There are numerous reasons why people buy bottled water: It tastes better than tap; they perceive it to be cleaner and therefore healthier than tap, or they like the convenience of grabbing a bottle as they’re headed out the door, among other reasons. But for those of you who are all the wiser and want to switch from bottled to tap, here are some ways to change your habit.

The easiest way to kick the habit of reaching for a bottle of water rather than the faucet is to stop buying bottled water. If it’s not around, you can’t drink it, right? Try installing a filter, such as a K5 drinking water system, and using a water bottle instead.

Buy a water bottle that you like and will use. Some people like glass water bottles, but you might be afraid of breaking it or think it’s too heavy if you’re constantly on the go. Different sizes will fit more or less easily in your backpack, purse, etc. Some have nozzles you can sip from, whereas others require you to unscrew the cap every time you want to take a drink. Pick one that is the most convenient for you. You might also want to buy more than one so that you don’t have to wash it every day.

In the morning, you can remind yourself to fill your water bottle by putting a post-it note on the appliance you reach for first – the fridge, your Keurig, etc. You might also want to remind yourself to drink a glass of water, since this is one of the healthiest ways to start your day. You can also try to get in the habit of filling your water bottle the night before, so you can quickly grab it and go in the morning.

Once you have your water bottle, you won’t need to get a bottle of water from the vending machine at work or wherever else you go. You can refill your reusable bottle at a sink or water fountain.

At home, it will be easier for you to use the tap as long as you don’t purchase water bottles from the store. In this way, you’re forcing yourself to use your tap water.

Quick Facts About Tap Water and Bottled Water

• Bottled water can cost you up to 2,000 times more than tap water.
• A lot of bottled water companies make ridiculous claims about their water. Read Claims That Are Hard to Swallow for some examples.
• Some flavored and vitamin waters are actually less healthy than tap water because they contain a lot of sugar.
• The only way to know if tap water is contaminated with lead is to test it; you can’t see, taste, or smell it. See the CDC’s page on lead-contamination in tap water.