The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Water Filter Pitchers

Having the best water filter pitcher ensures you and your family have quick access to safer and cleaner drinking water at any time without spending too much, like when installing a whole-house water filtration system.

But with the many brands and models available today, it isn’t surprising to learn that most of us get overwhelmed by the number of choices.

So, how do you choose a water filter pitcher for your home? What water filter pitcher should you purchase? Here are the answers to the most common questions.

What to Consider Before Buying a Water Filter Pitcher

When it’s time to select your home’s water filter pitcher, you need to consider several key features to ensure you pick one that meets your specific needs, including:

Water Quality

Different households have different tap water quality. Although municipalities must follow the water quality guidelines set out by the EPA, there are events that may put your water quality outside of those specifications after it has left the treatment facility. 

It should also be mentioned that the EPA standards for maximum levels of particluar contaminants are not set at necessarily the healthiest levels, some are set at a level that is the balance between health and economic feesiblilty of removal.

These considerations all make choosing the right filtration an important decision.

Filtration Technology

The type of filter your pitcher uses will dictate what type of impurities it can remove. For instance, carbon filters can remove some of the most common contaminants, even unwanted odor and taste. Meanwhile, pitchers using a combination of filters, like nano-filter and exchange resin, can remove hundreds of impurities and even reduce microplastics and microorganisms.

Certification

Water filter pitchers with certifications from reputable certifying bodies should be on top of your list when choosing a unit, as they ensure the product can really do its job of removing impurities. Two of the certifications worth considering are NSF and WQA.

Capacity

Needless to say, smaller pitchers will require more frequent refilling, which can be inconvenient for families. Thus, consider the number of individuals who need to drink water from the pitcher and match that with the pitcher’s capacity.

5 Best Water Filter Pitchers of 2023

1. Brita Water Filter Pitcher

Brita is a family-owned company that has been staying true to its commitment to providing its customers with better health through safe and clean drinking water for over five decades. This 10-cup Brita Water Filter Pitcher is just one of their many offerings that come with two standard replacement filters when purchased.

Review

The Brita Water Filter Pitcher boasts a design that allows it to fit into your fridge’s shelves without occupying too much space.

You’ll also love that you can easily lift the pitcher and pour water out of it, thanks to its well-designed snout and ergonomically designed handle. It even comes with a flip top, making refilling the pitcher with water easy.

The reservoir and filter are made from BPA-free material, so you don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals mixing with your water.

In terms of its filtering capabilities, the removable filter can remove chlorine, cadmium, copper, zinc, and mercury. It means that you won’t only have safer and cleaner drinking water but also good-tasting, odor-free water.

The Brita Water Filter Pitcher’s filter is designed to purify up to 40 gallons of water. However, it has a status indicator that lights up when it’s time to replace your pitcher’s filter.

Pros:

• BPA-free material
• Space-efficient
• Easy to use and refill

Cons:

• Difficult to clean if hard water is used
• Can sometimes clog, reducing the flow of water

Price Range

The Brita Water Filter Pitcher typically comes with a tag price ranging from $20 to $30, depending on the retailer.

Verdict

Overall, the Brita Water Filter Pitcher is an excellent choice for homes looking for an affordable, large-capacity, space-efficient pitcher with a straightforward design that can remove some of the most common tap water contaminants.

However, those supplied with hard water are better off choosing another model of water filter pitcher. That’s because hard water minerals can clog the filter and make cleaning the pitcher altogether more challenging.

2. PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System

PUR Water is another brand known for its dedication to providing safe drinking water to the community. Among their line of products are water filter pitchers, and this kitchenware with an 11-cup capacity is one of their best sellers.

Review

The PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System is equipped with the brand’s patented LockFit™ design to fit the filter to the pitcher securely. It also has two layers of filter, activated carbon and ion exchange resin, to remove contaminants two times faster than most water filter pitchers.

