Shower water filters are essential if you want to have clean water, not just for drinking, as well for showering. It’s sad to think about it this way, but having clean water may be a luxury any time soon. We’re making progress in technology and science, but as a result, we’re ruining the natural beauty around us.
Water is very crucial to us as it makes up most of our bodies. We have to drink about 2L per day if we want to take care of the lubrication of our joints, our skin, and our organs. No minerals ever get stored if you’re not drinking enough water.
However, many people forget that we also use a lot of water for non-intake purposes. We wash our dishes, wash our laundry and, in the end, wash with it.
While many are concerned about the water they drink only, others realize that skin (our biggest organ) absorbs things as well, and chemicals can still get into our bloodstream even though we filter our drinking water.
That is one of the most significant reasons why getting shower filters for hard water is a great choice to make. Some of these remove chlorine, while others remove excess minerals as well. If you’re lucky enough, the one you’ll find will remove organic compounds as well.
Did you ever consider using a Whole House Water Filter? Read the linked article and find out which one is the best for you.
Let’s talk about some of the most usual water shower filters on the market and see which one will be perfect for you. Later in the text, we’ll mention many more things like installation, unique features to look for, and the benefits you will feel.
Best Shower Filters
There are many shower filters out there on the market, but half of them are not even worth your time. We’re going to get pretty technical now, so prepare for a bit of science. Make notes and see which shower filter may be the best one for you!
Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System
We’re starting with a pretty average price point. This shower filter is made from a coconut shell carbon material, which is pretty eco-friendly and won’t contaminate your water while filtering it (you wouldn’t believe the amount of contradiction on the market).
Included in the product materials is also a copper+zinc mixture that will do some chemical reactions to prevent possible lead, mercury, and mineral overload.
This filter also claims to take care of pesticides, herbicides, and organic compounds. These organic compounds include parasites and cysts.
Without the chlorine in your water, you’ll notice that your water has no smell at all. On the other hand, it will be softer as well because excess minerals are removed.
You’re looking at a filter system that actually brings more than just filtering options. The massaging option will help with the water pressure, but also the pressure in your body! How cool is that?
When it comes to the replacement filters, many claims that you’re getting more than six months of filtered water with this product, but this really depends on whether you shower often and how many people there are in your family.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Stronger, Healthier Hair | One of the most important things you can do for hair is to wash it with filtered, chlorine-free water. Your hair will be noticeably softer and shinier, your scalp will be healthier and your color will stay true and last longer. |
| Coconut Shell Carbon Media | Natural coconut shell carbon filters out chlorine and other harsh chemicals. |
Pros:
Cons:
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AquaBliss High Output 12-Stage Shower Filter
Next up we’re looking at, a very popular filter made by one of the „water filtering giants”: AquaBliss. It is a very special product because there are 12 levels of filtration, which should remove all types and quantities of toxins in your water.
On day one, you should supposedly immediately feel a difference in your skin, hair, and nails, but we don’t think that’s the case, really. Any real change will happen through time. However, it will happen, because this system is very helpful for those with dry skin, health issues like eczema or acne, and shedding skin/hair as well.
The filter will remove the water’s odor, and the redox chemical reactions, supported by the work of calcium sulfite, will help neutralize all of the excess ions and turn your full-of-minerals water into soft water.
Forget about possible cysts and parasites in your water, no organic compounds can go through all of the carbon-infused levels in this filter.
When it comes to installation, this is literally a snap-on, snap-off type of a thing, and you’re going to require 3 minutes to set it up.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Easiest No-tool Install | If you can snap together Legos, you can easily remove your old shower filter or chlorine filter and replace it with this in minutes! |
| Just .09 Cents/day | Aquabliss “easy swap” showerhead filter replacements last longer cost less – for cleaner, clearer, beautifying shower time for less than .09 cents per day. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Culligan WSH-C1225 Wall-Mounted Filtered Shower Head
Although this model may seem similar to the previous one, there are a few key differences between them. The first one is a positive advancement of this model when it comes to organic compounds and filtering them.
This budget option will create a bacteriostatic environment. For those of you who are not familiar with the term, it’s basically „a place where bacteria don’t like to live in”. That significantly reduces the chances of mold and other organic issues developing in your plumbing.
Again, just like with many of the other options, you won’t need any tools to install this showerhead. Another very interesting and positive feature other products rarely have is the anti-clog nozzle, which is especially beneficial for those who already have high pressure in their plumbing. This way, you’re helping the showerhead last longer, and there won’t be as much pressure on the system.
