Last updated: April 2026.
🚿 Maryland Shower Water Quality Report (2026)
Comprehensive analysis of Maryland water quality across 2 cities • Based on real EWG testing data • Updated 2026
If you live in Maryland, 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 2 Maryland cities reveals 8 contaminants that may exceed EWG health guidelines.
Maryland faces unique water quality challenges including Chesapeake Bay watershed pollution and aging infrastructure. Whether you're in Annapolis or elsewhere in the state, understanding what's in your shower water is the first step toward protecting your skin and hair.
📊 Maryland Water Quality at a Glance
Across Maryland, we analyzed water quality data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database. The results show that Maryland 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 Maryland Water
Based on EWG data analysis, here are the most significant contaminants detected in Maryland water supplies:
| Contaminant | Avg. Level | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 25.20 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 420.0x above |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 33.06 ppb | 0.1500 ppb | ⚠️ 220.4x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 16.56 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 165.6x above |
| Bromodichloromethane | 4.22 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 70.3x above |
| Chloroform | 14.35 ppb | 0.4000 ppb | ⚠️ 35.9x above |
| Radium, combined (-226 and -228) | 1.2728 pCi/L | 0.0500 pCi/L | ⚠️ 25.5x above |
| Nitrate and nitrite | 1.3900 ppm | 0.1400 ppm | ⚠️ 9.9x above |
| Dibromochloromethane | 0.9400 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 9.4x above |
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 | Maryland Average: 25.20 ppb
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 | Maryland Average: 33.06 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 | Maryland Average: 16.56 ppb
Bromodichloromethane
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for bromodichloromethane was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a one-in-a-million lifetime risk of cancer. Values greater than one-in-a-million cancer risk level can result in increased cancer cases above one in a million people.
National Average: 5.89 ppb | Maryland Average: 4.22 ppb
🏙️ City-by-City Water Quality in Maryland
We've analyzed water quality in 2 Maryland cities. Click on any city to see its detailed water quality report:
| City | Contaminants Found | Above EWG Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | 21 | 10 |
| Annapolis | 20 | 10 |
🩺 Health Effects of Maryland Water Contaminants
The contaminants found in Maryland 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 Maryland Water Contaminants
The good news: you don't have to accept whatever comes out of your Maryland showerhead. A quality shower filter can significantly reduce many of the contaminants found in your water.
Key contaminants a shower filter can help address:
- Haloacetic acids (HAA9) — learn about health effects and removal
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) — learn about health effects and removal
- Nitrate and nitrite — 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 Maryland
Based on Maryland'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 Maryland 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 Maryland tap water safe to shower in?
While Maryland 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 Maryland water?
Based on EWG data, Maryland water contains up to 27 detected contaminants. The most notable include Haloacetic acids (HAA9), Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs), Haloacetic acids (HAA5). Maryland faces specific challenges with Chesapeake Bay watershed pollution and aging infrastructure.
Does Maryland have hard water?
Many areas in Maryland have hard water. Mineral content varies by region but may contribute to dry skin, buildup on fixtures, and hair issues.
Do I need a shower filter in Maryland?
Given that Maryland 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 Maryland water compare to the national average?
Maryland is in the Mid-Atlantic region and faces water quality challenges common to the area, including Chesapeake Bay watershed pollution and aging infrastructure. 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.
