Shopping for a Plastic-Free Water Filter?
You’re in the right place!
Plastic pollution is a gravely concerning matter as it not only negatively affects the environment but also has long-term side effects on your health.
Being aware of your plastic consumption and minimizing it is crucial for the wellbeing of both the environment and ourselves.
Plastic-free water filters are an excellent way of reducing your plastic usage. Apart from having environmental benefits, a reduced plastic footprint is also great to prevent any serioushealth concerns in the long run.
If you’ve taken an interest in reducing your plastic consumption, using a plastic-free water filtration system is a great way to do so.
But how can you find the best plastic-free water filter? Don’t worry, for we’ve got you covered!
What's In This Buying Guide
Table of Contents
In this buying guide, we review some of the best plastic-free water filters and include their features and limitations.
We discuss what plastic filters are, how they work, and what to look for when buying one.
We also take a look at the pros and cons of these filters and answer some frequently asked questions regarding plastic-free water filters!
Best Plastic-Free Water Filters
- 1. Best Overall: Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
- 2. Best Glass Water Filter Pitcher: LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher
- 3. Best Multi-stage water-filter: ZeroWater (ZBD-040-1)
- 4. Best for Hiking: CrazyCap 2.0 UV Water Purifier
- 5. Best Alkaline Water Filter: Invigorated pH Vitality Stainless Steel Pitcher
- 6. Best Thermal Shock Resistant : Invigorated pH Replenish Alkaline Water Pitcher
Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
Award
Best OverallLifespan
6,000 gallonsCapacity
52 cupsPurification method
Gravity-fed water filtration system
LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher
Award
Best Glass Water Filter PitcherLifespan
40 gallonsCapacity
7 cupsPurification method
Ion Exchange and Activated Carbon
ZeroWater (ZBD-040-1)
Award
Best Multi-stage water-filterLifespan
20 gallonsCapacity
40 cupsPurification method
Ion Exchange Technology
CrazyCap 2.0 UV Water Purifier
Award
Best For HikingLifespan
–Capacity
12/17/25 oz.Purification method
UV-C Purification
Invigorated pH Vitality Stainless Steel Pitcher
Award
Best Alkaline Water FilterLifespan
105 gallonsCapacity
8 cupsPurification method
Alkaline
Invigorated pH Replenish Alkaline Water Pitcher
Award
Best Thermal Shock ResistantLifespan
105 gallonsCapacity
4 cupsPurification method
Alkaline
The Royal Berkey Plastic-free water filter is a powerful gravity-fed filter system.
It has a large, 3.25-gallon water storage capacity and comes with 2 black Berkey water purification elements.
PROS
- Sturdy, stainless-steel construction
- Removes 99.999% of viruses, bacteria, and heavy metals
- Can purify up to 6,000 gallons of water
- 3.25-gallon capacity
- Can filter up to 4 gallons per hour.
CONS
- Slow water filtration speed
- Installation instructions need to be more descriptive
Our Review
The Royal Berkey filter has a highly polished 304 stainless steel construction with 2 purification elements to remove contaminants.
It features a 3.25-gallon reservoir that can provide purified water for 2-4 people a day. It is a gravity-fed water filter with a flow rate of 0.07 gallons per minute.
When configured with 2 purification elements, it can purify 4 gallons of water per hour, but you can use up to 4 purification elements and get 8 gallons of purified water per hour too.
The Royal Berkey water filter delivers powerful purification by removing 99.999% of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, cysts, trihalomethanes, inorganic minerals, heavy metals, and pharmaceutical drugs, leaving the water clean, pure and safe for consumption.
In fact, it is so powerful that it can remove red food coloring from a water sample without removing any beneficial components present.
The Royal Berkey Water Filter is best suited for use on outdoor trips where you may only have access to untreated water. It can effectively purify both treated and untreated water.
Issues & Limitations
The Royal Berkey Water Filter has a slower filtration speed than most of its counterparts.
This may be a problem, especially because you’ll have to wait a bit to get purified water.
Setting it up is also a bit hard as the installation instructions aren’t descriptive enough.
BOTTOM LINE
The LifeStraw Home Water Filter pitcher uses dual-stage filtration technology. The first stage is a membrane microfilter, while the second stage is an activated carbon and ion exchange filter.
It filters bacteria, parasites, microplastics, heavy metals, and other contaminants to ensure you get clean, pure drinking water.
