When the summer heat is at it's peak, it's important to stay hydrated. With aisles and aisles of bottled water to choose from, it can be hard to differentiate between the offerings. Below is a short list of common bottled water varieties and the features that make them each unique. When it comes to bottled water, know what you're paying for and stay hydrated and healthy year round!

Spring Water - Spring water must be collected from natural underground water formations (aquifers) in the ground that flow naturally to the surface.

Each spring provides a unique mix of minerals that create a specific flavor profile.

Artesian Water - Artesian water is collected from a natural underground water source, but is tapped via a well or borehole. The sources tend to be small and each has its own unique mineral content and flavor. Due to their limited supply, artesian waters generally carry a higher price tag. Artesian water may or may not be treated and treatment methods are generally listed on the label.

Mineral Water - Mineral water is collected from natural water formations in the ground, but do not need to come from water sources that flow naturally to the surface. Mineral water is often collected via a manmade borehole and must contain at least 250 parts per million of total dissolved solids (naturally occurring salts and minerals). The unique mineral profile of each brand of mineral water provides a one of a kind flavor profile. Some mineral waters may be naturally carbonated due to dissolved gasses in the water.

Distilled Water - The distillation process involves boiling water to create steam and then recondensing the steam into the final product.

Because salts, minerals, and other particles can not be transformed into steam along with the water, they are left behind and only a pure form of water remains. The lack of dissolved solids in distilled water creates a very neutral flavor. Distillation is also an extremely effective method of removing microbes.

Purified Water - Purified water may come from any source, including municipal water. This water has been treated to remove particles, microbes, and chemicals. By regulation, purified water must contain no more than 10 parts per million of dissolved solids. A variety of purification methods may be used and are the specific method is often listed on the product label.

Drinking Water - Drinking water may be collected from any source, including municipal water and is intended for human consumption. This water is typically disinfected and may include additives such as fluoride. Purification methods may include (but are not limited to) chlorine, chloramine, ozone, or ultraviolet light.