Should I Make Coffee with Distilled Water?

For many of us, coffee is everything. It’s helps us feel normal on a Monday morning. It’s what turns that frown upside down. Coffee is a way of life — period. All it takes is a click of a button and you can transform good ol’ water into a glorious elixir. The best part is that water is a simple ingredient that requires little thought… right? Well, not really. The type of water can make all the difference. And with so many options out there, you might have wondered, “Should I make coffee with distilled water?” After all, it’s often pegged as the “purest” kind of H2O. Does it really matter, though? Technically, yes. Think about it: coffee is mostly water. Over 98.75 percent, in fact. Water is accountable for bringing out the coffee’s best flavors. Talk about a major responsibility.

This is exactly why it’s so crucial to question the use of distilled water. Water that has been distilled has gone through a purification process that drags out contaminants that may be present. It also strips the water of magnesium and calcium, two essential minerals. As a result, distilled water is recommended for small appliances like steam irons, hot water urns, and the beloved coffee maker. The idea is that there is a lower chance for mineral buildup that can eventually cause damage.

The game changes when it comes to human consumption, though. The World Health Organization (WHO) shares that consuming distilled water prevents intake of magnesium, calcium, and other essential elements. WHO also states that distilled water boasts a poor taste compared to water from the tap.

Unfortunately, this doesn’t change when it comes to coffee. Using distilled water is the best way to get a mediocre, bitter cup of joe — no matter how good your coffee maker is. It’s quite simple, really; a lame cup of water yields a lame cup of coffee. The quality will only be as good as the water you use.

The final verdict? If you care more about the longevity of your coffee maker, feel free to use distilled water. Your morning fuel won’t be great, but it will get the job done. However, if you’re all about stellar coffee, always skip the distilled water. Instead, make coffee with cold tap water. Your taste buds will thank you.