Can You Drink Tap Water in Mallorca: Water Guide
Is it safe to drink tap water in Mallorca? Should you drink bottled water instead? Read our in-depth guide to tap water in Mallorca to find out!
The largest of Spain’s Balearic islands, Mallorca is known for its year-round mild climate, stunning landscapes, and warm Mallorquin hospitality.
Honestly, there are very few things not to love about Mallorca!
That being said, the safety of drinking tap water in Mallorca is a concern many share. (Spoiler alert: Mallorca’s tap water is safe to drink on most of the island.)
Maybe you’ve been sick from food or drink while abroad. Or, you want to reduce plastic waste. Saving money on bottled water in Mallorca is an important factor.
You’re not alone, either. Even locals have doubts about whether the tap water is drinkable or not.
In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know about drinking water in Mallorca—from safety and environmental concerns to the best water filter bottles and more—from someone who lived in Spain (me)!
Can You Drink Tap Water in Mallorca?
So, is the water in Mallorca safe to drink?
The answer is, yes! Mallorca’s tap water is safe to drink on most of the island.
Nevertheless, there are some parts of the island where it is not safe to drink tap water. We’ll dive into those in a later section.
The tap water in Mallorca tends to have a bad reputation amongst locals, but the main water company The Balearic Water Agency (Agéncia Balear Agua i Qualitat Ambiental or ABAQUA) has made some real strides in recent years after its establishment in 2005.
In fact, in 2022, 78 out of 79 of ABAQUA’s treatment plants in all of the Balearic Islands complied with the strictest health requirements established by Spanish Royal Decree and the EU Clean Drinking Water Act.
ABAQUA boasts state-of-the-art water treatment facilities and is committed to scientific advancement, the provision of safe drinking water for all residents, adequate purification of urban wastewater to guarantee the preservation of aquatic ecosystems, and a sustainable future.
They also make their annual water quality reports available to the public. In fact, Illes Balears is the only the only autonomous community that regularly publishes this data according to Secretary General Juan Calvo. The public may also request information on water quality now that a 2023 transparency law has taken effect.
It’s important to note that there are some facilities not run by ABAQUA. Accordingly, these will have their own stats around water quality.
To sum up, Mallorca tap water is safe to drink in most big cities and major tourist areas. Grab a reusable water bottle, and take a refreshing sip!
How Does Mallorca Get its Drinking Water?
With around 1 million people living on the island year-round (2021 Census) and influx of tourists each summer, Mallorca needs a reliable water filtration and supply system.
Mallorca gets its water from desalination plants, underground aquifers and well systems, and rain-fed reservoirs. However, it only rains on average 53 days a year for a total of 411 liters per year (Source: ABAQUA)!
Thus, the opening of Mallorca’s desalination plants in Palma, Alcudia, and Andratx allows for water supply year-round. They are most active in the summer due to dry conditions and tourism. At that point, they typically reach 100% of their capacity.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to take water-saving measures, especially during this time of year.
Why Does Mallorca Tap Water Taste Bad?
Even though it’s mostly safe to drink, most Mallorcans and frequent visitors will tell you you’re crazy if you drink it. Some insist it’s unsafe, while others just say it taste like salty, garden-hose water.
As a matter of fact, only 34% of the citizens of Palma consume tap water on a regular basis. This includes people who drink directly from the tap or with water filters. (Source: EMAYA)
But, why does water from Mallorca faucets taste so bad?
Much of the groundwater is stored in aquifers with limestone, which causes the water to have a high mineral content. The minerals in question here are calcium and magnesium, to name a few, the first of which can cause a build-up of limescale.
The good news is calcium and magnesium, which characterize the hardness of water, are essential for health. There are even several medical studies that indicate a protective role of calcium and magnesium against certain cardiovascular diseases.
What’s more, the limescale (that hard white substance left behind in your kettle) is harmless to the human body.
These minerals can also be good for the prevention of kidney stones. Regardless, there’s a widespread belief in Mallorca that tap water can give you kidney stones!
On the other hand, some of the water supply is desalinated. While the process typically removes the salty flavor, some claim they can still taste it.
To sum up, the reason why the water in Mallorca tastes so terrible is because of the combination of mineral rich tap water, high levels of chlorine used to sanitize it, and desalination. (According to the WHO, chlorine is not detrimental to health.)
If you are adverse to the taste of water in Mallorca, a water filter bottle is a great option. Like a Brita pitcher, it removes impurities and helps improve taste.
Where You Cannot Drink The Tap Water in Mallorca
Although tap water is safe to drink in most of Mallorca, some residents are advised not to use tap water for drinking or cooking. Domestic tasks such as cleaning or bathing are still considered safe, however.
