Should You Drink 2 Days Old Water Left in Your Car?

Studies say that hydrogen compounds leach from the plastic and into bottled water when one leaves it inside the vehicle over 24 hours. Research outlines many general risks to health, from hormonal disruption to increased risks for cancers.

Water is essential for life and health, and bottled water is a reasonable response to hydrating on the go. Very often, bottled water can be dangerous when left in a car for long periods due to soaring temperatures and the leaching of toxins from the plastic.

How High Heat Impact on Bottled Water

High temperatures also may allow certain chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, to leach into bottled water. The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) research noted that bottled water stored at 158° F (70° C ) for four weeks had increased levels of these chemicals,

The University of Texas at Tyler conducted a separate study suggesting that bottled water poses minimal risk when left in a hot car for a day or two. Pet bottled water kept for days to weeks in areas of high temperatures may pose a far larger risk of chemical contamination.

Health Risks Associated

Certain chemicals can leach out of plastic bottles and interfere with normal regulation of the endocrine system. Long-term effects may, thus, include gastrointestinal symptoms, respiratory hazards, developmental problems, and an increased risk for cancer.

What Should Be Done

For safe drinking water:

• Discard water that has been in your vehicle in high heat for more than 24 hours.
• Use only BPA-free or stainless-steel bottles to lessen chemical exposure.
• Do not store bottled water in the vehicle for extended periods.
• Drink fresh water by refilling bottles regularly.
• While bottled water offers convenience, the wrong storage conditions.
• Keep bottled water in cool areas out of direct sunlight.