10 Best Infused Water Recipes (With Soak Times and a Flavor Chart)

Bored of plain water? These 10 best infused water recipes — from cucumber mint to apple cinnamon — come with exact amounts, how long to soak each one, and simple tips to keep your fruit infused water fresh and safe.

Why Drink Infused Water? (The Honest Benefits)

Skip the "detox" promises. The real benefits of infused water are simpler, and they're backed by science:

It helps you drink more water. The CDC suggests adding a wedge of lemon or lime to water as an easy way to drink more of it. It replaces sugary drinks. Water has no calories, so swapping soda or juice for water cuts calories and added sugar. A typical 12-oz soda has 7–10 teaspoons of added sugar, according to Harvard's Nutrition Source . Staying hydrated matters. Water helps control body temperature, supports digestion and helps you think clearly, as the Mayo Clinic explains.

How much you need depends on your age, activity level and climate — Harvard Health has a good breakdown.

How to Make Infused Water (4 Simple Steps)

Wash everything. Scrub citrus peels and rinse fruit and herbs under running water. Slice thin. Thinner slices release flavor faster. Tear or lightly crush herbs like mint and basil. Add cold water. Use about 2–3 cups of fruit per gallon of water, a ratio recommended by the University of Illinois Extension . That's roughly 1–1½ cups for a 2-quart pitcher. Chill and soak. Put it in the fridge right away. Most flavors are ready in 1–4 hours.

The 10 Best Infused Water Recipes

1. Cucumber Mint Water (Classic Spa Water)