THE FIELD GUIDE / Water & sanitation
How to Store Water Long Term for Emergency Use
THE PRACTICAL ANSWER
To store water long term for emergency use in the US, keep at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, with a preference for a two-week reserve when possible. Use clean, food-grade containers, sanitize them thoroughly before filling, and store in a cool, dark location. Be sure to label and regularly rotate home-stored supplies, and adjust the amount of water upward for infants, pets, illness, high temperatures, or pregnancy. [1] [3] [4] [5]
Water Storage Methods
There are several options for storing water long term: unopened commercial bottled water, home-filled containers using safe tap water and clean, food-grade vessels, and cisterns for large volumes. Commercial bottled water is the most reliable, while home-filled containers require careful cleaning, sanitation, and periodic replacement. Large cisterns are useful for homes that rely on rainwater catchment or need to store significant quantities, but require specific protection and maintenance, especially after natural disasters. [1] [3] [5]
| Storage Method | Reliability/Suitability | Recommended Rotation/Replacement Frequency | Important Safety Notes | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unopened Commercial Bottled Water | Designed for drinking; highly reliable | Can be stored unopened until expiration date | Observe expiration date; recommended to use before expiry | [1] |
| Home-Filled Containers (Food-Grade) | Suitable for long-term storage if properly cleaned and sealed | Replace every 6 months | Use FDA-approved food-grade containers only | [1] |
| Large Cisterns | Used for storing large volumes from public or catchment systems | Prepare before disasters; may require disinfection afterward | Carefully assess water safety post-disaster; cleaning and disinfection needed if contaminated | [5] |
How Much Water to Store
Government guidance consistently recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days, with a two-week supply representing better preparedness. This advice takes into account drinking, food preparation, and basic hygiene needs. Households should consider extra water for infants, children, people who are ill, pregnant or breastfeeding people, or for pets. Hotter climates or higher activity levels may also require increased storage. Adjusting water storage planning for unique household needs improves resilience during disasters. [1] [3] [4] [5]
Choosing and Cleaning Water Storage Containers
The safest storage containers are FDA-approved food-grade water storage containers, widely available at camping supply retailers. These containers will not transfer harmful chemicals to water and are durable with closures that minimize the risk of accidental contamination. If food-grade containers are not available, only clean, sturdy containers with tight-fitting lids and no prior use with chemicals should be used. Do not use containers that previously held bleach, pesticides, fuel, or any other toxic substance. [1]
Container Preparation and Sanitation
Before filling storage containers with tap water, wash with soap and rinse thoroughly. Sanitize by rinsing with a solution made from one teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach per quart of water (the bleach should contain 5%-9% sodium hypochlorite). Allow the solution to touch all surfaces, sit for at least 30 seconds, then empty and let the container air dry. Proper sanitation before filling is especially important for long-term storage to prevent contamination and reduce odors. [1]
Where and How to Store Emergency Water
Store water containers in a cool (50°F–70°F), dark location, away from direct sunlight and away from chemicals (such as gasoline or pesticides) that might spill or outgas nearby. Always label containers with the fill date. The CDC advises replacing water stored at home every six months to ensure safety and freshness, even if the original water source was treated. Commercial bottled water should be used before its expiration date as printed on the bottle. [1] [5]
Disinfection Supplies and Considerations
Keep a supply of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach (5%-9% sodium hypochlorite) stored for potential disinfection uses. If emergency water becomes suspect or if containers are breached, water may need to be disinfected before use. Follow reliable guidance for how to use bleach to treat water in small batches if necessary, and do not use bleach that is scented or contains other additives. [1] [5]
Maintaining Water Safety During Storage Use
Each time you access water from storage, use only clean utensils or dispensers, avoiding any direct hand contact with the water inside the container. This helps prevent recontamination of stored supplies. Replace any home-stored water that appears cloudy, smells off, or otherwise seems suspicious, since safety cannot be guaranteed. [1]
Special Cases: Cisterns and Large-Scale Storage
For homes relying on cisterns or large on-site tanks that store water from public systems or rain catchment, additional steps are required, especially before and after weather disasters. Close catchment inflows before storms, and have separate containers of safe emergency drinking water in addition to what's in the cistern. After a disaster, inspect for contamination – cisterns that have been exposed to floodwater or debris may need to be drained, cleaned, and disinfected before use. Consult local health authorities if unsure how to restore a safe supply.
Your next steps
- Store at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day, for at least 3 days; strive for a 2-week supply if possible. [1] [3] [4] [5]
- Consider extra water for pregnant women, people who are sick, children, pets, and for use in hot climates. [1] [3] [4]
- Use only clean, FDA-approved food-grade containers for storing water. [1]
- Clean and sanitize containers before filling using unscented bleach containing 5%-9% sodium hypochlorite. [1]
- Store water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and toxic substances. [1] [5]
- Label water containers with the storage date and replace home-stored water every 6 months. [1]
- Keep a bottle of unscented liquid chlorine bleach (5%-9% sodium hypochlorite) for emergency water disinfection. [1] [5]
Sources & evidence
Evidence collected on September 13, 2026. Retrieval status is listed below. This is not expert review or product testing.
- How to Create an Emergency Water Supply
Page text retrieved; no verified quotation
- Food and Water in an Emergency
Search summary only; source text needs review
- Preparing for Floods
Page text retrieved; no verified quotation
- Emergency Kit Checklist: Pregnant Women, Infants, and Children
Page text retrieved; no verified quotation
- Cistern Safety and Disasters: Before, During, and After
Page text retrieved; no verified quotation
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