When we asked Ocean to recommend a water filter pitcher, we simply gave up, so here are the options we took a closer look at.
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        Staying hydrated seems to be an ongoing challenge—at least judging by the popularity of gallon-sized water bottles and bottles that say how many ounces you should drink at a certain time—and a filtered water pitcher can help you stay healthy. Meeting your daily water goals can be done easily and economically by choosing filtered water pitchers instead of disposable bottles. Essentially, water filter pitchers improve the taste and smell of your tap water. Some models can also reduce contaminants such as heavy metals, chemicals or microplastics. Whether you’re drinking water for yourself, filling up the coffee machine, or getting ready to cook, we’ve sifted through dozens of options to find the perfect water filter pitcher for you.
        Water from public water treatment plants in the United States is considered some of the safest in the world, but exceptions such as lead in the Flint, Michigan, water supply can make people nervous. We specialize in water filter pitchers that produce refreshing and clean water. The basic technology of many filters is similar, although some reduce or remove other potential contaminants and others are designed to preserve minerals that are good for you. We also emphasize that the product meets or is certified to standards set by the National Science Foundation/National Standards Institute and the Water Quality Association, independent third-party reviewers.
        Most water filter pitchers have the same design: a top and bottom reservoir with a filter in between. Pour tap water into the top section and wait for gravity to pull it through the filter to the bottom section. But there are plenty of other options, like figuring out how much water your family uses and how much space you have in your refrigerator. Besides the cost of the pitcher, you also need to consider the cost of the filters and the number of gallons they can clean before replacing them (because some of us are really obsessed with constantly refilling our water bottles).
        The Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher is our best overall water filter pitcher because it has a relatively large 10-cup capacity, is affordable, and has a long-lasting filter. The jug’s hinged lid, known as the Tahoe, allows you to fill it faster than models that require you to remove the entire top. It also has an indicator light that shows whether the filter is OK, working, or needs to be replaced.
        We recommend the Elite Retrofit Filter, which is certified to reduce lead, mercury, BPA, and some pesticides and persistent chemicals. It captures more contaminants than a standard white filter and lasts six months—three times longer. However, some customers note that after a few months the filter can become clogged, shortening its lifespan. Assuming you don’t need to replace anything any time soon, the annual cost of the filters will be around $35.
        Many people know LifeStraw for its life-saving water filters and camping filters, but the company also designs beautiful, effective products for your home. The LifeStraw Home Water Filtration Pitcher retails for about $65 and is available in a variety of colors in a modern round glass pitcher that may appeal to people trying to reduce plastic use in their homes. The matching silicone case is pleasant to the touch, protects against scratches and dents, and provides a comfortable grip.
        This filter is a two-part system that can handle over 30 contaminants that many other water tanks cannot handle. It is NSF/ANSI certified to reduce chlorine, mercury and lead. It also meets dozens of different standards tested by accredited laboratories for pesticides, herbicides and some persistent chemicals, and can purify water cloudy with sand, dirt or other sediment. The company says you can use the filter during a boil water advisory, but if that happened in my area, I’d still boil the water.
        The benefit of the two-piece filter is that the LifeStraw Home can remove a large amount of contaminants. The disadvantage is that each part needs to be replaced at different times. The membrane lasts about one year, and smaller carbon and ion exchange filters need to be replaced every two months (or about 40 gallons). The cost per year is around $75, which is higher than most of the other pitchers on this list. Users have also noticed that filtration is slow, so it’s best to fill the container before placing it back in the refrigerator. (This is polite to other pitchers, by the way.)
        The Hydros Slim Pitch 40-ounce water filter eschews the standard dual-tank filtration system in favor of speed. This small but mighty pitcher uses a coconut shell carbon filter to remove 90% of chlorine and 99% of sediment. It does not target other potential contaminants. This five-cup storage pitcher doesn’t have handles, but it’s easy to hold and fill, making it a top choice for thin pitchers.
        A family with small children who insists on pouring their own drinks might think the lack of a handle is a bad thing, but it fits easily into the refrigerator door without taking up all the space. The Hydro Slim Pitcher also comes with a colorful case and the filter is available in a variety of colors such as purple, lime green, blue and red, giving it that extra personal touch. The filter can also be equipped with a water injector to add fruit or herbal aroma.
        Hydros filters need to be replaced every two months, which will cost you about $30 per year. They are also interchangeable with other Hydros products.
        The Brita high flow filter is for those who hate waiting. It’s all in the name: when you pour water, it passes through an activated carbon filter installed on the spout. Anyone who’s ever tried to fill a gallon water bottle knows that it’s a multi-step process for a regular jug. It is necessary to fill the water tank at least once and wait for it to pass through the filter. It only takes a few minutes, but you know the saying: water is never filtered. Brita Stream eliminates the waiting process.
        The downside is that it is not a powerful contaminant filter. It is certified to remove chlorine taste and odor while retaining fluoride, minerals and electrolytes. This is a sponge filter, unlike the plastic housing versions familiar from other Brita products. Filters need to be replaced every 40 gallons, and with a multipack, a year’s supply costs about $38.
