Impact of Storage Container Materials on Physicochemical and Microbial Water Quality: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Improper household water storage significantly contributes to the global burden of waterborne diseases by facilitating microbial contamination after collection. Post-collection water storage in suboptimal materials compromises drinking water safety, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study evaluated the impact of common storage materials—plastic, stainless steel, copper, and earthen pots—on physicochemical and microbiological water quality. Methods: Water samples from Kuntavalli (India) were stored in four materials for ten days at 27°C. Physicochemical parameters (pH, TDS, turbidity, alkalinity, chloride, calcium, hardness) and microbial growth (yeast/mold, E. coli, coliforms) were analyzed in triplicate for reproducibility at intervals (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 days) using Bureau of Indian Standards methods. ANOVA was performed to assess the significance of differences among treatments and their interactions. Results: Copper demonstrated superior antimicrobial properties, inhibiting yeast/mold and E. coli until day 10, though it increased TDS (118.7→212.5 mg/L) and hardness (56→180 mg/L). Earthen pots enriched minerals (hardness: 56→190 mg/L; calcium: 1.7→5.6 mg/L) but showed early microbial contamination (yeast/mold and E. coli by day 3). Plastic degraded water quality significantly (pH: 6.13→5.42; TDS: 118.7→103.5 mg/L) and accelerated microbial growth (day 5). Stainless steel maintained physicochemical stability but lacked antimicrobial efficacy (E. coli by day 7). Conclusion: This study confirms that water storage outcomes are material-dependent and time-sensitive, with interactions driving most variations. Copper is optimal for microbial safety, ideal for settings with limited water treatment access. Earthen pots enhance mineral content but require stringent hygiene. Plastic is unsuitable for long-term storage due to contamination risks. Material selection critically influences water safety and public health outcomes.