How to Purify Drinking Water From a Stream

Even the clearest streams can contain high levels of amoeba, bacteria, microbes and viruses that can make you sick if you drink them. If you’re planning a long hike and are not sure about whether the water sources you will encounter will be pure or not, carry some iodine crystals to help you purify the drinking water you may need on your hike.

Things You'll Need

• 5 grams iodine crystals
• 1 oz. glass bottle
• Canteen

Instructions

1. Place 5 grams of iodine crystals in a 1-oz bottle of water.

2. Screw the top on very tight, and shake well.

3. When all of the crystals have settled to the bottom, you may add the solution to drinking water, but not the crystals. Add more for colder water and less if the drinking water is warm (roughly 2 tsp. to 1 quart. water at or above 75 degrees F, 3 ½ tsp. to 1 qt. of 40 degree F water).

4. Allow mixture to stand for 15 minutes before drinking it.

Tips & Warnings

• If the iodine taste is offensive to you, use half as much of the solution, and allow it to stand for twice as long before drinking.

• Never drink undiluted iodine crystals!

Resources

• More helpful hiking tips