Ask Extension Database, NDSU Extension Service Ask Extension for answers to commonly asked questions. The choice of water in making pickles will affect the end result.
Soft water is best for pickling.
The dissolved minerals in hard water will interfere with the pickling process. If only hard water is available, boil it, skim away the surface scum, and let it sit for 24 hours. Then draw water off the top of the container without disturbing any sediment. An easier alternative than boiling, if you live in a hard water area, is to buy distilled water. Try pickling both ways and decide for yourself whether the cost is justified.