You fill a glass of water from your kitchen tap in Iowa and hesitate.
Is it clean?
Is it safe?
Will it taste right?
If you’ve ever asked yourself those questions, you’re not alone. Thousands of Iowans search every month for reliable answers about water quality in Iowa, especially as headlines about nitrates, bacteria, and PFAS continue to raise concerns.
In this guide, we break down what’s really in your tap water, how Iowa treats it, and how you can protect your home with simple, affordable solutions that work.
Is Iowa tap water safe to drink in 2025?
Legally? In most places, yes.
Practically? It depends.
Tap water in Iowa is regulated by the EPA and monitored by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Municipal systems are required to test regularly for contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, lead, and chemicals — and many systems meet those standards.
But Iowa has one of the highest nitrate levels in U.S. water systems, primarily due to agricultural runoff. The state has thousands of private wells and aging rural systems where contamination risks are significantly higher.
So while some Iowa tap water is safe to drink, other sources may contain chemicals or bacteria that you don’t want in your body — especially if you're pregnant, have young children, or a sensitive immune system.
Where does Iowa’s tap water come from and how is it treated?
Iowa gets its water from two main sources:
- Groundwater – from underground aquifers (used in 70%+ of water systems)
- Surface water – like rivers, reservoirs, and lakes
Before reaching your faucet, water goes through standard treatment steps:
- Coagulation & sedimentation – removes dirt and solids
- Filtration – eliminates particles, bacteria, and parasites
- Disinfection – chlorine or chloramine used to kill pathogens
- Fluoridation – added in many systems for dental health
However, rural systems and private wells don’t always follow the same standards — and may skip treatment altogether. That’s where issues like nitrates, coliform bacteria, and even E. coli can become serious threats.
What’s in Iowa tap water? Common contaminants and risks
The Iowa DNR and EPA report several contaminants that affect water quality in Iowa, including:
- Nitrates – from farm fertilizers; dangerous for infants and pregnant women
- PFAS (Forever Chemicals) – linked to cancer and hormone issues; detected in several Iowa cities
- Coliform bacteria & E. coli – especially in rural wells after heavy rain or flooding
- Chlorine & byproducts (THMs) – affect taste and may carry long-term health risks
- Lead – found in older plumbing and water lines
- Pesticide runoff – Atrazine and other chemicals sometimes make their way into rural systems
Even if each of these is “within legal limits,” the combined load may not be ideal for long-term health.
Regional differences: water quality across Iowa counties
Water quality in Iowa varies significantly depending on location:
- Des Moines: Water Works has some of the toughest nitrate removal systems in the country — but PFAS concerns are rising.
- Cedar Rapids: Strong filtration and testing, but still vulnerable to agricultural runoff.
- Sioux City & Council Bluffs: Depend on both wells and surface water — higher risk after storms.
- Rural Iowa: Often use private wells; less monitoring, more nitrate and bacteria risks.
If you use a well, you are responsible for your own water testing — and many Iowans don’t test often enough.
Hardness levels in Iowa: Is your water soft or hard?
Most of Iowa’s tap water is very hard. Groundwater from limestone-rich aquifers contains high levels of calcium and magnesium.
Hard water isn’t dangerous, but it can:
- Leave white spots on dishes and faucets
- Dry out your skin and hair
- Reduce soap effectiveness
- Shorten the life of appliances
A quality filter won’t just purify — it’ll also improve how your water feels and performs every day.
Can you drink Iowa tap water without filtering?
Technically, yes — especially in urban areas with well-managed utilities.
But here’s why Iowa families choose to filter:
- Taste and odor from chlorine or minerals
- Concerns about nitrates and PFAS, even at low levels
- Uncertainty around wells and rural plumbing
- Peace of mind when serving water to kids, pets, or guests
With the right filter, you can remove over 100 contaminants, save money on bottled water, and help reduce plastic waste — all while improving the quality of your everyday water.
Best water filters for Iowa households
Looking for a simple way to improve water quality in Iowa? Here are the top picks from Tappwater:
- EcoPro Faucet Filter: Removes chlorine, lead, PFAS, nitrates, microplastics, and more. Easy to install — no plumber needed.
- PitcherPro Filter Jug: Great for families. Fast, fridge-friendly, and filters out bad taste and odor with every pour.
- Ultra Filter: Our most powerful filter — perfect for high-risk areas or homes using private wells.
All filters are tested, certified, and designed to be eco-friendly — so you can drink confidently and cut down on plastic bottles.
1 filter = up to 1,200 bottles saved. That’s cleaner water and a cleaner planet.
FAQ: Iowa tap water safety, drinkability, and filter options
1. Should I filter my water if I live in Iowa?
Yes — especially if you live in a rural area, use a private well, or want to reduce PFAS, nitrates, or chlorine. A filter adds a layer of safety and confidence.
2. How long does a Tappwater filter last?
Each Tappwater cartridge lasts 3 months. You can subscribe and save to get refills on time, with no hassle.
3. Can Tappwater filters remove nitrates?
Yes — the Ultra Filter and EcoPro are designed to reduce nitrates, lead, and other common contaminants found in Iowa water systems.
Protect your home with better water today
Water quality in Iowa is a growing concern — but it’s also something you can control.
Whether you're in Des Moines or a small rural town, the right filter gives you:
- Safer water
- Better taste
- Less plastic waste
- More peace of mind
Try EcoPro today and enjoy clean, filtered water — straight from your tap.
