Ask pretty much anyone you know and you’ll probably hear back the same thing: Disney is perfectly safe for both adults and kids alike. Whether you’re one of those people who prefer to unwind aboard one of Disney’s most relaxing rides (Jungle Cruise, anyone?) or you’re a fan of hitting up all the best roller coasters at each of the four parks, Disney doesn’t leave much up to chance when it comes to caring for its guests.
In fact, the park and its staff generally go out of their way to ensure visitors are safe, comfortable, and protected from pretty much any potential harm that might put a damper on their trip (heck, even staying mosquito-free is a top priority in Disney’s books). Nonetheless, in between the magic and memories, there’s one pretty major thing you might not have considered that could spoil your fun, and that’s touching the water.
Despite how tempting it might feel to dip your fingers or toes into the seemingly pristine ponds and pools of water throughout the park, the reality is a lot less magical than that. From added chemicals to mystery gunk and potential signs of bacteria, Disney water simply isn’t guest-ready. And trust us: You don’t want to find out why firsthand.
There’s more in Disney’s water than just water
DLP Welcome/YouTube
There’s something about flowing water that just screams to be tapped, dunked, and played with — especially while you’re blissfully gliding along. However, when it comes to Disney, it’s probably best to resist those urges — and resist them hard. According to a clip from TikTok user @nostalgiamountain that went viral in 2023, one of the main reasons why guests should keep all of their limbs out of Disney’s water is the possibility of catching a rare but potentially deadly bug. Per the creator, the presence of a brain-eating amoeba — Naegleria fowleri — has been previously found in water sources around the area. In fact, there are even reports of the threat that date all the way back to 1980 when a young boy died from an infection he contracted while swimming at the park.
@nostalgiamountain
Dont do this! 🤢 #disney #disneyparks #disneyland #dinsneyworld
♬ original sound – Nostalgiamountain
Along with this, Disney water is also packed chock-full of dyes and chemicals that add a little something extra to the experience. After all, crystal-clear waters don’t really fit the scene while you’re meant to be cruising down the jungle, right? That said, not only does adding dye help with keeping things on-theme, but it also helps hide other elements: think the bolts and mechanisms needed to keep the ride moving, as well as the unexpected surprises that Disney rides are known for. As for the chemicals, they’re Disney’s way of dealing with any unwelcome insects that might try to make a home for themselves within park limits.
Other not-so-pleasant truths of the water in Disney rides
Brain-eating amoebas and harmful chemicals aside, Disney’s water also has plenty of other unsavory elements lurking beneath the surface. One of the main unsettling components of Disney water? Human ashes. Per USA Today, there have been several reports of visitors spreading their loved ones’ ashes all throughout the park premises — including in the water of rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s A Small World. Although the behavior is strictly prohibited — and people who choose Disney as their loved ones’ resting place can and will be escorted off the property — the possibility of risking exile hasn’t stopped park guests from scattering ashes in secret.
This relatively disturbing practice, combined with reports of people dumping their drinks, spitting, and even peeing or pooping into the water should be more than enough to stop you from fiddling around. Oh, and just in case it wasn’t clear yet, this also means you should never (ever!) drink the rides’ water either. Yuck.
