Last updated: April 2026.
🚿 Delaware Shower Water Quality Report (2026)
Comprehensive analysis of Delaware water quality across 1 city • Based on real EWG testing data • Updated 2026
If you live in Delaware, you may be showering in water that contains contaminants exceeding health guidelines — and you might not even know it. Our analysis of water quality data across 1 Delaware city reveals 8 contaminants that may exceed EWG health guidelines.
Delaware faces unique water quality challenges including agricultural chemicals and industrial contamination. Whether you're in Dover or elsewhere in the state, understanding what's in your shower water is the first step toward protecting your skin and hair.
📊 Delaware Water Quality at a Glance
Across Delaware, we analyzed water quality data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database. The results show that Delaware residents may be exposed to a range of contaminants through their shower water — many at levels that exceed health guidelines set by the EWG, which are often stricter than federal legal limits.
⚠️ Top Contaminants Found in Delaware Water
Based on EWG data analysis, here are the most significant contaminants detected in Delaware water supplies:
| Contaminant | Avg. Level | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 41.65 ppb | 0.1500 ppb | ⚠️ 277.6x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 14.80 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 246.7x above |
| Arsenic | 0.9036 ppb | 0.0040 ppb | ⚠️ 225.9x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 15.46 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 154.6x above |
| Radium, combined (-226 and -228) | 6.1600 pCi/L | 0.0500 pCi/L | ⚠️ 123.2x above |
| Bromodichloromethane | 6.46 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 107.7x above |
| Chloroform | 29.36 ppb | 0.4000 ppb | ⚠️ 73.4x above |
| Trichloroacetic acid | 7.16 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 71.6x above |
Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
The health guideline of 0.15 ppb for trihalomethanes was defined by in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG and represents a one-in-one-million lifetime cancer risk level. as a draft public health goal, the level of drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 29.06 ppb | Delaware Average: 41.65 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 23.70 ppb | Delaware Average: 14.80 ppb
Arsenic
The health guideline of 0.004 ppb for arsenic was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 0.6242 ppb | Delaware Average: 0.9036 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was established. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 19.82 ppb | Delaware Average: 15.46 ppb
🏙️ City-by-City Water Quality in Delaware
We've analyzed water quality in 1 Delaware city. Click on any city to see its detailed water quality report:
| City | Contaminants Found | Above EWG Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Dover | 34 | 15 |
🩺 Health Effects of Delaware Water Contaminants
The contaminants found in Delaware water may be associated with various health concerns. When you shower, your skin — your body's largest organ — can absorb these substances, and you may inhale steam containing volatile compounds.
🧴 Skin & Hair
🫁 Respiratory
- Steam inhalation of chlorine/VOCs
- May aggravate asthma symptoms
- Potential respiratory irritation
⚕️ Long-Term Concerns
- Disinfection byproduct exposure
- Eczema flare-ups
- Cumulative contaminant absorption
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself from Delaware Water Contaminants
The good news: you don't have to accept whatever comes out of your Delaware showerhead. A quality shower filter can significantly reduce many of the contaminants found in your water.
Key contaminants a shower filter can help address:
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) — learn about health effects and removal
- Haloacetic acids (HAA9) — learn about health effects and removal
- Arsenic — learn about health effects and removal
- Chlorine — learn about health effects and removal
Additionally, understanding common symptoms can help you identify water quality issues:
💧 Recommended Shower Filtration for Delaware
Based on Delaware's water quality profile, we recommend a multi-stage filtration system. Afina's shower filters use KDF-55 and activated carbon to target chlorine, heavy metals, and other common contaminants found in Delaware water.
Afina Filtered Showerhead
Multi-stage filter built right into a high-pressure showerhead. No adapters needed.
Shop Now →Afina Shower Filter
Attach between your pipe and any showerhead. KDF-55 + activated carbon filtration.
Shop Now →Replacement Filter
Keep your filtration fresh. Replace every 2-3 months for optimal contaminant removal.
Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Delaware tap water safe to shower in?
While Delaware tap water meets federal legal standards (MCLs), our analysis found 8 contaminants exceeding stricter EWG health guidelines. Federal limits don't always reflect the latest health research, so many health-conscious residents choose to add shower filtration for an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in Delaware water?
Based on EWG data, Delaware water contains up to 34 detected contaminants. The most notable include Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs), Haloacetic acids (HAA9), Arsenic. Delaware faces specific challenges with agricultural chemicals and industrial contamination.
Does Delaware have hard water?
Water hardness in Delaware varies by region. Some areas have moderate to hard water that may contribute to dry skin and hair issues.
Do I need a shower filter in Delaware?
Given that Delaware water contains contaminants above EWG health guidelines, a shower filter may help reduce your exposure to chlorine, heavy metals, and disinfection byproducts. This is especially important if you experience dry skin, itchy scalp, or hair issues after showering.
How does Delaware water compare to the national average?
Delaware is in the Mid-Atlantic region and faces water quality challenges common to the area, including agricultural chemicals and industrial contamination. Some contaminants may be above national averages depending on your specific city and water source.
Data sourced from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database. This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: March 2026.
