13 Best Water Filter Pitcher Picks in 2020 | Reviews

ledoux waters water filter pitcher

Are you looking for the best water filter pitcher? We have got you covered!

We compare the best water filter pitcher reviews of the year so far. Find out what is the best water filter pitcher for your home and health needs with our reviews and buyer’s guide!

best-water-water-filter-pitcher-reviews-of-the-year - best water filter pitcher

Water filter pitchers provide a much cheaper alternative to larger water filter systems like reverse osmosis water filters, not to mention under-sink water filters or whole house water filtration systems.

They are also a much more environmentally friendly solution to bottled water. Did you know it can take up to 440 years for a plastic bottle to decay? We are sure you did, but it doesn’t hurt reminding everyone that we do live in a plastic world and it is not fantastic by any means.

So, besides the fact that the best pitcher water filter can replace hundreds if not thousands of plastic water bottles a year, these units are also relatively cheap, convenient, and easy to look after.

Today, we take a look at the 10 best pitcher water filters available to buy right now.  Additionally, we offer you three more water filter pitchers options for this year – based on the highest scores they got from users – and a bonus review!

Have a quick look at the comparison table below to see how they check out before we review each jug in a bit more detail afterward.

We’re confident you’ll find the best water filter pitcher for your home with our comprehensive resource and buying guide.

Quick Comparison: The 10 Best Water Filter Pitcher Options in 2020

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
is-wfa2-table__image GREAT TASTING WATERGREAT TASTING WATERpH RESTORE
  • Price: $$$
  • Capacity: 12 cups
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image AMAZING FILTER PERFORMANCEAMAZING FILTER PERFORMANCEAquagear
  • Price: $$$
  • Capacity: 8 cups
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image EXCELLENT VALUE + FEATURESEXCELLENT VALUE + FEATURESNakii Pitcher
  • Price: $
  • Capacity: 7.5 cups
  • Rating: 4.6
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image SOLID & DEPENDABLESOLID & DEPENDABLEThe Alkaline Pitcher
  • Price: $$$
  • Capacity: 10 cups
  • Rating: 4.2
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image TOP RATED FOR EFFECTIVENESSTOP RATED FOR EFFECTIVENESSZeroWater
  • Price: $$
  • Capacity: 10 cups
  • Rating: 3.8
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image BEST FOR THE ENVIRONMENTBEST FOR THE ENVIRONMENTSoma Sustainable
  • Price: $$
  • Capacity: 10 cups
  • Rating: 4.1
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image BEST VALUE LARGE PITCHERBEST VALUE LARGE PITCHERBrita Everyday
  • Price: $
  • Capacity: 10 cups
  • Rating: 4.5
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image BIGGEST CAPACITYBIGGEST CAPACITYPUR 18 Cup
  • Price: $$
  • Capacity: 18 cups
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image GREAT ALL ROUND PERFORMANCEGREAT ALL ROUND PERFORMANCELeDoux Waters
  • Price: $$
  • Capacity: 10 cups
  • Rating: 3.9
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image CHEAPEST AVAILABLECHEAPEST AVAILABLEBrita Slim
  • Price: $
  • Capacity: 5 cups
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE

Notes About the Table

  • BPA stands for Bisphenol A. Bisphenol A is a hazardous chemical used in some plastics that has been shown to cause illness.
  • The table mentions heavy metals as one of the things that a filter for a water pitcher can reduce, among other harmful water contaminants. Some examples of heavy metals found in drinking water are zinc, copper, lead, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, thallium, and mercury.
  • As fluoridation goes, if you want to remove fluoride from your water in an efficient manner for avoiding the risk pertaining to the U.S. water fluoridation practices, some of the pitchers in this guide to a great job. However, for more efficient ways of cleaning your water of excess fluoride, check out the best anti-fluoride water filters we describe separately.

