Is Greensboro, North Carolina Shower Water Safe? What's In Your Water (2026)
Khat Cruz
Last updated: April 2026.
Is Greensboro, North Carolina Shower Water Safe?
Population: 300,774 · Water Source: Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend, Lake Higgins
Understanding what's in your shower water is crucial for your health and well-being, especially in Greensboro, North Carolina. While Greensboro's drinking water meets federal standards, contaminants common to surface water sources and treatment methods can impact your skin, hair, and respiratory health when showering.
💧 Where Does Greensboro's Water Come From?
Primary Source: Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend, Lake Higgins
Greensboro's water supply primarily comes from three municipal reservoirs: Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend, and Lake Higgins. These surface water sources undergo extensive treatment at the city's water treatment plants to ensure it meets safety standards before distribution. The city continuously monitors water quality to address potential contaminants.
Treatment: Conventional treatment (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration) followed by chloramination for disinfection.
🔬 What's In Greensboro's Shower Water?
Here are the key contaminants detected in Greensboro's water supply based on real testing data from the EWG Tap Water Database:
| Contaminant | Level Found | EPA Limit | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) | 0.0000 ppt | 4e-06 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | 🚨 ABOVE EPA LIMIT (92x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 60.26 ppb | No federal limit | 0.060 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (1004x above) |
| Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS) | 0.0000 ppt | 1e-05 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | 🚨 ABOVE EPA LIMIT (11090x above) |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 34.53 ppb | 80.0 ppb | 0.150 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (230x above) |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 21.56 ppb | 60.0 ppb | 0.100 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (216x above) |
| Bromodichloromethane | 6.17 ppb | No federal limit | 0.060 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (103x above) |
| Trichloroacetic acid | 9.62 ppb | No federal limit | 0.100 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (96x above) |
| Chloroform | 27.63 ppb | No federal limit | 0.400 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (69x above) |
| Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) | 0.0000 ppt | 1e-05 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (58x above) |
| Dichloroacetic acid | 11.08 ppb | No federal limit | 0.200 ppb | ⚠️ Exceeds EWG Health Guideline (55x above) |
Contaminant Details
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)
The health guideline of 0.3 ppt for PFOS 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 cardiovascular harm and harm to fetal growth.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 31.30 ppb. National average: 23.70 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
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.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
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.
Comparison: State average: 35.74 ppb. National average: 29.06 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was defined by as . This health guideline protects against cancer.
Comparison: State average: 21.83 ppb. National average: 19.82 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
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.
Comparison: State average: 7.17 ppb. National average: 5.89 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Trichloroacetic acid
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for trichloroacetic acid was defined by the Environmental Protection Agency 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.
Comparison: State average: 8.56 ppb. National average: 6.57 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Chloroform
The health guideline of 0.4 ppb for chloroform 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.
Comparison: State average: 24.24 ppb. National average: 16.20 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)
The health guideline of 0.006 ppt for perfluorononanoic acid 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 immune system and harm to fetal growth and child development.
Comparison: State average: 0.0000 ppt. National average: 0.0000 ppt.
Shower Impact: Contaminants in shower water can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled as steam, increasing your daily exposure beyond what you get from drinking water alone.
Dichloroacetic acid
The health guideline of 0.2 ppb for dichloroacetic acid was defined by the Environmental Protection Agency 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.
Comparison: State average: 11.92 ppb. National average: 8.00 ppb.
Shower Impact: These disinfection byproducts become airborne in hot shower steam. You can inhale and absorb them through your skin, potentially increasing your exposure beyond just drinking water.
🧴 How Greensboro's Water Affects Your Skin, Hair & Health
When you shower, contaminants in the water don't just wash off — they're absorbed through your skin and inhaled as steam. Here's how Greensboro's water quality may be affecting you:
🧖 Skin Effects
- Dry, itchy, and irritated skin
- Exacerbation of eczema and psoriasis
- Soap scum residue leading to clogged pores
- Premature skin aging due to chemical exposure
💇 Hair Effects
- Dry, brittle, and damaged hair
- Fading of hair color and chemical treatments
- Dullness and lack of shine
- Scalp irritation and buildup
🫁 Respiratory Effects
- Irritation of nasal passages and throat
- Exacerbation of asthma and allergies due to inhaled chloramines and DBPs
- Shortness of breath or coughing in sensitive individuals
- General respiratory discomfort from chemical vapors
✅ What You Can Do About It
Test Your Shower Water
A home water test kit can provide specific data on contaminants present in your household's water, helping you identify particular concerns.
Install a Quality Shower Filter
A good shower filter can significantly reduce chloramines, disinfection byproducts, and heavy metals, improving water quality for your skin and hair.
Reduce Shower Temperature and Duration
Hotter and longer showers increase the amount of steam and chemical vapors you inhale, and prolong skin exposure to contaminants.
Use Gentle, pH-Balanced Products
Opt for soaps, shampoos, and conditioners that are formulated for sensitive skin and hair to counteract the drying effects of hard or chlorinated water.
Moisturize Immediately After Showering
Applying a rich moisturizer to damp skin helps to lock in hydration and create a protective barrier against environmental stressors.
Protect Your Skin & Hair From Greensboro's Water
The easiest way to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from your shower water.
Shop Afina Filtered Showerheads →🛒 Recommended Products for Greensboro Residents
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Replacement filter cartridge for Afina shower filters. Lasts up to 6 months or 10,000 gallons.
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Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Related Reading
- why your skin feels dry after showering
- shower water making skin look dull
- why hair feels oily after showering
- chromium-6 in tap water
- fluoride effects on skin
- shower water quality in Durham, North Carolina
- shower water quality in Fayetteville, North Carolina
Is Greensboro tap water safe to shower in?
Greensboro's tap water meets all federal drinking water standards, making it generally safe for showering. However, common disinfectants like chloramines and naturally occurring minerals can still lead to issues like dry skin, hair damage, and respiratory irritation for sensitive individuals or those with specific conditions.
What causes the chlorine smell in Greensboro showers?
The 'chlorine' smell in Greensboro's shower water is primarily due to chloramines, which are used as a disinfectant. When chloramines react with organic matter on your skin or in the air, they can release volatile compounds that produce a noticeable odor, especially in warm, steamy environments.
Does hard water affect my skin and hair in Greensboro?
Yes, Greensboro's water is moderately hard due to dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water can prevent soaps and shampoos from lathering properly, leaving behind a residue that contributes to dry, itchy skin, dull hair, and can exacerbate conditions like eczema.
How often should I replace my shower filter?
The replacement frequency for a shower filter depends on the specific filter type, your water quality, and how often you shower. Generally, most shower filters need to be replaced every 4 to 6 months to maintain optimal performance in removing contaminants.
Are there specific concerns for children or sensitive individuals showering in Greensboro?
Children and individuals with sensitive skin, respiratory conditions like asthma, or eczema may be more susceptible to the effects of chloramines and hard water. These contaminants can cause increased skin dryness, irritation, and respiratory discomfort, making filtered shower water particularly beneficial for them.
