Best Ways to Store Water Long-Term?

[PrepperLinda65]

Looking to refresh my long-term water storage setup. What containers and treatments do folks here recommend for keeping water potable for a year or more? Curious if anyone's had success with DIY filters or specific additives, too.

 

[BlueSkyWanderer]

Food-grade barrels (HDPE) with tight sealing lids have worked best for me, especially if you can store them out of direct sunlight. I add unscented household bleach—about 1/4 teaspoon per gallon—just to be safe. Have also tried homemade sand and charcoal filters, but honestly, I trust boiling more for extra peace of mind. Anyone ever tried those “water preserver” chemical drops? Curious if they really make a difference for year-long storage.

 

[TeaTimeTalisman]

Looking to refresh my long-term water storage setup. What containers and treatments do folks here recommend for keeping water potable for a year or more?

Interesting discussion. I'll need to think about this some more.

 

[AquaFern1028]

Rotating water every six months has worked for me, even with proper containers and a touch of bleach. I’ve tried those “water preserver” drops, but honestly didn’t notice much difference over basic bleach—though maybe they help with taste? Keeping everything sealed tight and in a dark, cool spot makes a bigger impact than any additive, in my experience. Anyone here actually had water go “off” using HDPE barrels and simple treatment? Curious about real-world failures.