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The nine best water filter jugs, tried and tested by a health expert
Water filter jugs are designed to reduce common tap water contaminants such as chlorine, heavy metals and microplastics. They improve both the taste and quality of your drinking water and are fast becoming a kitchen staple.
Filling up your favourite water bottle with filtered tap water can save you money and reduce the amount of single-use plastic you use. After all, in the UK, we still buy over seven billion plastic bottles a year, so every little helps. Using filtered water in your kettle or iron can also help reduce the build up of limescale in the appliances.
We’ve tested leading brands Brita, ZeroWater and Aqua Optima alongside lesser-known models to find the most reliable water filter jugs to keep on your kitchen counter top or in your fridge door. Prices typically range from £15 to £100, while more premium designs include smart features and longer-lasting filters. We also regularly update this guide so it reflects the best options currently on the market. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at our top five:
The best water filter jugs: At a glance
How to choose the best water filter jug
You should look for a water filter that reduces contaminants such as PFAS (harmful chemicals), microplastics, viruses, or bacteria, says Dr Tapas Sen, a nanomaterial chemistry expert at the University of Central Lancashire.
Some jugs also lower the amount of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), the organic and inorganic materials found in water, which can affect its taste and your health. Dr Sen says: “Think of a TDS monitor as a snapshot of what’s really in your water. It records total dissolved solids in the form of mostly inorganic salts and minerals. It picks up on both positive ions like calcium, magnesium and sodium and negative ones like chlorides and sulphates.” He adds that water with a TDS level of under 300 Parts Per Million (PPM) is regarded as excellent quality and is a measurement recognised by the World Health Organisation.
Other key features to look for when searching for the best water filter jug include fast filtration times, easy-to-replace cartridges, unique and lightweight designs and fridge-friendly shapes. Keep in mind the cost of replacement cartridges, too, as these can add up over time.
