Cloudy water only in morning

Quick Answer:

Morning cloudiness is usually caused by air or settled minerals being disturbed after water sits overnight. Draw the first water of the day and compare with midday clarity to confirm the pattern. In most cases it clears after running the tap; persistent discoloration or odor should be checked by a professional or your water supplier.

Why This Happens

Overnight the plumbing system sits unused. Small amounts of air can collect in the lines and come out as tiny bubbles in your first draw of water, making it look cloudy. If the problem appears more in hot water, minerals can come out of solution when water cools and settles in the tank — similar to what you see as White residue after boiling water. Deposits and debris can also sit in aerators and other fittings; these sometimes appear as particles that settle overnight and then wash into the stream. If aerator particles are the issue, you may see evidence like White specks clogging aerators.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Draw the first water and document it

Draw the first water of the day and compare with midday clarity. Fill a clear glass from the kitchen tap as soon as you wake, noting whether the water is cloudy, milky, or shows visible particles. Photograph or set the glass aside for a moment to see if the cloudiness clears from bottom to top (air bubbles often rise and disappear within a minute).

2. Run and compare

Run the cold tap for 30–60 seconds and watch for changes. If the water clears quickly, the issue is likely trapped air or loose sediment that was sitting in the line. Repeat the first-draw test in the afternoon or evening to compare.

3. Check hot vs. cold separately

Test both hot and cold water. If only the hot water is cloudy, the water heater may have mineral buildup or trapped air. Carefully flush a few minutes of hot water from a lower tap and see if clarity improves. Do not attempt major heater maintenance unless you are comfortable and follow the manufacturer’s safety steps.

4. Inspect and clean aerators and faucet screens

Remove faucet aerators and screens, look for white particles or mineral flakes, and rinse them. Reinstall and test the tap again. Clogged aerators can make first-draw water look worse and reduce flow.

5. Check with neighbors and your supplier

Ask nearby homes if they see the same morning-only cloudiness. If multiple homes are affected, contact your water utility to ask about recent work, pressure changes, or reservoir issues.

6. Keep a short log

Note dates, times, which taps are affected, whether it’s hot/cold, and whether the cloudiness clears after running. This helps a plumber or utility identify patterns.

What Not to Do

• Do not assume morning-only cloudiness is permanent.
• Do not immediately use strong chemicals or do untested water treatments in the house—this can be unsafe and unnecessary.
• Do not ignore a change that includes color (brown, red) or a foul smell—those are signs to act sooner.
• Do not dismantle the water heater or plumbing beyond simple aerator removal unless you know the correct safety steps.

When to Call a Professional

• If the cloudiness does not clear after running the tap for several minutes or returns persistently.
• If you see brown, red, or black discoloration, notice a strong chemical or sewage-like smell, or have particles that settle out.
• If the problem affects multiple fixtures and neighbors, or if there is a sudden change in pressure or water taste.
• If you suspect the water heater has sediment buildup and you are not comfortable flushing it safely.

Safety Notes

• Cloudiness from air is usually harmless and will clear quickly; cloudy water that is discolored or odorous should not be consumed until tested or confirmed safe.
• If vulnerable people ( infants, elderly, immune-compromised) are in the home and you’re unsure, use bottled or boiled water for drinking and cooking until resolved.
• When cleaning aerators, avoid sharp tools that can damage parts; when servicing a water heater, follow lockout procedures for electricity or gas.

Common Homeowner Questions

• Why does it clear if I let the tap run? — Running the tap flushes trapped air and loose particles out of the line.
• Is cloudy morning water dangerous? — In most cases no, especially if it clears quickly; persistent discoloration or odor should be checked.
• Can I fix this myself? — You can do basic checks (first-draw test, run taps, clean aerators), but call a pro for persistent or concerning signs.