Which type of water is treated to remove metallic cations?

Soft water is treated specifically to remove metallic cations such as calcium and magnesium, which are responsible for water hardness. The process of softening water typically involves ion exchange, where calcium and magnesium ions are replaced with sodium ions, resulting in water that is less harsh on plumbing and appliances. This makes soft water ideal for many household uses, including cooking and cleaning, as it does not lead to scale buildup in pipes and appliances.

In contrast, hard water contains higher concentrations of these metallic cations and can lead to issues like mineral deposits. Spring water and mineral water are generally sourced from natural springs and may contain a variety of minerals, including those that contribute to hardness, but they aren't subjected to the same treatment process designed specifically to reduce metallic cations as soft water is.