Water is essential for a healthy life, and what we put into our bodies will affect our wellbeing in the long run. Back in
the days, people enjoyed clean, fresh water from rivers and streams, but urbanisation has caused many water sources to be contaminated. Today, our water has to be treated municipally with chemicals such as chlorine and chloramine. For those who cannot afford an expensive filtration system to rid the water of these harmful substances, consider getting a water filter pitcher. We have also written a complete guide about the best water purifiers.
How It Works
Water filter pitchers are made to convert tap water into potable water – achieved through means of a filter within the pitcher, which water has to flow through. This gives users clean water on the bottom, which can then be poured out for consumption. The filters are typically made from similar materials as whole house filtration systems, such as activated carbon. Check out our complete guide about the best whole house water filters.
Benefits
Less costly – Although basic, a water pitcher filter is able to deliver what expensive reverse osmosis or whole house filtration systems do, at a fraction of the price.
Removes contaminants – Most, if not all water filter pitchers are able to remove chlorine – the most commonly found chemical in municipally treated water – by up to 95%. Other contaminants typically filtered out include mercury, lead, copper, sediment, dirt and rust. The result is cleaner, better tasting water free fro
m bad tastes and odours.
Convenient – Do away with complicated setups that require the expertise of a plumber. All one needs to do with a filter pitcher is pour water in and wait for the filter to do its job. Replacing filters is also a breeze.
Environmentally friendly – As the pitcher can be reused, it cuts down on purchasing bottled water and reduces plastic that will go into landfills and the ocean, which is harmful to the environment.
Key Things to Consider
Performance – Depending on the type of water going into your household, there are different models designed to filter specific contaminants, such as mercury, copper or lead. As a general rule, most remove chlorine, sediment, dirt and rust, but if you have water that has bacteria or microorganisms, check to see if the filters are able to accommodate this type of filtration, as not all are equipped to do so. The mark of good performance is water that is not only clean, but free of bad taste, odours and limescale.
Speed – Many pitcher-type filters suffer from poor filtering speed, requiring users to leave the water overnight in order to get a small pitcher of water. Optimally, a good water filter pitcher should be able to filter quickly without compromising on the quality of the results. Some filters are notorious for clogging, forcing users to remove the cartridge and shake the components loose. As the filter loses efficiency over time, a filtration speed of less than half an hour when the filter is new is considered fair.
Double Duty – Alkaline water purportedly helps to reduce acidity and inflammation, improve 
immunity and prevent diseases, increase metabolism, aid in weight loss and slow down the aging process by removing free radicals. Some pitcher filters not only filter but also ionises water, upping its alkalinity, whilst adding beneficial trace minerals such as calcium and magnesium – which tend to be filtered out in reverse osmosis or whole house filtration systems.
Size – Large households will want filters with holding tanks that can fulfill their drinking needs, while those who intend it for single use will want to go for smaller pitchers. Compact sized pitchers are easier to store, especially if space is a concern.
Design and Convenience – This includes how easy it is to hold and tilt the unit without spilling, whether the lid supports easy refilling via a separate flap, how easy it is to clean as well as its stability when filled to the brim.
Top 15 Best Water Filter Pitchers in 2022
1. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
Combining the principles of adsorption, absorption, chemical bonding, chelation and depth filtration, the Aquagear
turns ordinary tap water into great-tasting, potable drinking water, without the need for expensive reverse osmosis systems. Touted to remove 2000% more contaminants than its competitor brands, the Aquagear filters out harmful substances such as fluoride, lead, chromium 6, chloramines, mercury and chlorine – whilst maintaining healthy trace minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Its five-stage filter boasts a dedicated lead and fluoride filter, as well as an absorbent carbon derived from coconut shells, which works by trapping and neutralising waterborne pollutants and organic compounds, further helping to reduce bad tastes and odours. PCBs and solvents, often used as disinfectants during the municipal water treatment process, are also greatly reduced, thanks to the filter’s two micron pores. Meanwhile, CRM Ion Exchange Materials in a chelative matrix effectively removes heavy metals, , industrial and agricultural pollutants and trace pharmaceuticals. In total, the pitcher is able to remove up to 89 contaminants. Do note that the filter is unable to remove small organisms like giardia or cryptosporidium, and should therefore be used with microbiologically safe tap water.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Aquagear comes with triple capacity filters, capable of producing 150 gallons of water, and lasts three or four times longer than some other brands on the market. On average, this computes to roughly six months of use before the filter needs to be changed. The reservoir holds eight cups of water, while the carafe holds 10 cups.
