Nearly half of adults don't drink enough water to stay properly hydrated, and because 60% of our bodies are made up of water, there are important negative implications that dehydration can have on human health.
All of the cells and organs in your body need water to function properly. When you’re dehydrated, your body may struggle to maintain normal body temperature, you may experience digestive issues including constipation, your blood pressure can rise due to the thickening of your blood, and your organs will not get the amount of oxygen that they need, among many other negative health impacts.
Drinking water is also important to your overall health because people who drink more water generally consume less soda, alcohol, and energy drinks. They tend to have better diets than those who turn to processed drinks and be healthier overall.
If you don't like the tap water at home and don’t like the idea of the waste that buying bottled water produces, water filter pitchers could be the thing that encourages you to drink more. Unlike other options that are out there for water filtration products, a water filter pitcher can be used almost as soon as you open the box, so you can start drinking more water right away.
What are the Best Water Filter Pitchers?
Don't have time to read the entire review? Check out this table to see our picks for the best water filter pitchers.
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Best Overall Choice: Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Runner-Up Option: Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Best Value for the Money: Brita Everyday Water Pitcher with Filters | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Most Budget-Friendly: PUR PPT700WAM PPT700W Pitcher, 7 Cups | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Best High-End Pitcher That Removes the Most Contaminants: Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Best Large Capacity Water Filter Pitcher: Brita Ultra Max Filtering Dispenser, Extra Large 18 Cup | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Best for Fast Filtering: Nakii by Aquaphor Elegant Water Filter Pitcher | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Best for Fitting in Crowded Refrigerators: Naples Naturals 108X1 Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
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Most Stylish: Mavea Elemaris XL | CLICK HERE FOR PRICE |
How to Drink More Water
Dehydration is a widespread problem that can lead to the aforementioned health problems, in addition to dry skin, headaches, and joint pain. What’s more, prolonged dehydration can cause kidney damage and serious health concerns.
Many people don't drink enough because they don't like the taste of tap water that their local utilities provide. Municipal water is treated frequently with chlorine to kill bacteria, and it may also contain a number of potentially harmful and even carcinogenic substances. This often discourages people from regularly consuming water at home. Cities have even made headlines because their water is cloudy, brown, and has a bad taste; yet officials say that it's safe to drink. Rusty water mains and old lead pipes can also affect water quality.
Even if the taste or smell of your tap water doesn’t bother you, your water may still contain unwanted impurities. You can find out what types of possible contaminants are in your municipality's water supply by looking at your area’s water supplier’s Consumer Confidence Report to see the levels of contaminants that are in your tap water.
A great first step to overcoming this hurdle to drinking water is to use a water filter pitcher. Once you’re using a water filter pitcher to clean your water, you can then add natural flavors such as lemon or herbs to give you a bit of flavor. Or, if you have a juice that you really like to drink, you can work your way into the habit of drinking water by gradually diluting the drink with more and more water to increase your water intake.
Also, make sure to always have a filled water bottle near you, whether you’re at home or on-the-go. Find a water bottle that works best for your needs and fill it up every time you finish it. By doing this, you will find yourself sipping water throughout the day, which will prevent you from letting your body become dehydrated.
How Do Water Filter Pitchers Work?
Commercial pitcher systems use disposable cartridges that contain a combination of activated carbon and ion-exchange resins to remove contaminants. Activated carbon is made from heat-treated coconut shells and works through the process of adsorption. The large surface area of activated carbon is exceptionally porous and attracts contaminants, making it act like a sponge as the carbon traps unwanted contaminants such as lead, copper, chlorine, pesticides, and organic compounds that impact the taste and smell of your tap water.
However, activated carbon filters are not able to eliminate all dissolved minerals, nitrates, and bacteria through this process. While metals bind to the carbon and are therefore trapped in the filter, these can pass through the system. But these substances aren’t necessarily harmful and most water has already been treated to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria. That said, it generally isn’t a big deal if these things seep through your filter.
Carbon filtration systems are also paired with plastic polymer beads, which contain a specially treated resin that can trade ions with electrically charged particles. This process neutralizes toxins by changing their composition. Ion exchange resin can treat “hard water”, meaning it reduces the amount of calcium and magnesium ions that are in it.
