What Does pH 8 Drinking Water Mean?

You will often see drinking water described by its pH. This short guide explains what the number means and why water ionizers let you choose it.

The pH scale in brief

pH runs from 0 to 14. Seven is neutral, numbers below 7 are acidic and numbers above 7 are alkaline. Each step is ten times stronger than the one before it.

What pH 8 water is

Water at pH 8 is mildly alkaline. It is close to the top of the range that drinking-water guidelines usually suggest, which is why it is a common starting level for new ionizer users.

Choosing your level

• pH 8 to 8.5: a gentle starting point for daily drinking.
• pH 9 to 9.5: popular for drinking and cooking once you are used to the taste.
• pH 7: neutral, for taking medicines and for infants.

A note on claims

The pH of drinking water does not change the pH of your blood, which the body keeps in a narrow range by itself. pH is about taste and preference, not about treating or preventing illness.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Alkaline or hydrogen water is not a treatment for any disease. If you have a health condition, please follow your doctor's guidance.