Certificated by the NSF, this product will not only clean your home from chlorine and minerals but will also optionally massage you when you switch up the spraying settings to the pulsating ones!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Easy Installation | This lightweight Showerhead can be installed within minutes using the included Teflon tape. |
| Certified by the NSF | The WSH-C125 showerhead filter system tested and certified by NSF International against ANSI Standard 177 to reduce chlorine. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Berkey Shower Filter WITHOUT Shower Head
Next up, we’re looking at a shower filter, not a showerhead. Don’t worry, you won’t be buying any extra parts for this product. The only difference between this and the previous filter is you have to put this one between the showerhead and the wall.
That essentially means you can use any showerhead you want to use, maybe even the existing one you already have. This filter will remove 95% of chlorine in your water, and should last a 20 000 gallon use, which is above average.
It will make your water soft since it takes out the excess minerals, and this will reduce the limescale, and mold that could possibly develop in your shower. The KDF process that removes both heavy metals such as lead and iron also inhibits the development of any organic creatures: bacteria, mold… Don’t mix this up with water filters that filter organic compounds, this one only inhibits the creation in your bathroom.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Chlorine | Reduces up to 95% of chlorine. |
| Long lasting | Berkey shower filters typically last (approx.) one year or 20,000 gallons (whichever comes first) before a replacement is needed. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Jonathan Product Beauty Hard Water Shower Filter System
Moving on to other premium options, we’ve got a similar working filter by Jonathan Product. That filter removes copper and lead from regular tap water, and also works on the pH levels.
pH levels are connected with the number of specific ions in your water and pH levels are related to the number of specific ions in your water, and only those who have very sensitive skin usually monitor pH levels. The science behind this filter lies in replacing all of the heavy metals with potassium ions, as potassium is one of the most primary elements our body needs!
This product, just like the previous one, needs to be put in between your shower head and the wall, so you can again use your regular showerhead. Some people enjoy this feature, but aesthetics wise, you’re not gaining much since the whole system is very, very obvious.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Efficient | Removes copper and lead from tap water. |
| Balance pH | As the system removes heavy metals it replaces them with healthy potassium ions to balance pH. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Eco Shower Filter with 2 Cartridges + Shower Curtain
Back to more budget-friendly options, here we have a shower filter set! You’re getting the filter, as well as two cartridges and a shower curtain! It’s a cute idea, right?
The filter itself works on activated carbon technology and also gets support from calcium sulfite reactions. The many stages of filtering include ion maifan balls of negative charge and KDF 55.
The combination makes sure to filter absolutely everything: excess minerals, excess ions, cysts, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and so on. No rust, no odor, no taste. This water will be of perfect pH as well, which suits those who have sensitive skin.
People with ill or sensitive lungs will notice an improvement in their breathing after showering with this chemical-free water. Inside the system, there are active ingredients that make the filter „not-so-nice for bacteria” so they won’t be inhabiting your bath no more!
Since we mentioned the removal of excess minerals, you have probably concluded that the water will be soft as well, which is correct.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Protects Sensitive Hair, Skin & Nails | Reduces dandruff, dry skin, and hair-loss caused by treated water chemicals at house. Experience better bath hygiene and moisturizing relief from itchy body skin. |
| Soften Your Water | Superior performance treatment filter for hard alkaline water. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Luxsego Ionic Shower Head
Here is an interesting product that we have not seen before. It’s a shower head with mineral balls that work on infrared technology and mess with the number of ions in your water to reduce the number of chemicals that reach you.
These absorb possibly toxic fumes as well, which make this filtering system perfect for those who have asthma or weak lungs. Using the three spray patterns, you can get a pretty personalized experience as well.
The hose you’re getting with the showerhead supports the ion technology and is very flexible. It won’t knot and works on high pressures as well. There are no chances for corrosion to form, so don’t worry about paying the plumber for any extra hours.
It’s a universal shower filter, which is a pretty standard size. So, it should fit most bathrooms and, most importantly, the system is eco-friendly since it doesn’t waste any water! It will make your water bill smaller!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Special Mineral Balls | The infrared mineral stone and negative ion mineral stone make up double filter system for reducing chlorine and absorbing harmful substances in the water, softens and purifies shower water to make your skin and hair smoother and softer. |
| Three Spray Patterns | Rainfall, Jetting, Massage, three shower modes filters shower head to bringyou the bestshower experience in your bathroom. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Aquasana AQ-4105 Showerhead Filter System
Our next product is another interesting one, and it is significantly larger than the previous ones, which may bother some people. You’re getting a filter attached to a showerhead, but you can also get the filter without it.
This coconut shell carbon technology is pretty eco-friendly, and if it possibly fails with non-organic compounds, the copper-zinc mix will make sure chemical reactions handle that.
Things that will be filtered include lead, mercury, pesticides, and herbicides as well as excess minerals, chemicals, and possibly cysts, parasites, and bacteria. We must say that this is an impressive list.