Using Water Filter Pitchers
Filter pitchers are intended for storage in the refrigerator. If they are kept on the counter, the water should be consumed or replaced within a few days. Products in this category vary in their appearance and design, but the key of the water pitcher filter lies with the filter.
Because of this, it is important to stay on top of changing your water pitcher filter. The instruction manual that comes with your pitcher will indicate how often the filter should be changed, which is usually about every 60 days. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines because if your filter gets clogged with contaminants or the carbon fills up to capacity, it will no longer be effective.
If your water starts to flow slower than normal, your filter is probably clogged and needs to be replaced.
Cost and Benefits of Using a Walter Filter Pitcher
Most pitchers cost between $25 and $50 and come with one cartridge to get you started. Replacement filters cost between $8 and $12 each, so it could be more economical to purchase a multi-pack. It's estimated that one cartridge can replace 300 pint-sized water bottles, which saves money and reduces plastic waste.
Aside from saving you money and reducing waste, a water filter pitcher allows you to only filter the amount of water that you need to drink. While under-the-sink filtration systems will waste your filter life by filtering all of the water that comes through your sink (for washing dishes, watering the plants, etc.) you can extend the life of a water filter pitcher by only using it for the water that you drink. Also, due to their compact size, you can take your water filter pitcher with you while you’re traveling so you can have clean water on the go.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Water Filter Pitcher
Material
Most water filter pitchers are made of plastic, so it’s best to get a pitcher that’s made from a safe plastic so chemicals won’t seep into your water. Find a pitcher that’s made from BPA-free plastic to ensure ultimate purity.
Filters
Because you will need to replace your filters, you will want a pitcher that comes with filters that will last at least two months. Choose a pitcher that features some kind of indicator letting you know when it’s time to replace the filter. Also, make sure that your pitcher comes with its first filter.
Reliability
To make sure your water filter pitcher can remove all possible health hazards, look for a label that notes it is NSF-certified, which indicates it meets sanitation and efficacy standards.
Size
Typically, these pitchers come in sizes between 5 and 12 cups. While you will need to refill a larger pitcher less frequently, it will also take up more refrigerator space. Although, some larger pitchers do come in a space-saving design to reduce this issue. Look at the pitcher’s dimensions before buying it so you can be sure it will fit in your fridge.
Spout
It may seem like an insignificant detail, but your pitcher’s spout is also important to consider. Find a model that has a wide, contoured spout so your water can pour out in a steady stream. Some spouts come with a flap to prevent particles and odors from getting into the pitcher, and some of these flaps lock, so you can be sure your pitcher won’t spill if it’s knocked over.
Now that you know what you’re looking for in a water filter pitcher, let's take a look at 6 of the most popular models based on size, cost, and contaminant removal.
9 Best Water Filter Pitchers
1. Best Overall: Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
This is the best overall option because it offers excellent filtration and its filters last for a long time. The Aquagear water filter pitcher is made out of 100% FDA-approved, BPA-free, food grade materials and is both recyclable and vegan.
The setup for this pitcher is fast and easy, as the initial filter flushing takes less than 3 minutes. It comes with a pour spout feature, allowing users to conveniently fill it up “hands-free”. It also comes with a tight-sealing cover, so odors and debris are unable to get into the pitcher.
This pitcher comes with a lifetime guarantee and immediate customer support, so if your pitcher breaks, the manufacturer will replace it for free.
The Filters
The filter on this model exceeds NSF Standards 42 and 53, which covers taste, odor, and health-related claims. The triple capacity, high-quality filters can purify up to 150 gallons each, which is about three times longer than other popular filters, which means this option can save you money in the long run.
The five-stage filter comes with two-micron pores that will protect you from consuming contaminants that some other filters miss. The Aquagear filters have been shown to remove up to 2000% more contaminants than other leading products, including lead, fluoride, chromium, chlorine, mercury, and chloramines. However, the filter keeps healthy trace minerals such as calcium and magnesium in your water, so you’ll still get the health benefits from these minerals.
Finally, the Aquagear filters can be recycled. Users just need to alert the manufacturer via email and they will send a shipping label to return the filter so it can be properly recycled.
