When we take a shower, we expose our bodies to a range of potential contaminants in the water. In Australia, common contaminants in shower water can include:

Chlorine: Chlorine is often added to municipal water supplies to disinfect and kill harmful bacteria. However, it can also strip natural oils from your skin and hair, leading to dryness, irritation, and even premature aging.

Hard water minerals: Hard water is a term used to describe water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on your skin and hair, causing dryness, irritation, and even clogged pores.

Heavy metals: Some heavy metals like lead and copper can leach into water from old pipes and plumbing fixtures. Exposure to these metals over time can have negative health effects, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and liver.

Pesticides: Pesticides can be found in water sources due to agricultural runoff, and can have adverse health effects if ingested or absorbed through the skin. These chemicals can be harmful to both humans and the environment.

Bacteria and viruses: While rare, bacteria and viruses can sometimes be found in shower water if the water supply is contaminated. Exposure to these contaminants can cause illness and infection.

VOCs: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be present in water due to industrial pollution or contamination from gasoline, solvents, or other chemicals. These compounds can cause respiratory and neurological problems if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

By understanding the common contaminants in shower water, you can take steps to protect yourself and your family by installing a shower filter or other water treatment system.

One way to reduce the risks of exposure to contaminants in shower water is to use a shower filter. Shower filters are designed to remove various impurities from water, including chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria. Using a shower filter can help protect your skin and hair from damage and reduce exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

In addition, using a shower filter can also benefit the environment. By reducing your exposure to chlorine and other chemicals, you can help reduce the number of chemicals released into the environment through wastewater. This can help to protect local waterways and ecosystems.

1. Australia has some of the highest levels of chlorine in its drinking water globally, which can also affect shower water quality.

2. In some parts of Australia, groundwater is used as a source of drinking water, which can contain high levels of arsenic and other contaminants.

3. Aging infrastructure in Australia can lead to increased levels of lead and other heavy metals in drinking water and shower water.

4. In rural Australia, agricultural run-off can contribute to high levels of pesticides and other chemicals in shower water.

5. The hardness of the water in some areas of Australia can contribute to dryness and irritation of the skin and hair.

6. The warmer climate in some parts of Australia can contribute to the growth of bacteria in water, increasing the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens.

7. Using water-saving showerheads in Australia can lead to increased contaminants in shower water, as the water is not diluted as much as it would be with a standard showerhead.