Looking for the best water filter in the UK? You’re in the right place! With countless options on the market, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you.

This guide showcases the top water filters, focusing on sustainability, performance, and value for money. Whether you're after mineral-rich alkaline water, a compact design for your fridge, or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got it covered.

After extensive testing, the Phox Wave 2.8L Filtered Mineral-Rich Water Jug earned our Editor’s Pick for its eco-conscious refillable cartridge system, excellent water quality, and sleek design.

Looking for something affordable? The Waterdrop Elfin Fridge Water Filter Jug offers compact convenience and reliable filtration at a great price. If premium features are your priority, the Santevia MINA Alkaline Mineral Water Filter Jug impressed us with its sustainability and functionality.

We also highlight a product to avoid, helping you steer clear of potential disappointments.

No matter your priorities—sustainability, affordability, or top-tier performance—this guide will help you choose the best water filter for cleaner, fresher water in the UK. Say goodbye to plastic waste and hello to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle!

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Key Features to Look for in Your Next Water Filter System

When choosing a water filter, it’s essential to identify key features that should be a given. These ensure that the product meets basic quality standards and provides reliable performance. Here's what to expect:

Features That Should Be a Given

1. Effective Filtration: The water filter must remove impurities, chlorine, and other contaminants while retaining beneficial minerals.
2. Durable Build: The materials should be BPA-free, food-grade, and robust enough to handle daily use.
3. Ease of Use: A simple setup process and effortless maintenance are crucial for a hassle-free experience.
4. Cost-Effective Replacement Filters: Affordable and widely available filters are a must for long-term usability.
5. Capacity: Adequate capacity to meet your household’s daily water needs without frequent refills.
6. Safety Certifications: Look for certifications like NSF/ANSI for water quality assurance.

Design and Build Quality

A water filter's design and build quality significantly impact its usability and longevity.

1. Compact and Fridge-Friendly: It should fit comfortably on countertops or in refrigerator doors without taking up excess space.
2. Ergonomic Design: Handles should be easy to grip, and the jug should pour smoothly without spilling.
3. Sturdy Construction: The jug and lid should feel solid, with no risk of warping or cracking over time.
4. Lid Security: A secure-fitting lid prevents spills during pouring and refilling.

Bonus Features That Add Value to Your Water Filter

Some water filters come with bonus features that enhance convenience, functionality, and value:

1. Alkaline Water: Filters that add minerals to increase the water’s pH for added health benefits.
2. Smart Indicators: Built-in reminders for filter replacement via a digital display or app.
3. Eco-Friendly Filters: Refillable cartridges that reduce plastic waste.
4. Customisable Filtration: Options to select filters tailored to specific needs, like fluoride removal or mineral enrichment.
5. Aesthetic Design: Sleek and modern styles that complement your kitchen décor.
6. Extended Filter Life: Filters that last longer to minimise replacement frequency.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll ensure your chosen water filter is not only functional but also a lasting and worthwhile investment.

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Editors Pick

Phox Wave 2.8L Filtered Mineral Rich Water Filter Jug

The Phox Wave 2.8L Filtered Mineral-Rich Water Jug stands out as a sustainable and efficient solution for cleaner, healthier water. Designed with eco-conscious users in mind, this jug offers a combination of convenience, quality, and environmental responsibility.

Key Features

• Refillable Cartridge: Unlike traditional filters, this system eliminates single-use plastic cartridges. Instead, it uses refillable granules, making it a more sustainable choice.
• Alkaline Water: The filtration process creates alkaline water with a pH range of 8.0-9.5, which supports hydration and provides antioxidant benefits.
• Compact Design: With a 2.8L capacity, it fits neatly in most fridge doors, saving counter space while keeping water chilled.
• Durable Materials: Made from BPA-free plastic, the jug feels sturdy and is designed for regular use.
• Smart Tracking: Paired with the Phox app, it’s easy to track filter replacement schedules, ensuring optimal water quality.

The Phox Wave 2.8L Filtered Water Jug impressed us as a standout choice for cleaner, mineral-rich water with a sustainable edge. The setup process was quick and easy, and the water tasted smoother and fresher, with impurities effectively removed and beneficial minerals added.

We appreciated the eco-friendly refillable filter system, which eliminates single-use plastic waste—an outstanding feature for environmentally conscious users. The jug's compact design fits neatly in the fridge, keeping water chilled without taking up too much space.

