Adam holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Linguistics, and creative writing has always been his greatest passion. For more than 25 years he's been working for several well-known automobile and travel magazines as an editor and expert consultant, but when Adam started his writing path here, at WisePick, it turned out that he's capable of writing practically anything about everything.
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known household appliances manufacturer, so no wonder he knows everything about almost everything you buy for your home.
Last updated: May 20, 2021
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The water around us whether in the city or the country may have harmful contaminants that may harm our health. If you do not have an intricate filtration system in the house then getting a water filter pitcher is an affordable and simple way of filtering water. They are simple structures that come with a capable filter that removes harmful contaminants in the water like excess chlorine and heavy metals. The best water filter pitcher always comes with adequate certification and quality features. These certifications are important as the show you what standards the water filter pitcher adheres to.
While looking for the reliable water filter pitchers we have to consider a number of factors. These factors help to differentiate what features are most important to you. For example, one will consider the kind of filtration system they want or the capacity provided by the unit. Another person will be more focused to see if the materials used are BPA-free or if the pitcher comes with a filter change indicator. All these are valid considerations that are expounded more on the buying guide section below.
After 48 hours of intense research, we have compiled information that will be of value to you. Look at the comparison table and see which product has a good rating while the detailed reviews give you more insight into the actual products. The buying guide will expound more on what you need to know about water filter pitchers. At the end of it, we are sure you would have found the perfect water filter pitcher.
"In this pitcher water goes through multi-staged filtering process of activated particles eliminating even a slightest chance of harmful chemicals staying in your water."
The Seychelle Pitcher is a new style water pitcher by the Seychelle brand that is designed to house 33% better water filtration and flow. This water filtration pitcher can hold up to 200 gallons of water fit for drinking. There are two filters present each able to handle 100gallons each making sure that the quality of the water is maintained.
The family sized pitcher comes with five stage filters. These filters allow the water to be stripped of harmful components like mercury, fluoride, lead, and chlorine. It has acquired the reputation of eradicating 2000% more contaminants in the water than Brita, therefore, becoming a favorite in the market. It strips the water of all the beneficial compounds thus providing water that is balanced.
Before it gets to you, the water filter pitcher has undergone some tests to prove its safety. This unit is FDA approved and you can be sure that it is made from BPA free material. The lightweight unit is easy to handle and will provide you with 8 cups comfortably before requiring a refill. The handle is well constructed for support and comfort. When the flow of water starts slowing down flush the filter to remove dirt, other than that you are good to go.
What do we love it for?
Lightweight and easy to keep clean
Comes with dual 5-step filters featuring microns for quality water
Has a large capacity
Comes with replaceable filters
FDA approved and 100%BPA free
Able to remove contaminants without stripping the water bare
What were we disappointed with?
Cannot be used with salty/hard water
When pouring water may splash due to the design of the lid
The Dafi Alkaline UP Crystal Pitcher is a premium product that is designed to fulfill your clean water demands. It comes with a capacity of 8cups enough for a medium family to use comfortably. What is good about alkaline pitchers is that they are able to balance the PH of your water up to 9.5 and also improves –ORP potential all the way to -200. You get to drink water that is able to balance out your body and prevent things like aging and cancer.
The pitcher gives the impression of glass preventing any chemical reactions and make it clean to use. On top of that, the glass is shatter-proof and possesses thermal shock resistance making it durable even with children around.
The unit comes with two alkaline filters to replace the old ones after every 30days. The pitcher has an LED indicator that works for hand in hand with an application. This is to notify you when you need to change the filter. The anti-slippery base will provide stability and BPA free funnel will keep the water safe. For all the features provided the unit is well priced and would make a good addition.
Why are we impressed?
Balances the PH of the water
Uses crystal glass to keep the water in perfect condition
Comes with an LED indicator and an application for filter changes
Features an anti-slippery base for stability
Provides adequate capacity
Comes with a free 24oz Sports Bottle for water on the go
The Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher is an affordable pitcher that is created out of durable materials that are clear of contaminants. The unit has been assessed for safety and has gotten 100% FDA approval and the plastic used is 100% BPA free. This pitcher is recyclable and safe for vegans to use.
Made in the USA, the pitcher has undergone rigorous testing to prove that it is safe for health. The filters in use have passed the NFS standards responsible for the reduction of contaminants. The filters in use happen to be triple capacity filters able to process 150 gallons of water each outdoing brands like ZeroWater and Brita by 3-4 times.
