For 99% of parents, just boil tap water for one minute, let it cool to room temperature (test on your wrist!), and use that. It’s cheap, easy, and your baby’s kidneys will thank you. The only exception is if your tap water is known to have lead, nitrates, or high bacteria—then use distilled water temporarily, but add a pinch of mineral supplement later (talk to your pediatrician, not Dr. Google).
Also, please don’t use “alkaline water,” “spring water” with added electrolytes, or any of those fancy bougie waters. Babies don’t need trends; they need simple, safe hydration. Save the sparkling water for your wine glass (just kidding, but you deserve it).
In the end, the choice matters less than the consistency—use the same water type every time, keep bottles sterile, and laugh at the panic you felt at 3 AM. Because seriously, your baby will be fine whether or not you use distilled water. They’ll just let you know if they’re not with a lot of screaming and poop explosions.
Now go night-night. You’ve got this.
