Choosing a Water Filter

With three energetic boys in the house—who are constantly running to practices, games, or just tearing around the backyard—hydration is always top of mind. Between filling water bottles, tossing smoothies into backpacks, and cooking meals from scratch (which I love), water is at the heart of almost everything we do. So when I started learning more about what’s actually in our tap water—things like chlorine, heavy metals, microplastics, and even pharmaceuticals—I knew it was time to make a change.

We’ve been on a journey toward living a more non-toxic lifestyle for a while now. It’s not about being perfect—trust me, we’re far from it—but it is about being intentional where we can. And for our family, filtering our water felt like a simple, high-impact step in the right direction.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore cleaner living or already deep into your wellness routine, water filtration is one of those small choices that can have a big ripple effect. In this post, I’ll break down some of the best types of water filters out there—from activated carbon to reverse osmosis (we use the AquaTru and love it!), UV filters, and distillers—and help you figure out what might work best for your home and lifestyle. Because cleaner water = healthier habits—and it all starts with one simple step.

Clean Water Knowledge

Did you know water is one of the most essential elements for our health? And yet, many people take for granted the importance of drinking clean, pure water. I know if you are like me, you probably wonder how we even survived childhood because I don’t remember drinking water growing up! And, I know kids these days (my expectation for my boys!) go nowhere without their water bottles! More than just drinking water for our health, we use it to hydrate, cook, clean, and bathe, but how much do we really know about the water that comes from our taps? I mean do we even actually think about it? While tap water in many areas is treated and considered safe, what does that actually mean? Did you know that most area treated water can still contain a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, lead, pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and even pharmaceuticals? These contaminants can affect our health in subtle, cumulative ways, thus the reason I want to talk about the importance of filtered water, more specifically the use of a water system that can make a huge difference in our every day usage of water.

The Importance of Water Filtration

Water filtration is essential for removing these harmful substances, ensuring that you and your family are drinking and using pure, clean water. For those trying to live a non-toxic lifestyle, the importance of filtering your water cannot be overstated. Many chemicals found in tap water can disrupt hormones, irritate the skin, and contribute to long-term health problems such as kidney damage, cancer, or neurological disorders. A good water filter ensures you’re not exposing yourself to these harmful substances daily.

Water filters also improve the taste and smell of water. Have ever had really great-tasting water? I mean, you can seriously taste the difference in how water tastes! For example, chlorine, which is often used to disinfect tap water, gives it an unpleasant taste and odor. No one feels great about the chlorine taste! Filtering out this chemical can make water more enjoyable to drink, leading to better hydration overall.

Water filtration is more important now than ever before, especially when compared to even just 10 years ago. While access to clean drinking water remains a global priority, the quality of water and even the taste of the water has been increasingly threatened by a range of modern challenges. These factors—ranging from industrial pollutants to new contaminants, climate change, and the growing awareness and knowledge of the harmful effects of certain chemicals—make it clear that water filtration is not just a good option, but a necessity to address our water problems.

Increased Contamination in Tap Water

In the past decade, our understanding of what makes water “safe” has grown significantly. The contaminants found in water are no longer just limited to the obvious—like chlorine, hard water, or sediment—but now include a variety of emerging pollutants that weren’t on our radar 10 years ago. Crazy to even think about!

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products: Research and test results have shown that trace amounts of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and chemicals from personal care products are present in tap water across many areas. Isn’t that crazy? We work really hard to make sure our skincare and so much of our everyday is free from these things, and yet you can find it in the water we drink. These chemicals, which can’t always be removed by traditional water treatment methods or pitcher-style filters, pose a risk to human health over time.
Microplastics: With the increase in plastic production and consumption, microplastics have increasingly found their way into drinking water. These tiny particles are not just in bottled water, but also in tap water, where their long-term effects on health are still being studied.
Heavy Metals and Industrial Contaminants: Contaminants like lead, arsenic, and mercury, which can cause serious health issues even in small amounts, have been discovered in drinking water supplies, particularly in areas with older infrastructure or industrial activity.

The Impact of Climate Change on Water Quality

Did you know that climate change is having a significant impact on the quality and availability of freshwater resources? In many regions, extreme weather events—such as floods, wildfires, and droughts—have become more common and are directly affecting water quality.

Flooding and Stormwater Runoff: Extreme rainfall and flooding increase the amount of runoff, which can carry pollutants like sewage, chemicals, and debris into rivers and lakes, contaminating local water supplies. Water treatment plants may struggle to keep up with the higher levels of contamination, leading to a greater need for home filtration systems like the reverse osmosis water filters or those similar to the once popular berkey water filtration system.
Droughts and Water Scarcity: Droughts not only affect the availability of water but did you know that it can also concentrate contaminants in the water that is available, making it more polluted and harder to purify? Filtration becomes crucial for ensuring that even in times of scarcity, the water we consume is safe and clean.

