Howdy, > Is there any esoteric reason why boiled water would be more beneficial? < I understand that there isn't. The point of boiling the water is the same as filtering it: to remove impurities before you put your face in it. Another alternative for water-purifiction - which I learned from keeping aquariums! - is to put the water in a lid-less container, then leave it in the dark for 24 hours or so, before use. This an excellent method of purifying drinking water too! Cheers, Jason