The 5- stage filter present possesses 2 microns responsible for removing contaminants such as chlorine, mercury, lead, chromium 6, 90% of fluoride and chloramines. The good news is that these filters only strip away the unneeded metals leaving behind the healthy ones such as calcium and magnesium that are essential for bodybuilding.
This pitcher comes with a capacity of 8cups which can quench the thirst of a small family adequately. You may need to refill the unit often but the water is of good quality. The water filter pitcher comes with same day customer support and a lifetime guarantee.
Why did it make our list?
Provides filters with long life
Comes with a lifetime guarantee
Does not strip the water bare of minerals
The tap water tastes good
What is not ideal about it?
Lacks a filter change indicator
Filling time is a bit slow
Lid design could be better to avoid splashing water around while pouring
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher does exactly what it says, it gives you clearly filtered water. With the ability to remove contaminants such as pesticides chlorine, fluoride, hormones, chloramines, mercury and pharmaceuticals among others indicates why the product has a reputation of removing more than 5600% more contaminants compared to brands. The filters installed are able to combat 230 chemicals and various toxins that may be missed by other filter units in the market.
To have good water, the filters have to be great and this unit comes with replacement filters that are able to clean 100gallons each. The water that you drink will be free of contaminants but will be able to retain the beneficial minerals to your body. The USA built water filter pitcher is FDA approved, can be recycled, BPA free and the materials used are of medical grade.
The 0.5-gallon unit is accompanied by a lifetime guarantee that sees to it that any damage or replacement is taken care of. The company also offers great customer support so you can be sure to always get solutions when you need them.
Why are we impressed?
Gets rid of a wide range of contaminants and toxins
Comes with a lifetime guarantee and good customer service
The Brita Atlantis is a great product from the Brita Brand that delivers a capacity of 6cups of clean water to your household. The unit fitted with one filter is able to get rid of contaminants in such as mercury, cadmium, and copper from your water.
To mellow out the strong taste and odor of chlorine, coconut based activated carbon possessing ion exchange resin technology is put to use. With the removal or odor and contaminates the water remains crisp and fresh.
The BPA free unit comes with a sticker to notify you when the filter needs changing. After every 40 gallons or a duration of about two months, the sticker will alert you to change the filter. If the filter starts getting too slow then it is probably a good idea to replace the filters. Buy the filters in a large number to save money over time.
For ease of use, the water filter pitcher has an ergonomic handle that makes operation comfortable. Refilling is not a hard process thanks to the flip-flop lid and narrow design. The unit is 10-inches in height in case you were wondering if it would fit in the refrigerator.
What are its best features?
Perfect for individual use
The water tastes good
Features a quality filter that is able to reduce chlorine traces
Able to pour out clean water as the other section is being filtered
The BWT Penguin comes in a cool blue color and affordable pricing that would tempt even the most frugal of us. The unit bears a handle that is easy to carry and maintain comfortability even when pouring. The 2.7liter water filter pitcher has a contemporary design that reflects is Austrian origin. The pitcher is made from safe materials that are BPA free to ensure that the quality of the filtered water is not compromised.
This unit possesses quality replaceable filters that are able to reduce the presence of limescale, chlorine and other contaminants. The filters provide a multi-stage filtration system that includes carbon activated granulates that absorb the contaminants and release magnesium back to the water. The water is also infused with +hydrogen ions balancing the water and making it more useful in the body.
Additionally, the water filter pitcher is dishwasher safe will save you some time cleaning but be careful not to add the lid as it is not dishwasher safe. It also comes with an electronic indicator to alert you of filter changes. The pitcher is splash-free and therefore you can be guaranteed of no messes. It will fit perfectly in your fridge so that you enjoy the water at your preferred temperature.
Why are we impressed?
Features a multi-stage filtration system
Combines magnesium into the water
Able to remove contaminants like lime scale and chlorine
The Invigorated Water Water Pitcher Ionizer provides you with natural tasting water that has been alkaline ionized and mineralized. This kind of water will reduce rampant inflammation in the body, improve your immunity and keep your metabolism high. The water filter pitcher offers a multi-stage filtration system that consists of components such as stone, micro nets, ceramic ball blends, coconut carbon charcoal, Zeolite, and ion exchange resin. These components strip away chlorine, fluoride, voc’s, arsenic, lead, and other components in the water that distort the taste.
