Water is a fundamental need for human life with numerous functions and benefits. However, have you ever heard of soft water and hard water? Both are types of water, so what sets them apart? Let’s dive into a detailed explanation.
What Is Soft Water
Soft water is a type of water that contains very few dissolved minerals. An example of soft water is rainwater, which comes directly from the sky and has varying mineral content depending on the surfaces, it flows over before reaching the ground. Areas rich in rocks like slate and granite, which do not easily dissolve in water, tend to have soft water.
What Is Hard Water
The hardness of water is measured based on its mineral content, such as magnesium and calcium. Hard water is a type of water with a high concentration of these minerals. Many people prefer hard water due to its perceived health benefits.
The simplest way to determine whether the water in your home is soft or hard is by using soap. Soft water produces more lather compared to hard water. However, long-term use of hard water can clog pipes, reduce water pressure, and damage almost any appliance that comes into contact with it.
If this issue occurs in your home, it can still be resolved by using water filtration systems such as Reverse Osmosis to remove most minerals or distillation to eliminate all minerals.
Characteristics of Hard Tap Water Tap water is one example of hard water used for daily needs. This differs from industrial or chemical hard water, as here it refers to water with high magnesium and calcium content.
When you bathe or wash your face with hard tap water, it can negatively affect your hair and skin. Here are some easy ways to determine if your tap water is hard:
Slippery feel on your skin or hair after bathing, caused by soap or shampoo residue left behind.
Soap lather disappears quickly when rubbed on the skin.
White deposits due to scale buildup on faucets and showerheads.
To maintain healthy skin and prevent the adverse effects of hard water, it’s essential to keep your skin moisturized and use a hair mask once a week to prevent hair damage.
If you want to learn more about the quality of your home’s water, we invite you to test your water at our laboratory. This way, you can determine whether your water is soft or hard and take the necessary steps to protect the health of you and your family. Visit our laboratory for accurate water analysis and solutions tailored to your needs.