10 Best Water Filter Pitcher Reviews

Next you can check out our 10 best water pitcher filter reviews to find the answer to the question of what is the best water filter pitcher in 2020. Here we discuss each of the jugs in a bit more detail. Find out exactly what we think, as we give the lowdown on the top models of 2020 so far.

If you’re new to these devices then make sure you check out both our water filter pitcher reviews and the buyer’s guide that follows. We list the key features that you should be looking for when buying.

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1. Invigorated Living pH RestoreGREAT TASTING WATER

invigorated water best water filter pitcher

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This alkaline water pitcher from Invigorated Living is special in that it adds healthy minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium to the water. This serves to raise the pH to more healthy alkaline levels and provide great tasting, healthy mineral water. It actually produces the most alkaline water of any filtration pitcher on the market today.

Besides the health benefits this pitcher can offer, it is also effective in removing harmful pollutants from your water. It is advertised to remove heavy metals such as arsenic and lead, as well as chlorine and fluoride too.

Invigorated Living pH Restore Tech Specs and Features Explained

What makes this pitcher effective is the combination of filtration methods it uses. By combining micro filter nets, coconut activated carbon, and KDF it is able to reduce a huge number of contaminants in water. The ability to reduce heavy metals and some fluoride is not one that many pitchers have.

Key Features

  • Produces alkaline water
  • Large capacity
  • Long filter life: 96 gallons
  • Amazing customer feedback
  • NSF certified filter material
  • Reduces a wide range of contaminants

Its thoughtful design features an easy-grip handle and a non-slip rubber base. It also boasts a huge 12 cup (118 Ounce) capacity, which is hard to beat. It has got some great features, but it costs a bit more too.

Bottom Line

This is the best alkaline water pitcher available. It produces some of the best tasting water of all the water filtration pitchers we’ve reviewed. If the pH and alkalinity of the water are important to you then this pitcher should be top of your list.

2. AquagearAMAZING FILTER PERFORMANCE

best water filter pitcher aquagear

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This Aquagear water filter pitcher is constructed with 100% FDA approved food-grade materials. The filters have a huge capacity and will filter 150 gallons of drinking water before needing to be replaced. This is around 3x as much as the average pitcher filter lifespan, making this one of the best water filter pitcher systems on the market. However, this does mean that the filters are more expensive than the average filter too.

The filters meet NSF standards for the reduction of contaminants such as lead, fluoride, copper, chromium 6, mercury, chlorine, and chloramines. The filters are actually rated at 2 microns which is comparable with most expensive whole house water filters.

Aquagear Tech Specs and Features Explained

Aquagear claims that the filters will remove inorganic contaminants and organic contaminants while keeping healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium in the water. This means you can have refreshing mineral water in your home. They also offer an awesome lifetime guarantee on the pitcher. They will even replace it should you break it.

One criticism is that it can take longer to fill the Aquagear water filter pitcher with filtered water than other models. This is the consequence of having such effective filters. The longer time that the water has in contact with the filter media, the more contaminants can be removed.

Key Features

  • Powerful filters
  • Long-life filters: 150 gallons
  • Independently certified for contaminant removal
  • Doesn’t remove healthy minerals
  • Lifetime Guarantee

This is a water pitcher that removes fluoride too, which is extremely rare. Fluoride is a difficult thing to remove, so this is a great selling point for the Aquagear jug. For users interested in drinking less fluoride, this may be the fluoride water filter pitcher for you.

Bottom Line

This would have been our top pick should it be a bit cheaper. The filter performance is amazing and is the best we have come across in pitcher filtration systems. This is one powerful little pitcher.

3. Nakii Water Filter Pitcher – EXCELLENT VALUE + FEATURES

nakii best water filter pitcher

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The Nakii pitcher is relatively new to the market and brings some impressive features and certifications to the table.

The price is the first thing to note. It is very reasonably priced and actually works out as one of the cheaper models we have included.