Possibly due to quality control issues, Aquagear’s filter speed varies, ranging from 10 minutes to a few hours in order to get a full pitcher of drinkable water, which can be extremely frustrating for some. Also, certain units seem to clog up more easily than others.
Design and Material
The Aquagear is 100% BPA-free and uses 100% FDA-approved food grade materials, in addition to being recyclable and vegan-friendly. It measures 11.1 x 10.9 x 5.7 inches and weighs 3 lbs when empty. Before use, the filter should be flushed out for two to three minutes.
However, the design has its flaws, especially the gap between the spout and top reservoir, which makes it impossible to pour clean, filtered water from the bottom while there is liquid in the top reservoir, without mixing the two. This may not pose a problem for users who leave their tap water overnight, but might be a hassle for those who need clean drinking water in a pinch. The lid door cannot be opened or closed manually, but runs on a passive mechanism that tends to spill water everywhere.
Additional Features
The Aquagear comes with a lifetime guarantee and same-day customer support. The model meets NSF standards 42 and 53, and has been tested in independent ISO 17025 accredited labs.
Pros
- Removes most contaminants
- Large capacity
- Safe, BPA-free material
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Poor filter speed
- Flawed design
- Spills water when poured
- Gap between spout and top reservoir mixes clean and unfiltered water
- Cannot filter microorganisms
2. Invigorated Living pH RESTORE Alkaline Water Pitcher/ Ionizer
For those who prefer alkaline water, Invigorated Living’s pH Restore delivers, upping the alkalinity of regular tap
water, whilst making it safe to drink. The set comes with two multi-stage PH001 filters, consisting of a zeolite, stone and ceramic ball blend, micro nets, activated coconut carbon charcoal and ion exchange resin. They work to remove up to 99% of chlorine, chloramine, VOCs, sediment, sand, rust and turbidites, whilst also filtering heavy metals such as arsenic and lead, for odourless, colourless drinking water. Fluoride is reduced by about 20%. Meanwhile, remineralisation adds healthy minerals such as selenium and calcium, so if you have hard water, expect some cloudiness, especially if you leave the water in the filter for several days. Overall, the filter impressed with its taste and quality, which had a smooth and silky texture.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Invigorated Living boasts an impressive capacity of 1,500 cups or 360 litres (96 gallons. per filter, which sums up to roughly three months of use. A helpful digital gauge measures each refill, to give users an indication of when it is time to change the filter, although this is not always accurate. The pitcher itself can accommodate 2L of water.
Design and Material
While praises abound for the pitcher’s performance, the same cannot be said of its design, which feels flimsy and poorly constructed. The upside is that it uses premium eco-friendly materials that are BPA-free and SGS certified, and has a stable anti-slip base.
The top lid features a hole which is pushed down by water pressure. When it works, it is easy to fill, but more often than not, the flap is too stiff, forcing users to remove the entire lid to fill up the pitcher. The handle is easy to grip but feels fragile. It also has a tendency to clog.
Additional Features
The company offers a money-back guarantee nadoption to upgrade the filter to a more powerful PH002 ultrafiltration (UF. membrane filter model, which removes 99.9% organic and inorganic matter, including bacteria, viruses, colloids, giardia, protozoa, cysts and endotoxins. It also increases fluoride removal to 80%.