Aging Infrastructure

In many parts of the world, particularly in developed countries, the infrastructure that delivers clean water is aging and in need of repair or replacement as goes with older communities. Decades-old pipes and water treatment systems are often unable to fully address modern-day contamination issues, especially with the increased presence of industrial chemicals, microplastics, and pharmaceuticals in the water supply.

For example, in some cities, lead pipes still exist, allowing toxic lead to leach into drinking water. This means that, while the water treatment process may meet outdated standards, it’s not necessarily good enough for the contaminants that are more prevalent today.

Growing Awareness of Toxins in Water

Over the past 10 years, there has been a growing public awareness of the potential dangers posed by chemicals in our water. This awareness has been fueled by a combination of high-profile water contamination events, and more research into the long-term health effects of chemicals like fluoride, chlorine, and pharmaceuticals in drinking water.

Many people are now aware that water filtration isn’t just about improving taste or removing visible contaminants; it’s about protecting their health. There’s also a growing understanding of how exposure to even low levels of toxins over long periods can have cumulative, negative effects, including disrupting hormones, increasing the risk of cancer, and contributing to neurological or developmental issues. We see these findings in things like our cookware, clothing, and even our every day personal products.

Advances in Water Filtration Technology

The good news is that in the past decade, water filtration technology have improved dramatically. Ten years ago, most water filters like the brita pitcher, were relatively basic and designed to address common contaminants like chlorine and sediment. Today, there are far more advanced filtration systems that can remove a broader range of toxins, including heavy metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and microplastics.

The ideal solution are water systems like the reverse osmosis systems, multi-stage filters, and ultraviolet light treatments. These a great for big or small families and are now more accessible and efficient than ever. This means we have better options and easy access for filtering out a wide range of harmful contaminants at home, making it easier to ensure water is as clean and safe as possible.

Public Trust in Municipal Water Supply

With increasing reports of contamination and the publicized failures of municipal water systems to adequately protect residents, trust in public water supplies has diminished in many areas. People are becoming more proactive about their health and seeking out personal water filtration systems or dyi water tests to ensure their water is free from contaminants that may be overlooked by government regulations.

In response to concerns over water quality, more people are choosing to install filtration systems at home to take control of their own health and ensure they’re drinking the purest water possible.

The Growing Need for Sustainable Solutions

Sustainability has become a key issue in nearly every aspect of modern life, and water filtration is no exception. With plastic pollution rising as a global crisis, many people are turning away from bottled water and seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Home water filtration systems, which eliminate the need for bottled water, have become an attractive, eco-friendly alternative. Not only do they help reduce plastic waste, but they also allow consumers to drink clean water from the tap without relying on the energy-intensive process of bottling and transporting water.

As we move further into the 21st century, the need for effective water filtration has never been greater. With more contaminants in our water, an increased understanding of the long-term health risks posed by these pollutants, the growing effects of climate change on water quality, and the limitations of outdated infrastructure, clean water is no longer a given.

By investing in high-quality filtration systems, we are taking responsibility for our health, our environment, and the future of water resources. Whether you’re concerned about the chemicals, metals, or emerging contaminants in your water, it’s clear that water filtration is not just an option—it’s an essential part of living in today’s world.

For those interested in living a more natural, toxin-free life like my family, it’s crucial to choose the right water filter, one that aligns with your commitment to health and sustainability. But with so many options available on the market, how do you know which one is best water filtration system for your needs? I agree that the process of choosing a water filter can be overwhelming. There are many types of filters, each designed to address different water contaminants. Here are some of the common filter types:

Activated Carbon Filters: These are the most common and are great for removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and bad tastes and odors. However, they may not be effective against heavy metals, bacteria, or viruses. These would be a lot of countertop water filters you are seeing out there.
Reverse Osmosis Filters: Reverse osmosis (RO) is a more advanced filtration method, known for its ability to remove a wider range of contaminants, including heavy metals, fluoride, and other dissolved solids. However, it can also remove beneficial minerals, leaving your water slightly acidic. You’ll see a lot of these made as under-sink filters or an under-sink model.
Ultraviolet (UV) Filters: UV filters use UV light to kill bacteria and viruses, but they don’t filter out chemicals or other contaminants.
Distillation Filters: This method boils water and then collects the steam, leaving contaminants behind. While it’s effective in removing many contaminants, it’s a slow process and can remove beneficial minerals.

