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Urine colour chart

3-minute read

Are you drinking enough water? Use this urine colour chart to check how hydrated you are. It is important to drink plenty of water every day to stay healthy.

Infographic of a urine colour chart, that you can use to assess how hydrated you are.
Download this guide as a PDF

View text version of infographic

Am I drinking enough water?

Use this urine colour chart to check how hydrated you are. It is important to drink plenty of water every day to stay healthy.

1 to 2: Hydrated

Pale, odourless and plentiful urine usually means that you are well hydrated.
Keep drinking at the same rate.

3 to 4: Mildly dehydrated

Slightly darker yellow urine usually means that you need to drink more water.
Drink a glass of water now.

5 to 6: Dehydrated

Medium-dark yellow urine usually means that you are dehydrated.
Drink 2-3 glasses of water now.

7 to 8: Very Dehydrated

Darker, strong-smelling urine in small amounts can be a sign of dehydration.
Drink a large bottle of water immediately.

What can change the colour of my urine?

Certain foods, medications and vitamin supplements may change your urine colour even if you are hydrated.

Important

This chart is a guide only, and should not replace the advice of a health professional. If you’re worried about dehydration or the colour of your urine, speak to a doctor.

More information

Read more here about why drinking plenty of water every day is essential for good health. Find out how much water you need to stay hydrated, and what can happen if you don't drink enough.

Get tips on keeping kids hydrated here. Learn more about the signs of dehydration here (and how to avoid it).

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Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.

Last reviewed: April 2026


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