This does not mean that your water lacks valuable minerals as the filter is able to infuse the water with calcium and selenium. The two huge capacity filters are durable and are able to handle 360liters each. Additionally, you will release how easy the unit is to refill because of its fourth generation structure. The easy to refill lid paired by a spacious design providing a capacity of 6cups makes it a favorite with many.
You can trust that the unit is safe to use as it uses BPA free materials and it has been given the FDA/TUV/ SGS approval. It features an anti-slip base to ensure no messes are accidentally made. With the money- back guarantee it is a good unit to try.
What makes it special?
Gives good tasting water
Able to improve –ORP water
Provides a quality long life filtration system
Easy to refill
Comes with a 100% money back guarantee
Offers a PH002 ultrafiltration membrane filter to remove more contaminants (sold separately)
The EHM ULTRA is a small sized water filter pitcher that is designed to improve the quality of your water. The pitcher is able to produce mineralized alkaline water that is both good for your health and it tastes good. It will be able to promote better immunity and energy production in the body.
Another thing we observe about this product is that it comes with an intricate filtration system that features 6 levels. As the water passes through the 6 levels contaminants such as heavy metals, chlorine, and other contaminants are removed producing quality water. The unit balances the PH of the water from acidic to a PH level of 8.5-10 depending on the water source you are using. The water free of contaminants is then infused with minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium that are essential to the body. It also provides a form of anti-oxidants and also facilitates a low ORP rating between -100 and -200mv.
As for capacity, we are looking at a 3.5-liter pitcher with a filtration capacity of 2litres. Voted as best of its kind from2014-2018, the EHM ULTRA water pitcher is the perfect size for your fridge and the price is just within reach.
What stands out?
Provides healthy mineralized alkaline water that tastes good
Comes with the perfect capacity for a small family
Offers a multi-stage filtration system
It is cost-effective
Easy to fill and fits in the fridge without issues
The Brita Metro is a small water filter pitcher with a capacity of 5 cups from the Brita brand that has had over 40 years’ experience in producing products for water optimization. This unit is made from BPA-free plastic ensuring that your water is not contaminated even after filtration. The unit’s size is small and therefore you will find it acceptable to store it in the fridge.
This small pitcher possesses a BPA free funnel-shaped filter that reduces the amount of chlorine, zinc, mercury, copper and cadmium compounds in the water that alters the taste. The free filter provided is replaceable and comes with an indicator to alert the user that it is time for a replacement. This is a convenient feature especially in areas where water pollution is rampant.
The good thing about the filter used in this model is that it is able to satisfy the equivalent of 300-16oz bottles. This, in turn, saves the environment from plastic bottles that at times are poorly disposed of. After every two months or after 40 gallons it is important to change the filter so as to avoid compromising the quality of your water. The pitcher provides and a lockable lid for security and it is compatible with other Brita pitchers with the exception of the stream pitcher.
What makes it stand out?
Provides a locking lid for secure pouring
Very affordable price
Easy to assemble and can fit in the fridge
Comes with a water filter electric change indicator
Improves the water quality greatly depending on the source
The Brita UltraMax is all about size and function at an affordable price. The unit that comes with a capacity of 18cups/ 1.13gallons will surely satisfy even the thirstiest of them all. The 14 x 10 x 6’’ sized unit is made from safe materials that will keep your water safe and make it easy to keep the unit clean. It can easily sit on your countertop or inside the refrigerator.
In order to clean water, the water filter pitcher is fitted with a standard Brita filter that reduces traces of chlorine, mercury, copper, zinc, and cadmium depending on the water source. The removal of these compounds gives the water a good taste that is acceptable for both children and adults.
To help you remember to change the filter, the pitcher comes with a sticker indicator. It is recommended to change the filter after completing 40gallons or every two months. Since it is a large unit you cannot keep tipping it over, the spigot installed will make the process simpler. By buying this unit you are helping save the environment from plastic wastes as one filter is able to purify water enough for 300-16.9oz bottles.
What makes it special?
Features a spigot for clean pours
Refill is a simple process
Offers a large capacity
Sold at an attainable price
Well-structured to sit on counters and the refrigerator
It may be your first time buying a water filter pitcher and you do not have a clue of what to look for. Here are a few nuggets of information that may assist you in identifying a water filter pitcher that fits your needs.