What to Look for in a Water Filter

The real challenge comes in understanding what’s in your tap water and selecting a filter that addresses those specific concerns. For example, if you live in an area with high levels of fluoride, an RO filter may be ideal. On the other hand, if your concern is mostly with chlorine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a high-quality activated carbon filter may suffice. Knowing about your water filter system parts can also be helpful. The environmental impact of water filters should also be considered. Some filters need to be replaced frequently, contributing to waste. If you are committed to a non-toxic, eco-conscious lifestyle, it’s important to choose a filter that is sustainable and doesn’t contribute to plastic waste.

When you’ve decided on selecting a water filter, here are the key factors you should consider:

Contaminant Removal: Identify the specific contaminants in your water that need to be addressed. Do you have concerns about heavy metals (like lead or mercury)? Chlorine? Pesticides? Fluoride? A good filter should address these issues. Like I stated above, look at which filter or faucet systems may address your needs in your area.
Certification: Look for filters that are NSF-certified, which means they have been tested and proven to meet certain standards for contaminant removal.
Mineral Retention: Some filtration methods, like reverse osmosis, can remove not just harmful contaminants but also beneficial minerals. If maintaining your water’s mineral content is important to you, look for a filter that allows essential minerals to remain.
Ease of Use and Maintenance: A filter should be easy to install and maintain. Some filters require frequent filter changes, which can become cumbersome and expensive. Look for filters that are user-friendly and provide clear instructions for maintenance.
Sustainability: If you’re living a non-toxic lifestyle, you likely value eco-conscious choices. Some filters contribute to plastic waste with disposable cartridges, so consider systems with longer lifespans or reusable parts.
Taste and Odor Improvement: This is more of a personal preference, but a good water filter should improve the taste and smell of the water. Many filters, especially activated carbon filters, do this very well.

Best Water Filters

If you’re anything like me, wading through all the options can be overwhelming! Here’s a detailed rundown of the best water filters across major filtration technologies I discussed earlier—Activated Carbon, Reverse Osmosis (with AquaTru as the top pick), Ultraviolet (UV), and Distillation—along with how each type works:

Activated Carbon Filters–These filters use carbon to adsorb impurities, chlorine, VOCs, and bad taste/odors from water.

Best Overall: Brita Elite Faucet Mount System

Type: Faucet-mount activated carbon filter
Removes: Chlorine, lead, asbestos, benzene, and some pharmaceuticals
Pros: Easy installation, filter replacement indicator, no tools needed
Cons: Slower flow rate

Best Pitcher: Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher

Type: Pitcher filter with multi-stage carbon + ion exchange
Removes: Over 365 contaminants including PFAS, fluoride, lead, and pesticides
Pros: Powerful filtration in a pitcher, long filter life (~100 gallons)
Cons: Pricier than most pitchers

Reverse Osmosis Filters–These systems push water through a semi-permeable membrane to remove up to 99% of contaminants. Best for removing heavy metals, fluoride, nitrates, PFAS, etc.

Best Overall: AquaTru Countertop RO System

Type: Countertop Reverse Osmosis System
Removes: Over 80 contaminants including fluoride, lead, nitrates, arsenic, PFAS
Pros: No plumbing required, 4-stage filtration system including RO, carbon, and mechanical filters, Easy setup and filter replacement, Compact and modern design
Cons: Needs electricity and countertop space; pricier upfront
Note: AquaTru has both countertop and under-sink models now.

Runner-Up: APEC ROES-50

Type: Under-sink Reverse Osmosis System
Removes: Up to 99% of contaminants (fluoride, lead, arsenic, chlorine, etc.)
Pros: Great value, high-quality build, large capacity
Cons: Installation required, needs space under sink

Ultraviolet (UV) Water Filter–UV filters disinfect water by using UV light to kill bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Often used in combination with other filters.

Best Overall: Viqua VH410 UV Water Disinfection System

Type: Whole-house UV sterilizer
Kills: 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, cysts (like Giardia & Cryptosporidium)
Flow Rate: Up to 18 GPM (good for whole-house use)
Pros: Powerful UV, ideal for well water or microbiologically unsafe sources
Cons: Doesn’t remove chemicals or particulates (needs pre-filtration)

Best Portable UV: SteriPEN Ultra

Type: Handheld UV purifier (great for travel)
Use: Insert into water bottle, purifies in ~90 seconds
Pros: Lightweight, rechargeable via USB
Cons: Only works on clear water (won’t work well on murky water)

Distillation Water Filters–Distillers boil water and collect the steam (leaving contaminants behind), then condense it back into liquid.