PROS
- Sleek design with easy-fill lid
- Shatter-resistant glass construction
- Advanced dual-filter technology
- Improves odor and taste of water
- Filters over 30 contaminants
CONS
- Difficult to clean
- Small storage capacity
Our Review
The LifeStraw Water Filter Pitcher is constructed from shatter-resistant glass and has a sleek and aesthetic design. The sturdy construction ensures that it survives the occasional fall without leaking.
The LifeStraw pitcher can hold up to 7 cups of filtered, refreshing water. Its compact and portable size makes it easy to store and keep in the fridge.
The design overall is not just sustainable but also well-thought-through. Its easy-fill lid ensures convenient pouring.
The LifeStraw pitcher uses top-notch filtration technology consisting of the LifeStraw membrane microfilter that removes 99.99% of bacteria, parasites, microplastics.
Meanwhile, the LifeStraw activated carbon + ion exchange filter reduces heavy metals like lead, mercury, chromium III, etc. It also reduces chlorine levels, pesticides and herbicides, foul odor, and improves the water taste.
Issues & Limitations
The LifeStraw water pitcher is slightly heavy once filled, so it would’ve been better if the handle was a bit sturdier.
Plus, it can only hold 7 cups of water at a time, which is not enough for large families.
BOTTOM LINE
The ZeroWater dispenser uses a 5-stage filtration system to remove contaminants like heavy metals, 99.6% of total dissolved solids, etc. It has an excellent 40-cup storage capacity.
PROS
- Features a 5-stage filtration process
- 2.5-gallon storage capacity
- Removes 99.6% of TDS, bacteria, and other contaminants
- NSF certified to remove chromium and lead
- Large water storage capacity
CONS
- The spigot is a little too high on the container
- Replacement filters are pricey
Our Review
The ZeroWater (ZBD-040-1) has a large yet elegant glass tank with a 40-cup water capacity and a no-drip spigot. It features a ready-pour filtered water dispenser and is perfect for gatherings, offices, etc.
If you’re concerned about heavy metal contaminants and plastic particles in your drinking water, this water filter is perfect for you.
It features 5 filtration stages that ensure enhanced removal of contaminants like lead, chromium, other heavy metals, 99.6% of total dissolved solids, etc.
The first filtration stage filters out suspended solids like rust and dust that make the water appear cloudy.
The second stage removes additional suspended solids, while the third stage removes organic contaminants such as herbicides, pesticides, chlorine, mercury, chloramine, etc., to stop bacterial growth.
Stage four deals with inorganic compounds like radiological contaminants, non-metals and metals. The final filtration stage removes any remaining suspended solids.
Issues & Limitations
There is a slight design flaw with the ZeroWater (ZBD-040-1). The spigot is a bit too high, which means to get all the water, you need to tilt the container.
The replacement filters for this unit are also quite pricey.
BOTTOM LINE
The ZeroWater (ZBD-040-1) plastic-free water filter is well-designed and aesthetically pleasing. It removes contaminants like heavy metals, microplastics, etc., via an innovative multi-stage filtration system.
CrazyCap 2.0 UV Water Purifier is an excellent alternative to disposable bottled water, wasted soap, and expensive water tablets. It utilizes UV-C purification to clean and sanitize drinking water.
PROS
- Self-cleaning design
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- Equipped with triple insulation technology
- Available in multiple colors to choose from
- Keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and beverages hot for 12 hours
CONS
- Expensive
- It doesn't have a wide enough opening for adding ice cubes
Our Review
The CrazyCap 2.0 UV Water Purifier has an innovative design. It is constructed from high-quality BPA-free 304 stainless steel and is quite durable. The design also features double-walled vacuum insulation.
The sturdy construction ensures that it doesn’t just survive accidental fall but also doesn’t leak afterward.
The impeccable design features triple insulation technology that ensures that the CrazyCap 2.0 keeps beverages hot for 12 hours and drinks icy cold for up to 24 hours without any trouble.
It has a very interesting cleaning mechanism. It cleans using ultra-violet rays for purification.
The rays are built right into the cap and are effectively activated after every 4 hours. They have a germicidal efficacy of 99.999%.
To use the filter, you need to tap the cap 5 times for deep 2-minute purification and twice for quick 60-second cleansing.
This plastic-free water filter has the perfect design for taking it on outdoor trips like hiking, camping, etc. It is portable, effectively sanitizes water, and has a self-cleaning design.
Issues & Limitations
Considering the small water storage capacity of the CrazyCap 2.0 filter, it is pretty pricey.
Plus, it would have been better if the bottle had a broader opening to put in some ice cubes.
BOTTOM LINE
This pH Vitality water pitcher provides the perfect alternative to plastic water filters.
It comes with an alkaline water filter that removes contaminants like microplastics, fluoride, and chlorine and increases the pH of water for better taste.