This is all the more impressive because it’s not shy on features. There’s the Water Quality Association (WQA) certification for example. Its been tested to meet strict standards for chlorine and lead reduction. These are badges of honor in the water filter world, that separate the best from the rest.

The carbon fiber filter reduces up to 97% of contaminants such as mercury, chlorine, lead, organic compounds, and sediment. It’s also said to reduce the water hardness (therefore reducing limescale), but I’m not sure why this would be something you would need in a pitcher. The carbon-based filter media improves the water taste and eliminates any odor or color.

Nakii Water Filter Pitcher Tech Specs and Features Explained

The filters also last a really long time. They are certified by the WQA to last for an unbelievable 150 gallons of use! That’s an amazing figure that represents great value for money. They are very reasonably priced too. The filter lifespan is monitored using a basic mechanical indicator.

Key Features

  • WQA certified filters
  • BPA free, FDA approved plastic
  • Amazing filter lifespan: 150 gallons
  • Great value

The jug itself is narrow in shape and will fit into the refrigerator door. It holds 7.5 cups of water (1.8 Liters). The plastic is BPA free and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The pitcher is sturdily built and features a non-spill lid to prevent accidents when pouring. It has a wooden handle that gives it a touch of class in the looks department too.

Bottom Line

We love this pitcher! It’s not got the biggest capacity, but it’s BPA-free plastic,  and for value and features it’s hard to match. WQA certification and extra long life filters make this one of the best water pitchers filters out there.

4. Lake Industries Alkaline Pitcher  – SOLID & DEPENDABLE

best water filter pitcher lake industries

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This model from Lake Industries uses a 7-stage filter cartridge. It utilizes an ion exchange resin, tourmaline, mineral balls, and carbon. These stages work together to produce great tasting water that is filtered of chlorine and heavy metals like zinc, copper, and lead.

The filter also raises the pH of the water to make it more alkaline. Alkaline water is considered by many to be healthier. The filters have a decent lifespan and will last for 40 gallons (around 2 months) of use. This lifespan is on the lower end of the scale when compared to filters from Nakii and Aquagear.

Lake Industries Alkaline Pitcher Tech Specs and Features Explained

The Lake Industries alkaline water filter pitcher itself is well designed and will fit in any refrigerator. It features an easy to fill lid that will open itself, an easy pour spout, and a comfortable ergonomic handle. It will hold 10 cups of clean, filtered water (2.5 Liters), and is BPA free. The only thing lacking here is a filter life indicator.

Key Features

  • 7-Stage filter
  • Raises the water pH
  • Filter life: 40 gallons
  • BPA free
  • Effective in removing chlorine, odors, heavy metals
  • 1 cartridge included

Bottom Line

This water filter pitcher stands out from most other pitchers due to the alkaline filter. If you’re worried about the pH of your water then a jug like this could be a good fit, as it’s one of the best alkaline water filter pitchers available.

5. ZeroWater Pitcher with Water Quality Meter – TOP RATED FOR EFFECTIVENESS

zero water best water filter pitcher

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ZeroWater market this pitcher as the only one which is certified to remove lead and hexavalent chromium (chromium-6} from water. It is NSF certified to prove its effectiveness in the reduction of these contaminants. It has a 5-stage filtration system, but don’t confuse this with a 5-stage reverse osmosis system, which is more effective.

Our favorite feature of this filtration jug is the extra dispenser at the bottom of the handle, which allows you to dispense water without actually lifting and tipping the pitcher. This is perfect for when the pitcher is full and heavy to lift.

Another feature that sets this apart from its rivals is the TDS (total dissolved solids) meter. Though not actually a part of the ZeroWater pitcher (it’s a separate device), it allows you to accurately measure how clean or polluted your water is.

ZeroWater Pitcher with Water Quality Meter Tech Specs and Features Explained

This is the most accurate way to measure the effectiveness of your ZeroWater filters. By measuring regularly you will know the best time to replace a ZeroWater filter (the performance level will start to drop).

