Water Quality in Malta: The Ultimate Guide for International Families (2025)

Water Quality in Malta: The Reality Behind the Rumors

I keep hearing the same stories about water in Malta: It tastes like chlorine, Its full of limescale, You should only drink bottled water. After three years on the island, I can tell you this: The truth lies somewhere between scaremongering and rose-tinted glasses.

Malta sources its drinking water from three main sources: 60% from seawater desalination, 35% from groundwater, and 5% from imported water. So, most of the tap water you drink originally came from the Mediterranean—technically, youre drinking processed saltwater.

The Desalination Plants: Modern Technology Meets Maltese Reality

The Water Services Corporation (WSC) operates four large desalination plants across Malta and Gozo. Reverse osmosis technology—a process using semi-permeable membranes to remove salt and other impurities—produces around 74 million liters of drinking water each day.

According to WSC (2024), tap water in Malta meets all EU drinking water standards. The reality? Technically true, but taste and water hardness can vary significantly depending on where you live.

Regional Differences: Where the Water Tastes Better

This is where it gets interesting: Not every tap in Malta delivers the same quality. In my experience, water quality is as follows:

• Sliema and St. Julians: Acceptable, mildly salty, higher hardness
• Valletta: Better than expected, but varies with building age
• Mdina and Rabat: Harder, distinct chlorine flavor
• Gozo: Noticeably softer, less chlorine
• Mellieha: Very hard, strong limescale taste

What does this mean for you? When apartment hunting, make sure to test the water—seriously. A five-minute test could save you months of frustration.

Drinking Water in Malta: What You Really Need to Know

The big question on every Malta newcomer’s mind: Can I drink the tap water? The official answer is yes. My honest answer: It depends on what you’re used to and how sensitive your stomach is.

Is Tap Water in Malta Safe?

From a health perspective, Maltese tap water is safe. The WSC conducts daily quality checks, meeting EU standards. The main issues are usually taste and tolerance.

Dr. Elena Mifsud explains: The water is microbiologically safe, but the high mineral content can cause stomach issues for sensitive people.

The Chlorine Factor: Why Does My Tap Smell Like a Pool?

Malta uses chlorine for disinfection—at levels higher than you might be used to from Germany or Switzerland. Chlorine content is around 0.5–1.0 mg/l (EU limit: 5 mg/l), but even this is enough to give that characteristic taste.

My trick: Fill a carafe with tap water and let it sit out for 30 minutes. The chlorine evaporates and the taste improves noticeably.

Water Hardness in Malta: The Limescale Reality

In Malta, water hardness ranges from 200–350 mg/l calcium carbonate—classed as hard to very hard. For comparison: German tap water averages around 150–200 mg/l.

What does this mean for you? Your coffee machine will suffer. Your skin will get drier. And yes, the taste takes some getting used to.

Food Supply and Water Needs for International Families

As an international family in Malta, you’ll face a few practical questions: How much water do we really need? What does it cost? And how do I manage things when the kids suddenly only want Fiji water?

Calculating Water Needs: Realistic Numbers for Families

A family of four typically uses the following in Malta:

• Drinking water: 8–12 liters per day (including cooking)
• Cooking: 2–3 liters per day
• Coffee/tea: 1–2 liters per day
• Total: 11–17 liters of quality water daily

Sound like a little? Don’t forget: During the Maltese summer, water needs rise sharply. My family with two teenagers goes through about 20 liters of bottled water per day—plus tap water for everything else.

Strategies for Different Family Types

The Pragmatists: Tap water for cooking and brushing teeth, bottled for drinking. Monthly cost: 40–60€

The Health-Conscious: Water filter system plus bottled for when out and about. Upfront: 300–500€, monthly: 20–30€

The Comfort Maximizers: Home water delivery, different brands. Monthly cost: 80–120€

Food Safety: Water for Cooking and Washing

Here’s the good news: Tap water is perfectly fine for cooking. Heating eliminates any bacteria, and the taste is masked by seasoning and ingredients.

I’ve become more cautious washing fruit and veg. A friend—microbiologist at the University of Malta—advises: A quick rinse under tap water is fine, but for salads or delicate fruit I use filtered water.

Water Hardness and Taste: Practical Everyday Solutions

The hardest water in Europe—that’s what Malta is sometimes called. Exaggeration? Not really. But don’t despair; there are tried-and-tested solutions that actually work.