Pros
- Alkalises water
- Good filtration capabilities
- Impressive capacity
Cons
- Fragile handle
- Flimsy build
- Stiff flap
- Clogging issues
3. PUR 18 Cup Water Filtration Dispenser
For a basic, inexpensive water filtration dispenser, look no further than the PUR 18. MAXION filter technology
blends carbon and ion exchange materials to reduce 96% of mercury and 95% of selected industrial pollutants, as well as chlorine for better tasting, odour-free water. Its carbon filters are made from coconut shells that have been heat treated with steam, which produces pores within each grain of carbon with up to 1,000 square meters of surface area per gram of carbon – ideal for absorbing and trapping contaminants. Per NSF certification, the filter is able to reduce 21 types of contaminants. This may not seem as much as some other filters on this list, but for regular use, the PUR suffices.
Capacity and Lifespan
The PUR provides plenty of drinking water for the household with its large 18-cup capacity, or roughly seven 8oz glasses of water. Each filter lasts up to 40 gallons, or two months. Fresh out of the box, the filter takes approximately half an hour to filter tap water into clean drinking water, but the effectiveness gradually wears out over time. It also seems to be a hit and miss with the cartridges, as there are numerous complaints of the filters lasting just over a week before clogging, some taking the whole night to filter just one jug of water.
Design and Material
Space can be a problem for city dwellers, so the PUR comes with a space-saving design that measures 15.8 x 5.6 x 10.3 inches, making it slim and easy to fit into refrigerators or on shelves. However, at 4.7lbs, the unit is quite heavy. It compensates for this with its sturdy build, featuring a comfortable grip handle and a lid that is thumb activated for convenient refills. A pour spout cover prevents odours and particulates from getting into clean water. The PUR is made from a non-toxic, BPA-free material.
Additional Features
The PUR comes with a 90-day warranty.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Large holding capacity
- Removes chlorine, mercury and 21 types of pollutants
Cons
- Short life span
- Issues with clogging
- Heavy
4. Brita Large 10 Cup Everyday Water Pitcher with Filter
A well known name in the market, Brita’s 10-cup model is ideal for large families. It mainly reduces unpleasant
tastes and odours from chlorine, copper, zinc, mercury and cadmium, typically found in municipally treated tap water. This is achieved through an activated carbon shell. Users should note that while the Brita is sufficient as a basic filter jug, it will not be able to remove certain heavy metals or contaminants such as lead, asbestos, VOCs like benzene, or microorganisms such as protozoan cysts. Given its price and performance at reducing the taste and smell of chlorine, it is still a noteworthy option to consider.
Capacity and Lifespan
Optimally, the Brita should be changed every 40 gallons, or after two months of use for an average household. While it should last that long in most cases, there are also hits and misses where the filters clog quickly. When it comes to speed, the Brita impresses, taking just five to 10 minutes for tap water to seep through and be ready to pour. This efficiency decreases over time.
Design and Material
Standing at 10.47 x 5.59 x 10.94 inches, the pitcher is large but cuts down on space with its classic oval design that should fit easily into most refrigerators. Made from BPA-free material, it is lightweight at 2.29 lbs and features a soft grip panel for comfort and convenience. It also comes with a thumb controlled flip top for easy refilling. The top should snap into place, but this may come loose and cause spillage. To avoid this, users have to hold the lid in place while pouring. For optimum performance, a helpful status indicator in the form of a sticker reminder notifies when the water should be replaced. However, there is a fatal flaw to the pitcher’s design, in that the reservoir cannot be removed for cleaning. Instead, the company recommends rinsing it with warm water and vinegar but this is not always enough to clear out dirt and gunk.
Additional Features
The filter comes with a limited 90-day warranty.
