What Is Still Water? Everything You Need to Know

When you walk into a shop or browse a drinks menu at a restaurant in the UK, you’ll often be asked: “Still or sparkling?” But what exactly is still water? Is there a difference in quality or health benefits between still and sparkling water? And why does still water get so much attention in hydration and health discussions?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about still water—from its definition to its health benefits, environmental impact, and common misconceptions. Whether you’re looking for a better way to stay hydrated, exploring water choices for your family, or simply curious about what’s in your glass, this guide is for you.

Still water is water that is free from carbonation—meaning it has no bubbles or added carbon dioxide gas. Unlike sparkling water, which fizzes due to the carbonation process, still water is calm, flat, and typically what you’d pour from a tap or buy in a plastic or glass bottle marked as “still.”

In the UK, still water is what you’re most likely to be served if you ask for a glass of water with your meal—unless you specifically request sparkling.

Still water can come from various sources, including:

• Tap water: The most common and accessible form in the UK.
• Natural spring water: Bottled at source, often praised for its mineral content.
• Filtered water: Tap water that’s been passed through a water filtration system .
• Distilled or purified water: Water that has undergone a more intensive filtration process to remove impurities.

The label on a bottle of water in a UK shop will usually tell you the source, so you can decide what suits your preferences and values.

The short answer: yes—still water is incredibly good for your body. Hydration plays a vital role in almost every function, from digestion and temperature regulation to brain performance and skin health.

Let’s explore some of the biggest health benefits.

Unlike fizzy drinks or sparkling water, still water is gentler on your stomach. This is particularly helpful for people prone to bloating, indigestion, or acid reflux.

Still water helps:

• Keep digestion smooth
• Avoid gas buildup
• Prevent discomfort during exercise

Drinking enough water—especially still water—can do wonders for your complexion. Because it’s free from sugar and carbonation, still water supports:

• Better skin hydration
• Fewer breakouts
• A natural, healthy glow

Your brain is about 75% water, so staying hydrated directly affects your focus and energy levels. Many studies have shown that even mild dehydration can lead to poor concentration and fatigue.

Having a bottle of still water at your desk can keep you sharp throughout the day—whether you’re at work, studying, or just getting things done around the house.

The NHS recommends around 6 to 8 glasses of fluid per day, and still water is one of the healthiest ways to reach that target. No added sugars, no calories, no nasties—just pure hydration.

This is one of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to hydration. Let’s break it down.

So, while both hydrate you well, still water is generally the more versatile choice—especially for everyday use and sensitive stomachs.

The UK water market offers a wide range of still water options. Let’s look at a few:

• Readily available in every household
• Treated and monitored under strict regulations
• Highly affordable (basically free)

• Sourced from underground springs
• Naturally filtered through rocks
• May contain beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium

• Tap water passed through home filtration systems (e.g., Brita filters)
• Removes chlorine, heavy metals, and impurities
• Improves taste for many people

• Processed to remove all minerals and impurities
• Commonly used in medical settings or for specific dietary needs
• Tastes very “flat” to most people

Bottled water has often come under scrutiny for its environmental footprint—especially when it comes to single-use plastic bottles.

• Plastic pollution: Millions of bottles are not recycled each year in the UK.
• Carbon footprint: Transporting bottled water increases emissions.
• Water source depletion: Over-harvesting natural springs can damage ecosystems.

• Choose reusable bottles
• Purify tap water at home
• Support brands that use sustainable packaging (like glass or recycled plastic)

If you’re looking for a hydrating, zero-calorie, easy-to-digest drink, still water is hard to beat. It’s a staple for health-conscious people across the UK, and whether it comes from the tap, a filter, or a bottle, it’s an essential part of a balanced lifestyle.

So the next time someone asks, “Still or sparkling?”—you’ll know exactly what you’re saying yes to.

It can be—but not always. Still water can also refer to bottled spring water or filtered water with no carbonation.

Both are hydrating, but still water is usually gentler on the digestive system and more versatile.

UK tap water may contain added fluoride for dental health, depending on your region. Bottled still water typically does not unless stated on the label.