Water Filters in Malta: What Really Works?

After two years of experimenting, I can recommend these systems:

1. Under-sink reverse osmosis system:
   • Investment: 400–800€
   • Removes 95% of all minerals
   • Maintenance every 6 months needed
   • Perfect for families of 4 or more
2. Activated carbon jug filter:
   • Investment: 25–50€
   • Improves taste, reduces chlorine
   • Change filter every 2 months
   • Ideal for singles and couples
3. Tap-mounted filter:
   • Investment: 50–150€
   • Quick installation
   • Medium filter performance
   • Great for rentals

DIY Tricks for Hard Water

Not everyone wants (or can) invest 500€ in a filter system. Here are my tried-and-true life hacks:

• Lemon acid trick: One teaspoon of citric acid per liter of tap water neutralizes hardness
• Kettle with timer: Boil water for 5 minutes and let sit for 10—limescale settles at the bottom
• Mixing strategy: 50% tap water, 50% bottled for coffee and tea
• Mineral water for cooking: Makes a big difference in taste for special occasions

Preventing Scale: Tips for Household Appliances

Maltese water hardness is the arch-enemy of your household appliances. Without protection, your coffee maker wont last six months.

What does this mean for you? Set aside 100–150€ per year for descaling. Its worth it—a new dishwasher will set you back at least 400€.

Cost and Availability: Family Budget Planning

Let’s talk money. Water in Malta is pricier than in most European countries—but less than many fear. The question is: How do you budget correctly for your water?

Tap Water Costs Malta: What Does a Family Actually Pay?

The WSC uses tiered rates (as of 2024):

• 0–10,000 liters: 1.67€ per 1,000 liters
• 10,001–20,000 liters: 2.89€ per 1,000 liters
• 20,001–40,000 liters: 4.56€ per 1,000 liters
• Over 40,000 liters: 7.31€ per 1,000 liters

A frugal family of four uses about 15,000–20,000 liters per month (including showers, laundry, dishwashing). That works out to 35–50€ per month—perfectly affordable.

Bottled Water Prices: The Reality Check

This is where things get more expensive. Typical Malta prices (2024):

My money-saving tip: Buy water in six-packs at Lidl or Carrefour. The price per liter drops to under 25 cents—one third the single-bottle price.

Water Delivery Malta: Services for Families

For larger families or shared flats, delivery services are worth considering:

• AquaPlus Malta: 19-liter bottles, minimum order 2, delivery 5€
• Crystal Water: Various sizes, weekly service, from 40€/month
• Pure Malta: Premium glass bottle service, from 60€/month

Is it worth it? If you buy more than 100 liters of bottled water a month, yes. For a family of five with high water consumption, delivery can be cheaper than the supermarket.

Budget Planning: Realistic Numbers for Different Lifestyles

Here are my benchmarks for monthly water costs in Malta:

• Minimalist (tap water only): 35–50€
• Pragmatist (mix of tap and bottled): 60–80€
• Comfort (mainly bottled water): 100–150€
• Premium (delivery + specialty water): 150–250€

What does this mean for you? Budget at least 60€ monthly if you have kids or a sensitive stomach.

Health and Safety: Medical Considerations

Now for the serious part: Is Maltese water safe for your health? The short answer: For the most part, yes. The longer answer: There are a few things you should know.

Medical Assessment of Malta’s Drinking Water

Dr. James Bonello generally gives Maltese tap water the all-clear: Microbiologically, the water is safe. Problems mainly come from the changeover and mineral content.

The most common health issues for newcomers to Malta:

• Gastrointestinal problems: 20–30% of expats in their first four weeks
• Skin issues: Dryness and irritation from hard water
• Kidney problems: Rare, but possible if susceptible
• Taste sensitivities: Almost everyone notices adjustment issues at first

Particularly At-Risk Groups

Certain people should take special care:

1. Pregnant women: Maltas Ministry of Health recommends bottled water, especially during the first trimester
2. Babies under 6 months: Only use special baby water or boiled, filtered water
3. People with kidney disease: The high mineral content can be problematic
4. Immunocompromised individuals: Safer to use bottled water

Long-Term Effects: What Do Studies Say?