Pros
- Removes chlorine
- Improves quality and taste of water
- Lightweight
- Fast filtration process
Cons
- Flip top may come loose
- For basic filtration only, many elements not removed
- Bulky
- Reservoir cannot be removed for thorough cleaning
5. Brita Large 18 Cup UltraMax Water Dispenser and Filter
Consisting of an activated carbon filter, Brita’s UltraMax is designed to remove chlorine, copper, mercury, zinc and
cadmium, five of the most common contaminants in municipally treated tap water. If you have metallic tasting water, most likely from zinc, the filter is able to significantly reduce this, in addition to the odour of chlorine. Built in mesh screens prevent unsightly black flecks. The final result still maintains a healthy level of fluoride, which is beneficial in small amounts to promote strong teeth. Apart from the five contaminants mentioned above, the filter should not be used as a water purifier, as it is unable to filter out microbial organisms such as protozoa, bacteria or viruses.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Brita has a very large capacity tank that holds 18 cups, or 1.13 gallons of water, making it ideal for big setups. Each filter can replace 300 standard 16.9 ounce water bottles, and should be replaced after 40 gallons of usage or every two months. This might not always be accurate, and some users have noted that it requires more regular changes.
Design and Material
Despite its size, the Brita is space efficient and fits neatly on countertops and refrigerator shelves. Rather than being ‘pitcher’ shaped, it is designed like a cube and measures 7.25 x 14 x 8.75 inches. Setting up the Brita is easy, requiring 15-seconds of flushing before installation. A flip top lid makes refilling a breeze, and a helpful sticker indicator helps users keep track of their last filter change.
When it comes to cleaning, however, the design needs much improvement. Instead of tilting and pouring water out from the unit, it features a spigot. Although easy and convenient to use, the spigot cannot be removed and is therefore impossible to clean thoroughly. It is possible to remove the top reservoir, but difficult to do so without the help of tools.
Additional Features
The Brita comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and limited 90-day warranty.
Pros
- Removes chlorine
- Large capacity
- Better tasting water with no odours
- Spigot convenient for pouring water
Cons
- Difficult to clean
- Limited filtration capabilities, cannot filter microorganisms
6. OXA Large 10 Cup Water Filter Pitcher
Get clean, better tasting water where you can taste the difference, with OXA’s 10-cup water filter pitcher. It utilises a
seven-stage cartridge made from ion exchange resin, activated carbon, ion ceramic ball, far infrared ceramic ball, mineral balls and PP pad. Primarily, the filter helps to remove chlorine, zinc, copper, mercury and cadmium, disinfectants most commonly found in municipally treated water. It also removes 90% of lead and pollutants that give water an unpleasant odour or taste, organic and non-organic matter such as sand, silt and algae, and reduces free radicals, toxins and high negative ORP to effectively increase energy levels. The filter leaves in healthy minerals such as selenium and calcium, whilst making the water more alkaline by increasing its pH value between 8.5 and 10. The OXA is well catered for households with hard water, as the cartridges are designed to reduce limescale.
Capacity and Lifespan
The OXA has a decidedly average lifespan, capable of filtering 300L or 79 gallons of water. This provides roughly six to eight weeks of use. The upside is that each set includes two filters. With its large 2.5 liter capacity, it is well-poised to provide water for both home and outdoor use.
Design and Material
Made from eco-friendly materials, the pitcher measures 9.7 x 5.9 x 11.9 inches and is designed with modern homes and environments in mind, to fit easily into refrigerators. The handle offers a comfortable grip. Meanwhile, the lid opens for users to fill the reservoir without removing the cover, but when you do need to do so, it is difficult to pry it apart.
The OXA suffers from poor design. The flow from the spout is slow and cannot be tilted beyond a certain point as the whole filtration system will fall out. It tends to start off with a trickle before air gets in and water gushes forth. This means that pouring is typically messy if users are unprepared. A dial on top of the lid indicates when it is time to change the filter.
Additional Features
The OXA is certified by NSF53 and FDA tests, while its eco-friendly materials are certified by international certification body SGS and ISO to be BPA-free.