Specifically, tap water in Santanyí, Santa Margalida, Costitx, Sineu, parts of Felanitx, Manacor, Ariany, Sencelles, Sineu, and Vilafranca is not safe to drink.
In general, the water in these areas sees excess nitrates or other potentially harmful contaminants. Nitrites are particularly harmful to children and are carcinogenic. A pilot program has been launched in Manacor to combate the excessive nitrites, but it’s estimated to take about 10 years to resolve the issue.
An overabundance of chlorides, due to the overexploitation of the wells, is also a factor for a few municipalities.
In some locations, public water sources have been installed for people to collect free, healthy, and clean drinking water. It’s also common to subscribe to a bottled water delivery service or to install a filtration system.
As of July 2023, the water in Campos was also declared unfit for consumption after the concentration of certain parameters were above the acceptable limit. Water should be filtered or boiled before drinking or cooking with it.
What About Bottled Water in Mallorca?
For many Mallorca residents (and tourists) drinking bottled water is a no-brainer.
You can easily purchase bottled water at supermarkets, kiosks, and restaurants in Mallorca. It will be cheapest at he grocery store, around $0.75 for a 1.5 L bottle.
Bottled water is safe to drink as it’s held to strict manufacturing standards. However, there’s always the concern over excessive plastic waste from single-use plastics. Microplastics, are also a potential negative.
If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of plastic from used water bottles (but still prefer bottled water), there are a few things you can do.
First, choose a local brand to minimize the carbon footprint. Lanjarón is a popular and tasty brand of water from the nearby Sierra Nevada.
Second, buy larger bottles. If you’re staying somewhere like an apartment rental where you have access to cups or glasses, refill from the larger bottle.
Lastly, if you’re local to Mallorca or staying for an extended period, consider getting a water delivery service like Font Oasis. A dispenser and the delivery of 5 gallon (18.9 L) bottles is relatively inexpensive.
Best Water Filter Bottles for Mallorca
While water filter bottles aren’t necessary for travel in Mallorca’s big cities, they’re a good investment if you’re planning a trip off the beaten path.
Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle
The Brita water filter bottle focuses more on taste than some of its competitors. It features a replaceable filter that reduces chlorine taste, odors, and contaminants. It’s also a sleek bottle, perfect for travel or everyday use.
This filter bottle is good for travelers who want to reduce single-use plastics and drink refreshing-tasting water. It’s particularly good for travelers to use with Mallorca’s tap water to enhance the taste.
LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle
The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is an excellent investment. It will purify your drinking water from tap water, streams, or river! It removes bacteria, parasites, chemicals (including chlorine), and microplastics. The filters also last for up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) for long-lasting protection and money saving!
If you like to camp or visit developing countries—or want to be extra safe when traveling around Mallorca—LifeStraw is a good choice.
GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle
The GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle is a convenient solution for purifying water on the go. With a simple press, the bottle removes bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and particulates from untreated water sources. Its innovative design also gives crisp-tasting water in just 15 seconds.
GRAYL is a good choice to clean Mallorca water quickly and make it taste better.
Water Filters in Mallorca
If you live in Mallorca, you may want to consider installing a filter on your water faucets.
These will purify your water from contaminants, save you money in the long run, and are convenient. Plus, it’s better for the planet to buy single-use plastic bottles each week.
These filters are designed to eliminate unwanted tastes, odors—such as chlorine—and contaminants like pollen, heavy metals, nitrates, chlorine, fluorine, chemical pesticides, microplastics, bacteria, and viruses.
DEIAX AQUOS, ELEMENTO 4, and easyAgua specialize in providing water filters in Mallorca.
Is it Safe to Drink the Water in These Locations?
Can You Drink Tap Water in Palma?
Yes, Palma de Mallorca’s tap water is drinkable. the Municipal Water and Sewerage Company of Palma (EMAYA) guarantees the safety of the water in all parts of Palma. If you do not like the taste of Palma’s water, consider filtering it with a self-filtering water bottle.
Palma has also installed 47 filtered drinking water fountains to provide clean drinking water and prevent the use of single-use plastics. In 2022 alone, the fountains have provided citizens and travelers over 396,00 gallons (1.5 million L) of water!
Don’t forget to bring a water bottle with you to Palma!
Can You Drink the Water in Menorca?
Yes, Menorca tap water is generally safe to drink. However, many residents have the perception that the water is bad or just doesn’t taste good. Locals will recommend you purchase bottled water for drinking, and only use tap water for cooking and cleaning.
Can You Drink the Water in Ibiza?
Yes, the tap water in Ibiza is safe to drink according to the Spanish Ministry of Health. Since it’s high in salt and calcium levels, locals may prefer to drink bottled water or use water filters.
Is Tap Water in Formentera Safe to Drink?
Tap water in Formentera is considered safe to drink. It met all the requirements for safe distribution during 2016-2022 according to ABAQUA. Because of the taste, many locals use it to cook but not to drink.