You’ll breathe easier when all of the chemicals are removed, which is a positive thing for everyone but especially suits small kids, pets, and those with asthma.
You’re looking at about six months of use, according to the manufacturer, and the installation of the filter is of DIY nature. The bigger issue is to remove the old showerhead, honestly. This one just twists on.
The KDF 55 process is a pretty praised one, and you’ll soon notice that your water doesn’t have an odor and a smell because of it!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Gentle on your skin and hair | Reduce harsh cholorines and other chemicals for softer, more moisturized skin and shinier, healthier hair. |
| Longest lasting filters | 10,000 gallons or six months of fresh water. |
Pros:
Cons:
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WaterChef Premium Shower Filter System
The last product we’ll mention is a pretty classical-looking one, which is a benefit for most people. It’s not noticeable that it’s a filter.
This metal construction combined with plastic makes a 2-stage system that removes excess chlorine. It has been certified by NSF, which means that all of the numbers the manufacturer states have been researched and turned out to be true.
The filter has many spray patterns which are beneficial for those who suffer from muscle problems. The anti-clog nozzles will help the pressure in your plumbing while the water is being filtered, while the flex-hose doesn’t support mold or bacteria.
We can call it a water softener because after installing this shower filter, the water will feel softer, but much other than that won’t happen.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Housing Construction | High Impact, Plated ABS with Metal Fittings. |
| Easy Install | Includes Pre-Installed Cartridge. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Why do we need a shower filter and is it necessary?
While many people still believe that the „soft water, hard water” thing is a gimmick, many have felt on their skin that that’s not true. Besides the comforting sensation of soft water and the fact your skin, hair, and nails aren’t suffering anymore, it’s important to protect your health.
With our industry growing and our daily lives getting busier, the list of reasons why you need a shower filter is getting longer as well.
Soft water is much more nourishing.
If you don’t believe us, believe science. The normal water we use every day, the one we get from our regular faucets and our sinks, is actually called „hard water”. Although it physically does not appear to be hard, this water is full of excess minerals we don’t need. These can damage our skin, hair, and nails by being layered on for no reason.
Softer water will help all of the other products you use absorb well. You’ll be getting the full benefits of your conditioners, nourishing nail polishes, and face creams.
Chlorine is a chemical.
We know that water is treated with chlorine and that it’s nothing new, but isn’t the amount of chlorine everywhere around us enough at this point? The soil has absorbed it, there is possibly some in the air as well. We shouldn’t remove all of it and fear it, but reducing the amount is necessary at this point.
You may be risking a skin disease or even lung disease. People with asthma can suffer significantly if the amount of chlorine in their water is high.
Protect your kids and your pets.
It may seem like the water you use is not scary at all. Nothing has ever happened to you, right? Well, there is a big possibility you grew up washing with clearer water back in the days and you have made your immune system pretty strong as well. On the other hand, your kids and your pets don’t have that immunity and it’s better for them if you choose to filter your water.
This will remove bacteria, viruses, parasites and potential cysts in the water and will help you and your small companions stay happy and healthy.
You’re intaking more toxins than you think you are.
Many people forget that skin is our biggest organ and that we actually absorb a huge amount of things through it. The fact you’re drinking „healthy water“ doesn’t help if you’re washing your whole body with toxic water again.
Think about the amount of water you drink daily and the amount of water you come in contact with daily. The second number is possibly much higher.
You’re aging faster.
It may seem a bit extreme, and people get worried whenever aging is mentioned, but the secret of all anti-aging products is simple: they’re made from natural and healthy ingredients that don’t involve any chemical reactions.
If your skin is in contact with chemicals, you are damaging your skin barrier, and you’re harming the microbiome as well, which can cause potential rashes, irritation, and even eczema! If you have flaky skin, this may be the reason.
You’re exposing yourself to numerous diseases.
Research has linked cancer with many chemicals present in our water. At first, people weren’t worried about this because the number of chemicals in the water wasn’t alarming. Nowadays, as you may be guessing, the number is high enough to damage anyone.
Asthma, lung issues, sore throats, and constant coughing are connected to all of the chemicals you are inhaling in your bathroom! In contrast to the well-known idea that people get sick outside, we’re actually getting sick inside of our homes.
Criteria for a good shower filter
There are many things to consider when buying a shower filter, and you possibly won’t be buying it online to be able to check everything on the Internet. We’re going to teach you a bit about the most important things, a shower filter is characterized by, and you’ll be able to work on your own, wherever and whenever!
The first thing you need to pay attention to is the quality vs. price ratio since this can easily eliminate many products. You’re looking at the amount of gallons one filter can process, and the price of the cartridges you’ll have to replace. The average lifetime of a filter would be 6 months, but you may be looking at less if your family is big.