Pros
- Compact design
- Alkalises water
- Filters chlorine, certain heavy metals
- Improves taste and odour
Cons
- Basic filtration
- Average lifespan
- Poor design
7. Brita Small 5 Cup Metro Water Pitcher with Filter
Ideal for small households, Brita’s Metro water pitcher filter provides basic filtration for cleaner, healthier drinking
water – at an inexpensive price. It is much more cost effective and offers more savings as compared to constantly buying bottled water, which is also harmful for the environment since the plastic ends up in landfills. Thanks to a patented aeration design, the filter works fairly quickly and serves up water within minutes. An activated carbon core reduces chlorine and mercury which gives a foul taste and odour to tap water, while the ion exchange resin captures copper, zinc and cadmium. A built in mesh screen prevents black flecks. Although it reduces sediment, dust and dirt, The Brita’s capabilities are limited, so it should not be expected to remove heavy metals such as lead, VOCs or organic matter.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Brita does away with pre-soaking and only requires users to run the filter through with cold water for 15 seconds, and it is ready for use. The pitcher holds five cups or roughly 40 ounces of liquid, enough for single use or for a small household. The filter should be changed every 40 gallons, giving users a solid two months of use.
Design and Material
Thanks to a compact and space efficient measurement of 9.8 x 4.45 x 9.37 inches, the Brita fits easily into narrow, tight places. Putting it in the refrigerator is recommended, as there is no cover on the spout. The lid features a flip top for easy refilling, and locks into place to prevent spillage when poured. However, due to its tight fit, it is difficult to take out for cleaning. An electronic filter indicator tracks when the filter needs to be replaced, but this is a hit and miss with many units purportedly not functioning. Available in shades of white, red or turquoise, the pitcher is a great accompaniment to match the decor of a hip, trendy apartment. For those who want to bring the pitcher on a trip, it is easy to pack and carry, weighing just 1.39 lbs.
Given its price, the plastic is quite flimsy.
Additional Features
The unit comes with Brita’s standard 90-day warranty.
Pros
- Compact, space saving
- Filters chlorine, cadmium, mercury, zinc and copper
- Fast filtration process
- Flip top for easy refilling
- Lightweight
Cons
- Basic filtration
- Flimsy build
- Average lifespan
- Lid difficult to remove for cleaning
8. EHM ULTRA Premium Alkaline Water Pitcher and Filter
Those looking for a filter-cum-alkaliser should consider the EHM Ultra, which not only removes impurities and
harmful substances from water, but also ionises it for a fresher, more natural taste. The filter features a composite six-stage cartridge, with an activated carbon shell, a nano-kinetic degradation fluxion, AS plastic and tourmaline ceramic to remove chlorine and heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium and arsenic from water. It also decreases the concentration of organic pollutants such as mercury, manganese and nitrogen dioxide, whilst retarding growth and reproduction of microorganisms. All in all, the filter is able to remove up to 90% of potentially harmful substances within minutes.
As an ioniser, the pitcher uses micro-clustering technology that reduces water molecule size and produces easily absorbable alkaline water, touted to provide better hydration for the body. Since this contains a minimal amount of free radicals and toxins, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, in addition to enhancing energy levels and the immune system. The water’s pH levels is increased to between 8.5 and 10, whilst maintaining trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium. A micro screen reduces black particle release so there are no unsightly flecks in the water.
Capacity and Lifespan
The tank is capable of carrying 3.5 litres, which is enough to fulfill a large household’s needs. It has a filtration capacity of 300 litres per cartridge, which lasts for four to six weeks with regular daily use.
Design and Material
Although made for a large capacity, the unit is surprisingly compact at 12 x 6 x 11 inches, and weighs 2.25 lbs when empty. The streamlined shape goes easily into the refrigerator. The spout sports a lid so there are no worries of dust or bugs getting in, even when the pitcher is left on the countertop. The company advises water left overnight to be discarded as it would have lost its alkalinity, but the water is still safe to drink. That being said, the lid’s design needs improvement, with users complaining of it not being able to stay in place .