It’s easy to handle and pour, though we recommend holding the lid while pouring to avoid spills. While the filtration process is slightly slower than some alternatives, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.

Overall, the Phox Wave jug combines sustainability, practicality, and great-tasting water, making it a fantastic addition to any eco-conscious home. It’s a small change with a big impact (both for you and the planet).

Runner Up

Santevia MINA Alkaline Mineral Water Filter Jug

The Santevia MINA Alkaline Mineral Water Filter Jug is an excellent choice for those looking for sustainable, great-tasting water. Here's why:

Key Features

• Eco-Friendly Design: Uses refillable cartridges, cutting down single-use plastic waste—perfect for environmentally conscious users.
• Durable Build: Made from BPA-free, food-safe plastic. The compact design fits neatly in a fridge door for convenience.
• Easy Maintenance: Refills are quick and simple, with guidance from the Phox app to track replacements.
• Alkaline Water: Filters impurities while adding minerals, delivering a clean, alkaline drink with a pH of 8.0-9.5.
• Affordable Refills: Each pack lasts 45 days, offering significant savings over disposable systems.

We tested the Santevia MINA Alkaline Mineral Water Filter Jug and were impressed by its thoughtful design and performance. The water tasted noticeably softer and fresher, making it a delight to drink (perfect for staying hydrated).

Setting up the jug was quick, and its ergonomic design made pouring effortless. The compact size fits snugly in the fridge door, and the refillable cartridge system is a game-changer for reducing single-use plastic waste.

We appreciated the versatility of the filter packs, which cater to specific needs, such as alkaline or clean water. While refilling takes slightly more effort compared to disposable cartridges, it’s a small trade-off for the cost savings and environmental benefits.

Overall, this jug is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a sustainable water filtration system. The balance of functionality, eco-friendliness, and great-tasting water make it a standout addition to any kitchen. (It’s worth the investment!)

Budget Pick

Waterdrop Elfin Fridge Water Filter Jug with 3 Months Filter

We’ve had the opportunity to use the Waterdrop Elfin Fridge Water Filter Jug, and it stands out as a practical solution for improving water quality. Here’s what we appreciated about it:

Key Features

• High-Quality Filtration: Activated carbon and ACF technology deliver clean, great-tasting water while retaining essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. It reduces harmful substances but doesn’t remove TDS.
• Compact Design: With a 5-cup capacity and dimensions of 9.6 x 4.1 x 10.0 inches, it fits small spaces like dorms or offices effortlessly.
• Certified for Safety: NSF 42 and NSF 372 certifications ensure reliable chlorine reduction and lead-free materials.
• User-Friendly Design: BPA-free plastic, ergonomic handle, and a gravity induction indicator simplify use and filter tracking.
• Long-Lasting Filters: Designed for extended use, minimising replacement frequency and hassle.

We tested the Waterdrop Elfin Fridge Water Filter Jug, and it proved to be an excellent choice for improving water quality.

The filtration system, powered by advanced activated carbon and ACF technology, provided exceptionally clean and great-tasting water while retaining beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Its compact size (perfect for dorms and offices) and 5-cup capacity make it convenient to store and use. The jug’s thoughtful design includes BPA-free materials, an ergonomic handle, and a gravity induction indicator to track filter life effortlessly.

We also appreciated the long-lasting filters, which reduce replacement frequency and hassle. While this jug isn’t designed for TDS removal, it still effectively reduces harmful substances, making it ideal for everyday use (though those seeking complete dissolved solids removal might prefer a reverse osmosis system).

Overall, this jug balances practicality and performance, making it a dependable and user-friendly solution for fresher, cleaner water.

Best All-Rounder Pick

BRITA Marella Water Filter Jug Graphite (2.4L) Starter Pack

The BRITA Marella Water Filter Jug in Graphite is an excellent choice for improving your daily hydration experience. With its 2.4L capacity, it’s compact enough to fit in standard fridge doors, ensuring fresh, filtered water is always within reach.

Key Features

• Effortless Refilling: The flip-lid design makes it easy to refill with one hand.
• Convenient Tracking: The digital lifetime indicator reminds you when it’s time to replace the filter.
• Enhanced Filtration: The MAXTRA PRO 4-stage filtration effectively removes impurities like chlorine, metals, and microparticles, delivering crisp, great-tasting water.
• Sustainability in Design: BPA-free and recyclable cartridges reduce plastic waste.
• Durability: Dishwasher-safe parts (except the digital indicator) make cleaning simple.

