Updated on: 6/3/2025
Can You Make Soda Water at Home?
Soda water, also called sparkling water or seltzer, is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. Making soda water at home is entirely possible, thanks to a range of home carbonation tools and a few old-fashioned kitchen tricks.
How Cartonators Work
Most home soda makers use a CO₂ canister and a special bottle designed to withstand carbonation. The process is simple: fill the bottle with cold water, attach it to the machine, and press a button to inject gas until you reach your desired level of fizziness. The result is fresh soda water in seconds, ready for cocktails, mocktails, or sipping straight.
Main Methods to Make Soda Water at Home
- Soda maker machines: The easiest and most consistent tool. Brands like SodaStream let you adjust carbonation and make liters at a time.
- CO₂ seltzer siphons: Classic chrome siphons use CO₂ cartridges. Fill with cold water, charge, shake, and pour.
- DIY bottle and CO₂ kit: Some homebrewers use adapters to carbonate water in plastic bottles, but this method requires extra caution for safety.
What You Need
- Cold filtered or tap water (cold water holds carbonation best)
- A soda maker, seltzer siphon, or compatible carbonation system
- CO₂ canister or cartridges (as specified by your carbonation tool)
Steps for Making Soda Water at Home
- Fill the bottle or siphon with the desired amount of cold water (usually up to the fill line, commonly 1000 ml for most machines).
- Secure the CO₂ source (canister or cartridge) as instructed by your machine or siphon.
- Carbonate: Press the button or charge to inject CO₂. For pronounced fizz, most machines suggest three to five bursts.
- Slowly release pressure (follow device safety instructions) and unscrew the cap.
- Immediately pour over ice, or store chilled in the fridge with a tightly sealed cap.
Tips for the Best Homemade Soda Water
- Use water that is as cold as possible. Cold liquid absorbs CO₂ much better, meaning more fizz and less gas wasted.
- Stick to water only. Adding flavors or syrups before carbonating can clog valves or damage your equipment.
- Carbonate just before serving for the freshest effervescence.
- Store carbonated water in the fridge with a tight cap to preserve bubbles.
How Homemade Soda Water Compares
Freshly carbonated water usually retains higher carbonation than store-bought bottles that have been sitting on shelves. Homemade versions are also free of sodium, additives, and plastic bottle waste. Many bartenders prefer homemade soda for highball cocktails, spritzes, or topping up a Tom Collins due to its bright fizz and neutral flavor.