Not only that, but the filter is also NSF-certified to reduce physical and chemical impurities, such as chlorine, copper, mercury, and zinc. Likewise, it can filter up to 40 gallons of water.

Knowing when to replace the filter’s cartridge will also be the least of your worry, thanks to the PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System’s Filter Change Light indicator.

To further enhance its purpose of ensuring its users consume safe and clean water, the PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System is made from BPA-free material.

Design-wise, it can fit into most fridge door shelves, so you’re assured there’s still enough space for food and other items requiring refrigeration. Refilling the pitcher with water is also a breeze, as it has an easy-fill design. The same goes for when the pitcher requires cleaning because it’s dishwasher-safe.

Upon purchase, you will receive one free replacement filter.

Pros:

• NSF certified
• BPA-free material
• Large capacity
• Space-saving, easy-refill design
• Dishwasher safe

Cons:

• Heavy when filled with water
• May spill when water is poured from the pitcher
• Only comes with a 90-day warranty

Price Range

You can purchase the PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System at a price ranging from $25 to $30, depending on the retailer.

Verdict

The PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System is the best water filter pitcher for mid-sized households in need of affordable, space-saving, easy-to-refill, easy-to-maintain kitchenware to keep them hydrated.

Just keep in mind that while it can filter several contaminants faster than most of its competitors, pouring water from the pitcher to your glass could be a hassle, especially for kids. Not only is it heavy, but it can sometimes also be messy.

3. Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter

Compared to the last two brands, Waterdrop is a new player in the industry, as it was only established in 2015. But through their innovative technologies, they managed to prove the quality of their products through awards and certifications.

Among their many products you’ll love is their 10-cup Chubby Pitcher Water Filter, as it combines aesthetics and functionality.

Review

The Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter is equipped with advanced filtration technology that boasts a fast flow rate, specifically one minute, to produce one funnel of purified water. It means you don’t have to wait longer to enjoy clean drinking water.

The filter cartridge also lasts longer than most brands because it can filter up to 200 gallons of water before requiring replacement. Even better, the Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter has a Smart Life indicator to let you know the filter cartridge’s current status.

A blue light means the filter is still good for use, while a flashing red light indicates you need to replace it soon. Lastly, a red light that stays on for around five seconds means you need to replace the filter cartridge now.

In terms of its filtering capabilities, the Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter has an NSF 42 certification as proof that it can reduce the amount of chlorine by 97.4%, as well as the strong chlorine odor and taste. It also has NSF 372 certification for lead.

Apart from those compounds, the filter installed can also effectively remove heavy metals and limescale. The material used in producing the pitcher’s reservoir is also BPA-free, while the handle is made from natural wood.

Design-wise, the pitcher has a sealed, dust-proof spout, further enhancing the quality of water you pour out from the pitcher. It can also easily fit into your fridge’s shelves, leaving you enough space for other items.

Lastly, refilling the water won’t be much of a hassle, thanks to the water inlet installed on the pitcher’s lid.

Pros:

• NSF certified
• Fast filtration rate
• Long filter lifespan
• BPA-free material
• Space-saving and easy-refill design

Cons:

• Requires two hands when pouring
• The lid requires more frequent cleaning

Price Range

The Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter is available at a price ranging from $25 to $30.

Verdict

The Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher Water Filter is an ideal choice for those who want aesthetically pleasing kitchenware that matches modern and rustic kitchen designs yet effectively filters most water impurities. Although some might find the pitcher expensive, especially since it only has a 10-cup capacity, it’s still cost-efficient because you won’t need to replace the filter as frequently as most brands and models.

While the wooden handle is comfortable to grip, it can make it harder to pour water out from the pitcher without using the other hand to support the pitcher’s bottom, especially when it’s full because of the handle’s uncontoured shape.

Also, the lid can be a haven for molds and mildew because of the presence of more crevices and nooks. Thus, you will need to clean more often than most water filter pitchers.

4. LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher

Established in 1999, LifeStraw is among the most famous humanitarian brands with a Climate Neutral certification. For years, they have been helping eradicate waterborne diseases, especially in countries with a limited supply of safe drinking water and during emergencies and natural disasters.

Their 7-cup Home Water Filter Pitcher is one of their offerings that stay true to their commitment to producing sustainable, reliable water filtration products.

Review

Unlike the other water filter pitchers in this list, the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher is made from borosilicate glass instead of plastic. It has a slim design that makes it easy to store on your fridge’s door shelves. Not only that, but it’s also easily refillable, thanks to the removable part found on its lid.

With LifeStraw’s commitment to helping provide easy access to safeer drinking water, the Home Water Filter Pitcher has a two-layer filter design.

Equipped with an activated carbon filter and ion resin microfilter, it can remove 99.9% of water impurities. In fact, it has been NSF-certified to reduce the following:

• Chlorine: NSF 42
• Cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, and mercury: NSF 53
• PFOS (PFAS) and PFOA: NSF P473
• Emerging chemical contaminants: NSF 401

The filter also meets the NSF P231 and US EPA standards for removing waterborne parasites and bacteria. Other third-party testing laboratories have also proven that the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher can help reduce microplastics and pharmaceuticals present in tap water.

With all these filtering capabilities, the filter requires replacement after filtering 40 gallons of water.

Pros:

• NSF and US EPA-certified
• Can reduce or remove 30+ water contaminants
• Easy to maintain and refill
• Sleek, sustainable design
• Produces good-tasting purified water
• One-year warranty

Cons:

• Low capacity
• Slow water filtration rate
• No smart indicator
• Expensive

Price Range

The LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher is available at a price ranging from $45 to $50.

Verdict

While the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher could be an expensive option, it’s perfect for individuals and couples looking for a sustainable item that has been proven to remove a high number of contaminants, including microorganisms.

Make sure you monitor the amount of water you already filtered using it and the quality of the water it produces after every use because it isn’t equipped with a smart indicator. Also, if you need a water filter pitcher with a higher capacity with the same capabilities but from the same brand, you can opt for LifeStraw’s 10-cup variety.

5. HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher

HSKYHAN is a brand specializing in products that not just purify water but also increase the water’s pH. With more people wanting to consume alkaline water, their 10-cup Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher is among the standout units that have been selling like hotcakes in the past years.

Review

The HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic and has an ergonomically designed handle. The reservoir’s oval shape and the colored lid and handle make it one of the most elegant water filter pitchers you’ll find today.

Speaking of the lid, the HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher has a spout cover that ensures the water is protected from any foul-smelling food or items you place in your fridge. It also ensures you can place your pitcher on your countertop or table without worrying about dust entering the reservoir. The lid also has an easy-to-open area to help you refill the pitcher with water.

When it comes to the HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher’s functionality, it has a seven-layer filter that not only removes chlorine, fluoride, lead, and other contaminants. It can also increase the water’s pH by 0.5 to 2, so you will have drinking water with a pH ranging from 8 to 10.

However, you will need to replace the filter after purifying up to 40 gallons of water.

Upon purchasing the HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher, you’ll also receive two filter replacements and an owner’s manual. The pitcher also has a 30-day refund guarantee and 18 months of after-sales services.

Pros:

• Increases water’s pH level
• BPA-free design
• Slim, elegant design
• Easy to use and handle
• Affordable

Cons:

• Some users have reported that the filter can clog easily
• Some users find the lid doesn’t stay in place when pouring
• No smart indicator

Price

The HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher is available at $28.99.

Verdict

Choose the HSKYHAN Alkaline Water Filter Pitcher if you need an affordable, easy-to-use, ergonomically designed water filter pitcher for quick access to clean, alkaline water.

Just make sure you monitor the amount of water you already filtered using it and the quality of the water it produces after every use because it isn’t equipped with a smart indicator. 

