What it is
Sodium is a mineral present in all natural water. It is the part of salt that matters for people on a restricted diet.
Where it comes from
Natural sodium comes from rocks and sea influence. In homes, the main added source is a water softener, which swaps hardness minerals for sodium; the softer the water was made, the more sodium it carries. Sewage and road salt also raise it.
Why it matters
For most people sodium in water is a small part of daily intake and not a concern. The guideline is based on taste. People on a low-sodium diet, and infants on formula, are the groups for whom a high result matters, which is why softened water is not normally recommended for drinking by them.
What can be done about it
Where sodium is high because of a softener, keeping an unsoftened tap for drinking and cooking is the standard arrangement. Where it is high in the source, reverse osmosis removes it.
Information last reviewed 5 October 2026 by Pozzani Pure Water.