While tap water in developed countries is generally safe, you can take extra steps to remove possible contaminants with simple at-home filtration. Here are two methods to try using inexpensive, widely available materials:

Biosand filter - This uses layers of sand, gravel, and microorganisms to filter out pathogens and particles. You'll need a container, gravel, sand, cloth, and water. Layer coarse sand, fine sand, gravel, and top with clean water. Over time, a healthy biofilm develops to capture contaminants.

Activated carbon filter - Activated carbon effectively absorbs chemicals and odors. Fill a pitcher or bottle with activated charcoal, sand, gravel and a cloth diffuser. The carbon pulls out dissolved compounds as the water passes through. You can find activated carbon at pet stores, hardware stores, or make your own from organic materials like coconut shells.

These DIY options are easy to set up. Though not perfect, they provide affordable access to cleaner water. We recommend refreshing materials every few months. Simple filtration can make water safer for drinking and cooking when better options aren't available. Share your own DIY methods with us!