Is clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka water

The summer months are here and with the rise in temperature it becomes quite difficult to drink regular room temperature water. And that is when we conveniently switch to ice-cold water. But, did you know that clay pot water or matka water is way more soothing, comforting, and nourishing? Yes, and it is even Ayurveda-approved. Ayurveda always emphasises drinking sheetal jal rather than ice-cold water. And when we talk about sheetal jal, it refers to naturally chilled water that comes from a matka. For the unversed, matka water cools through evaporation, gently bringing the temperature down. This helps maintain digestive fire (agni) instead of weakening it, which often happens with refrigerated water. It is also said to help balance pitta dosha, which often rises during summer months. Also, did you know that clay is alkaline in nature, which may help neutralize acidity in the body and maintain a healthy pH balance. And matka water is not excessively cold, so it is gentler on the throat and may reduce the chances of coughs and colds caused by chilled water. But, before you bring a matka home, it is important to understand the art of cleaning it to get maximum benefits. Scroll down to read 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka water.

Start by cleaning the matka with a dry, clean cotton cloth to remove all the dust. Next, wash it thoroughly with warm water to remove loose dirt and residue. It is suggested to avoid using hot water, as it can damage the clay.

Once done, the next step is to soak the matka in room temperature water for a day. This step helps it absorb moisture and makes the cooling even more effective.

Next, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub the inside of the matka with rock salt, baking soda, or lemon. These are natural cleaners help remove stains, odour, and bacteria without harming the porous surface.

Now, fill the matka with a mix of water and a little vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 20–30 minutes. This helps disinfect and eliminate any lingering smell and prepares your matka for everyday use. After this, wash it thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely in sunlight. Your matka is ready for use.

Make sure to empty the matka every morning, wash it thoroughly and then refill with fresh water daily. Also, keep it covered with a lid and to make the cooling more effective wrap a wet red cloth around it.

While plastic bottles leak chemicals into water, clay pots do not leach harmful chemicals or contaminants into the water. Rather, they ensure that the natural composition of the water remains intact, preserving essential nutrients and minerals.

According to experts, water stored in clay pots acquires a distinct flavor profile due to the minerals present in the clay, adding a subtle earthiness that makes it more palatable and refreshing. Also, the porous surface of the clay pot allows for air circulation, which helps prevent the water from stagnating and maintains its freshness.

These pots possess natural cooling properties that help lower the temperature of water stored within them. The porous nature of clay allows for evaporation, resulting in water that is naturally cooler than ambient temperature. This is what makes clay pot water a perfect thirst-quencher during hot summer days.

By choosing clay pots, we contribute to sustainability. Clay pots are made from natural materials that are biodegradable and environmentally sustainable. Once we switch to clay pots, we actually say no to plastic, minimize our carbon footprint and contribute to a better tomorrow.

It is also said that clay pots have the unique ability to alkalize water by releasing minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium into the water. And alkaline water is said to help neutralize acidity in the body, promote better digestion, and improve overall hydration.

According to experts, drinking water stored in clay pots is believed to aid digestion and promote gastrointestinal health. The alkaline nature of earthen pot water helps neutralize acidity in the stomach, alleviating symptoms of indigestion and heartburn and keeps the gut cool during extreme heat.