Additional Features
None
Pros
- Filters and alkalises water
- Impressive filtering capabilities
- Fast filtration
- Compact and lightweight
- Lidded spout
- Large tank
Cons
- Average lifespan
- Lid falls out of place
9. Waterdrop Extream 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher
Blending sophisticated filtration technology with exclusive design, the Waterdrop Extream features a pre sediment
layer made from non-woven materials, to filter out rust, dirt, silt and suspended solids. The next layer is an activated carbon fiber (ACF. from Japan, which has 10 times better adsorption than ordinary carbon, to reduce chlorine, VOCs and other contaminants. An ion exchange resin lowers water hardness by reducing limescale in tap water. Combined, the ACF and silver ion antibacterial technology inhibits up to 99% bacterial growth to ensure a clean water supply. Finally, a post filter, also made from non-woven materials, further removes other contaminants.
Say goodbye to long waiting times, as the cartridge is designed to have a high and fast flow rate of 0.5gpm, giving users almost instant access to fresh filtered water. The direct flow also allows water to flow through without retaining any in the reservoir, which helps to prevent bacterial growth.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Waterdrop has a good lifespan, lasting 200 gallons, or about 90 days for an average household. The quality of the filtration will decrease with time, so users should change the filter accordingly, whichever comes first. Its large holding tank is capable of holding up to 10 cups of water, or 85 ounces, making it ideal for large families.
Design and Material
Sporting an ergonomic and contemporary design well suited to modern kitchens, the Waterdrop has a slim, shatterproof plastic body measuring 11.2 x 5 x 11.2 inches, which should fit snugly into the fridge. Instead of flimsy plastic, it features a comfort-grip wooden handle, and a pour spout cover prevents odours, bugs and particulates from entering the clean water. An electronic monitor indicates when the filter should be changed. The bottom features silicon to prevent slipping and noise, but this makes it rather heavy and wobbles whenever it is placed.
Additional Features
The unit has been tested and certified by NSF/ANSI standards 61 for material safety.
Pros
- Effective for filtering chlorine and VOCs
- Filter life indicator
- Large holding tank
- Long lifespan
- Reduces hardness of water
- Fast flow rate
Cons
- Bottom heavy, wobbly design
10. BWT Premium Water Filter Pitcher
Winner of several accolades, this Austrian brand is a strong contender in the water filter pitcher market, with rave
reviews of its great tasting water. Using patented BWT technology, the filter not only reduces chlorine, scale and certain heavy metals such as lead and copper, but also mineralises water with magnesium for a natural, fresh taste, and softer mouth feel. Magnesium deficiency is common among the population, with up to 70 percent of the adult population lacking this in their diet, and the BWT provides much needed magnesium in one’s diet. Thanks to the filter’s material, which contains silver, it provides antimicrobial protection and reduces polymeric beads or black flecks in the water.Another plus point is that no pre-soaking is required to activate the filter.
Capacity and Lifespan
For smaller households, the unit suffices, holding about 8 cups of water or 64 ounces. For larger households, the BWT may be too small to cater to your needs. It is however very speedy, taking less than a minute to filter out of the box, so users might still want to consider purchasing it if they do not mind the hassle of refilling. Its lifespan is less impressive, needing a change every four weeks.
Design and Material
The BWT is available in several fun shades, including aubergine, blue and black to match your kitchen decor. Its design is bulkier than most, at 13.4 x 13.2 x 5.4 inches and weighing 3.22 lbs. Refilling is convenient as the lid has a flap that can be opened without having to remove the whole top. The pour spot is well designed, so there are minimal issues with spilling. Owing to its tall body, however, the filter is prone to toppling, especially when the top reservoir has just been filled. The unit includes an electronic counter that runs on a battery insert, but this is of poor quality, with some breaking down within days.
Additional Features
Each set comes with three cartridges for easy refill.
Pros
- Great tasting water
- Fun colours
- Filters chlorine, lead and copper
- Mineralises water with manganese
Cons
- Top heavy when reservoir filled, will topple over
- Electronic counter does not last
11. Pure Green Premium Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher
The Pure Green does double duty as a filter and alkaliser. Its unique six layer cartridge provides for clean, toxin-free
water, with a pre and post filter on the top and bottom, followed by a second layer of activated carbon which removes chlorine, heavy metals such as lead and arsenic, as well as contaminants. The third layer is where alkalisation happens, as the unit turns water to a pH of 8.5 – 10pH, whilst infusing beneficial calcium, potassium and magnesium. The fourth layer adds antioxidants, raising it from 200 – 400mv, while the fifth layer sports a hexagonal and micro clustered mechanism which creates smaller water clusters that are easily absorbed by the body. In addition, the Pure Green rids water of bacteria, E.coli and pesticides.