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2. Runner-Up Option: Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
This pitcher comes with a new ergonomic design that makes using it very easy. In addition to its superior filter, it has a secure lid to prevent leaks, a flexible spout for a clean pour, and a digital reminder that will let you know when it’s time to change the filter.
While this pitcher is large, it comes with a space-saving design so it can easily fit into your fridge without taking up too much room. And, while bottled water can get very expensive, this pitcher is economical, as it only costs 29¢ for every gallon of fresh water it produces. A family of 5 can easily get fresh water from this pitcher while eliminating the need for wasteful plastic bottles.
The manufacturer offers a 100% lifetime money-back guarantee in addition to phone and email customer support that is available 24/7. If you need to return your pitcher, the company allows you to do this with no hassle to ensure that you’re satisfied with your experience.
The Filters
The 5-stage, triple capacity filters for this pitcher purify up to 200 gallons and remove 99.9% of all contaminants. The patented filters remove 2000% more toxins than other leading brands, including chromium, lead, mercury, chloramines, and more, while maintaining the calcium and magnesium in your water. The proprietary 5-stage filter system offers 2 different filtering materials to clean your water. The first filtering material is two layers of activated coconut carbon filters, which cleans the water down to two microns. The coconut carbon layer removes over 90% of fluoride, in addition to chlorine and trihalomethanes.
The remaining three layers use a proprietary organic filter to eliminate heavy metals, trace pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other contaminants that can seep through the activated coconut carbon layers.
The filters go through a comprehensive testing process in the USA, and independent, third-party lab results from Japan, The UK, Brazil, and New Zealand prove that the filters remove copper, lead, and other toxins and metals that may be in your water.
The filters are recyclable, BPA-free, vegan, and made using FDA-approved food-grade materials. These filters are EPA and ANSI certified and exceed NSF Standards 42 and 53 for toxin reduction.
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3. Best Value for the Money: Brita Everyday
The German brand Brita is perhaps the best-known maker of water filter pitchers. The company has sold water filters in Europe for nearly 50 years and was one of the first companies to offer these products in the United States. For some 20 years, Brita's products were licensed and distributed by Clorox, but the company has since reclaimed its rights.
As the name implies, the Everyday model is an affordable pitcher with basic features that are designed for daily use. Because it doesn't have a digital filter reminder, users are encouraged to track the number of refills or replace the filter every two months. The design is simple and easy to use. The lid on this filter pitcher doesn't lock in place, so pouring must be done with care. The company has listened to its customers and plans to release Everyday pitchers with covers that fit tightly. Packages will be marked as new and improved.
The Filters
This model uses Brita's standard pitcher and dispenser filters, so consumers can get Brita's filtration results at a competitive price. The filters are readily available and come in multi-packs. They don’t need to be soaked before use–they simply must run under tap water for 15 seconds.
The filter contains activated carbon made from coconut shells. The proprietary media removes organic contaminants as well as the taste and smell of chlorine. Carbon is combined with white ion-exchange granules. These polymer beads have a large surface area and help to remove metals and heavy metals that are found in drinking water. Brita recommends changing the filter after two months or 40 gallons of use. Since the pitcher has a 10-cup capacity, the filter should be changed after 64 refills.
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4. Most Budget-Friendly: PUR PPT700WAM PPT700W Pitcher, 7 Cups
This PUR pitcher filter is affordable, but it isn't a compromise on quality. It provides superior filtration, effectively reducing pollutants and contaminants, based on technologies developed by PUR for over 30 years. Not only is this filter pitcher affordable to purchase, but filtering your own water can also save you over $1,000 a year when compared to purchasing bottled water.
The PUR PPT700WAM PPT700W Pitcher filters and reduces over 70 contaminants, including mercury, chlorine, copper, lead, and more. In fact, it's been independently tested and certified to reduce more than twice as many contaminants as the leading pitcher.
The convenient 7-cup pitcher has a slim design that fits easily in the refrigerator, along with a comfort grip handle, an Easy-Fill lid, and a pour spout cover that keeps your water fresh. The pitcher is BPA free and easy to use.