PROS
- Solid, stainless-steel construction
- Curved and stylish design
- 105-gallon filter capacity
- Backed by a 100% money-back guarantee
- Allows you to make fruit infusion water
CONS
- The pitcher handle needs to be sturdier
- The lid should be more solid
Our Review
The Invigorated pH Vitality water pitcher has a stunning modern design. It is constructed with sturdy, food-grade stainless steel and features an ice guard that removes dust and dirt from your water.
The design consists of an alkaline water filter that looks resembles a tea bag or a small pouch. This filter eliminates heavy metals and significantly reduces chemicals like fluoride, chloramine, and chlorine.
It also improves the smell and taste of water, increases the pH of the water, and adds minerals including magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium.
Each filter bag of the pH Vitality can purify about 1700 cups or 105 gallons of water and is a great choice if you’re simply looking for a well-designed, compact water filter.
The Invigorated Vitality Stainless Steel Pitcher is also backed by an excellent limited lifetime warranty.
Issues & Limitations
It is difficult to hold this pitcher when it is filled as the handle isn’t sturdy enough. Some people also complain that the lid tends to break easily in case of an accidental fall.
BOTTOM LINE
The Invigorated Vitality Water Stainless Steel Pitcher doesn’t just remove contaminants like fluoride, heavy metals, chlorine, and chloramine; it also improves the smell and taste of water.
It has a sturdy and stylish design with an efficient multi-stage pH ‘ON-THE-GO’ alkaline water filter.
This Invigorated Water filter pitcher has a modern and aesthetic design that increases pH, adds minerals like iron, zinc, calcium, etc., and removes contaminants like heavy metals, bacteria, etc. It also has an impressive 150° thermal shock resistance.
PROS
- Can resist a wide range of temperatures from -40°C to 400°C
- Features anti-stick, non-porous surface
- Equipped with an on-the-go alkaline water filter
- Stylish and aesthetic design
- Remineralizes water by adding zinc, iron, calcium, selenium, magnesium, etc.
CONS
- Since the filter is fitted in the pitcher, there is little space for water
- Easy to break or shatter
Our Review
The Invigorated pH Replenish Pitcher has a unique award-winning design and an excellent filtration system.
It is slim and elegant and comes in two different filter capacities (1L/1.8L), so you can choose whichever works best for your needs.
It is constructed with borosilicate glass with a non-porous anti-stick surface and is easy to clean.
The pH Replenish is the perfect pitcher for storing both hot and cold drinks as it can resist temperatures ranging from -40°C to 400°C.
It purifies water to reduce the negative potential of the water (ORP) and removes fluoride, chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, and other contaminants from the water.
It creates water-neutralizing, antioxidant-rich free radicals on a cellular level. Furthermore, it actively increases the pH of the water and breaks water molecules into structured particles to make them easier to absorb.
Aside from purifying water and making it alkaline, the pH Replenish is excellent for making fruit infusion water.
Issues & Limitations
The glass construction of the pH Replenish isn’t sturdy or shatterproof, so you have to be very careful while using it.
The water capacity is also quite limited because the filter takes up most of the space.
BOTTOM LINE
The pH Replenish is the ideal option for those looking for a small filter pitcher.
It remineralizes water by adding zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, selenium, etc., and improves its taste and smell.
Plastic-Free Water Filters: Buying Guide
What Is a Plastic-Free Water Filter - And How Does It Work?
Plastic-free water filters do not have harmful plastic construction, be it in the product’s casing, the storage component, or the filter itself.
Such filters usually have a stainless steel or glass storage vessel with different filtration methods, like gravity-fed, activated carbon, or ion exchange filters, or reverse osmosis.
They remove microplastic particles along with other contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals present in water to ensure better drinking water.
Plastic-free water filters are available in three forms; plastic-free water filter pitchers, plastic-free tap water filters, and plastic-free water filter bottles.
As far as the design of a standard plastic-free water filter pitcher is concerned, it is pretty straightforward. The design consists of a reservoir and a filter component.
The filter component can use any material and mechanism for filtration, such as activated carbon, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, or multiple methods for a multi-stage filtration.
Water poured from the top of the reservoir passes through a replaceable filter for purification and is collected in the pitcher.
Depending on the construction of the pitcher, you may be able to store it in the fridge.
Tap water filters basically involve a filter that attaches to the tap. Water flows through the filter and is filtered.
Meanwhile, bottle water filters have a water filter attached to the cap that purifies water.
Some futuristic water-filter bottle models use UV-C rays to sanitize the bottle and remove contaminants.