Key Features

  • 5-Stage filters
  • TDS meter
  • Extra push button dispenser
  • NSF certified for the reduction of lead and chromium
  • Efficient against: pesticides, herbicides, mercury, chlorine, chloramine, bacterial growth, metals, non-metals, and radiological contaminants, dust, rust, and suspended solids.

These instruments can be bought relatively cheaply, but I don’t know why more water filters systems don’t include them. The ZeroWater pitcher removes up to 99.6% of dissolved solids from your water. That amazing feature alone potentially makes this product the best water pitcher filter.

A popular water filter pitcher comparison to make is Zero Water vs Brita. Brita replacement filters for Brita pitchers are much less expensive (though Brita filters are less effective). Brita certainly wins on value, but Zero Water reviews really well with regards to contaminant reduction and overall effectiveness.

Bottom Line

This is one of the best pitcher water filters as far as effectiveness goes. It’s perfect for reducing lead and chromium from your water. The inclusion of a TDS meter is a great idea too, which sets it apart from the other pitcher filters.

You may also be interested in the Brita Everyday 10 Cup water filter pitcher!

brita everyday best water filter pitcher

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6. Soma Sustainable Pitcher & Plant-Based Water Filter BEST FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

best water filter pitcher soma sustainable

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This Soma water filter reviews really well on consumer sites like Amazon. It’s a really elegant piece of design that looks amazing. The wood handle is sourced from sustainable plantations of white oak and adds a really classy touch. This jug wouldn’t look out of place in any kitchen.

The filters are made with activated carbon which is made from wasted coconut shells. The activated carbon is used in most of the best water pitcher filters and is incredibly effective at absorbing impurities from drinking water (especially chlorine).

Soma Sustainable Pitcher & Plant-Based Water Filter Tech Specs and Features Explained

The filters are well priced and will last a reasonably long time of 40 gallons of use. They can remove chlorine and improve the taste and odor of the water. They will also combat heavy metals and pesticides.

Every time a Soma filter is purchased, they donate to water projects in developing countries. It’s refreshing to see a company that’s willing to look at the bigger picture. They also make a really classy looking pitcher.

Key Features

  • Great for the environment
  • Effective at removing chlorine
  • Beautiful design
  • Great tasting water

The Soma sustainable is a great product, but don’t just take our word for it. Check out some more Soma Water filter reviews.

Bottom Line

This is the most elegant pitcher filtration system available. It’s also effective and great for the environment too. It is made in the U.S.A and if you are living a sustainable life, you will enjoy the fact that for every purchase, Soma donates a part of the money to support people in need through Soma’s nonprofit partner, charity: water.

7. Brita Everyday Pitcher with 1 Filter BEST VALUE LARGE PITCHER

brita water filter pitcher

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This Brita water filter pitcher is the cheapest of the larger size models. It will remove the unpleasant taste and odor of chlorine while combating heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and copper.

While it is not as elegant or refined as others, it is a capable water filter jug that comes with a really attractive price tag. It doesn’t have the electronic filter monitor or water quality tester of competitors, but it does have a simple sticker that lets you know when it’s time to change filters.

Brita Everyday Pitcher with 1 Filter Tech Specs and Features Explained

This sticker isn’t quite as accurate as some of the digital displays but ensures that there’s no guesswork when it comes to changing filters. If money is a concern then there is simply no alternative. This Brita 10 cup pitcher is the best large-sized water pitcher at a low price.

Key Features

  • Amazing value
  • Good capacity
  • Filter life: 40 gallons
  • Removes chlorine

What you should know more is that this BPA-free Brita filter reduces chlorine taste and odor, copper, mercury, and cadmium impurities found in tap water. Moreover, one Brita water filter can replace 300 standard 16.9-ounce water bottles, so you understand why this is a great option if you want to live a more sustainable life.