The PUR PPT700WAM PPT700W filter fits securely in the container with a LockFit design and has a faster flow design that filters water more quickly. The filter doesn't require pre-soaking, traps small particles, and lasts for 40 gallons of use.
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5. Best High-End Pitcher That Removes the Most Contaminants: Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher
The Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher has been independently tested and certified to remove over 230 pollutants and contaminants from water, filtering more effectively than the other five leading brands of filter pitchers combined. In fact, they are so proud of their test results that they have published them on their websites and you can review them yourself.
The Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher removes fluoride, lead, chromium, BPA, herbicides, pesticides, benzine, VOCs, mercury, arsenic, and more common chemicals, pollutants, and contaminants from your water.
It removes more than 230 metals and chemicals from water, more than any other pitcher. Their filters are made in the USA and tested to the highest standards for the cleanest water you can drink, meeting or exceeding NSF/ANSI standards.
The Clearly Filtered pitcher, filter, and reservoir are BPA-free, food-grade Tritan that will not leach chemicals into your water. The Clearly Filtered Water Filter Pitcher has an 80 ounce/10 cup capacity, and the filter lasts for 100 gallons.
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6. Best Large Capacity Water Filter Pitcher: Brita Ultra Max Filtering Dispenser, Extra Large 18 Cup
The extra-large Brita Ultra Max holds 18 cups or 1.13 gallons of water, in a container that fits neatly on a refrigerator shelf, so you have plenty of cold, clean water for a family, friends, and even a party without waiting for water to filter. The spigot makes it easy to pour and use, without lids that may slip or come off. Best of all, it's healthy, high quality Brita filtration that keeps your water clear and clean.
The Brita Ultra Max Filtering Dispenser, Extra Large has a huge 18-cup capacity, but with a slim space-saving design that fits easily on a counter or in a refrigerator. The large lid is easy to open and refill, and the flow-controlled spigot makes it easy to dispense and use. The reservoir is BPA free. The Brita filter reduces chlorine, copper, mercury, zinc, cadmium, and other impurities. The filter is easy to use, with no pre-soaking, and no black flecks in your water. The filter will last for 40 gallons or 2 months of typical use, and there is an electronic filter indicator on the lid that lets you know when the filter needs to be changed.
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7. Best for Fast Filtering: Nakii by Aquaphor Elegant Water Filter Pitcher
The Nakii water pitcher is ideal for those who need fast filtration, as its Aqualen filter is capable of faster water purification than many other options. This pitcher is made with food-grade, BPA-free San plastic to ensure you’re drinking only the cleanest water. Its A5 filter has a 1,479-cup lifetime capacity and comes with a filter change indicator to alert you when it’s time to replace it.
The blown-glass jug design is an elegant fixture that does not look out of place at the dining table, and with its 17-cup capacity, you and your family are never out of clean, refreshing water.
The Filters
Water filtered through the Nakii undergoes an eight-step filtration process. Its Aqualen technology has activated silver to provide bacteriostatic action against microorganisms that may be present in the water.
The Nakii water pitcher uses a high-speed A5 filter, which is one of the few filters on the market that has received both NSF 42 and 53 certifications—leading standards in water filtration systems. This guarantees that you’ll get fresh, wonderful-tasting drinking water that’s free from rust, silt, limescale, heavy metals, sediments, chlorine, and other contaminants that are harmful to your health.
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8. Best for Fitting in Crowded Refrigerators: Naples Naturals 108X1 Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher
The Naples Naturals doesn't just filter your water, it raises the pH of your water to naturally make alkaline water. Even better, this generous pitcher has a gorgeous design that looks great on the counter, or slide it easily in your refrigerator door and save space. It's been recognized as “Best of the Best” by BestReviews, and it's a great way to enjoy alkaline water at home.
The Naples Naturals 108X1 Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher filters out 20 trace minerals and raises the pH level, for alkaline water that has a perfect mineral balance. Naples Naturals water tastes better alone, and when used to brew coffee, tea, and in other beverages.
The stylish pitcher is made from food-grade resins that are BPA-free and look great in any décor. The pitcher holds 10 cups of water and is easy to fill. The filter screws in place for a more stable design than other pitchers, and lasts for 70 gallons of water, or approximately 45-60 days. A digital readout lets you know when it's time to replace the filter.
