Does Clay Increase Water TDS? What You Need to Know

 Ever wondered what actually makes water good for you?

It is not just about clarity or coolness. It is about what is in your water. And if you have started using a clay water bottle or matka, you might have noticed something curious. The water tastes richer, smoother, almost alive.

That is where TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids, comes in.
You have probably seen this term floating around in wellness spaces or heard people say, “TDS matters.” But what does it really mean, and does storing water in clay affect it

Let us explore the facts behind TDS, why clay slightly increases it in the best way, and why this age-old vessel is still a wise and health supportive choice today.

And follow-ups questions like:

• Does storing water in a clay bottle change its composition?
• Does a terracotta pot raise TDS levels?
• Is that increase good or bad?

Let’s explore the facts simply and clearly.

What Is TDS?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. It measures the combined content of all organic and inorganic substances in water—things like minerals, salts, metals, and trace particles.

But not all dissolved solids are created equal.

✅ Good ones: minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron which are essential for hydration and health
❌ Bad ones: contaminants like lead, chlorine, pesticides, or microplastics from plastic containers

So, when we ask whether clay increases TDS, the more important question is:

What kind of dissolved solids are being added?

So, Does Clay Increase TDS?

Yes, it does but in a natural and healthy way.

When you store water in a terracotta bottle, matka, or earthen pot, something amazing happens. The porous surface of the clay allows tiny amounts of minerals to slowly seep into the water. This process is completely natural and actually beneficial for your health.

Here is how it works and why it matters:

What Minerals Are Added by Clay?

Clay naturally enriches the water with essential minerals such as:

• Calcium
  Helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It also supports proper muscle function.
• Magnesium Plays a vital role in regulating muscle and nerve function. It also supports hydration and energy production.
• Iron
  Supports the production of red blood cells and helps carry oxygen throughout your body. It also boosts energy levels and reduces fatigue.

These minerals dissolve into the water in very small quantities, gently increasing the TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids. But this increase is not harmful. In fact, it enhances the water’s quality.

Is This Increase in TDS Safe?

Yes, it is completely safe.

The slight rise in TDS caused by storing water in clay pots typically stays within a safe and beneficial range. It does not introduce any harmful substances. Instead, it adds naturally occurring minerals that your body needs for proper hydration and function.

Why Clay Is Better Than Plastic or Metal

Let us compare clay with modern storage materials:

• Clay
  Adds essential minerals
  Naturally cools the water
  Free from chemicals and artificial materials
  Fully biodegradable and earth friendly
• Plastic or Metal
  Can leach harmful substances such as BPA or heavy metals
  Does not add any natural minerals
  May affect the taste and quality of the water
  Harmful to the environment over time

So when you see a slight increase in TDS from a clay pot, it is not a warning sign. It is a sign of natural mineral enrichment, the exact way water was meant to be consumed.

Is It Safe?

Absolutely.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended TDS for drinking water is:

• 50–300 ppm → Excellent
• 300–600 ppm → Good
• Above 600 ppm → May start affecting taste or safety

Water stored in clay usually falls well within the excellent to good range, depending on the source water quality and the mineral content of the clay.

In fact, clay-stored water often tastes smoother and cooler, thanks to its naturally balanced minerals and evaporative cooling properties.

Why a Slight Increase in TDS Is a Good Thing

Let’s put this into perspective.

Many modern water filters, especially RO (Reverse Osmosis) systems, reduce TDS drastically and sometimes too much. That might sound like a good thing, but stripping water of all minerals can make it “empty,” and even lead to electrolyte imbalances over time.

Clay does the opposite: it enhances water by restoring essential minerals.

Here’s why that matters:

• Your body needs electrolytes like magnesium and potassium to stay hydrated.
• A balanced mineral profile supports metabolism, nerve function, and energy levels.
• Clay helps maintain a natural, alkaline pH, which is easier on the stomach than acidic bottled water.

Think of TDS in clay-stored water as a gentle boost of nature’s goodness and not a warning sign.

What Affects the TDS in Clay-Stored Water?

A few factors may affect the final TDS of your water stored in clay:

1. Source water quality: If you use already mineral-rich water, clay may not change it much.
2. Clay quality: Natural, unglazed clay without additives is best.
3. Storage time: The longer water stays in clay, the more time it has to absorb minerals.
4. Bottle age: Newer pots may release more minerals; older ones stabilize over time.

Remember: you’re not aiming for a high TDS but you’re aiming for the right kind of TDS.

Tips for Using Clay Bottles Safely

To get the best out of your clay water bottle or pot:

• Use clean water: Clay is not a purifier. It’s best paired with already safe water.
• Soak before first use: Soak in clean water for 24 hours to remove any clay dust.
• Keep it clean: Rinse every few days with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid soap or harsh chemicals.
• Air dry: Let it dry naturally after each rinse.

Final Thoughts

So, does clay increase water TDS?
Yes, but in the best way possible.

Clay bottles and matkas don’t add toxins but they add minerals your body actually needs. The result? Refreshing, balanced water that tastes great, supports hydration, and connects you to a simpler, healthier tradition.

It’s not just about staying hydrated by just drinking some water, in fact, it’s a return to nature, to ancestral wisdom, and to mindful living.

So the next time you sip from your Forestrails clay bottle, know this:

You’re choosing water that’s enriched by the earth, free from plastics, and filled with intention.