Flavored Water Ideas for Everyday Hydration You Will Enjoy

Why flavor makes water easier

Plain water is wonderful, but it is not always exciting. If you find yourself reaching for the same sweet drink every afternoon, a little fresh flavor can make water the easy choice. Fruit, herbs and vegetables bring aroma and a gentle taste without turning the glass into a dessert. The CDC Water and Healthier Drinks page is a helpful general reference for everyday drink choices, and flavored water fits right in as a simple way to keep a glass or bottle close at hand.

The ideas below use nothing more than produce from your kitchen, a jar or pitcher and a little patience. No special equipment or recipes are needed.

The basic method

Making flavored water is as easy as it sounds. Wash your fruit, vegetables or herbs well. Slice or lightly bruise them so they release their flavor, place them in a pitcher or jar, and cover with cold water. Let it rest in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, or longer for a stronger taste. Serve over ice if you like. Most infusions taste best the same day, so make a fresh batch each day or two, and keep the pitcher covered and chilled.

• Use clean containers and wash produce under running water.
• Remove citrus seeds if you prefer, and use slices rather than peel for a milder taste.
• Lightly crush herbs between your fingers or with a spoon to wake up their aroma.
• Strain out the fruit after a day if you plan to keep the water longer.

Citrus favorites

Citrus is the classic place to start. Lemon, lime, orange and grapefruit all lend a bright, clean flavor.

• Lemon and mint: a few lemon slices with a small handful of mint leaves.
• Orange and rosemary: orange wheels with a single sprig of rosemary for a cozy winter pitcher.
• Lime and ginger: thin lime slices with a few coins of fresh ginger for a zesty drink.
• Grapefruit and basil: half a sliced grapefruit with torn basil leaves.

Herb and cucumber ideas

Cucumber is a refreshing base that almost every herb complements. Slice it thinly into a pitcher and add herbs to taste.

• Cucumber and mint is the spa-style standard and tastes cool and light.
• Cucumber and dill is a savory option that surprises many people.
• Cucumber, lime and basil makes a fragrant summer pitcher.
• Thyme and lemon offers a gentle, earthy flavor.

Fruit and berry mixes

Berries, melon, peaches and apples turn water into a fruity drink without added sweeteners. Press berries lightly with a spoon to release juice. Frozen fruit works nicely and doubles as ice cubes.

• Strawberry and basil is a favorite for picnics.
• Blueberry and lemon looks lovely in a clear glass.
• Watermelon and mint is a summer standout.
• Apple and cinnamon stick is cozy when served warm in cooler months.
• Peach and thyme is soft and floral.

You can also stir water with a splash of brewed tea. Chilled green tea or herbal tea, added to sparkling or still water, makes a mellow drink. For a deeper look at tea types, read our beginner's tour of green tea types and flavors.

Serving ideas for every season

Flavored water can change with the calendar. In summer, freeze berries or cucumber slices into ice cubes and drop them into a pitcher for a cooling look. In fall, simmer apple slices and a cinnamon stick in hot water for a warm, cozy mug. In winter, citrus is at its best, and a pitcher of orange and rosemary feels festive on a holiday table. In spring, fresh mint and strawberries are a natural pair. Serving water in a pretty glass jar with a ladle or spigot also turns it into a centerpiece at gatherings, and guests often appreciate a non-sugary option beside the usual drinks.

Bottle habits that stick

Ideas matter, but habits matter more. A few tweaks help water become a natural part of the day.

• Pick a bottle you love. A bottle that feels good to hold and carry is one you will use.
• Fill it at the start. Fill a bottle first thing in the morning and place it where you work.
• Pair water with routines. Have a glass with each meal, after brushing your teeth and when you return from a walk.
• Keep a pitcher in the refrigerator. Cold, flavored water is ready whenever you pass by.
• Wash bottles regularly. A clean bottle keeps water tasting fresh.
• Take it with you. Keep a bottle in the car, gym bag or by the desk.

Fresh water is a gentle start to the day, which is why it appears in a fifteen-minute morning routine for a bright start. It also pairs well with an afternoon walk from our ten-minute walking routes.

Where it fits with Alkamelt

Many people like having a glass of water nearby when they follow a daily routine. Alkamelt is a natural liquid dietary supplement sold as drops in a dropper bottle, and the complete Supplement Facts panel and directions are printed on the bottle. You can read more on the what is Alkamelt page and the how to take Alkamelt page. For general information on supplements, the U.S. FDA Dietary Supplements page is a helpful reference.

A pitcher of colorful water, a bottle at your side and a few easy habits are all you need to make everyday hydration something to look forward to.

Whenever you are ready to take the next step, Check today's offer on the order page.