Bottom Line

Value-wise this one is hard to beat. It’s not going to amaze you with its features, but it’s pretty dependable. This Brita water filter pitcher reviews really well with regard to price and is among the best water purifier pitcher options on the market when it comes to contaminant reduction.

8. PUR 18 Cup Dispenser with Basic FilterBIGGEST CAPACITY

pur water filter pitcher

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This Pur water filter pitcher is by far the largest pitcher that we have discussed today. It’s made from BPA-free plastic and holds a whopping 18 cups, so it won’t need to be refilled often. Its large size means that filling it isn’t as easily done as with other pitchers. The PUR Basic Pitcher filters provide 40 gallons of filtered water, or 1-2 months of typical use before you need a replacement. More importantly, this is one of the best water filter pitcher models capable of removing mercury, copper, and certain pesticides and industrial pollutants, by using activated carbon & ion exchange.

PUR 18 Cup Dispenser with Basic Filter Tech Specs and Features Explained

When it comes to capacity, comfort, and versatility, the PUR water pitcher has twice the capacity of some competitors and doesn’t need to be filled nearly as regularly. This pitcher is ideal for larger families and households.

You will be happy to learn that despite its size, the PUR’s 18-Cup Water Dispenser fits in your fridge for easy, quick access to cleaner and refreshing drinking water any time you want it. 

Key Features

  • Huge capacity
  • Filter life: 40 gallons
  • BPA free plastic
  • Removes chlorine and mercury
  • Great value

PUR water filters have a lifespan of around 2 months and PUR filters are among the cheapest we have encountered. It is effective at removing mercury from water (up to 95%) and will also remove chlorine to improve the taste and odor. The premium carbon water filter reduces chlorine (taste and odor) and 96% of trace levels of pharmaceuticals, giving you clean, great-tasting water.

Bottom Line

The huge capacity makes the PUR water filter pitcher one of the best water purifier pitchers for large households. It won’t break the bank either and PUR gives great value for money. Also, if you have environmental concerns, you should also know that all PUR water filter pitchers and replacement filters are recyclable.

9. LeDoux Waters 10-Cup Water Pitcher Filter – GREAT ALL-ROUND PERFORMANCE

ledoux waters water filter pitcher

This model from LeDoux earns great reviews on Amazon and comes with an attractive price tag too. It features an LCD timer to let you know when to change filters at the optimal time. These filters should last for 2 months or 42 gallons of use. The filter cartridge is actually universal, and this means it will fit filters from Brita and other brands.

LeDoux Waters 10-Cup Water Pitcher Filter Tech Specs and Features Explained

The LeDoux filters offer 4 stages of filtration. They will remove heavy metals, toxins, and chlorine.

  • Stage 1: The Particle Mesh Filter removes sediments like rust, dirt, and dust from your water.
  • Stage 2: The ion-exchange resin reduces metals like copper, cadmium, mercury, and zinc in the water.
  • Stage 3: The coconut activated carbon reduces chrome tastes and odor.
  • Stage 4: The Micro-mesh Filtration provides final filtration.

Key Features

  • 4-Stage filters
  • Universal filter housing
  • Great value
  • Automatic lid

The coconut shell activated carbon will improve the taste and odor of the water too. The filters are said to make the water more alkaline, but their effect on the pH isn’t huge. When refilling the pitcher, the lid will open automatically under the flow of water and close by itself when full. This model has all the features you need in a water filter jug, and at a price that isn’t intimidating either.

Bottom Line

This pitcher is full of great features like the 4-stage filters but gives great value too. It’s a great all-round package that is amazing for the price.

10. Brita Slim Water Filter Pitcher CHEAPEST AVAILABLE

brita slim pitcher filter

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The Brita Slim is by far the cheapest pitcher we have encountered. In fact, you can buy two of these for less than the price of one of most of the other models. It does, however, have about half the capacity of most others too though.