Can You Drink Water in the Balearic Islands?
In general, yes, you can drink tap water in the Balearic Islands including Mallorca and Menorca. 78 of ABAQUA’s 79 water treatment facilities on the Illes Balears met the standards set by Spanish and EU authorities in 2022. However, there are some smaller and more rural locations where it’s not safe to drink the water.
Can You Drink Tap Water in Mallorca: Cala d’Or?
While water in multiple parts of Santanyí is not safe to drink, Cala d’Or’s water is safe for consumption according to the Spanish Ministry of Health.
Tap Water Mallora: Water Saving Tips
Due to low rainfall in the hot, dry summers, the Balearic Islands experience natural water shortages with periodic droughts.
Here’s what you can do to reduce your water usage as a guest in Mallorca (Stats in this section are from ABAQUA):
Don’t Let the Water Run
The average person uses 75% less water taking a shower instead of a bath. Choose to take a shower, and turn of the tap when not using the water. To explain, wet your entire body, then turn off the tap when lathering your shampoo and body. Turn the water on to rise. Likewise, don’t let the water run when brushing teeth, shaving, or lathering your hands with soap.
Reuse Towels & Clothing
Washing machines typically use 3 gallons (12 L) of water for every 2.2 lbs (1kg) of laundry. Try re-using your towels, sheets, and clothing for multiple days before washing, if possible.
Use the Dual-Flush Buttons on the Toilet
On average, one person can use 11 gallons (42 L) of water a day by flushing the toilet. In Spain, you’ll often find water-saving dual-flush buttons on the top of the toilet. Use the smaller button when you need just a little water. Use the larger button when you need a fuller flush.
Is Tap Water in Mallorca Safe to Drink: FAQ’s
Still have questions about Mallorca tap water? Let’s go over from frequently asked questions.
Is it safe to have ice in drinks in Mallorca?
Seeing as tap water in Mallorca is generally, safe to drink, it’s okay to have ice in Mallorca. At hotels and tourist establishments in particular, they will likely make ice with filtered water or purchase it in ready-made bags.
Can you brush your teeth with Mallorca water?
Yes, you can safely brush your teeth with tap water in most parts of Mallorca. The tap water is generally treated and meets safety standards for consumption. However, if you’re staying in one of the locations where it’s not safe to drink the water, you might prefer to use bottled, boiled, or filtered water for brushing your teeth during your stay.
Can you drink hotel water Mallorca?
Yes, tap water in hotels in Mallorca is generally safe to drink. If you have concerns about the taste or quality of tap water in a particular hotel, inquire at the hotel’s reception desk. Nevertheless, some travelers prefer bottled water for drinking. But for tasks like brushing your teeth, showering, or boiling water for tea, they feel more comfortable. In any case, tap water in Spanish hotels is considered safe.
Can I drink the water in Mallorca from water fountains?
Yes, you can generally drink water form the water fountains in Mallorca unless they are marked as unpotable. Palma, in particular, has recently installed public drinking water fountains. They have ones with a spout and others that allow you to refill a bottle. If you feel uncertain, it’s a good idea to use a personal water bottle with a filter.
Is water free in Mallorca restaurants?
Yes, you can get free tap water in Mallorca’s restaurants if you ask. While some restaurants in Mallorca already served tap water upon request, it’s commonplace to buy a bottle of water instead. However, a Spanish law passed in April 2022 requires all eating and drinking establishments to provide free tap water to guests.
What if I want sparkling water in Mallorca?
You can purchase sparkling water at the grocery store or restaurants without any problems in Mallorca. However, if you’re living in Mallorca and want to reduce costs and waste, you could consider using a SodaStream to carbonate your water.
Can I Use Tap Water for Cooking in Mallorca?
Typically, yes. You can cook with water in Mallorca as it has a total sanitary guarantee. However, in some areas, it’s advisable to boil or filter the water prior to cooking.
Was the Brita pitcher invented in Mallorca?
Brita was invented by Germann Heinz Hankammer in the 1960’s. While there’s no mention of Mallorca on the Brita website, there’s a local legend that the founder was inspired to invent the now-famous pitcher after water from Mallorcan tap left his tea tasting not so nice! Whether it’s true or not, Spain was the first market in which the pitcher was introduced (along with France).
Will drinking water in Mallorca give you a stomachache?
While most people will feel fine drinking Mallorcan tap water, some people may feel a little tummy upset due to the water’s different constitution. Usually, this subsides after a few days. If you’re worried, use a filter or buy bottled water.
Last Words: Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Mallorca?
In conclusion, tap water safety in Mallorca is generally okay to drink though there are a few places in which you should exercise caution.
If you’re heading to mainland Spain, rest assured the tap water is safe to drink.
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