The rule of thumb
- Open glass: hydrogen levels drop noticeably within about 30 minutes, and much of it is gone within a few hours
- Sealed glass bottle, filled to the top: holds better, but still loses hydrogen over hours
- Plastic bottles: hydrogen passes through plastic, so they lose it faster
- Aluminum cans or pouches: hold hydrogen best until opened
Most guidance says to drink hydrogen water within about an hour of making or opening it — sooner is better.
Things that speed up the loss
- Stirring, shaking or pouring back and forth
- Warm water (gases dissolve less in warm liquid)
- Lots of air space in the container
- High altitude, like Albuquerque and Santa Fe
What this means for you
Filling a jug to drink over the next two days gives you water, but not much hydrogen by day two. If hydrogen is what you're after, drink it right after it's made. That's the advantage of a water bar: it's made in front of you and you drink it on the spot.
Try fresh hydrogen alkaline water in Albuquerque. Your first visit is free. Call (505) 498-4098 to claim it.
Common questions
Can I refrigerate hydrogen water to keep it?
Cold water holds gas a little better, but refrigeration won't stop hydrogen from escaping over time. Seal it full, keep it cold and drink it soon.
Does hydrogen water go bad?
The water doesn't spoil any faster than regular water. It just loses its hydrogen and becomes ordinary water.