Are You a “Water Snob”? Survey Says Most People Are Picky About What They Drink

Are you particular about the water you drink—or does it all taste the same? Turns out, most people have a preference. According to a recent survey, about two-thirds of adults say they’re picky when it comes to their water.

Many self-proclaimed “water snobs” believe they can actually tell what kind of water they’re drinking without being told. In fact, 57% say they can identify it outright, while another 39% claim they can tell the difference between tap and bottled water on the very first sip. A smaller group rely on other senses, with 9% using sight and 13% using smell to judge their water.

Preferences go beyond taste, too. Around 43% of people say they avoid tap water in certain places, and 35% even bring their own water when they leave home. When it comes to overall choice, bottled water is the clear favorite—70% prefer it over tap, which only 13% favor. Among bottled options, spring water slightly edges out filtered varieties.

Interestingly, even though many people check labels and have strong opinions, a large number still aren’t entirely sure where their water actually comes from.