So, the golden rule: if you can safely submerge your finger in the water without screaming, it’s not hot enough to kill bacteria. Boil it until it’s angry and bubbling. Let it cool, pour it over your morning coffee, and go forth knowing you’ve defeated a microscopic army. Your victory lap is now tea time.
And if you’re still paranoid? Just remember: humans have been boiling water for thousands of years. We survived the Black Death, the Industrial Revolution, and dial-up internet. A little heat is all it takes to keep you from becoming a petri dish. Cheers!
