American anxiety over the safety of tap water is climbing sharply, according to a new survey by Aquasana, a maker of household filtration systems.
The poll of 1,147 adults found that 87% are at least somewhat concerned about the quality of unfiltered water at home, up from 73% in 2021.
Worries about “forever chemicals” such as PFAS and about microplastics have risen fastest.
PFAS, linked to cancer and immune problems, are now recognized as a top contaminant by over half of respondents. The share naming it their biggest concern has jumped from 3% in 2020 to 11% in 2025.
Concern over microplastics has also surged. Some 83% of Americans are uneasy about their presence in drinking water, and the share ranking it as their top contaminant has quadrupled since 2023.
Lead remains the number-one worry (26%), followed by pathogens (23%).
Bottled water, despite containing far more microplastics than tap water, is still seen as the safest option by a third of consumers.
Even so, filtered water is gaining ground. It is now the most trusted source for 59% of respondents.
Four in five believe cleaner water is key to longevity—placing it above adequate sleep or access to healthcare.
Aquasana, unsurprisingly, touts filtration as the simplest route to safer, healthier hydration.