Capacity and Lifespan
Suitable for big families, the unit carries 3.5L and has a capacity of 1,600 glasses, which translates to about 60 days of use.
Design and Material
The Pure Green uses BPA-free and food grade plastic. Although bulkier than some other models at 12.1 x 11 x 6.2 inches, it should still fit easily into refrigerators. It is, however, rather heavy at 3.5lbs. The spout is covered to prevent bugs and dirt from getting into the filtered water, and there is a helpful digital indicator to let users know when it is time to change the cartridge. Its apple green colour scheme is fun, quirky and should blend well with decor of most modern kitchens.
Additional Features
The Pure Green is NSF approved and certified, has anti-microbial properties and is easy to clean. However, it is difficult to find replacement cartridges, even on the company’s website, which will pose a problem for users intending to use it for the long term.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Works as filter and ioniser
- Filters chlorine, heavy metals and contaminants
- Adds calcium, magnesium and pottasium
Cons
- Difficult to find replacement cartridges
- Heavy and bulky
12. Naples Naturals Alkaline Water Pitcher
Another choice to consider for large families, the Naples Natural sports dual functionality, working to filter and
ionise tap water. When it works, its six-stage mineral carbon water filter removes chlorine, 65% fluoride and contaminants, whilst increasing pH value to over 7. Menawhile, tourmaline and other mineral stones add up to 20 trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium for softer, better tasting water that mimics natural stream water. However, the filter is not always consistent, with many users chiding its lackluster performance, the biggest point of frustration being its tendency to clog up. Optimally, it should take 15 to 30 minutes to filter. As it lacks a mesh to trap charcoal particles, black flecks may appear in the water.
Capacity and Lifespan
The Naples Naturals has a large holding tank of 3.5L, or 10 cups of water. Each filter should be changed every 70 gallons, or roughly 45 to 60 days. Before use, rinse the filter under cold water for 30 seconds and gently tap both sides on the counter to ensure the media is well proportioned.
Design and Material
Made from BPA-free plastic, the unit measures 11 x 6 x 11 inches, weighs 2.65lbs and should fit easily into the fridge. It features an easy refill slot to fill the reservoir without having to remove the top lid. A digital electronic filter life readout lets users know when it’s time to change the filter. However, there are a few design flaws, such as the reservoir itself, which is difficult to remove for cleaning and filter replacement. The lid does not stay secure and users will have to hold it down with another hand while pouring. The Pure Green comes in three colours.
Additional Features
None
Pros
- Large capacity
- Filter and ionising capabilities
- Adds magnesium, calcium and potassium
Cons
- Average lifespan
- Lid not secure
- Easy refill slot
- Black flecks
- Tendency to clog
13. AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher with Filter
The AmazonBasics is a basic filter pitcher that helps to reduce chlorine, in addition to elements such as copper,
mercury, benzene and limescale, in order to provide your household with clean water that is free from bad taste and odours. This makes it great for cooking, brewing tea or coffee, or watering houseplants and feeding to pets. It also softens hard water, and takes only a few minutes to filter.
Capacity and Lifespan
Capable of holding up to 80 ounces of water, the AmazonBasics is well catered to a household’s drinking needs, and is a money-saving alternative to plastic bottled water. The filters should last for 40 gallons or two months on average.
Design and Material
Made from BPA-free material, the unit is easy to maintain: simply wash the pitcher components routinely in warm, soapy water and when changing the cartridge. It is also dishwasher safe at a maximum temperature of 50 degrees. The pitcher’s oval-shaped design and compact dimensions of 10.6 x 10.6 inches is convenient for refrigerator door storage, while an electronic indicator lets users know when it is time to replace the cartridge. However, there are a few design flaws. Although the lid is removable for refilling, it tends to get stuck, while the handle has sharp plastic edges that cut into the hand. The overall build feels flimsy and cheap, and does not look like it would hold up if the pitcher was dropped.