Practical Health Tips

Based on my experience and conversations with Maltese doctors:

• Transition slowly: Start by mixing tap and bottled water
• Probiotics: Help your gut adjust to the change
• Step up skincare: Hard water dries out your skin
• Regular check-ups: See a doctor if problems persist

What does this mean for you? Almost everyone adjusts completely to Maltese water within 2–3 months. For ongoing issues, a filter system is your best bet.

Practical Tips Depending on Your Length of Stay

Depending on how long youre planning to stay in Malta, youll need different strategies. What works for Anna on her ten-day workation sprint won’t cut it for Dr. Mara setting up a permanent home.

Short Stay (1–4 Weeks): The Sun-Seekers’ Approach

Here for a holiday or a short workation? Keep it simple:

• Bottled water for everything: 1.5L six-packs at Lidl or Carrefour
• Budget: 15–25€ per week per person
• Tap water: Only for brushing teeth and showers
• Restaurants: Always order bottled water—costs 2–3€, but you know what youre getting

My tip for workationers: Pack a small jug water filter (25€ at Amazon). Saves money and plastic if you’re staying in one place longer.

Medium-Term Stay (1–6 Months): The Settlers’ Solution

Testing Malta for half a year? Then you’ll benefit from a more thought-out approach:

1. Install a tap-mounted filter: 50–100€ investment, instant taste improvement
2. Plan bulk buys: 19-liter tanks for drinking, tap for cooking
3. Descale regularly: Coffee machine every 2 weeks, kettle weekly
4. Shop local: Get to know the cheaper water markets (often in industrial zones)

Lucas’s strategy worked: 60€ tap filter plus weekly bulk shopping. Monthly costs: about 45€ for two.

Long-Term Stay (6+ Months): The Full-Time Settler Investment

Staying for good? Time to invest properly:

• Reverse osmosis system: 400–800€ upfront, but cheaper in the long run
• Maintenance contract: Many providers offer service packages
• Water tank subscription: For emergencies and guests
• Appliance protection: Professional water softener for the entire home

Family Special: Kids and Water Change

With kids, things get more complicated. Here are my experiences:

What does this mean for you? Costs rise significantly with kids, but children’s health comes first. Budget 80–120€ monthly for a family of four.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions on Maltas Water Quality

Is tap water in Malta drinkable?

Yes, Maltese tap water meets all EU standards and is microbiologically safe. The taste and hardness may take some getting used to, especially for people from soft-water areas.

Why does water in Malta taste salty?

60% of Malta’s drinking water comes from seawater desalination. While the salt is removed, residual minerals remain, making the taste slightly salty. Water hardness of 200–350 mg/l intensifies this effect.

Whats the best type of water filter for Malta?

For long stays, a reverse osmosis system (400–800€) is recommended, removing 95% of minerals. For shorter visits, a tap-mounted filter (50–150€) or activated carbon jug filter (25–50€) will do.

How much does bottled water cost in Malta?

In supermarkets you’ll pay around 0.24–0.30€ per liter if you buy multipacks. Single bottles in convenience stores cost 0.80–1.20€ per 1.5L bottle. Restaurants charge 2.50–3.00€ for a 0.5L bottle.

Can babies drink Maltese tap water?

For babies under 6 months, only special baby water or boiled, filtered water is advised. The high mineral content of tap water can be too much for infants.

How often should household appliances be descaled in Malta?

Due to high hardness, descale coffee machines every 2 weeks, kettles weekly, and washing machines monthly. Budget 100–150€ per year for descaling products.

Are there regional differences in water quality?

Yes, hardness varies greatly. Gozo water tends to be softer (200–250 mg/l), while Mellieha is very hard (320–350 mg/l). Sliema and St. Julian’s fall in between (280–320 mg/l).

Is a water softener system worth it?

If you own your home, a softener system may be worthwhile (1,500–3,000€ installation). It protects appliances and improves water comfort. For renters, smaller filter systems are more practical.

What health issues can Maltese water cause?

20–30% of Malta newbies have mild stomach issues in the first four weeks. Hard water can also cause dry skin. Most people fully adjust after 2–3 months.

How should I budget for water in Malta?

Budget 35–50€ per month for just tap water, 60–80€ for a mix, or 100–150€ for mostly bottled. Families with kids should allow 80–120€ per month.