In France, distilled water is commonly used for household purposes, such as in irons, car batteries, humidifiers, and medical devices. While it may not always be labeled as “distilled water,” it is widely available under the name “eau déminéralisée” or “eau distillée”.

• Eau déminéralisée: This translates to demineralized water, which is the most common equivalent of distilled water in France. It is free of minerals and safe for most appliances.
• Eau distillée: This specifically means distilled water, but it’s less commonly sold for household use.

For most purposes (like irons, humidifiers, or cleaning), eau déminéralisée is sufficient.

You can find distilled water in various places across France:

1. Where: Large supermarkets such as Carrefour, Auchan, Intermarché, Leclerc, and Monoprix stock distilled water in the cleaning or household products aisle.
2. How to Find It: Look for bottles labeled “Eau Déminéralisée” or sometimes “Eau Distillée”. Look in the aise for cleaning or laundry products “lessive ou produits d'entretien”
3. Packaging: Typically sold in 1-liter, 2-liter, or larger 5-liter jugs.
4. Price: Usually inexpensive, around €0.50–€1.50 per liter depending on the size and store

1. Where: Stores like Bricorama, Castorama, Leroy Merlin, or Brico Dépôt carry distilled or demineralized water, especially for appliances and automotive use.
2. Purpose: Often sold for use in car batteries, steam irons, or cleaning delicate equipment.

1. Where: Local pharmacies sometimes stock smaller bottles of distilled water.
2. Purpose: Typically intended for medical or hygienic uses (e.g., cleaning contact lenses, CPAP machines).
3. Note: Pharmacies may sell a purer version of distilled water, but it can be more expensive.
4. Tip: 100% of pharmacists speak English in France. They will certainly understand what distilled water you need and will be pleased to practice their English and help you.

1. Where: Stores like Norauto, Feu Vert, or other car maintenance shops.
2. Purpose: Often marketed for use in car radiators and batteries.
3. Label: Look for “Eau Déminéralisée pour batterie” (demineralized water for batteries).

If you’re having trouble finding it, here’s how to ask for distilled water in French:

• “Bonjour, où puis-je trouver de l’eau déminéralisée, s’il vous plaît?”
  1. Translation: *Hello, where can I find demineralized water, please?*

• If they don’t understand, try:
  1. “Je cherche de l’eau pour fer à repasser ou pour batterie.”
     1. Translation: *I’m looking for water for an iron or car battery.*

• Labels: Always check the label to ensure it is suitable for your intended use.
• Usage:
  1. For household appliances (irons, humidifiers): Eau déminéralisée is perfect.
  2. For medical devices: Look for pharmaceutical-grade distilled water in pharmacies.
• Storage: Store the water in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly sealed to prevent contamination.

To buy distilled water in France:

• Go to supermarkets (Carrefour, Auchan, etc.) or DIY stores (Castorama, Leroy Merlin).
• Look for “Eau Déminéralisée” or “Eau Distillée” on the label.
• Ask for help by saying: “Où est l’eau déminéralisée, s’il vous plaît?”
• Expect affordable prices, especially in larger bottles for household use
• Go to pharmacies for distilled water for medical uses

With this guide, you’ll easily locate distilled water for any purpose during your stay in France.