        At $150, the Aarke purifier is pricey, but it’s made from high-quality, hygienic materials like glass and stainless steel and comes with a reusable filter. This is probably the most eco-friendly option on this list because it doesn’t use plastic filters that end up in the trash after use. Instead, the system uses filter particles that Aarke developed in collaboration with water technology company BWT.
        These granules reduce chlorine, heavy metals and limescale, helping to prevent stains on your dishes. The pellets last about 32 gallons before they need to be replaced. The company offers two types of pellets: pure pellets and concentrated pellets, which add magnesium and turn tap water alkaline. Prices range from $20 to $30 for a three-pack.
        The LARQ PureVis pitcher offers something different: the pitcher uses a two-step process to filter water and inhibit bacterial growth. The water first enters a NanoZero plant filter to remove chlorine, mercury, cadmium and copper. The pitcher’s “UV wand” then emits light to combat bacteria and viruses in the water.
        The LARQ also needs to be charged every two months using the included USB-A charger. The entire kit also comes with an iOS-only app that helps you keep track of when to change filters and how much water you’re using. This gadget-equipped water bottle will cost around $170, but will likely appeal to people accustomed to smart devices and tracking various personal metrics (which is why the company makes our favorite smart water bottle). LARQ offers two tiers of filters, and while they last a little longer than many of the filters on this list, a year’s supply will set you back $100 for the entry-level filter or up to about $150 for the premium version.
        Larger households or people who have to drink a gallon of water a day may need the PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter. This large-capacity dispenser has a thin, deep design and a sealed spout and retails for about $70. PUR PLUS filters are certified to reduce 70 other contaminants, including lead, mercury and some pesticides. It is made from activated carbon from coconut shells. It has a mineral core that replaces some naturally occurring minerals such as calcium and magnesium to provide a fresh taste without the taste or smell of chlorine. But they only last 40 gallons or two months. A year’s supply when purchasing multipacks is usually around $50.
        How much water you should drink is a personal number, not the standard eight glasses of water we heard growing up. Having clean-tasting water on hand will help you achieve your hydration goals. Water filter pitchers are generally cheaper and more environmentally friendly than storing single-use bottled water. To choose the right pitcher for you, there are a few things you need to consider.
        Plastic is the default material for many pitchers and a key material for many filters. While it can be difficult to find products that are completely plastic-free, there are options. Some offer premium materials such as glass, stainless steel or food-grade silicone parts. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations to see if you want to hand wash the components or put them in the dishwasher. The popularity of water filter pitchers has also seen more manufacturers pay attention to aesthetics, so it won’t be hard to find an attractive option that you’ll be happy to leave on your counter.
        Filters vary in cost, design and what they reduce or remove. Most of the filters in this review are activated carbon, which absorbs chlorine and reduces asbestos, lead, mercury and volatile organic compounds. If you have specific questions, such as the removal of certain chemicals or heavy metals, visit the manufacturer’s website for performance data.
        We are not a laboratory, so we prefer products that are certified by NSF International or the Water Quality Association. However, we list products that “meet” independent laboratory testing standards.
        Consider how much water your family drinks and how many gallons the filter can hold before it needs to be replaced. The filter must be replaced in order for the tank to continue to function. Some only process 40 gallons, so dry or larger homes may need to replace the filter sooner than about two months. A filter designed to last longer may be a better choice. And don’t forget to calculate how much it will cost you to replace over the course of a year.
        Water filter pitchers are best for those who want to improve the taste of their tap water—all of the pitchers on this list can do just that. Some water filter pitchers can remove additional contaminants and contaminants, some of which are not yet regulated, such as persistent chemicals. (FYI, the EPA published proposed rules for PFA in March.) If you are interested in water quality, you can check the annual water quality report on the EPA website, an Environmental Working Group database that is included in Tap Water or get your home water tested.
        Water filter pitchers generally do not remove bacteria. Most water filter pitchers use carbon or ion exchange filters, which do not reduce microorganisms such as bacteria. However, LifeStraw Home and LARQ can reduce or suppress some bacteria using membrane filters and UV light, respectively. If bacteria control is a priority, look into water purification options or an entirely different filtration system using reverse osmosis.
        Check your owner’s manual to find out which parts should be washed by hand and which can be washed in the dishwasher. However, be sure to clean the pitcher. Bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors can accumulate in any kitchen utensil, and water filter pitchers are no exception.
        My friends, you don’t have to be thirsty all the time. Whether your priority is affordability, sustainability, or great design, we’ve found the best water filtration pitchers for your home. Large Brita water filter jug ​​for tap and drinking water with SmartLight filter replacement indicator + 1 elite filter. Our pick for the best all-around filter. Updates the classic Brita filter, making it more convenient. Tops, wide handles and clever filtration for products that last longer but cost less. more. But no matter which one you choose, be sure to change the filter regularly to get maximum benefit and minimize contaminants.
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