Brita Slim Water Filter Pitcher Tech Specs and Features Explained

This Brita water filter pitcher holds 5 cups in a sleek thin design. It is perfect for small refrigerators. It will protect against contaminants like chlorine, copper, cadmium, and mercury.

Key Features

  • Cheap
  • Slim design
  • Filter life: 40 gallons
  • Removes/reduces chlorine taste and odor, copper, mercury and cadmium
  • Performs pretty well too

This model doesn’t have a fancy digital filter life indicator, but the filters do have a sticker on them which will tell you when it’s time to change them. These filters will last for 2 months or 40 gallons of use. The filters are also really well priced too. This is definitely a ‘no frills’ filter jug, but it’s a great fit for small spaces.

Bottom Line

This is amazing value right here. This Brita Slim model is also the perfect solution for small spaces. It’s not the best water filtration pitcher when it comes to removing the most harmful water contaminants, but this Brita pitcher reviews really well when it comes to bang for your buck.

Best Water Filter Pitcher Units in 2020: Top 3 Contenders

Water filter pitchers evolve together with technology. For this reason, every year, new units replace older models and new companies deliver high-end and hi-tech water filtration solutions that can satisfy even the most refined of tastes and requirements.

Now they make water filter pitchers for alkaline water as well – a thing that was rare in the past, for instance. So let’s see a handful of established and promising water filter pitchers you should consider this year as well!

The criteria we used for picking these contenders were their high-ranked reviews and overall efficiency in removing the most common water contaminants found in U.S. water.

1. Brita Everyday Pitcher with 1 Longlast Filter, Large 10 Cup, White

brita everyday best water filter pitcher

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2. Seychelle pH2O Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher

best alkaline water filter pitcher

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3. Mavea Elemaris 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher BONUS REVIEW

mavea water filter pitcher 10 cup

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MAVEA Elemaris 10 Cup – EUROPEAN STYLING, SUPERIOR FILTRATION

MAVEA is well-known as a German producer of premium water filtration systems. The MAVEA Elemaris XL water filtration pitcher has a large nine glass water capacity. Our radically new shaped filter delivers consistent flow and filtration over the life of the filter.

Mavea Elemaris 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher Tech Specs and Features Explained

No pre-soaking is required to activate the filters. The MAVEA water filter is treated with silver to inhibit the growth of bacteria. A micro-screen in the MAVEA filter reduces black particle release into the pitcher.

Key Features

  • Built-in Smart Meter monitors water quality
  • Futuristic design
  • Powerful filtration system

The MAVEA Elemaris XL pitcher is also certified by WQA to NSF ANSI Standards 42 and 53 to significantly reduce chlorine taste and odor along with other unwanted elements.

The built-in MAVEA Smart Meter measures water hardness, water volume, and amount of filter use, allowing you to keep track of those metrics (and telling you when to replace your filter). In addition, MAVEA is the only water filter company that currently offers a full-scale filter recycling program.

Bottom Line

The MAVEA Elemaris is a smart, stylish choice for water filtration in the middle-cost range.

If you want us to offer in-depth reviews for the Seychelle and Brita water filter pitchers, leave us a comment in the dedicated section at the end of this article!

Now, let’s move on to the next chapter of best water filter pitcher reviews and recommendations: the buying guide!

Before You Buy a Water Filter Pitcher: Checklist

Here are a few points you should consider before you buy a pitcher for your home. The best water pitchers show up well in each of the areas we discuss below.

What kind of capacity do you need?

The capacity of pitcher water filters is measured in cups (1 cup= 0.06 gallons = 0.24 Liters). This is how much-filtered water it will hold. Bear in mind that you will have to lift most of these pitchers to pour them. A full 10 cup pitcher will be quite heavy.