Invest in your health – advantages of water filters
Why bother getting a water filter pitcher in the first place? What are the advantages of using these water filters instead of buying bottled water? Well, here is what you stand to gain:
Less chlorine in your water means that you can stay away from diseases such as heart disease, allergic reactions, increase susceptibility to asthma especially in kids and expose you to carcinogens.
Reduces the number of heavy metals and arsenic in your water that is responsible for many cancer/ neurological diseases. Metals such as mercury, led, copper and cadmium affect the body over time especially in large doses.
You get to save the environment from plastic waste thus creating an environment that supports better health for everyone.
Balances the PH of the water which in turn balances out your digestive and immune
Removes fluoride from water that is responsible for weak bones and teeth.
Is it clean? How to test your water
There are basically two ways to know if the water you have is clean. These two ways include relying on government results or testing the water yourself using a kit. The US government has strict regulations over the quality of water in the country as it affects the people and the environment. It is possible to access these government reports online through platforms like consumer confidence reports. States like San Diego have a CCF reports that show you how the water is tested, treated and what the results are.
Since your water will move through a wide range of pipes, it may get to your house contaminated again. This is why you need self-testing kits like the First Alert WT1 Drinking Water. These small kits will let you know the pH of the water and any other contaminants present in the water like bacteria/pesticides/ nitrates/chlorine and others. There are other more intricate kits in the market it is just up to what you can afford.
How do water filters work?
There are basically two ways that filters work to clean up water. The first one is through physical means whereby the filter acts as a sieve to remove any particles and contaminants. For example, activated carbon filters have spaces that the contaminants can be absorbed in to and remain lodged until the filter is exchanged. The second method is through using chemical filtration where there are chemical compounds actively working to dissolves / attracts impurities in the water and binds them.
Cartridge or carbon?
In the market, water filter pitchers either come with carbon or cartridge filters. Both of this kind of filters have their own advantages and disadvantages. Carbon filters have to be activated to work. These filters can be made from wood, coconut shells, fiber or even petroleum pitch as long as they are activated. These materials can be activated through physical activation through carbonization in an inert atmosphere at high temperatures. Chemical activation requires carbonization and impregnation with different chemicals to make the filter active. Depending on the manufacturer’s process you can expect different results.
Both the chemical and physical carbon filters work by absorbing the contaminants in the water and trapping them within the structure. These contaminants include chlorine, voc’s, Trihalomethane Compounds, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia among others. When all the carbon filter is clogged with contaminants it is time to change the filter.
Cartridge water filters usually use a combination of filtration systems including activated carbon to remove most of the contaminants in the water. These different levels of filtration eradicate different contaminants ensuring by the time the water reaches your glass it is fit for a newborn baby. The filtration system also includes mineral balls so that the water is packed with valuable minerals useful to the body. If you want a more detailed water filtration system then cartridge filters are the go-to products
Features to consider while buying the safest water filter pitcher
The kind of water filtration filter that is adequate for you may fall short in another person’s environment. There are small factors that will influence your decision but still as important.
Size
It is important to consider the size of the water pitcher for storage and handling purposes. The bigger the unit the more space it will take up on your counter and refrigerator. If you have a small number of people in the house then get a medium-sized pitcher so that you do not have to refill more often. Consider the amount of space you have and if it is easy to pour out water when full.
Capacity
Different units possess different capacities, you just need to pick one that is able to serve the number of people available. A small house does not need a unit with an 18-cup capacity unless they are always thirsty for large amounts of water. Many people find that water filter pitchers with a capacity of 8-cups are satisfactory for small-medium environments. Remember put in mind the frequency at which people access the water so as to buy a unit with a respective flow rate.
Filtration system
It is good to know which filtration system works with the kind of water that you have otherwise you might end up with a useless piece. These are some of the common filtration systems that you may find:
Activated carbon filters are based on charcoal and do a good job of removing chemicals like chlorine or pesticides from the water, as in Brita Atlantis. These kinds of filters are however unable to cope with removing impurities from hard water or effectively removing heavy metals as they clog up quick needing replacements.
Reverse osmosis filters basically work by forcing unclean water through a fine membrane so that the water is pressurized to leave the contaminants behind. The only flaw is that things like bacteria/ hormones are able to pass through with the water. This means that you may need an extra filter to remove the remaining contaminants. Also, they tend to use a lot of water.