We found the BRITA Marella Water Filter Jug to be a standout product for improving water quality. The taste and clarity of our water improved significantly, making it perfect for drinking, cooking, and brewing coffee or tea.

Its filtration system not only enhances flavour but also reduces limescale buildup, which is a game-changer for homes with hard water (and a plus for extending the life of kettles and other appliances).

The thoughtful design, including a flip-lid for easy refilling and a digital indicator for filter replacements, adds convenience to daily use. Its compact size fits neatly in the fridge, and the BPA-free, recyclable filters align with sustainability goals.

While filter replacements can add up over time, the long-lasting benefits and convenience outweigh the cost. Overall, the BRITA Marella is a highly effective, eco-conscious, and well-designed water filtration solution that makes a noticeable difference in everyday hydration.

Best Under-Sink Water Filter

Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter

The Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter is a reliable and efficient solution for improving water quality. With easy installation, multistage filtration, and a compact design, it provides pure and refreshing water directly from your tap.

Key Features

• Quick Installation: Setup is simple and takes about 10 minutes. Push-to-connect fittings and a twist-and-lock design make installation hassle-free, with no need for specialised tools.
• Advanced Filtration: The multistage system reduces chlorine, heavy metals, and impurities, ensuring clean, odour-free water for drinking and cooking.
• Compact Design: Fits neatly under sinks in kitchens, bathrooms, or RVs. Made with lead-free, BPA-free materials for safe use.
• Impressive Longevity: Provides up to 12 months or 30,000 litres of filtered water, offering great value.
• Fast Flow Rate: Delivers 3 litres per minute for efficient water supply.
• Certified Safety: Meets NSF/ANSI 42 and 372 standards, ensuring high-quality performance.

We recently tested the Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter, and it truly impressed us with its efficiency and design. Installation was incredibly quick and straightforward (just about 10 minutes), thanks to its intuitive push-to-connect fittings and twist-and-lock mechanism.

The compact design fits perfectly under our sink, saving space and blending seamlessly with the setup. The water quality was superb—clean, refreshing, and completely free of any aftertaste or chlorine odour.

The fast flow rate (up to 3 litres per minute) was another standout, making it convenient for daily tasks like cooking and brewing tea. While we did notice a slight drop in water pressure, it was minimal and didn’t interfere with usage.

Considering its cost-effectiveness, eco-friendly features, and long filter lifespan (up to 12 months), this filter delivers incredible value. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking cleaner, better-tasting water with minimal hassle.

One To Avoid

ZeroWater ZP-006-4, 6 Cup Water Filter Pitcher with Water Quality Meter

We tested the ZeroWater ZP-006-4 pitcher, drawn by its promise of unmatched filtration. While it excelled at reducing total dissolved solids (TDS), the negatives far outweighed the positives in our experience.

The five-stage filtration system did produce impressively clean and fresh-tasting water (arguably its only standout feature). The built-in TDS meter also worked as advertised, offering confidence in water quality.

However, the product faltered significantly in other areas. The filter installation was frustratingly difficult, with poorly designed threading that felt fragile and prone to cross-threading. Leaks were frequent unless tightened excessively, adding unnecessary hassle.

The 6-cup capacity was too small for practical use, requiring constant refills—hardly convenient for daily hydration needs. The pitcher felt flimsy, with a lightweight plastic build and a lid prone to falling off during pouring.

While the filtration performance is commendable, the combination of poor build quality, impractical capacity, and challenging usability overshadowed its benefits. If you value ease of use, durability, and reliability, this pitcher is not the best choice.

We’d recommend looking elsewhere for a more user-friendly solution.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Water Filters on the Market

Determining the best water filters required a comprehensive approach, combining controlled experiments with real-world usability. Here's how we conducted our evaluations:

Water Quality Testing

We began by analysing the filter's ability to remove impurities and retain beneficial minerals. Using a baseline water sample, we tested untreated water for contaminants like chlorine, lead, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and bacteria.

The same water was then passed through the filter, and we measured the reduction in impurities. Metrics like pH balance and essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium were also assessed to ensure the water remained healthy.