Know the filter lifespan and cost

The initial cost of the pitcher isn’t the most significant price. The initial cost will be dwarfed by the cost of buying replacement filters over the lifespan of the jug. Therefore, your primary concern when costing a jug shouldn’t be the price of the jug itself, it should be the cost and lifespan of the replacement filters.

Generally, you will have to replace filters on average every 2 months, so be aware of the running cost of the model. However, some models buck the trend and have filters that last up to 3 timers longer (See the Nakii and Aquagear models).

The best way to estimate the running costs of a water filter is to predict the filter costs over a longer period of time (a year or 2) or per gallon of clean water produced.

Example

  • Filter A costs $15 and lasts 150 gallons.
  • Filter B costs $5 and lasts 40 gallons.

Filter A works out at 10 Cents per gallon.

Filter B works out at 12.5 Cents per gallon.

  • Though filter A is much more expensive, it is cheaper to run in the long term.

Filter prices can range from as little as a few bucks each to as much as $50. They can often be bought in bulk to reduce the cost per filter. Some pitchers will also come with a spare filter included in the price. Factor this into the cost of the model.

What does the water filter pitcher protect against?

Not all water filters are created equally. Some will protect better against certain contaminants than others. For example, if fluoride is a particular concern of yours then the Aquagear model is a good choice. A water pitcher that removes fluoride is a hard thing to find. Luckily, for everyone who wants to remove fluoride from their drinking water, we have a list of best fluoride water filters, together with a guide on why fluoridation of American water is a hot and heavy debate right now.

Pay special attention to filter certifications from reputable bodies like WQA and NSF International. These are independent authorities that test water filters. If a manufacturer has certification from one of these bodies then you can be sure that it can be trusted to deliver on its claims.

The best practice is to be aware of the quality of your water before purchasing a water filter. You can do this by testing it with a water analysis kit, sending it to a local lab, or by finding your local water quality report. We have a resource for testing water here. By knowing the levels of specific contaminants in your drinking water you can choose the best filter pitcher for your home.

If for example, you require lead reduction then something like the Brita filter just won’t help. You should look at the Aquagear pitcher, which is certified to reduce lead.

Is your water filter pitcher BPA free?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical commonly used in the manufacture of plastics. It can leech into the water and be absorbed by our bodies. BPA has been linked to brain and behavioral problems, heart problems, and cancer. It is especially dangerous for children.

The best-filtered water pitchers are made from BPA free plastic, and some are even FDA approved.

Does the pitcher have a filter life indicator?

The best water filtration pitchers will have some kind of filter monitoring system. A water filter life indicator will tell you when you need to change filters, and in some cases the current condition of your filter. These indicators can be digital or in the form of stickers. Some make their decision based on the time passed since the last change, while some will monitor the amount of water that has been filtered.

Now, having one of these isn’t a necessity, but it can certainly make your life easier. It also ensures that you change filters at the optimal times, and don’t leave your water at risk from defective filters that have run their course.

BEST WATER FILTER PITCHER – FAQs:

Before we wrap up this guide on best water filter pitcher reviews and recommendations, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to these products!

What can one do to make the water better?

Use of an effective water filtration system will help reduce pollutants like lead from old water pipes, pesticide runoff in rural areas, and byproducts of water-treatment chemicals like chlorine. Radon, arsenic, and nitrates are also common pollutants in drinking water. Certain filters may help remove these impurities for the best drinking water option.

Is it better to buy a pitcher filter or faucet filter?

Both water pitcher filters and faucet filters are entry-level tap water filters using similar water filter cartridge types to filter out a similar amount of chemicals and contaminants.  Faucet filters provide more robust filtration of more gallons of tap water than a pitcher tap water filter and tend to have a longer lifespan. The difference is its convenience and price.

What are organic contaminants?

Organic contaminants are a category of water pollutants that include herbicides and pesticides as well as plant matter and animal tissues. There are microscopic levels of such organic contaminants in the soil, water, and air. These compounds sometimes result in harmful effects to humans.

