How to make my drinking water alkaline

November 18, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Mayo Clinic, alkaline water has a higher pH than regular tap water, which proponents claim can help neutralize acid in the body. Learning how to make my drinking water alkaline is a common goal for those interested in exploring these potential benefits through simple, at-home methods.

Quick Summary

This guide details several straightforward methods to increase your water's pH level at home, including using natural ingredients like baking soda and lemons, as well as affordable mineral-based drops and filters. It covers the science behind different techniques and explains what to consider before attempting these DIY approaches.

Key Points

Baking Soda: A simple method is to add 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda to 8 ounces of water, but be mindful of the sodium content.
Lemon Infusion: Add lemon slices to water and let it sit overnight; despite being acidic, metabolized lemon has an alkalizing effect on the body.
pH Drops: Concentrated mineral drops offer a quick and controlled way to increase water's pH, available at health stores.
Alkaline Filters: Pitcher-style or under-sink filters incorporate mineral stages to both purify and alkalize your water.
Water Ionizers: These advanced, expensive machines use electrolysis to separate water into alkaline and acidic streams.
Consult a Doctor: Individuals with kidney issues or on low-sodium diets should consult a healthcare professional before regularly consuming alkaline water.

Understanding Alkaline Water and pH

Alkaline water is characterized by a pH level greater than 7, distinguishing it from neutral tap water, which typically has a pH of around 7. The pH scale ranges from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline). The body's intricate regulatory systems, involving the kidneys and lungs, work to keep blood pH within a narrow, slightly alkaline range (7.35 to 7.45). The appeal of alkaline water stems from the belief that consuming a less acidic beverage can support the body's natural processes, though scientific evidence supporting widespread health claims is limited.

Simple DIY Methods to Alkalize Water

The Baking Soda Method

One of the simplest and most accessible methods is adding baking soda. Sodium bicarbonate is a highly alkaline substance with a pH of about 9.0, making it an effective way to raise your water's pH.

Instructions: Add 1/8 teaspoon of food-grade baking soda to an 8-ounce glass of water. Stir until it is completely dissolved. For a larger batch, such as a gallon, use 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
Caution: Baking soda contains a high amount of sodium, so individuals on a low-sodium diet should use this method with caution and consult a healthcare professional before regular use.

The Lemon Method

This method might seem counterintuitive, as lemons are acidic. However, as the body metabolizes lemon juice, it produces alkaline byproducts, which have an alkalizing effect on the body.

Instructions: Cut a fresh lemon into slices. Add a few slices to a pitcher or glass of water and let it sit for at least 8 to 12 hours, or overnight, at room temperature. The minerals from the lemon infuse into the water, raising its pH slightly. Do not squeeze the lemons, as this increases the water's immediate acidity.
Benefit: This method adds flavor and vitamin C without adding sodium.

pH Drops

For a more controlled approach, you can purchase pH drops, which are concentrated liquid mineral formulas designed to increase water's alkalinity instantly.

Instructions: Follow the specific directions on the product's packaging, as potency varies by brand. Typically, a few drops are added to a glass of water, which is then shaken or stirred. pH drops are available at health food stores and online.

Investing in Alkaline Water Systems

For those seeking a more permanent and consistent solution, several commercial systems are available.

Comparison of Alkaline Water Methods


Method	Cost	Consistency	Mineral Content	Ease of Use	Notes
Baking Soda	Very Low	Low	Adds Sodium	Very Easy	Quick, but high in sodium.
Lemon Infusion	Low	Low	Adds Minimal Minerals	Easy	Natural and flavorful, but pH change is mild.
pH Drops	Medium	High	Concentrated	Very Easy	Consistent pH, but cost can add up.
Alkaline Water Filter	High	High	Adds Beneficial Minerals	Medium	Removes impurities while adding minerals.
Water Ionizer Machine	Very High	Very High	Adds Beneficial Minerals	Complex	Highest upfront cost; professional-grade results.

Alkaline Water Filters

These filters use special mineral stones, often made of tourmaline or maifan, to add natural alkaline minerals and raise the pH of water.

Mechanism: The water passes through multiple filter stages that remove contaminants and then a final stage that reintroduces alkaline minerals like calcium and magnesium. These filters are often integrated into pitcher-style systems or under-sink units.
Advantages: Provides filtration and alkalization in one step, making it a convenient option for daily use.

Water Ionizer Machines

Water ionizers use a process called electrolysis to separate the water into alkaline and acidic streams.

Mechanism: The machine uses an electrical charge to ionize the minerals in the water, splitting the hydrogen and oxygen molecules to raise the pH. The alkaline water is dispensed for drinking, while the acidic water is collected separately.
Considerations: This is the most expensive and advanced method. Experts recommend starting with filtered or reverse osmosis water to ensure contaminants are removed before ionization.

Conclusion

Making drinking water alkaline is achievable through several methods, from simple DIY techniques using household items like baking soda or lemons to investing in commercial filters and ionizers. The best method depends on your budget, commitment, and personal preferences regarding taste and mineral content. While some proponents swear by alkaline water's health benefits, scientific evidence is still emerging. For anyone with existing health conditions, especially kidney-related issues, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before significantly altering your water intake. Regardless of the method chosen, remember that the most important aspect of hydration is consistency with clean, safe drinking water.

For more detailed information on water quality, filtration, and health considerations, you can refer to the resources from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but indirectly. While lemons are acidic, your body metabolizes them into alkaline byproducts. Adding lemon slices to water and letting it infuse overnight can slightly increase the pH of the water after digestion.

For most healthy individuals, drinking alkaline water in moderation is considered safe. However, excessive consumption or drinking highly alkaline water (above pH 9.5) can potentially lower stomach acidity and cause mineral imbalances. People with kidney disease should be particularly cautious due to the mineral content.

You can use simple and affordable tools like pH test strips or a digital pH meter. These are readily available at many hardware stores, pet supply stores (for aquarium testing), or online.

Yes, many alkaline water filters are effective at both filtering impurities and adding beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium to raise the water's pH level. The degree of effectiveness can vary by brand and filter quality.

Making alkaline water at home is generally more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than buying bottled versions, which contribute to plastic waste. However, store-bought options offer convenience and a pre-measured pH level.

No. While some anecdotal reports and small studies suggest potential benefits for certain conditions like acid reflux, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that alkaline water can cure or prevent diseases like cancer, diabetes, or bone loss. It should not replace medical treatment.

The alkalinity of water made at home with methods like baking soda or pH drops will remain stable for a period. However, water infused with fruit, like lemon, should be consumed within a day or two to ensure freshness and taste.