Chlorine has been added to tap water for more than a century. Municipal water utilities use it to kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms that could make people sick. The process works well, but it also leaves behind a strong odor and taste that many people dislike. Some households even report dry skin or irritation from prolonged exposure.
While chlorine helps protect public health, you may still prefer to reduce or remove it from your drinking water. Fortunately, there are several safe, effective, and affordable ways to dechlorinate tap water—ranging from simple kitchen techniques to advanced filtration systems.
Key Takeaways
- Chlorine is added to tap water to keep it safe from microbes.
- Regulated chlorine levels are safe, but many people remove it for taste, odor, or sensitivity reasons.
- Methods include boiling, letting water sit, carbon filters, vitamin C, and reverse osmosis.
- Look for NSF/ANSI certified filters for proven performance.
- The healthiest water is safe, contaminant-free, and encourages you to drink enough every day.
Why Chlorine Is in Tap Water
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all public water systems to disinfect drinking water. Chlorine is one of the most common disinfectants used because it’s inexpensive, widely available, and effective at controlling waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
However, chlorine doesn’t vanish when it leaves the treatment plant. It travels through pipes and comes out of your faucet with its trademark “swimming pool” smell. In some U.S. cities, water utilities use chloramine—a mixture of chlorine and ammonia—because it lasts longer in distribution systems. Chloramine is harder to remove than chlorine.
Is Chlorinated Water Safe?
Yes—within regulated limits. The EPA sets a maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) of 4 milligrams per liter (mg/L) for chlorine in drinking water. At or below this level, it is considered safe for human health.
Still, some people choose to remove chlorine or chloramine because of:
- Taste and odor – water may taste “chemical” or smell unpleasant.
- Skin and hair irritation – especially for those with eczema or sensitive skin.
- Household needs – aquariums, plants, and brewing (beer, tea, coffee) are sensitive to chlorine.
- Concerns about byproducts – chlorine can react with organic matter to form disinfection byproducts (DBPs) like trihalomethanes (THMs). These are regulated, but some prefer extra caution.
Simple Ways to Remove Chlorine from Tap Water
Boiling Water
Boiling for about 15–20 minutes removes chlorine effectively, since heat accelerates its evaporation. However, boiling does not work as well for chloramine.
Letting Water Sit
If you leave tap water uncovered for 24–48 hours, chlorine will naturally dissipate into the air. This method is free and chemical-free, but it requires time and space.
Activated Carbon Filters
Pitcher filters (like Brita or PUR), faucet-mounted filters, and under-sink systems use activated carbon to trap and neutralize chlorine. Many are NSF/ANSI 42 certified for chlorine reduction. They are inexpensive and convenient for everyday drinking water.
Vitamin C Treatment
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) quickly neutralizes both chlorine and chloramine. It’s commonly used in shower filters and aquarium water treatment. Some households even use vitamin C tablets to treat large volumes of water for plants.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
A reverse osmosis (RO) filter forces water through a semipermeable membrane, removing chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, and other contaminants. RO systems are highly effective but more expensive and require regular maintenance.
Choosing a Water Filter
If you want a long-term solution, look for products that carry NSF/ANSI certifications:
- NSF/ANSI 42 → reduces chlorine, taste, and odor.
- NSF/ANSI 53 → targets health-related contaminants such as lead and VOCs.
- NSF/ANSI 58 → applies to reverse osmosis systems.
Some advanced filters, like catalytic carbon under-sink systems, are designed to remove chloramine, which is harder to treat than chlorine.
Example: A system such as the Waterdrop TSB-CM Under Sink Water Filter System uses catalytic carbon and a three-stage process to reduce chloramine. But similar certified options from brands like Aquasana, APEC, and Culligan are also available.
DIY vs. Professional Filtration: Costs & Maintenance
You can remove chlorine with simple methods or advanced filters. Here’s how they compare:
| Method | Cost | Effectiveness | Maintenance | Works on Chloramine? |
| Boiling | Free | Removes chlorine only | None | ❌ |
| Letting water sit (24–48h) | Free | Removes chlorine slowly | Needs time and space | ❌ |
| Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | $5–$10 | Works fast, removes chlorine & chloramine | Needs re-dosing | ✅ |
| Pitcher or faucet carbon filters | $20–$60 | Reduces chlorine taste/odor | Replace every 2–3 months | ❌ (most) |
| Under-sink catalytic carbon | $100–$250 | Very effective on chlorine & chloramine | Change every 6–12 months | ✅ |
| Reverse osmosis system | $200–$600 | Removes chlorine, chloramine, metals, and more | Filter & membrane changes | ✅ |
DIY options are cheap and easy but best for chlorine only. Professional systems give stronger, steady results, especially if your city uses chloramine.
Global Standards for Chlorine in Drinking Water
Countries set limits to keep water safe:
- United States (EPA): Max 4 mg/L.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Up to 5 mg/L.
- European Union (EU): Around 0.1–0.5 mg/L.
- Canada: Max 4 mg/L, same as the U.S.
These levels are safe for health. But many people still filter their water for better taste and comfort.
The Healthiest Water to Drink
At the end of the day, “healthy” water is water that is safe, clean, and pleasant to drink. Staying hydrated matters more than obsessing over every trace of chlorine. For most households, an activated carbon filter or a basic under-sink system provides great-tasting, safe water for daily use. If you want maximum purification, a reverse osmosis system or certified chloramine filter may be worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does boiling remove chloramine too?
A: No. Boiling only works on chlorine. Chloramine needs filters or vitamin C.
Q: Can bottled water have chlorine?
A: Yes. If it comes from city water, it may still have traces unless filtered.
Q: Is it safe to bathe in chlorinated water?
A: For most people, yes. But sensitive skin or eczema may benefit from a shower filter.
Q: Do all cities use chlorine?
A: Almost all do. Some also use chloramine. Check your city’s Consumer Confidence Report to know for sure.
Q: What’s the fastest way to make water safe for pets or plants?
A: Vitamin C drops or tablets. They work instantly and are safe for aquariums too.