Best Overall: Megahome Countertop Water Distiller

Capacity: 1 gallon per 5.5 hours
Removes: Heavy metals, fluoride, arsenic, bacteria, viruses, and VOCs (with carbon post-filter)
Pros: Extremely pure water, stainless steel build, long lifespan
Cons: Slow, uses electricity, water may taste “flat” without minerals

Runner-Up: Pure Water Mini-Classic CT

Made in USA, higher build quality, glass collection container
Pros: Safe for medical/lab or home use
Cons: Expensive compared to Megahome

Why AquaTru Is My Top Choice

When it comes to selecting a water filter that meets the needs of someone like me committed to a non-toxic, healthy lifestyle, AquaTru is an excellent option to consider. AquaTru uses reverse osmosis (RO) technology, but what makes it stand out from other RO systems is its multi-stage filtration process, which includes:

Pre-Filter: Removes larger particles like sediment, rust, and dirt.
Activated Carbon Filter: Addresses chlorine, VOCs, and other chemicals that affect taste and odor.
Reverse Osmosis Membrane: Removes dissolved solids, including heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic, as well as fluoride.
Post-Filter: Ensures that any residual contaminants are removed, leaving you with clean, pure water.

Why AquaTru is Ideal for a Non-Toxic Lifestyle

Multi-Stage Filtration: AquaTru goes beyond just reverse osmosis. Its four-stage filtration process ensures comprehensive removal of contaminants without sacrificing the quality of the water.
Retention of Essential Minerals: While it removes harmful contaminants, AquaTru preserves the essential minerals your body needs. This is particularly important for our family because it helps in maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance.
Health Focused: AquaTru is NSF-certified, meaning its filtration technology meets stringent standards for contaminant removal. For our family trying to more intentionally live a non-toxic lifestyle, knowing that your water is free from harmful chemicals is essential.
Eco-Friendly Design: AquaTru’s filters have a longer lifespan compared to traditional filters. Instead of constantly replacing filters, AquaTru’s system is built to last longer, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Taste and Purity: AquaTru’s filtration process significantly improves the taste and purity of your water, which makes it more enjoyable to drink and helps you stay hydrated without worrying about chemical exposure.
No Plastic Waste: AquaTru’s system uses long-lasting filters and is designed to minimize waste, aligning perfectly with your commitment to a non-toxic, eco-conscious lifestyle.

Why Shower Filters Matter

Now that we have talked about how filtered water is essential for hydration, health, and overall wellness, there’s another side to the story that often gets overlooked: the water we bathe in. Did you know that just like our drinking water, the water that flows from your shower head or faucets can contain chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants? I wanted to mention this part of adding a shower/bath water filter because I think it plays into the point I am trying to make–that our water contains all kinds of contaminants, and whether we are drinking or bathing in it, these substances can actually impact our skin, hair, and even our overall health over time. In addition to water filter for drinking and cooking, adding a high-quality shower filter is another simple upgrade with real benefits. The Jolie shower filter, the one we have, is designed to remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities before the water touches your body. I have found that result offers skin, shinier hair, and fewer irritants that could contribute to dryness, itching, or breakouts. We love using this filter knowing our water throughout our house is safe to drink and bathe in!

Why Clean Water Matters in Our Home

With three active boys who are constantly on the go with sports, hydration (and showers!) is a huge part of our daily routine. We’re always filling up water bottles, mixing protein shakes, or cooling down after games. And for me, cooking is one of my favorite ways to nourish our family—so knowing that the water I’m using to boil pasta, rinse produce, or make soup is clean and safe? That gives me real peace of mind.

Living a non-toxic lifestyle isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being mindful. I’ve learned that small, intentional choices add up over time. And for us, starting with water filtration felt like a really natural and important step. It’s something we use every single day, in every corner of our home.

There’s a lot in this world we can’t control, but choosing to filter our water is one simple, powerful way we can reduce toxins and support our family’s health. Whether it’s with a shower filter, an activated carbon filter, reverse osmosis like AquaTru, or even a basic pitcher on the counter—every little step matters.

So if you’re on your own journey toward a cleaner, more intentional lifestyle—know that it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Start small. Start with water. It really can make a difference. Here’s to healthy habits, hydrated –and clean–kids, and home-cooked meals made with love (and clean water).

Want to know more about my health journey. Check out these posts:

As always, thank you for following along! If you want more recipes or healthy living ideas brought to your inbox, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter! I would love for you to tag me @thehensrudehome over on instagram if you decide to make the plunge and get a water filter! Cheers to healthy living!

Choosing a Water Filter

Clean Water Knowledge

The Importance of Water Filtration