Is Sparkling Water Acidic? pH Levels Explained

What is the pH of sparkling water?

The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline something is. It runs from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Numbers below 7 are acidic, and numbers above 7 are alkaline.

Still water sits at around pH 7. The Harvard School of Public Health says sparkling water usually sits around 4.

That’s because the carbon dioxide that makes sparkling water fizzy dissolves into the water and forms a weak acid called carbonic acid. It’s what makes your drink tingle – and what brings the pH down.

To put it in perspective, here’s how sparkling water compares to other drinks:

So, is sparkling water acidic?

Yes, whether you call it sparkling water, fizzy water or seltzer water, it is mildly acidic. But as you can see, it’s less acidic than soft drinks or citrus juices.

And acidity alone isn’t always a red flag. A lemon is acidic, too. What matters is how acidic, how often, and how it affects your body – especially your teeth and digestion.

There are also a number of things that can change the pH of sparkling water. Do you enjoy flavoured sparkling water? It can be more acidic than plain varieties. Let’s look closer at why that’s so.

What about flavoured sparkling water?

Flavoured sparkling water might feel like a lighter alternative to soft drink, but it often comes with added acidity.

Many flavoured varieties include citric acid, fruit extracts, or preservatives that lower the pH even further – sometimes down to around 2.5. That’s more acidic than you might expect, and it can increase the risk of enamel erosion if you’re sipping it throughout the day.

If you love flavoured sparkling water, don’t worry; you can do a few things to help protect your teeth.

• Drink it with meals instead of on its own
• Don’t sip it slowly over long periods
• Rinse your mouth with still water afterwards
• Avoid brushing your teeth right after drinking

Sparkling water and your teeth

Most people know that sugary drinks can damage your teeth. But what about plain sparkling water? We know it’s acidic, so does it hurt your teeth?

The short answer is: it’s much gentler than soft drinks or fruit juice. But because it’s mildly acidic, there is still some potential for enamel erosion over time. Tooth enamel is strong, but it can soften slightly in acidic environments.

The good news? The risk is lower than with sugary drinks, and you can reduce the impact even further with four simple steps:

• Drink sparkling water with meals, rather than between them
• Don’t swish or hold it in your mouth
• Rinse with still water if you’re drinking it on its own
• Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth

So while sparkling water is mildly acidic, it’s not harmful to your teeth when consumed as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Okay, we’ve discussed the pH of sparkling water, whether it’s acidic and what that means for your teeth. But what about further along in your digestion? Does sparkling water have an impact?

Can sparkling water affect digestion or acid reflux?

For most people, plain sparkling water is easy to enjoy. But if you have a sensitive stomach or live with acid reflux, it might not always sit well – sometimes leading to bloating or worsening of your reflux symptoms. It’s not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable.

That doesn’t mean sparkling water is off the table. Everyone’s body is different. Health experts say that drinking sparkling water actually aids in digestion for many of us.

And sparkling water could help you feel lighter after a rich meal. Research in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that carbonated water may ease mild digestive discomfort and support regularity. The experts at WebMD agree – sparkling water is a small, fizzy assist for your gut.

You can learn more with our article: Is sparkling water good for you? But it’s about balance. If you enjoy it and feel good drinking it, there’s no reason to hold back.

A better way to enjoy sparkling water at home

Do you enjoy sparkling water, but want more control over how it’s made? There’s a smarter way. Meet the Zip HydroTap.

The HydroTap gives you filtered sparkling water on demand, straight from your kitchen tap. It’s chilled, crisp and refreshing – without the bottle waste, added acids, or guesswork.

Every Zip HydroTap includes:

• MicroPurity filtration to reduce chlorine, sediment, lead, microplastics and PFAS*
• A clean, balanced taste with no added flavourings or preservatives
• Instant access to boiling, chilled and sparkling water – all from one tap
• Less clutter in the fridge, and fewer single-use bottles in the bin

FAQ: pH of sparkling water

Is sparkling water acidic or alkaline?

Sparkling water is mildly acidic, usually with a pH between 3 and 4. That’s because the carbon dioxide that makes it fizzy forms a weak acid when it dissolves into the water.

Is sparkling water acidic for teeth?

Plain sparkling water is mildly acidic, which means it can weaken enamel over time, especially if you drink it frequently or sip it slowly all day. But when enjoyed in moderation, it’s far less risky than sugary drinks or flavoured soft drinks. The key is how (and how often) you drink it. Drink it with meals and rinse with still water afterwards to protect your enamel.

Is sparkling water okay for acid reflux?

It depends. Some people with reflux find that carbonation can trigger symptoms. Others feel fine. Yet more find it actually aids digestion. If you’re unsure, pay attention to how your body reacts, or check in with your GP.

Still have questions about sparkling water? Read about soda water vs sparkling water.

* Zip MicroPurity filters sizes 1 and 1.5 (93701 and 93702) are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 to reduce 99.4% of Total PFAS (average reduction).