One can avoid drinking such contaminants by drinking bottled water or through use of a personal filtration system (like a water pitcher with filter).  Our water filter pitcher comparison (above) can help you decide what is the best water filter pitcher for your situation.

Is a water purifying pitcher a good option for a dorm fridge?

Yes. It enables a college student to inexpensively ensure filtration of personal tap water without insisting upon filtration of the water supply for all dorm occupants. it’s a great way to keep drinking clean water in a shared-living situation.

Do water filters filter out fluoride?

Not all of them. Most commercially-available filtration systems remove only trace amounts of fluoride over the lifespan of a filter, although some filtration systems are better than others when it comes to reducing the health risks of fluoride water. You can learn more about which filters are more effective in our water filtration pitcher reviews above. But even the best tap water filter system cannot remove all chemical contaminants in water.

Do water filter pitchers remove chlorine?

Most consumer-used water filters are made of activated carbon, which can remove chlorine, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, heavy metals such as lead and mercury, and other chemicals and organic compounds that can give drinking water an unwelcome taste and odor. Use of such a filtration system aids in the production of clean drinking water.

How do you clean a water filter pitcher?

Carbon water filters can be cleaned for reuse by carefully using water pressure (as from a high-pressure hose to remove any physical debris from the filter intake, and by then soaking them for a week in a diluted solution of water and muriatic acid. Be sure to soak the cleaned filter by total immersion in clean water afterward, to remove any trace of the acid solution or other chemicals. Never ignore the product specifications about reusing a particular filter.

What should I do with a used water filter cartridge?

When your water filter has reached its expiration date it should be replaced. Some brands allow you to drop off your filter cartridges for recycling at their authorized dealers. Contact your manufacturer to find out about recycling. If direct recycling isn’t available, discard expired filters according to your local law ordinances.

Bottom Line

That concludes our best water filter pitchers post. If you’d like to find out anything else, or have any questions, then don’t hesitate to get in contact at the bottom of the page. We’ll get back to you promptly and do our best to help in any way we can.

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6 Comments
  1. Hi: I am so confused after reading your article. I am looking for an easy to use, BPA free pitcher that does a great filtering job. Easy to use. Tells you when to change the filter after water usage. I thought some fluoride is good at preventing cavities. Please advise. Carol

  2. Hi Carol,

    Fluoride in drinking water is a very hotly debated topic. Yes, it is good at preventing cavities, but some also believe it is hazardous to health. You can read about the pros and cons of fluoride in our article (half way down the page).

    I really like the Nakii pitcher which does all that you need. It’s great value too. However, the Aquagear model is the best. It will remove some fluoride though, and it is more expensive.

    I Hope this helps some.

    Jamie @ Water Filter Answers

  3. Hi Jaime,
    Could you please advise on th best water pitcher or jug available in New Zealand . One that is trusted to get rid of Chlorine and fluoride, heavy metals and th usual contaminants in water. Something that doesn’t cost heaps to replace th filters, and th filters for it should be available in New Zealand. Preferably has long life filters. A unit thats not over $80 preferably. And one thats BPA free.
    With so many on th market its had to get a reliable one. Please help me with my decision.

    Thankyou,

    Val.

  4. Hi, I am looking for one that takes out THMs and other contaminants, but can raise the alkalinity of the water… any suggestions?

  5. Hi there – thanks for writing this. I am looking at some filters. Wondering, did you test the water yourself on this? In terms of the filters actually filtering out what they claim to.

    I’ve seen a lot of inconsistency in filters through my research. Particularly interested in the aquagear.

  6. I want to know the real low down on what micron of filtration these have. Only one mentions the micron performance. I want to filter out microplastics from my water and those start at 0.5 microns. Microplastics are an emerging health threat that may make many of the other things in water pale in comparison. Microplastic particles is in everything. The air, water, and food we consume. It never goes away. It enters the very cells of our bodies.

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