Why Buy a Plastic-Free Water Filter Over Other Kinds?
There is no denying that plastic makes our lives incredibly easy due to its lightweight construction and versatility.
However, only a small amount of plastic is recycled, and a vast amount is dumped into water bodies.
The chemical composition of plastic is also linked with congenital disabilities, cancer, etc.
Considering the adverse effects plastic has on people’s health and the environment, it is important to consume as little plastic as possible.
Plastic-free water filters don’t just reduce plastic footprint; they also filter out microplastics and other contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, etc., and improve the taste and smell of water.
What To Look for In Plastic-Free Water Filters
A few aspects to consider when buying plastic-free water filters include:
Contaminant Removal
Before you decide on a plastic-free water filter, it is important to know more about the water quality in your area.
This will help you determine the contaminants present in the water, so you can buy a filter that effectively removes them.
If the water in your area doesn’t have arsenic pollution, it is a waste to buy a filter that effectively removes arsenic.
Instead, it is better to have a plastic-free filter that removes contaminants actually present in your water.
Purification Method
When it comes to plastic-free water filters, there are several filtration methods.
This includes gravity-fed water filters, reverse osmosis, activated charcoal filters, and ion exchange filters.
Activated carbon filters are excellent for removing some of the more harmful contaminants like mercury, lead, and chlorine.
Ion exchange technology is best for softening water.
Reverse osmosis systems can remove chemicals like fluoride, chlorine, arsenic, and mercury, but they also remove beneficial minerals from the water.
Having an understanding of the filtration method will allow you to choose the most suitable option.
Filter lifespan
Every filter needs to be replaced after a certain amount of time.
To avoid replacing filters frequently without overusing worn-out filters, you should invest in good-quality filters with a long lifespan.
Check the filter rating prior to buying it to get an accurate idea of how many gallons of water the filter will purify in its lifetime.
Design
It is essential to take into consideration the construction and design of the water filter you opt for.
Choose a filtration system with sturdy and durable construction that can survive the occasional drop and not leak.
In the case of water filter pitchers, pay attention to the lid and spout design. Both the lid and spout should allow easy pouring and convenient filling.
Warranty
Apart from sturdy construction and an innovative design, it is best to opt for a product backed by a good warranty service.
It shows the brand’s trust in its product and ensures that the water filter lasts a long time.
Capacity
Plastic-free water filters come in different capacities. If you want a portable and sleek water filter pitcher or bottle, you will have to compromise on the capacity. Such filter pitchers will likely require frequent refilling.
However, if you don’t want to trade capacity for portability, opt for a larger pitcher that can store more water.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Environmentally-friendly construction
- Plastic-free water filters are easy to use
- Improved taste and odor of drinking water
- Safe to use over time
- Cheaper than most other water filtration systems
Cons:
- Plastic-free water filters remove a lesser number of contaminants than other filtering techniques
Cleaning and Maintenance
Water filter cartridges wear out after a certain amount of time, after which you need to replace them.
Some types of plastic-free sediment filters can be cleaned to restore filtration efficiency, but there’s no guarantee that the filter will be as effective as a new filter.
However, for efficient filtration, you need to regularly maintain your filtration system and replace worn-out filters instead of just cleaning them.
Also, clean the casing of the filter routinely. Wash the casing and reservoir of the water filter with mild soap and water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Water Filters Remove Plastic Completely?
In order to remove microplastics present in water, the filter should have a pore size smaller than 0.1 micrometers.
However, nano-plastic particles are about 100 times smaller than microplastic can only be removed by a few filtration techniques.
How Much Plastic Is There in Tap Water?
According to a study conducted by OrbMedia, microplastics have been found in drinking water.
The study analyzed over 150 tap water and bottled water samples of 14 countries. Around 80% of these samples had an average of 4.34 plastic particles per liter of water.
Which Grade Plastic Is Safe for Drinking Water?
High-density polyethylene or HDPE is an opaque plastic that has the least risk of leaching and is considered safe to use.
Most recycling programs accept it. HDPE is used to make milk jugs, butter tubs, toiletries containers, etc.
Final Verdict: What is the Plastic Free Water Filter?
All the plastic-free water filters we’ve reviewed are incredibly well-designed and effective in removing contaminants, including microplastics.
However, the best plastic-free water filter from our list is the Royal Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter. It has a sturdy stainless steel casing and a large 3.25-gallon reservoir.
Plus, its filter elements last for up to 6,000 gallons of water before they need a replacement, making it the best plastic-free water filter among all the filters we have reviewed in this guide.
