When visiting a new destination, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is whether it’s safe to drink tap water. As a visitor to Amsterdam or other parts of The Netherlands, you may be curious about the quality and safety of the tap water here. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the topic and provide you with all the information you need.
1. Can You Drink Tap Water In Amsterdam or Netherlands?
Yes, the tap water in Amsterdam is safe to drink. The water companies in the country adhere to the strict regulations set by the Dutch Drinking Water Act and the European Union’s Drinking Water Directive. This means that the tap water undergoes rigorous testing and treatment processes to ensure its safety.
The Netherlands has high-quality tap water. The water is sourced from both groundwater and surface water, which undergoes advanced treatment processes to remove impurities and ensure its safety for consumption.
2. The Dutch Water Network:
The responsibility for managing the water network in the Netherlands falls under the capable hands of Waternet. This company oversees the entire water cycle, ensuring the provision of safe, clean, and ample water supply for both human consumption and the preservation of natural areas.
3. Natural Water Purification:
One of the remarkable features of the Dutch water supply is the natural purification process it undergoes. This process takes place in the picturesque dunes situated between Noordwijk and Zandvoort. Water from the Rhine River is pre-treated and channeled into these dunes. The sand in the dunes acts as a natural filter, purifying the water as it percolates through.
What’s noteworthy is that the dunes used for this filtration process are designated as protected areas. Strict regulations are in place to prevent pollution and safeguard the purity of groundwater. You can easily spot a groundwater protection area by the blue signs adorned with white waves and the inscription ‘grondwaterbeschermingsgebied’.
Aside from its role in water purification, the Zandvoort dunes also offer a delightful natural experience for visitors. Here, you can enjoy a beautiful beach, hiking trails, and a shopping center, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike.
4. Water Quality and Hardness:
Amsterdam’s tap water is renowned for being soft, with relatively low levels of calcium and magnesium. The average water hardness in Amsterdam is approximately 7.8 dH (degrees of hardness). To put this into perspective, water hardness is categorized as follows:
- 0 – 4 dH, 0 – 70 ppm: Very soft
- 4 – 8 dH, 70 – 140 ppm: Soft
- 8 – 12 dH, 140 – 210 ppm: Medium hard
- 12 – 18 dH, 210 – 320 ppm: Fairly hard
- 18 – 30 dH, 320 – 530 ppm: Hard
Amsterdam’s water falls comfortably within the “soft” category, making it ideal for drinking and everyday use.
5. Access to Free Drinking Water:
In Amsterdam, access to clean drinking water is incredibly convenient. The city boasts over 500 public taps offering free drinking water, available 24 hours a day. So, whether you’re exploring the scenic Vondelpark, strolling through the Museum Quarter, or wandering the city streets, you’ll always find a source of refreshing water nearby.
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7. Conclusions
In summary, drinking tap water in Amsterdam and the Netherlands is not only safe but also encouraged. The natural purification process, and readily available public taps all contribute to the exceptional quality of tap water in this beautiful country. So, during your visit, feel free to quench your thirst and stay hydrated with confidence in the Netherlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Drink tap water in hotels, apartments, airports, bathrooms, and such?
Yes! All water sources in hotels, apartments, shopping malls, Airports, and similar establishments are connected to the water system managed by Waternet. You can trust the tap water in these places just as you would water from public sources. While drinking water from water fountains it is also recommended to look for a small sign if it says it is drinkable.
can you drink bathroom tap water amsterdam
Yes, you can drink tap water from the bathroom tap in Amsterdam. The tap water in Amsterdam, whether from the kitchen or bathroom, goes through the same stringent purification and quality control processes. It adheres to high safety standards and is considered safe for consumption. Feel free to use the bathroom tap for drinking water without any concerns about its quality.