Additional Features
Replacement filters are available in three, six and 10 pack models. The unit is backed by a limited one year warranty, which is much longer than many other filter pitchers.
Pros
- Reduces chlorine, mercury, benzene and limescale
- Large capacity
- Softens water slightly
Cons
- Average lifespan
- Flimsy build
- Sharp plastic edge on handle
14. Nakii Water Filter Pitcher Fast Filter
The Nakii may be one of the most affordably priced filter pitchers on this list, but it still has a lot to offer. Using
patented ACF military technology, it reduces up to 97 % of chlorine, mercury, rust, sediment and suspended particles to produce clean water free from unpleasant colours, tastes and odours. The multi-staged cartridge consists of a nylon pre sediment filter which removes red rust, suspended solids and sediment, while a Swedish-made ion exchange resin reduces hardness, limescale and heavy metals such as mercury and lead.
The Japanese-developed activated carbon fiber absorbs contaminants and is touted to be 10 to 12 times better than regular carbon, ridding water of 97% residual chlorine, VOCs and other organic contaminants. To round it off, a nylon post filter further removes fine or leaking particles. While the filter inhibits growth of bacteria to some degree, it should not be used with water with microbiological properties, without adequate disinfection. Filter rate is at an impressive 1.3 litres per minute, but this performance quickly decreases over time.
Capacity and Lifespan
Able to house 1.8litres, the filter provides plenty of water for a household’s needs and has a cartridge capacity of 150 gallons. Despite its ‘long-lasting’ claim and recommended change every 3 months, some users have complained that the filter only performs well in the initial stages, and the filter rate gradually slows to a drip, even before the one month mark.
Design and Material
Upscale and modern, the pitcher is a nice addition to the kitchen and fits snugly into fridge doors, measuring a compact 11.4 x 8.5 x 4.3 inches and weighing just 1.94 lbs. The body is made from BPA-free plastic which feels relatively strong and sturdy, and it has a flap which opens for easy refill. Instead of an electronic counter, the unit features a dial on top where users can set a reminder date.
Additional Features
The unit comes with a 120-day warranty for parts broken by regular use.
Pros
- Removes chlorine, mercury, rust and sediment
- Reduces lead
- Large holding capacity
- Sleek design
- Easy refill flap
Cons
- Short lifespan
- Performance decreases drastically over time
15. PUR 7 Cup Basic Water Filtration Pitcher
Nicely sized for single use, the PUR 7 is a basic water filter pitcher with an affordable price tag. Households with
water high in mercury content should consider this unit, as it uses MAXION filter technology to remove 95% of the element and 96% of trace levels of pharmaceuticals. In addition, the unique blend of activated carbon and ion exchange resin reduces bad odours and taste from chlorine, while leaving behind beneficial fluoride.The carbon filter is made from coconut shells that are heat treated with steam, producing small tunnels and spaces that provide a larger surface area to absorb and trap contaminants.
Capacity and Lifespan
The filter has a small holding capacity of roughly seven cups or 56 ounces, which may not be adequate for bigger households. It provides up to 40 gallons or two months of use.
Design and Material
This PUR model suffers from poor design – surprising, seeing how much the brand is known for its quality. The good points include a comfort grip handle and thumb activated lid for easy refilling, as well as a space-saving design that measures 11.3 x 4.8 x 10.9 inches. It is also lightweight at just 1.8lbs, and is made from BPA-free plastic. A built in LED light indicates when the filter needs a change. The biggest flaw with the pitcher is its lid, which falls out easily if not held in place with another hand while pouring.
Additional Features
Replacement CRF-950Z filters are available for purchase separately.
Pros
- Space saving design
- Lightweight
- Removes mercury and chlorine
Cons
- Small capacity
- Average lifespan