Can you drink tap water in Milan? Yes, it’s safe, but…

Send this to your travel buddies!

Milan is the second most populated city in Italy and a very important industrial hub. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most polluted cities in Europe, with the air quality index being often on the moderate to poor side.

That’s why you may be wondering if you can drink tap water in Milan.

Well, let me shed some light on this topic for you.

Is the water in Milan drinkable?

The short answer is yes, tap water in Milan is safe to drink. And this is why.

First of all, tap water in Milan doesn’t come from rivers or lakes but from deep underground aquifers, or underground natural water reserves.

As a result, it is already partially drinkable when extracted.

This is because rocks and clay layers shield it from the environment, so it is not contaminated by any chemicals or other pollutants in the surrounding air or soil.

This makes it much safer than water from water bodies on the surface.

You can drink tap water because it undergoes a rigorous treatment process.

First of all, since the water comes from underground sources, it’s pure and almost ready to drink, to begin with.

However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t regulations governing how it’s monitored and distributed.

Before being put into the water supply, it is purified and treated with a minimal amount of chlorine (which poses no threat to humans).

Moreover, the municipality has a sophisticated system in place that samples and tests water in multiple locations.

The quality of the water is constantly monitored and certified to make sure it’s safe to drink.

Tap water here is so safe it’s even bottled!

“The Mayor’s water”, Milan’s bottled tap water. Picture: comune di Milano

With the intention of convincing visitors and locals alike that Milan’s tap water is perfectly safe to drink, the municipality started an interesting project.

Earlier this year, they announced that they have started distributing tap water that has been “boxed” in environmentally friendly paper boxes.

The boxed water is currently being distributed at public schools cafeterias, public offices, and events.

Moreover, it’s also a way to reduce the use of plastic bottles and the pollution that comes with them. It’s a win-win.

Can you drink water from fountains in Milan?

One of the 668 green dragon fountains in Milan. Photo: Riccardo Parretti

Absolutely yes, and we encourage you to do so. And it’s so easy too.

There are 668 fountains in Milan, called “green dragons” because of their shape and typical green color. They’re really everywhere, so we recommend skipping the plastic bottles and simply bringing your own bottle with you.

You’ll be doing yourself a favor by saving money, while also helping out the environment. Fewer empty plastic bottles will end up in landfills which means less waste ending up in our oceans.

So what’s the catch?

Now that we have reassured you that tap water is totally safe to drink, let’s talk about the bad news.

You maybe have already noticed it, and SO many people complain about it.

Milan’s water, coming from underground, is very rich in minerals. In other words, it’s very hard.

And hard water has a terrible effect on your hair!

Photo by Scandinavian Biolabs

And hard water has a terrible effect on your hair!

While these minerals are not dangerous to humans, they can have an ugly side effect on your hair.

If you’re not used to it, hard water can make your hair feel dry, frizzy, and difficult to manage.

It can also leave deposits on your scalp that can lead to irritation.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the effects of hard water on your hair.

One option is to use a clarifying shampoo or a chelating shampoo at least once a week.

Clarifying and chelating shampoos work by removing build-up from your hair and scalp, which can help to restore moisture and improve the overall condition of your hair.

However, they can be drying and damaging.

Another option is to use a water filter on your shower head. A shower filter will remove the minerals from your water, making it softer and easier on your hair.

If you’re for an extended stay or you have just moved here, you might consider purchasing a water filter.

While you’re here, why don’t you also read: Is Milan Safe? Tips For Visitors And Solo Travelers

Featured photo by Jacek Dylag

Send this to your travel buddies!
Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like