So, does bottled water go bad? Technically no, practically yes. It’s like a friendship that fades when you stop putting in effort. The water is still there, but it’s lost its sparkle. It’s flat, plasticy, and a little sad.
My advice? Treat your water bottles like socks. If you find a lone one that’s been missing for six months, just throw it away. Don’t try to rekindle the magic. Buy a new pack. Your future self will thank you when they’re not sipping what tastes like melted camping gear.
And if you really want to avoid the drama, just use a reusable bottle. Refill it daily. It’s cheaper, it’s greener, and it never has that weird “I’ve been in a hot car for a week” aftertaste. Plus, you get to feel smug about your choices—which is the best kind of hydration.