Filtration Speed

Next, we evaluated how quickly each filter processed water. We timed the filtration of a full jug or tank and compared the speeds across models to gauge efficiency and convenience.

Taste and Odour

The improvement in water taste and smell was a crucial factor. We conducted blind taste tests to compare untreated, filtered, and bottled water. Criteria included smoother taste, absence of chlorine odour, and overall freshness, ensuring a pleasant drinking experience.

Durability and Build Quality

To assess durability, we examined the materials and construction of each water filter. Jugs and tanks were subjected to drop tests from a safe height to evaluate sturdiness. Simulated frequent use over several weeks helped identify any issues with wear, leaks, or structural integrity.

Maintenance and Ease of Use

The user-friendliness of each water filter was closely scrutinized. We noted the time and effort required to assemble the system, clean it, and replace the cartridges. Filters with digital indicators or app connectivity for tracking filter life were given extra points for convenience.

Capacity and Storage

Practicality for daily use was a priority. We measured each filter's capacity to determine its suitability for various household sizes. Storage was also considered, ensuring the designs fit easily in fridge doors or on countertops without taking up unnecessary space.

Eco-Friendliness

Environmental impact was another key factor. Filters with refillable cartridges were favoured over disposable ones for their sustainability. We also examined the use of BPA-free, recyclable, or biodegradable materials to gauge eco-consciousness.

Cost Analysis

Affordability was evaluated by comparing the upfront cost of the water filter and the ongoing expense of replacement cartridges. We calculated the cost per litre of filtered water to ensure value for money.

Advanced Features

Filters with extra features were assessed for added value. We tested smart indicators, digital displays, and customisable filtration options, such as those tailored for fluoride removal or alkaline water. These features enhanced the user experience and made certain models stand out.

Long-Term Water Filter Testing

To simulate real-world conditions, we operated each filter daily for several weeks to test for consistent performance. Regular maintenance and cleaning were factored in to determine their impact on overall functionality and durability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Worth Filtering Tap Water UK?

Yes, it is worth filtering tap water in the UK. While UK tap water is generally safe to drink, filtering can improve its taste and odour by reducing chlorine and other impurities.

It also removes trace contaminants, offering added peace of mind and potentially enhancing overall water quality for sensitive individuals.

Do Water Filters Actually Work?

Yes, water filters do work effectively when used appropriately. They remove impurities such as chlorine, sediment, and certain chemicals, improving water taste and quality.

Advanced filters can also target specific contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria, providing cleaner, safer drinking water depending on the filter type and design.

What Is the Most Effective Type of Water Filter?

The most effective type of water filter depends on your needs. Reverse osmosis systems excel at removing a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and dissolved solids.

However, activated carbon filters are effective for improving taste and odour by reducing chlorine and organic compounds, making them ideal for everyday use.

How Often Should I Change the Filter in a Water Filter?

You should change the filter in a water filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 2-3 months. This varies based on usage and water quality.

Regular replacement ensures optimal performance, prevents clogging, and maintains water purity by avoiding the buildup of trapped contaminants.

Is There a Water Filter That Removes Forever Chemicals?

Yes, certain water filters, such as reverse osmosis systems and advanced activated carbon filters, are designed to reduce or remove forever chemicals like PFAS. These filters work by targeting chemical bonds, effectively removing these persistent substances to ensure safer drinking water.

Does Putting Tap Water in the Fridge Purify It?

No, putting tap water in the fridge does not purify it. Refrigeration only cools the water and does not remove contaminants like chlorine, bacteria, or heavy metals. To purify water, you need a filter or treatment method designed to remove impurities effectively.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the Best Water Filters UK has helped you find the perfect choice for your needs. With so many excellent options, it’s tough to pick just one, but the Phox Wave 2.8L Filtered Mineral-Rich Water Jug is our top recommendation.

Its eco-friendly design, refillable cartridge system, and ability to produce smooth, great-tasting water make it a standout for anyone seeking a sustainable and effective solution.

While we’ve highlighted several great options, we suggest avoiding the ZeroWater ZP-006-4 Water Filter Pitcher. Despite its effective TDS reduction, its poor build quality, challenging installation, and small capacity make it less practical for daily use.

What did you think of our guide to the Best Water Filters UK? Are you ready to upgrade, or do you need more time? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!