How to Drink More Water if You Don't Like It

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to UCLA Health, adequate hydration is essential for regulating body temperature, keeping joints lubricated, preventing infections, and protecting sensitive tissues. However, many people find the taste of plain water unappealing, making it a difficult habit to maintain. Fortunately, there are many simple strategies to make drinking water a more enjoyable part of your daily routine.

Quick Summary

This guide provides practical strategies to increase water intake for those who dislike the taste, covering flavoring techniques, hydration habits, and alternative fluid sources.

Key Points

Flavor Water Naturally: Infuse water with fruits, vegetables, and herbs like lemon, cucumber, berries, and mint to make it more appealing without adding calories.
Embrace the Fizz: If still water is unappealing, switch to sparkling or carbonated water for a different, refreshing texture.
Establish a Visible Reminder: Keep a reusable water bottle in sight at your desk, in your car, or around your home to prompt more frequent sips.
Hydrate with High-Water Foods: Increase your fluid intake by consuming more fruits and vegetables like watermelon, celery, and cucumbers, which have a high water content.
Set and Track Your Goals: Use smartphone alarms or apps to remind yourself to drink water at regular intervals, turning hydration into a consistent routine.
Make Strategic Swaps: Replace sugary drinks like sodas and juices with water to reduce calorie intake and promote better health.
Drink Water Upon Waking: Start your day with a glass of water to kickstart hydration and create a consistent habit.
Invest in a Filter: A water filter can improve the taste of tap water, making it more palatable.

Hydration Hacks to Make Water More Appealing

For many, the dislike of plain water comes down to its lack of flavor. The good news is that you don't have to suffer through tasteless sips. By adding natural, healthy ingredients, you can transform plain water into a refreshing and flavorful beverage that you'll actually look forward to drinking.

Infuse Your Water with Fruits and Herbs

Infusing water is one of the most effective and visually appealing ways to boost flavor without adding calories or artificial sweeteners. Here are some popular combinations to try:

Classic Citrus: Add slices of lemon, lime, or orange for a tangy, refreshing kick.
Sweet & Fruity: Mix fresh or frozen berries, melon chunks, or pineapple for a hint of natural sweetness.
Cool & Refreshing: Combine cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves for a spa-like, clean flavor.
Herbal & Aromatic: Experiment with herbs like basil, rosemary, or ginger for a unique, sophisticated taste.

Try Sparkling or Carbonated Water

If the texture of still water is the problem, sparkling water can be a game-changer. The carbonation provides a pleasant fizz that many people prefer. Opt for plain seltzer or add your own fruit infusions to control the flavor and avoid added sugars found in many commercial varieties.

Use Water Flavor Enhancers

For those on the go, a water flavor enhancer can be a convenient solution. These come in liquid or powder form and are designed to be added directly to your water bottle. Look for options that use natural flavorings and zero calories. While some may contain artificial sweeteners, many brands now offer healthier, plant-based options sweetened with stevia or monk fruit. Always check the ingredients list to ensure you're making a healthy choice.

Building Better Hydration Habits

Making hydration a routine is just as important as making the water taste good. By integrating water into your daily schedule and surroundings, you can ensure you're drinking enough without even thinking about it.

Keep Water Visible and Accessible

Keeping a water bottle in sight is a simple but powerful psychological trick to remind you to drink. Place a reusable bottle on your desk, in your car, and on your nightstand. When water is always within arm's reach, you'll naturally sip more often throughout the day.

Set Reminders

If you're prone to forgetting, technology can help. Use apps on your smartphone or set simple hourly alarms on your watch to remind you to take a drink. Connect the habit to existing routines, such as drinking a full glass of water when you first wake up, before every meal, and before bed.

Eat Your Water

Many fruits and vegetables have a very high water content and can contribute significantly to your daily fluid intake. Examples include lettuce (96% water), celery (95%), zucchini (95%), watermelon (91%), and cantaloupe (90%). Adding these to your diet not only helps with hydration but also provides valuable vitamins and minerals.

Water Alternatives and Considerations

While plain or infused water is ideal, other beverages can count towards your hydration goals. It's important to know the difference and make healthy choices.

Comparison Table: Hydration Options


Drink Type	Caloric Content	Added Sugar	Pros	Cons
Plain Water	0	None	Calorie-free, readily available, optimal hydration	Bland taste for some
Infused Water	0	None	Flavorful, visually appealing, still calorie-free	Requires prep time
Sparkling Water	0	None	Refreshing fizz, variety of flavors	Can be more expensive
Herbal Tea	0	None (unsweetened)	Variety of warm or cold flavors	Some may contain caffeine
Fruit Juice	High	Often High	Delicious, easy to drink	High in calories and sugar, can lead to weight gain
Sports Drinks	Medium	High	Electrolytes for intense workouts	Unnecessary sugar for casual exercise, empty calories

Be Mindful of Sugary Drinks

While juices and sports drinks contain water, they are often loaded with sugar and calories. These can undermine health goals and do not offer the same clean hydration as water. Reserve these for special occasions, or opt for low-sugar versions in moderation, such as diluting juice with water.

Conclusion: Making Hydration a Positive Experience

Drinking more water doesn't have to be a chore, even if you don't naturally enjoy it. By consciously flavoring your water, establishing simple routines, and diversifying your fluid intake with water-rich foods, you can make staying hydrated an easy and rewarding habit. The key is to find what works best for you and your taste preferences. Start small, experiment with different flavors and methods, and soon you'll be reaping the numerous health benefits of proper hydration without the struggle.

Remember, your body will eventually acclimate, and you may even find yourself craving water naturally. The habit of consistent hydration is one of the most positive changes you can make for your overall well-being. Start today and find your own delicious way to drink more water.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can add a variety of natural ingredients to your water, such as slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, and fresh fruits like strawberries or pineapple. Herbs like mint, basil, or a piece of ginger can also provide a refreshing flavor without any added sugar.

Yes, sparkling water is a great way to stay hydrated and counts towards your daily fluid intake. It provides a different texture for those who prefer fizz over still water. Just be sure to choose plain seltzer or naturally flavored options to avoid added sugars and artificial ingredients.

Drinking more water helps with a wide range of bodily functions, including maintaining a normal body temperature, lubricating and cushioning joints, protecting sensitive tissues, and getting rid of waste through urination. It also helps prevent dehydration, which can cause unclear thinking and mood changes.

Yes, there are numerous apps available for smartphones and smartwatches designed to help you track your water intake and set reminders. These can be very helpful for creating a consistent hydration habit, especially if you tend to forget to drink throughout the day.

Absolutely. Many fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, lettuce, and celery, have a very high water content and can contribute to your daily fluid intake. This is an excellent strategy for boosting hydration while also consuming vitamins and fiber.

To remember to drink more water, you can keep a visible, reusable water bottle with you at all times. You can also connect the habit to daily routines, such as drinking a glass of water upon waking, before each meal, and before bed.

It is generally more effective and comfortable to sip water consistently throughout the day rather than chugging large amounts at once. Spreading out your intake helps your body stay consistently hydrated and prevents feelings of fullness or bloating.

Yes, unsweetened herbal tea is a great way to hydrate, offering a variety of flavors and a warm or cold beverage option. It is a calorie-free and healthy alternative to plain water.