Ion exchange filters are particularly good with handling hard water, the separate and trap the magnesium and calcium ions. In turn, they release sodium ions to replace the magnesium/calcium ions and eventually soften the water. Usually made from zeolite beads these filters need to be recharged with sodium ions by using a special kind of salt. If you are looking for one of these, you might want to learn about Invigorated Water Water Pitcher Ionizer.
Pitcher material
There is absolutely no point of filtering water only for it to be contaminated without your knowledge. That is why the material being used to create the water filter pitcher has to be safe and approved by the respective authorities. In most cases, the pitchers are made from plastic but it has to be harmless plastic. Look for units that bear a BPA-free description so that none of the plastic is absorbed in the water. There are glass pitcher brands that you can access in the market then that would ensure that your water remained uncontaminated after filtration, the thing is they will cost you a bit more.
Filter life
Replacing filters is unavoidable if you want to maintain the quality of water you are used to. However, you don’t want to spend a lot of money always replacing filters. In most cases, the manufacturer always recommends when it is good to replace the filter. If the filter can give you 2months of constant use or more then that is a good filter to work with. There are manufactures like the Seychelle water filter pitcher that advise you to re-flush the filter to unclog it. If the filter remains clogged then it is time to replace. It is also advisable to buy your filters in bulk so as to save money as opposed to individual buys.
How long does it take to filter water?
To get the best water means that you will have to sacrifice some time. Pitchers that come with multi-stage filters will take a while compared to the simple carbon filter. If you are in a busy environment that needs water constantly then you should purchase a unit with a fast filtration system. If all you need is great tasting uncontaminated water in no hurry then select units that have intricate filtration systems. Patience in this matter is the key.
Is it easy to clean?
Since many hands will be accessing the water filter pitcher it is only fair that it is constructed from materials that are easy to clean. The pitcher should not be vulnerable to water stains or the accumulation of mold. In fact, there are units in the market like the BWT Penguin water pitcher that is dishwasher safe. These types of units are easy to clean and disinfect saving you the time and frustration.
Certifications
At times knowing that a product has been certified safe for use makes us feel better. Look for models that have a well-known certification like the FDA, TUV, NFS and other valid certifications that would indicate the safety of the product.
Warranty
Although it is not entirely common there are manufacturers that offer warranties for their water filter pitchers. The warranties are not usually long but none the less they are helpful especially when trying out a product for the first time. There are those manufacturers that offer a lifetime warranty or 100% money back guarantee, select depending on what you need at the time.
How to change your water filter:
Fill a sizeable bowl with fresh water.
Insert the new filter into the water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
Take the filter out and let the water drain from it.
Take the pitcher and insert the filter in place.
To make the carbon activated it is important to soak the filter while inside the pitcher and discard the water.
Once the carbon has been activated, the filter is ready for daily use.
The reason is simple as to why you need to change the water filter, quality control. When a filter is new it acts like a new sponge taking up as many contaminants as it can. As the filter gets used, the contaminants collected start piling up and finally may end up clogging the filter. The clogged filter will just end up releasing the impurities collected whenever water passes through making it ineffective. Buying a new filter ensures that your water gets the right amount of filtration and that all the particles are bound. When a filter is old you can notice black specks at the bottom of the pitcher.
BPA means bisphenol A, is a compound found in the construction of plastic and resin. This compound when integrated into plastics can slip into the water and cause health problems such as brain damage. Choosing water filter pitchers that are BPA free ensures that both you and your family’s health is not compromised.
The simplest way to know when it is time to change the filter is to get a unit that comes with an indicator. Whether electronic or a sticker these indicators are very convenient especially if you don’t know when the filter was installed. If the pitcher lacks an indicator, mark the date that you installed the filter and change the filter per the recommended period.
Our Verdict
Finding a water filter pitcher that suits your needs is as simple as it can be. You can do with our best pick overall – Seychelle Pitcher – that is able to remove contaminants up to 2000% more than other brands in the market like Brita. The FDA approved unit may not handle hard water as well but it will eradicate most of the contaminants in the water.
The BWT Penguin does not strip your water of contaminants only but infuses the water with magnesium that is good for the body. We appreciate that it is designed to be splash free compared to the others and it also makes a good option if your water is full of limescale.
The Brita Metro is the most affordable and it is the only pitcher with a lockable lid. Besides, it is small enough to fit in your refrigerator without problems. We found our favorites, do you agree with us? Get the best water filter pitcher today and enjoy tasty water.
