Yes, you can brush your teeth with tap water in Jamaica, and it’s safe for the vast majority of travelers.
The water supplied by the National Water Commission (NWC) is treated to international standards and is safe for everyday use, including brushing, cooking, and showering.
I should know, I live in Jamaica, and like most Jamaicans, I brush with tap water every single day.
Why You Can Safely Brush with Tap Water in Jamaica
Jamaica’s original name, Xaymaca, “land of wood and water”, isn’t just poetic. we’ve always had strong, reliable water sources. Modern infrastructure and national standards continue that legacy.
Here’s why it is more than ok to use the water to brush:
We Treat the Water Properly
The National Water Commission (NWC) filters, disinfects, and constantly tests the public water supply before it reaches your tap. Every drop goes through multiple treatment stages to ensure it’s safe for everyday use.
Millions of Us Use It Daily
Over 2.8 million Jamaicans brush, shower, cook, and make tea with tap water every single day without issues. If the water were causing belly problems across the island, trust me, we’d all be COMPLAINING LOUDLY.
Tourist Areas Get Extra Love
Places like Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Kingston, and Port Antonio benefit from excellent natural water sources and solid NWC systems.
Major resorts, Sandals, RIU, Hyatt, Secrets, Couples, also add their own filtration, often making hotel tap water extremely clean for brushing and hygiene.
Okay, so what about drinking it? If you want the full breakdown of where tap water is safe to drink, and where to avoid it, check out my complete guide to drinking tap water in Jamaica.
Where You Should Use Caution (The Real Rule of Thumb)
In Jamaica, whether the tap water is safe for brushing depends on how your accommodation gets its water, not the price, rating, or luxury level.
When It’s Safe to Brush with Tap Water
Anywhere connected directly to the National Water Commission (NWC) supply is generally safe for brushing. This includes:
- Major all-inclusive resorts
- Boutique hotels
- Budget properties
- Airbnbs and guesthouses on NWC lines
NWC-treated water follows strict national and WHO standards, so brushing in these areas is completely normal for both locals and visitors.
When You Should Use Bottled Water Instead
Switch to bottled water for brushing if your accommodation uses:
- A roof tank or cistern as the main supply
- Rainwater catchment systems
- Private wells or springs
- Intermittent NWC supply where water sits in storage
- Old, rusty, or questionable plumbing
These setups are more common in deep rural areas or older homes.
Local Tip: If the tap water ever looks cloudy, muddy, or has a strong odor, just use bottled water for that session.
When You Might Prefer Bottled Water (Purely Personal Choice)
Even when tap water is safe for brushing on the NWC supply, some visitors simply feel more comfortable using bottled water. This is about preference, not safety.
You might choose bottled water if:
- You’re prone to traveler’s diarrhea
- You have an extra-sensitive stomach
- You’re brushing for young children and want to be cautious
- You’re unsure whether the property uses NWC or stored tank water
It’s completely optional.
If you’re staying somewhere with a stable NWC connection, brushing with tap water is normal and safe, the same thing millions of Jamaicans do every single morning.
Practical Tips for Brushing Safely in Jamaica
These are the habits I use when I travel around the island:
Let the tap run for a few seconds.
If the faucet hasn’t been used recently, let it run 5–10 seconds for fresh flow.
During a water lock-off, let it run clear.
When water returns after a lock-off, it’s usually fine, but sometimes slightly cloudy for a minute, especially if NWC was working on the lines. Let it run until clear, or use bottled water once.
Ask your host if you’re unsure.
Jamaicans will tell you straight up whether the water is safe enough for brushing (they’re using it too, after all). One quick question removes all the guesswork.
More Helpful Guides for Your Trip
If you want more tips like this, check out my other Jamaica health and safety guides, or browse the Plan Your Trip section for everything you need to feel prepared before you land.