FAQs About Water Filter Pitchers

1. What is a water filter pitcher?

This kitchenware looks like a standard pitcher but with the addition of a filter installed in the lid’s underside or pitcher’s reservoir.

Some water filter pitchers have chemical-based filters that absorb organic and some inorganic compounds. Others have net-like filters that won’t allow impurities to pass through, but the type of contaminants they can trap will depend on the size of the filter installed.

2. How does a water filter pitcher work?

Depending on the type of filter installed, water filter pitchers work by restricting, adsorbing, absorbing, or rejecting contaminants or impurities as the water passes through the filter’s cartridge.

3. What are the benefits of using a water filter pitcher?

There are many benefits to be had once you own and use water filter pitchers, such as the consumption of safer, better-tasting, and odor-free or less odorous water, portability, convenience, and affordability.

4. How long do the filters last in a water filter pitcher?

The water filter pitcher’s filter cartridge typically lasts from two to six months or after filtering 40 to 120 gallons of water.

5. Can I put hot water in a water filter pitcher?

Most, if not all, water filter pitchers are designed to be used with cold water, as hot (even warm) water can damage the filter’s cartridge.

6. How often should I replace the filters in a water filter pitcher?

It’s advisable to replace your water filter pitcher’s filter cartridge once every eight weeks or two months.

7. Are water filter pitchers eco-friendly?

Water filter pitchers are considered eco-friendly because they reduce or eliminate your need to buy bottled water. This, in turn, helps reduce the amount of discarded plastic.

8. Can water filter pitchers remove all contaminants from water?

No, they don’t. Common contaminants most water filter pitchers remove are organic compounds, chlorine, copper, and lead. You will need more sophisticated filtration to take care of more contaminants, like a reverse osmosis system.

9. How do I know if my water filter pitcher needs to be replaced?

The tell-tale signs that your pitcher’s filter cartridge needs replacing include changes in the filtered water’s appearance, taste, odor, and flow rate and the amount of time it takes for the pitcher to filter the water.

10. How do I clean my water filter pitcher?

While most water filter pitchers require manual cleaning, they don’t require special tools and cleaning solutions. You won’t even spend five minutes cleaning your water filter pitcher.

That said, here are the steps you must take to keep your water filter pitcher in pristine condition:

1. Disassemble the parts.
2. Remove any debris clinging to the filter, rinse it with clean water, and allow it to air dry. Otherwise, discard it if you need to replace it.
3. Inspect the pitcher’s reservoir and lid to check if there are any mildew or molds. If there is, make a vinegar solution by adding a teaspoon of white vinegar to a cup of clean water.
4. Dip your small, soft-bristled brush in the vinegar solution and use it to gently brush the molds and mildew present.
5. Rinse with running water.
6. Next, dilute mild dishwashing soap in clean water.
7. Dip your small, soft-bristled brush in the soap solution and use it to gently brush the pitcher’s nooks and crevices.
8. Rinse with running water.
9. Dip your sponge in the soap solution and clean the pitcher from the inside out.
10. Rinse with running water.
11. Allow the pitcher to air dry.
12. Once dried, reassemble the parts. If you need to replace the filter, replace it with a new one.

Searching for the Best Water Filter Pitcher

Choosing the right water filter pitcher for your home, even your office, may not be as easy as picking a candy at the store, but having this kitchenware is worth it.

All the options I have provided you with have their own pros and cons, but they all do a great job of ensuring you have access to clean, odor-free, better-tasting water. They won’t make you feel like you’re drinking tap water!

If you’re having a hard time choosing between the five water filter pitchers, I find that the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher stands out because of the number of contaminants it can remove or reduce.

However, if you need a more affordable, easy-to-handle, dishwasher-safe pitcher with a high capacity, especially if your water supply is tested and treated regularly, the PUR Water Pitcher Filtration System is a decent choice.

If you’re looking for greater contaminant filtration, the highest level of filtration for drinking water is a reverse osmosis system.