Annoyed at how dry and unmanageable your hair becomes after a shower? Do you feel like the water is causing your skin to become dry and itchy? Adding a shower filter can address those issues. That's why we've done our research and picked out 10 of the best shower filters for you to try.
AquaBliss' High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter takes the top spot on our list for its efficiency in blocking water contaminants while infusing minerals and vitamins in the shower water. We have nine other great choices; and if you're not satisfied with our choices, you can go through our buying guide to get you started picking out the best shower filter for your home.
Quick List - Top Shower Filters
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While it's acceptable to use tap water for washing and cleaning, even drinking in some areas, the same concept doesn’t generally apply to showering. Skin and hair are more sensitive to some substances in water, plus they absorb chlorine at a faster rate than if you drink it, which is why a shower filter can be beneficial.
Hard water contains minerals like magnesium and calcium that have been proven to dry out hair and skin. Dry hair and skin are more prone to issues like dandruff or flakiness. Lastly, shower filters soften water in a way that minimizes calcium buildup or discoloration of the bathtub or shower area.
Choosing a shower filter can be a confusing task, especially when it comes to finding one that's compatible with your current shower as well as understanding all the different media used to block the contaminants in your water. This buying guide will go into detail about how to choose a shower filter in order to make your search easier!
There are two main types of shower filters: in-line shower filters or showerheads with built-in filters. In-line or portable shower filters are purchased separately and installed between the showerhead and your water supply line.
Take note that the extra two to four inches of the in-line filter may make your showerhead lower, requiring additional adjustments for convenient showering. If you don't have a lot of space in your shower, you should look for an in-line shower filter that has a thinner or shorter tube so it won't take up too much space.
On the other hand, filtered showerheads don’t require separate attachments because the filtration happens inside the showerhead. One thing to note is that this option means you will need to replace your existing showerhead.
Next, you should think about what you want to filter out from the water. Commonly, chlorine and chloramine are unwanted contaminants, as well as heavy metals and sediments.
The most common water contaminant is chlorine, which is frequently used to disinfect water from bacteria. However, the process can leave disinfecting byproducts, or DBPs, in the water. These are elements that are too potent for the skin and hair.
Chlorine filters utilize KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion), GAC (Granular Active Carbon), or Calcium Sulfite as the medium for filtration. KDF is a high-purity copper-zinc formulation that uses a chemical process to remove contaminants like chlorine, lead, iron, mercury, and hydrogen sulfide from the water supply.
On the other hand, GAC uses raw organic materials like coconut shells or coal that are high in carbon to absorb and block water pollutants. Lastly, calcium sulfite works by removing chlorine and chloramines from shower water at a quick rate. They also last a long time, hence need fewer filter replacements.
If you’re dealing with chloramine in your water supply, a Vitamin C shower filter is advised. Chloramine is another chemical used to disinfect water.
Chloramine, a combination of chlorine and ammonia, is not easily removed by KDF or carbon filters, which are known to underperform in hot water. The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission has announced that only Vitamin C can effectively remove chloramines from the water supply.
For those using water from a well, hydrogen sulfide, iron oxides (rust water), odors, and traces of heavy metals are common pollutants to watch out for.
Manufacturers often produce filters capable of blocking more than one contaminant. We recommend looking through the product description of a filter to see whether it targets the pollutants in your water supply.
The main task of a shower filter is to block contaminants from your water supply, so you must first know what pollutants are present in your shower. The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Tap Water Database can give you an overview of tap water contaminants based on your zip code.
When you know what pollutants are present in your water supply, such as calcium, chlorine, or chloramine, you can find a shower filter that targets those specifically.
Fortunately, it’s not at all complicated to install a shower filter. Most don’t even require a plumber to get the job done. First, you need to measure your existing shower arm length. A filter can add up to four inches to your showerhead, making it extend too low in some cases, causing you trouble if you're very tall.
A workaround for those with limited showerhead space is a handheld shower. These are equipped with a filter inside the barrel attached to your water supply or in the showerhead itself. They also come with a hose, allowing you to remove the showerhead from its bracket for more flexible use.
Like most water filters, showerhead filters have a finite service life. Many are designed to handle 10,000 to 12,000 gallons of water or six months of everyday use. When these limits are met, it’s time to replace the filter.
With that in mind, it might be beneficial to choose a shower filter that you can be certain is still available when it's time to replace it. Try to find a brand that suits your needs!
To ensure that manufacturers’ claims are valid and reliable, we recommend going for shower filters that have been tested at third-party certified laboratories.
