Can you drink tap water in Indonesia? Well, you might be depressed to hear that you should not drink tap water in places like Bali and all over Indonesia.
The water can get dirty from agricultural runoff, building work, sewage, and floods. Even the pipes that carry the water to your tap might be old or broken, so even clean water can get contaminated on its way to you.
I’ve been to Indonesia and looked into this myself, and I always carry a water bottle with me. I’m ready to share what I’ve learned about this important question.
Let’s get into it.
Can You Really Drink Tap Water in Indonesia?
Believe it or not, the tap water in Indonesia is not clean enough to drink. Yes you heard it right, You can’t drink tap water in Indonesia. Whether it’s Bali or Jakarta, the problem is pretty much the same all around Indonesia.
Why is it like this? There are a few reasons for that.
First, the water picks up all sorts of nasty stuff from agricultural runoff (chemicals from farms). Since Indonesia is a newly industrialized country, so there’s pollution from construction sites which messes up the water quality.
Although the water does get cleaned up at treatment plants, But in some places the pipes might be old, rusty, or broken which means that even water that starts clean can end up dirty by the time it reaches you.
I’ve seen this situation firsthand during my visits to Indonesia. No matter where I went, carrying a water bottle was a must. It’s not just about being cautious; it’s about staying healthy.
How Clean Is the Water in Indonesia?
When we talk about water cleanliness in Indonesia, the situation is more complicated than a simple yes or no answer. As mentioned earlier, several factors contribute to making tap water in Indonesia less than ideal for drinking.
Firstly, agricultural activities across the country use a lot of chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers. When it rains, these chemicals can wash into the water sources, a process known as agricultural runoff.
Indonesia is a rapidly developing country, and with construction comes a lot of dust and debris, which can also find its way into the water supply. Sewage and flooding are other critical concerns. Not all areas have robust sewage treatment facilities, and during floods, contaminated water can mix with the supply meant for drinking.
The journey of water from its source to your tap is no less challenging. Even if the water is treated and cleaned at a purification plant, it has to travel through pipes to reach homes.
Many of these pipes are old or not well-maintained. They can break, allowing dirt and pollutants to seep in and contaminate the water again before it even reaches your tap.
I can tell you that relying on tap water directly from the faucet for drinking is not advisable. It’s not just about the visible cleanliness but understanding the journey water takes and the multiple points where it can get contaminated.
So, while Indonesia offers stunning landscapes and incredible cultural experiences when it comes to drinking water, it’s wise to stick to bottled water or ensure it’s been filtered properly before consumption.
Can You Drink Bathroom Tap Water in Indonesia?
The short answer? It’s best not to. The reasons why tap water in general isn’t safe to drink in Indonesia also apply to water from the bathroom tap. But let’s dive a bit deeper into this.
You might think that water in the bathroom tap comes from a different source or goes through a different process than the water in the kitchen. However, in most cases, all tap water in a house or hotel in Indonesia comes from the same source.
That means the bathroom tap water faces the same issues with agricultural runoff, construction debris, sewage contamination, and the risk of old, leaky pipes.
Given these challenges, drinking water straight from the bathroom tap isn’t a good idea. The risks are the same, if not higher, because bathrooms are typically more exposed to germs and bacteria, adding another layer of potential water contamination.
During my time in Indonesia, I always made sure to use bottled or filtered water for drinking, no matter the tap. It’s a simple precaution that can save you a lot of trouble health-wise.
Whether you’re brushing your teeth, washing your face, or just thirsty in the middle of the night, reaching for a bottle of water you trust is the way to go.
How Much Is for a Water Bottle in Indonesia?
Bottled water in Indonesia is the safest choice for drinking. The price can vary depending on the different brands. Usually, it’s between 2,000 to 15,000 Indonesian Rupiah for one bottle.
That’s like 14 cents to a bit over one dollar. You’ll find it cheaper in local stores or supermarkets. In places with lots of tourists or fancy hotels, the price goes up.
If you’re staying in Indonesia for a bit or want to save some money, buying big bottles of water works out cheaper. Also, many hotels or places to stay have water dispensers. You can refill your bottle there for little to no cost.
I would like to add some additional tips as well. Always carry a reusable water bottle. It saves money and helps the environment. When buying bottled water, make sure it’s sealed properly to avoid drinking bad water.
Choosing well-known brands is also a good idea because you can be more sure of the water quality. If you’re going to remote areas, think about bringing a portable water filter. This way, you can make sure any water you find is safe to drink.
Final Thoughts on Tap Water in Indonesia
So, what’s the deal with drinking tap water in Indonesia? It’s pretty clear now that you should not drink tap water in Indonesia. Places like Bali or anywhere else in Indonesia have water issues because of pollution and old pipes.
I’ve talked about why it’s smart to stick with bottled water here and how buying bigger bottles or using refill stations can save money and help the environment. Bringing your bottle? Always a good idea. And make sure the bottled water you buy hasn’t been opened before.
Indonesia is a fantastic place with so much to see and do. Knowing how to stay safe with your water drinking means you can focus on enjoying your adventure. Safe travels!
FAQs Related to Can You Drink Tap Water in Indonesia
Should I Brush My Teeth With Tap Water in Indonesia?
It’s better to be cautious and use bottled or filtered water for brushing your teeth. Even if the tap water looks clean, it might have contaminants from the issues we talked about earlier.
Can I Wash My Face With Tap Water in Indonesia?
Yes, washing your face with tap water is generally okay. Just try not to swallow any water by mistake. For those with sensitive skin, using filtered or bottled water might be a safer choice to avoid any irritation.
Do Locals Drink Tap Water In Indonesia?
Some locals do drink tap water, but many boil it first or use a water purifier at home. It’s common for households to also rely on bottled water for drinking.
Are There Water Dispensers in Indonesia?
When you’re at reputable restaurants and hotels, the ice is usually made from filtered water, so it’s safe. However, if you’re unsure about the place, it’s best to skip the ice.
Should I Use a Filtered Water Bottle in Indonesia?
Yes, you’ll find water dispensers in many public places, hotels, and even some restaurants. These are great for refilling your water bottle and staying hydrated without extra cost.
Should I Use a Filtered Water Bottle in Indonesia?
Using a filtered water bottle is a smart choice. It gives you the freedom to refill from any tap while the filter takes care of contaminants, making it safe to drink.
