Is it safe to drink water left in the car?

[OSerenity]

Yes, it is safe. The plastic bottles used for water are relatively stable. Under normal circumstances and at typical temperatures, substances in plastic bottles are unlikely to decompose. Therefore, bottled water within its expiration date can still be safely consumed even if it has been exposed to high temperatures in a car. Additional information: The claim that heated plastic water bottles release toxic substances is not entirely accurate, as car temperatures rarely exceed 100 degrees Celsius, so there's no need for excessive concern. However, it's advisable to minimize consumption of water that has been exposed to prolonged sunlight. Especially for opened bottled water, it's best to consume it within 24 hours. If it has been more than 24 hours, there's a higher risk of bacterial contamination, which could affect your health.

[OAxel]

During scorching summer days, I've often grabbed a plastic water bottle from my car and taken a sweltering sip without a second thought – done it multiple times. Later, after researching, I realized the risks: plastic bottles, especially common PET mineral water bottles, readily release harmful substances in high heat. When parked under blazing sun, a car's windshield can turn into an oven, pushing temperatures above 70°C. Left for just 2-3 hours in such conditions, plasticizers and antimony from the bottle can leach into the water. The most practical solution? Switch to a stainless steel flask or glass bottle for worry-free car storage. If desperately thirsty, avoid bottles that feel hot to the touch – popping into a convenience store for a fresh one is far safer.

[SanLillian]

When going on long drives, I used to always keep bottled water in the car, but a test report I saw last year raised my alarm. Researchers left bottled water in a car exposed to sunlight for a week before testing, and found that phthalate levels exceeded the standard by 19 times. This substance can interfere with the endocrine system, and the bacterial count around the bottle mouth was also off the charts. From my experience: storing bottled water in the door panel compartment is better than on the dashboard, and it's best not to keep it for more than 24 hours. During a weekend camping trip, I noticed that water left in the sun had a plastic-like taste. Now, I use a thermos flask to carry cooled boiled water—it's both safer and more eco-friendly.

[StJace]

As a seasoned business driver, here are three key details to keep in mind: First, check if the bottle is deformed. Plastic bottles that bulge after sun exposure are unsafe to drink from, as they may harbor botulinum bacteria. Second, smell the contents. A chemical odor upon opening indicates plastic decomposition. Third, consider the storage location. Water stored in the glove compartment is safer than in the cup holder, and avoid storing water in the trunk for more than three days. Last time I offered a client bottled water, they immediately waved it off upon noticing the PET mark at the bottom—later I learned they had worked in the plastics industry.

[AutumnLee]

Plastic water bottles in cars are delicate chemical reaction labs. High summer temperatures trigger two changes: first, bisphenol A migrates from the bottle into the water, especially with reused bottles; second, UV rays break down the plastic, releasing acetaldehyde that makes water taste bitter. Lab data shows chemical release rates double with every 10°C temperature increase. Drivers should stick a reminder note on their sunshade: "Take your water when exiting." Tetra Pak drinks stored in the glovebox remain more stable.