The Naples Naturals 108X1 Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher is available in three stylish colors and two different designs, so you can choose the look you like. The slim shape fits easily, even in a crowded fridge, or leave it on the counter to enjoy the great design and remind yourself to stay hydrated.
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9. Most Stylish: Mavea Elemaris XL
Mavea is a Brita subsidiary that has been offering filter pitchers to North American consumers since 2009. Its products are designed and manufactured in Germany. Mavea has positioned itself as a premium brand that claims to offer next-generation filtration technology, superior construction, and enhanced designs.
The Mavea Elemaris XL is intended to be a stylish fridge-to-table pitcher. It's available in black or white and three trendy colors including orange, magenta and purple.
It has a soft rubber handle for easy gripping and a molded bottom with non-skid, non-scratch feet. A digital meter embedded in the lid provides real-time data about the filter's life based on filtration volume, time, and water hardness. Another unique feature is the pitcher's automatic filling port. Pressure from your faucet's water flow automatically opens a portal in the lid for hands-free refills.
The Filters
The Elemaris XL holds nine cups of filtered water, which is 2.25 quarts. It uses Maxtra filters that are available in one- two- and three-packs according to the manufacturer. The cost is comparable to filters offered by Brita and competing brands although they are supposed to deliver superior results.
Environmentally conscious consumers may appreciate the brand's filter recycling program. Mavea will pay for consumers to ship back at least six name-brand filters. Each part of the filter is recycled or reused so that there is zero landfill waste. Recycling bins are placed at select retail locations.
The manufacturer says that the filters feature a micromesh that prevents carbon granules from entering the water, which is a common problem with water filter pitchers. The filter media contains silver particles that inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria. Another advertised feature is a flow control system that provides consistent filtration speeds over the life of the filter. Unlike other products, Maxtra filters purportedly reduce limescale by sequestering calcium and minerals found in hard water.
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The Winner
All of these options are the best in their category, but the overall winner is the Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher.
Although it is pricier than others up front, the filters are long-lasting and the product has a lifetime guarantee. When compared to its competitors, this option tops the rest for its superior filtration abilities and durable filters.
Connie Mathers is a professional editor and freelance writer. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and a Master’s Degree in Social Work. When she is not writing, Connie is either spending time with her daughter and two dogs, running, or working at her full-time job as a social worker in Richmond, VA.
What on is the best for eliminating the most lead?
The best water pitcher brand to remove lead is not mentioned here which is why this article is not complete. Clear2O water filter pitcher reduces over 200 contaminants including lead. The Clear2O water filter pitcher uses a solid carbon block filter which is better than any of the filter mentioned in this article (it does not require soaking). It has also been rated number one by Consumer Reports for several years. It fills faster than the pitchers mentioned in this article… under a minute and it requires a faucet aerator installation because it uses water pressure to filter through the solid carbon block filter. The pitcher brands mentioned on this article use activated granular carbon to filter which leaves pockets for contaminants to get away. Check out Clear2O and you will be happy you did. I have been a customer for the last five years.
It fits in mine… but this really depends on how you fridge is designed. Its measurements are 5.63W x 15.75H. I suggest measuring to see how it will fit before you buy any larger size water filter
I must say that this review is comprehensive. I have learned further about water filters. Now I have to be more keen in choosing the right water filters at home. Thanks a lot!
Hey, thanks a lot for this comprehensive list. Water dispenser has really become an imperative part of our lives and thus, not owning one, only makes our lives less comfortable. Its great idea to switch the idea of storing cold water in the refrigerator by just owning a water dispenser where you can enjoy not just icy cold water but also water at room temperature along with hot water for making hot beverages. Moreover, the pros and cons stated in here proved really helpful.
Hi, thanks a lot for sharing this information. I would be really glad if you’ll share some information regarding the water cooler dispensers. Since they are the best appliances that offer a lot of conveniences I request you to please share some information in this context.
I read somewhere the best water filter pitcher are the one made of glass because you are guaranteed is made of of toxic free material. how true is this.