Related articles
・What water should you choose for your baby? A guide to choosing safe water
・What is water hardness? The difference between soft and hard water
・Comparison of mineral waters available in Thailand
