Sparkling water has earned its place as a refreshing favourite for many, but its signature fizz doesn’t last forever. Whether it comes in a bottle or a can, sparkling water carbonation gradually fades as carbon dioxide escapes into the air. The rate at which this happens depends on several factors, including temperature, how it’s stored and whether the container has been opened. By understanding the science behind carbonation and taking simple steps to reduce gas loss, you can keep your sparkling water fizzy and refreshing for longer.
How Long Sparkling Water Stays Carbonated
The lifespan of your bubbles depends on whether the container has been opened and how it’s stored. Unopened sparkling water can remain carbonated for 12 to 18 months, depending on packaging and storage conditions. Once opened, the carbonation begins to fade within hours. But with the right storage, you can still enjoy bubbly water for 2 to 3 days.
Unopened Bottles and Cans
When kept sealed, carbonation stays intact thanks to the pressurised environment. However, not all containers offer equal protection. Glass bottles and aluminium cans hold carbonation better than plastic because they are less permeable to gas exchange. Over time, carbon dioxide may slowly escape through plastic, causing a slight decrease in fizz before the expiry date.
After Opening
Once opened, the carbon dioxide begins escaping immediately. Exposure to air breaks the pressure seal, allowing bubbles to rise and disperse. Refrigerating the water slows this process, as colder temperatures retain more gas. Sealing the bottle tightly and keeping it upright also helps limit air exposure and preserves the bubbles.
Factors That Affect Carbonation
A variety of external and environmental factors influence how long sparkling water remains fizzy. Paying attention to these can help you extend the life of your bubbles and minimise waste.
Temperature
Temperature is one of the most significant factors. Warm water releases gas faster than cold. To preserve fizz, always store your sparkling water in the refrigerator, both before and after opening. Cold conditions slow down the movement of gas molecules, helping your drink stay bubbly for longer.
Container Type
The type of packaging also affects sparkling water carbonation. Glass and aluminium are far less porous than plastic, which means they do a better job of keeping gas sealed inside. Over time, carbon dioxide can slowly seep through plastic bottles, even if they remain unopened. Opt for glass or cans when possible, especially if you’re not drinking your sparkling water right away.
Air Exposure
Air exposure is the quickest way to lose fizz. Once you open the bottle or can, oxygen enters and carbon dioxide escapes. Leaving a bottle half-full increases the air gap, accelerating the loss of carbonation. To reduce this, keep bottles upright and tightly sealed after every pour.
How to Keep Sparkling Water Fizzy Longer
Want to keep your sparkling water fresh and fizzy for as long as possible? A few simple storage habits can make a big difference.
Store It Cold
Cold water holds more dissolved gas. Always refrigerate sparkling water, whether it’s been opened or not. This slows down the release of carbon dioxide and helps keep the bubbles intact.
Close It Tightly
Resealing your bottle immediately after use is one of the easiest ways to preserve fizz. Air exposure causes rapid carbonation loss, so don’t leave the bottle open for longer than necessary.
Use Smaller Bottles
If you don’t finish a full bottle in one sitting, opt for smaller containers. The less space there is for air in the bottle, the slower the rate of carbonation loss. Sparkling water bottles in individual servings are ideal for casual drinkers.
Avoid Shaking or Stirring
Agitation causes carbon dioxide to escape more rapidly. Pour gently, avoid shaking, and never stir your sparkling water if you want to maintain that effervescent texture.
Use a Soda Siphon or Carbonator
If your sparkling water has gone flat, don’t throw it out just yet. You can revive it using a home soda maker or carbonator. These devices inject carbon dioxide back into the liquid, making it fizzy again.
How to Tell If Sparkling Water Has Gone Flat
You can usually tell by sight, sound and taste. Flat sparkling water has very few visible bubbles, makes no fizzing noise when opened, and often tastes dull or flat. While it’s still safe to drink, it lacks the refreshing zing most people enjoy. For those who like their water bubbly, it’s a clear sign to reach for a fresh bottle, or re-carbonate it if you can.
The Bottom Line
Sparkling water carbonation doesn’t last forever, especially once a bottle or can has been opened. However, by storing it cold, upright and tightly sealed, you can preserve the bubbles for days. Smaller containers, minimal air exposure and gentle handling also go a long way in keeping your drink fizzy. For those who take their bubbles seriously, even flat water can be rescued with the help of a soda carbonator.
Whether you’re sipping slowly or stocking up for guests, understanding how long sparkling water lasts and how to keep sparkling water fizzy can help reduce waste and ensure every sip is as refreshing as the first.
Discover the refreshing taste of locally sourced bubbles with New Forest Spring Water’s bottled sparkling water. Explore our water bottle range today and enjoy naturally carbonated water that’s crisp, clean and sustainably bottled.