Such certifications include the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which indicate that the filtration system has met public health and safety organization requirements.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter | ![]() | Water Filter With Rejuvenation Features | |
2 | AquaHomeGroup 15 Stage Powerful Water Filtration | ![]() | Vitamin C-Infused Filter That Tackles Hard Water | |
3 | miniwell Shower Water Filter System | ![]() | Compact and Space-Saving Upright Shower Filter | |
4 | Culligan Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead with Massage | ![]() | A Compact and Versatile Showerhead Filter | |
5 | PureAction Luxury Filtered Shower Head | ![]() | A Handheld Showerhead and Filter System | |
6 | Aquasana Deluxe Shower Water Filter System | ![]() | An Upflow Filter Design to Prevent Clogging | |
7 | Speakman Anystream High Pressure Shower Head | ![]() | A Shower System Focused on Comfort | |
8 | ADOVEL High Output Shower Head Filter | ![]() | 15-Stage Filtration With Included Showerhead | |
9 | Hotel Spa Shower Heads with Handheld Spray | ![]() | A Filtered Shower System With Dual Output | |
10 | PureAction Vitamin C Filter Shower Head | ![]() | Vitamin C Filtered Shower With Added Aroma |
AquaBliss' water filter utilizes advanced filtration to reduce chlorine, odor, and dirt from your water. It also limits scale buildup on your hardware and shower area. Lastly, the activated carbon and ceramic beads alongside other filtration media help balance your water's pH levels and infuses the water with vitamins and minerals as you shower.
Some reviewers had issues with this filter, saying it leaks. Meanwhile, many others shared that the filter works perfectly at blocking various contaminants. They noticed that their hair and skin feel softer and less dry after using the filter.
This filtration system addresses the issue of hard water causing your skin and hair to feel dry after a shower. Thanks to the 15 layers of filter media, the water is stripped of pollutants and sediments. What's more, the Vitamin C layer ensures your skin is rejuvenated in the process. The filter is easy to install and fits most shower systems.
While a few reviewers didn't notice a difference in their water after installing this filter, the overwhelming majority was very happy with this filter. Many said their showers feel softer. The filter is easy to install and improves water condition, which has been helpful for those with sensitive skin.
This shower filter removes chlorine, odors, sediments, and other contaminants from your water supply with a high absorption rate. What's more, the upright design means your water passes through various layers of filter media before reaching your showerhead without taking up too much space.
A few issues highlighted by users include leaking, difficult-to-seal parts, and short filter life. Meanwhile, others confirmed that the filter works great at blocking rust and improving skin conditions. They especially liked that the cartridges are easy to replace.
This showerhead comes with a built-in filtration system while retaining a compact size and design for showers with minimal space. It filters out pollutants like chlorine and sulfur odors for up to six months. The showerhead can fit on any standard half-inch shower arm and features five spray settings.
A few reviewers complained that the showerhead filter slows down the flow of the water. Meanwhile, many others loved that the showerhead is easy to install. They also said that their skin and hair don't dry out after a shower, and it's easier to clean the shower area.
This handheld showerhead filter softens hard water and blocks chlorine, fluoride, and other pollutants from reaching your hair and skin. The hardware connects to standard shower arms and you don't need tools to install it.
Those with well water noted that the showerhead doesn't filter contaminants that well. Some also had issues with leaks. Still, this was a well-liked shower filter among many reviewers who said it greatly reduces itching and other allergic reactions. They also liked the different spray modes of the shower.
This shower filter comes with a designated showerhead and filtration system that forces water to be filtered upwards. It passes through coconut shell carbon and KDF 55 media to remove contaminants like chlorine, lead, and iron. Meanwhile, the upward motion minimizes the chance for your showerhead to clog.
A small handful of reviewers complained that their filter leaks. Meanwhile, others liked that it's easy to install the filter as well as replace its cartridge. Those who suffered from dry and itchy skin saw improvements after using the filter.
With 50 full-coverage water sprays and eight center massage jets, you can expect to enjoy your shower while the built-in filter removes contaminants like chlorine. This showerhead is also adjustable, so you can twist it in the direction and water pressure you prefer.
A few users experienced their showerheads clogging up after a few months, thus reducing water flow. Some added that the water flows in random directions. Meanwhile, many confirmed that this is a powerful shower when well-maintained. They shared that the showerhead made them enjoy showering again.
This shower filter comes with all the parts you'll need, including a showerhead with 90 nozzles. Meanwhile, the filter cartridge uses a 15-stage system to block chlorine, heavy metals, smells, and other contaminants in your water.
Some reviewers said this filter can reduce water pressure. Still, it was a hit among many who saw improvements in their skin and hair conditions. The rust and calcium buildup in their bath areas also went down.
These two showerheads connect to a filter that passes water through two stages of filtration to remove pollutants. The showerheads are also equipped with multiple pulse settings. The handheld showerhead has a five-foot-long hose for added convenience.
A few reviewers complained that the water pressure was too low. Still, many others said this shower filter is easy to install, and they especially appreciated the many variations of the showerheads. The majority were pleased with the results from this filter.
This showerhead has a built-in filter that's transparent. It uses tourmaline and zeolite balls to filter out chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and other contaminants from your water. Before it leaves the showerhead, the water passes through aroma filters for added moisture and relaxation while you shower.
The main concern highlighted by reviewers regarding this product was that it's challenging to replace the filter. The water pressure is also too strong for some. Meanwhile, others were happy with how the showerhead produces clean and soft water. Many saw improvements in their skin and hair after showering.
Check out our other bathroom essentials recommendations. You may find something useful!
No. 1: AquaBliss|High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
No. 2: AquaHomeGroup|15 Stage Powerful Water Filtration
No. 3: miniwell|Shower Water Filter System
No. 4: Culligan|Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead with Massage
No. 5: PureAction|Luxury Filtered Shower Head
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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