Next, you need to pay attention to technology. Here you’re trying to notice and analyze as many key terms as possible. Key terms you’re looking for are all over the reviews we have made in the previous paragraphs, and some examples are chlorine, lead, mercury, organic compounds, mold, limescale, and so on.
In the end, you need to reconsider your purchasing options in terms of installation and filter replacing. Most installations can be done in a DIY sort of way, while others require a plumber. What you’re looking for is a simple installation that will fit your plumbing! Don’t risk your narrow plumbing, and buy a very small filter!
Benefits of shower water filter system
Now, we’ve covered all of the bad things, so let’s concentrate on the astounding benefits you’ll be experiencing once you get this type of filter. There are many, so let’s begin as soon as possible!
Restore your skin, hair, and nails. Don’t forget that your health isn’t connected just to your inside organs. If you choose to use a filter, you’ll be seeing less flakey skin, more glow and overall even tones. Your skin will feel young and rejuvenated.
Breathe in, breathe out – but truly. After removing the chlorine in your water, you’ll notice as if you have a greater lung capacity. Long term use of filters will give you better respiratory health and will make your chances for a common cold much smaller.
Better immunity for the little ones. Your kids and pets will be protected from bacteria and viruses they are encountering through the water. It is beneficial to you as well: no sick children to take care of!
Healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. Once you make the first change, really, there is a lot of other opportunities that open as well. When you see all of these positive benefits take place in your life, you’ll become even more aware of the importance of a natural lifestyle!
Smaller water bills. Most of the time you will have a slightly smaller flow, which leads to a bit shorter showers and, over time, you’ll notice that your bill is smaller as well! Watch out and buy a filter that doesn’t waste any water!
Possible new functions. Many of these filters have special functions like vitamin C hard infusions, pulsating sprays, and ions for even stronger hair. This is something you would never experience with regular hard water!
Anti-aging benefits. In the end, not exposing yourself to chemicals will lead to healthier skin and fewer mutations that lead to rashes, warts, and much more weird skin growths.
What is a shower water filter and how does it work?
We wanted to get a bit more technical in the end, for those who are wondering about the pure nature of these filters, and the way they work.
Water shower filters are usually systems made of a showerhead and a filter. The filter can be inside of the showerhead itself or divided from it. Bigger models are usually those that have a whole other big-capacity box behind the showerhead.
The filters can be made of various materials and can also work in different ways. Each active ingredient in the filter has a special method of working either based on chemistry or biology.
The water is basically sifted through different materials and medium and each medium does its part of the job. You can encounter carbon filters that include cotton: these usually take care of big atoms, sediment, rust, and some organic compounds as well.
Sometimes we can see a Vitamin C filter that removes chloramine and chlorine but also infuses the water. Calcium connected with sulfides can do a great job at swapping ions, and therefore usually makes C hard water softer.
Some showers have the special KDF 55 filter, which has been developed to replace silver. Silver does a great job at water cleaning, but it’s way too expensive to be put in shower filters. Therefore the KDF combination, mostly zinc and copper, does the job. It’s a whole lot of chemistry that gets rid of your chlorine, lead, iron, organic compounds, algae, fungi, arsenic and many more.
Types of shower filters
We will divide shower filters in two ways: we’ll look at the design and the way the systems in the work. We’ll begin with the style.
- Showerhead filters. These are the most common and the most popular as well because they look just like your regular shower head. They are usually fixed and are not too dynamic and flexible to move, but you can get those with hoses as well.
- In-line filters. These are put between the original showerhead you have and the wall. They can be large and obnoxious, but they can also be small. It just depends on the design. In the end, all are equally as effective, but this one is popular when people have special showerheads they don’t want to remove.
- In-line and showerhead filters. These are the combination of the two. It’s like you have both the showerhead and the box that does the filtering. Most don’t go for this option as it can be obnoxiously big, but it is the best when it comes to handling the pressure.
Moving on to the type of filtering, we have three categories:
- Carbon filters. These are the most common and the cheapest ones as well. They’re a combination of about 8 to 12 stages made from different materials and the filtering process relies on that.
- KDF filters. These are a bit more special, but they cannot be used on their own. It’s just an addition to type a). These work with ions and make sure your water is perfectly balanced.
- Vitamin C filters. Just like the previous ones, these are an addition and they are mostly for beauty enthusiasts who want to make sure their skin will be glowing!
Summary
In the end, what is there more to say? Shower filters are very important both for you and the environment. Although you maybe feel like it’s an investment you don’t have the time or the money for, it will end up saving you cash: fewer doctor appointments!
When buying a shower filter, make sure you are informed about the features. Unless you’re buying online, you’ll never be able to know everything about a certain product, and that’s okay. You just need to know what to look for.
Good luck with your buying journey!
