How to Remove Iron from Water?
por Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 25, 2025
Water quality is a concern for many households, and one of the most common issues is iron in water. This naturally occurring mineral can affect the taste of your water, stain your laundry and plumbing fixtures, and even cause long-term damage to your home’s pipes.
This blog will explore the reasons why iron is present in water, the potential problems it causes, and various effective methods to reduce it.
What Causes Iron in Water?
Iron is a common mineral found in groundwater, particularly in areas with high levels of iron-rich bedrock. When water comes into contact with these rocks, it can dissolve iron and carry it through pipes into your home. Iron is typically present in two forms:
- Dissolved Iron (Ferrous Iron): This is the form of iron that is most often found in well water. It is colourless and won’t be visible until it oxidises, turning reddish-brown when exposed to air.
- Particulate Iron (Ferric Iron): This form of iron is already oxidised and appears as tiny particles in the water. Ferric iron is more likely to cause staining of clothing, sinks, and bathtubs.

Why Is Iron in Water a Problem?
Iron itself is not considered a health risk in small concentrations; however, it can cause significant problems for your household if not addressed.
Unpleasant Taste and Odour
Iron in water can give it a metallic taste that can be off-putting. It also may introduce an unpleasant musty smell, making it unappealing for drinking or cooking.
Staining
Iron is notorious for causing stubborn rust stains on clothing, sinks, bathtubs, and even your dishes. Over time, these stains can become harder to reduce, and they might damage the surfaces they’ve discoloured.
Clogging Pipes and Appliances
When iron oxidises and forms solid particles, it can build up in your plumbing, water heaters, and other appliances. This mineral build-up can reduce water flow, leading to clogs and potential damage.

Health Considerations
While iron in drinking water isn’t typically harmful in small quantities, iron bacteria can sometimes be present in the water. These bacteria can cause slime and biofilm growth in pipes, further compromising water quality. Additionally, elevated iron levels in water may sometimes indicate other water quality concerns, such as the presence of harmful microorganisms.
How to Detect Iron in Water?
To determine if you have iron in your water, you can either purchase a home water testing kit or send a sample to a certified laboratory. The presence of iron can be detected by changes in water colour or by staining of laundry or plumbing. You can also contact local water authorities for an analysis of your water’s iron content.
The European Union’s Drinking Water Directive (Directive 98/83/EC) sets the maximum allowable concentration for iron in drinking water at 0.2 mg/Lan help you assess the severity of the contamination.
Methods for Reducing Iron from Water
These are the best ways to reduce iron from water. Depending on the concentration of iron in your water and your household needs, different methods can be applied.

Iron Filtration Systems
Filtration systems are the most common and effective method for reducing iron from water. There are various types of filters that use different techniques to reduce iron particles.
Iron Filters (Oxidising Filters)
Iron filters are specifically designed to target iron contamination. These filters work by oxidising dissolved iron, turning it into solid particles that can be filtered out.
Aeration Systems
Aeration is another method used to reduce iron from water. This involves adding air to the water to oxidise dissolved iron, converting it into particulate iron, which can then be filtered out. Aeration systems can be used in combination with a filtration system .
Water Softening Systems
Water softeners are primarily used to reduce calcium and magnesium (which cause hard water), but they can also reduce low levels of dissolved iron. These systems work by exchanging ions in the water, replacing hardness-causing minerals with sodium or potassium.

However, water softeners are not ideal for reducing high concentrations of iron, particularly if the water contains particulate iron (ferric iron). For significant iron contamination, specialised iron filtration or aeration systems are recommended.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
One of the most effective methods for addressing iron contamination is a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system , which reduces dissolved iron along with a broad range of contaminants such as chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, and heavy metals like lead. In an RO system, water is forced through a semipermeable membrane that traps impurities while allowing clean, purified water to pass through.
RO systems are highly effective, reducing dissolved iron and other impurities, making them ideal for households with complex water quality issues. For a powerful and efficient option, the Waterdrop X12 stands out with its 1200 GPD rapid flow tankless design, providing instant access to pure hydration without the wait. Featuring 11-stage precision filtration, including a 0.0001μm RO membrane, it reduces TDS, PFOA, PFOS, chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, and lead while infusing alkaline minerals for healthier, better-tasting water.
Distillation
Distillation involves boiling water to create steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form. This method is effective in reducing both dissolved and particulate iron, along with a wide range of other contaminants. However, distillation is generally slower and energy-intensive, making it better suited for smaller-scale use rather than large households or whole-house systems.
DIY Solutions for Iron Stains
If your main concern is iron staining on clothes, sinks, or bathtubs, a few DIY methods can help:
- Vinegar and Baking Soda : Mix vinegar with water and use it to scrub iron stains from your plumbing fixtures and laundry. It’s a natural and inexpensive option, but it won't address the root cause of iron contamination in your water.
- Citric Acid : This can be used to reduce stains from laundry, but like vinegar, it is a temporary solution rather than a long-term fix.
Conclusion
When dealing with iron in water, it’s important to consider the specific iron levels, the form of iron, and the needs of your household. While simple DIY solutions may help with minor issues like stains, the most effective way to reduce iron from water is by investing in an appropriate water filtration system .
For households with significant iron contamination, consulting a professional water treatment expert can help you choose the best system tailored to your specific needs.
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Contaminants Detected in Fruitland Water Special Service District
30
Contaminants
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES
30 Total Contaminants in Your Water
Water Provider
Fruitland Water Special Service DistrictPopulation Affected
120,000Water Source
Ground waterExceeds Guidelines
Others Detected