🚿 Texas Shower Water Quality Report (2026)
Comprehensive analysis of Texas water quality across 23 cities • Based on real EWG testing data • Updated 2026
If you live in Texas, 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 23 Texas cities reveals 8 contaminants that may exceed EWG health guidelines.
Texas faces unique water quality challenges including extreme hard water, oil and gas contamination, and drought stress. Whether you're in Austin or elsewhere in the state, understanding what's in your shower water is the first step toward protecting your skin and hair.
📊 Texas Water Quality at a Glance
Across Texas, we analyzed water quality data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database. The results show that Texas 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 Texas Water
Based on EWG data analysis, here are the most significant contaminants detected in Texas water supplies:
| Contaminant | Avg. Level | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS) | 0.0000 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ 3613.1x above |
| Arsenic | 4.56 ppb | 0.0040 ppb | ⚠️ 1139.4x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 33.20 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 553.4x above |
| Bromochloroacetic acid | 6.13 ppb | 0.0200 ppb | ⚠️ 306.4x above |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 38.51 ppb | 0.1500 ppb | ⚠️ 256.7x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 18.58 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 185.8x above |
| Bromodichloromethane | 11.07 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 184.6x above |
| Dibromoacetic acid | 5.11 ppb | 0.0300 ppb | ⚠️ 170.2x above |
Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS)
The health guideline of 0.001 ppt for perfluorohexane sulfonate was defined by EWG based on studies by Phillipe Grandjean of Harvard University and many other independent researchers who found reduced effectiveness of vaccines and adverse impacts on mammary gland development from exposure to PFOA and PFOS, the two PFAS most widely detected in drinking water. This health guideline harm to the developing immune system.
National Average: 0.0000 ppt | Texas Average: 0.0000 ppt
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 | Texas Average: 4.56 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 | Texas Average: 33.20 ppb
Bromochloroacetic acid
The health guideline of 0.02 ppb for bromochloroacetic acid was established. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 2.80 ppb | Texas Average: 6.13 ppb
🏙️ City-by-City Water Quality in Texas
We've analyzed water quality in 23 Texas cities. Click on any city to see its detailed water quality report:
| City | Contaminants Found | Above EWG Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Houston | 105 | 33 |
| Pasadena | 105 | 33 |
| Fort Worth | 83 | 29 |
| Irving | 46 | 21 |
| Garland | 40 | 19 |
| McAllen | 37 | 19 |
| Midland | 37 | 19 |
| Dallas | 38 | 18 |
| El Paso | 47 | 18 |
| Plano | 34 | 18 |
| Frisco | 43 | 18 |
| McKinney | 43 | 18 |
| Brownsville | 38 | 18 |
| Arlington | 37 | 17 |
| Lubbock | 32 | 17 |
| Amarillo | 33 | 17 |
| Killeen | 34 | 17 |
| San Antonio | 38 | 15 |
| Waco | 32 | 15 |
| Austin | 29 | 14 |
| Corpus Christi | 33 | 14 |
| Laredo | 31 | 13 |
| Denton | 30 | 13 |
🩺 Health Effects of Texas Water Contaminants
The contaminants found in Texas 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 Texas Water Contaminants
The good news: you don't have to accept whatever comes out of your Texas showerhead. A quality shower filter can significantly reduce many of the contaminants found in your water.
Key contaminants a shower filter can help address:
- Arsenic — learn about health effects and removal
- Haloacetic acids (HAA9) — learn about health effects and removal
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) — 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 Texas
Based on Texas'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 Texas 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 Texas tap water safe to shower in?
While Texas 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 Texas water?
Based on EWG data, Texas water contains up to 129 detected contaminants. The most notable include Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS), Arsenic, Haloacetic acids (HAA9). Texas faces specific challenges with extreme hard water, oil and gas contamination, and drought stress.
Does Texas have hard water?
Yes, Texas generally has very hard water. High mineral content including calcium and magnesium can cause buildup on fixtures, dry skin, and hair damage.
Do I need a shower filter in Texas?
Given that Texas 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 Texas water compare to the national average?
Texas is in the South Central region and faces water quality challenges common to the area, including extreme hard water, oil and gas contamination, and drought stress. 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.
