Best Shower Filters

Shower filters effectively remove impurities from your water supply, resulting in cleaner, healthier water for showering. Unfortunately, there are various types of shower filters on the market, so finding the right one for your needs can be challenging. From vitamin C shower filters to those with activated carbon, there are several factors and types of filters to consider before making a purchase.

To help you find the best shower filter for your home, we’ve compiled a list of the top products on the market based on customer reviews, efficacy, and overall quality.

Shower Filters Compared

In the table below, we compare shower filters so you can quickly see the difference between products:

Shower Filter	Type	Available Finishes	Replacement Filters Available	Frequency of Replacement	Award	Score
AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter	Multi-Stage	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	Multi-Stage Filtration	99.8
miniwell L720-Plus Shower Water Filter	Activated Carbon	Plastic	Yes	6 to 9 Months	Activated Carbon	98.6
Speakman Showerhead with Filter	Media Blend	Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel	Yes	6 Months	All-in-One	98.3
Sonaki Vitamin C Filter	Vitamin C	Transparent & Chrome	Yes	6 to 12 Months	Vitamin C	98.1
Sprite SL2-CM Slim-Line 2 Universal Shower Filter	Chlorgon	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	Affordable	97.8
Luxau Filtered Shower Head Combo	Multi-Stage	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	2-for-1	97.5
Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead	Multi-Stage	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	Highest Rating	97.2
Brondell VivaSpring Compact Shower Filter	KDF	Chrome	Yes	6 to 9 Months	Compact	96.9
Kohler Aquifer	Coconut Media	Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel	Yes	6 Months	Luxury Pick	96.4
Berkey Inline Shower Filter	Not Disclosed	Chrome	Yes	1 Year	Easy Replacement	96.3
T3 – Source Hand-Held Showerhead	Multi-Stage	Chrome	Yes	3 to 4 Months	Handheld	96.0
Brita In-Line Shower Filtration System	Single-Stage	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	Trusted Name	95.7
AquaHomeGroup Shower Head Filter	Multi-Stage	Chrome	Yes	6 Months	Modern Design	95.4

Best Shower Filters of 2024 Reviewed

Here’s our list of the best shower filters currently available:

If you want the market’s cleanest and most effective shower filter, you need to consider the AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter. This multi-stage filter reduces chlorine, rust, dirt, heavy metals, and any other water impurities you can think of.

Within the filter, AquaBliss adds layers of sand, calcium sulfite, activated carbon, vitamin C, tourmaline, and several other media types to create a nearly impenetrable barrier against water contaminants.

But don’t let the several layers of filtration lead you to think that the flow rate will be poor because it’s not. On the contrary, AquaBliss designed this shower head to maintain a strong flow rate, even with all the filtration.

If there are any downsides to this shower filter, the finishes are limited to chrome. Additionally, the filter size is larger than most, especially when compared to the Sprite, Speakman, and Culligan filters.

However, with over 35,000 reviews and receiving 4.5 out of 5 stars, it’s clear that most people overlook these shortcomings.

What customers are saying: The shower filter has received mixed reviews. Some customers praise its effectiveness in improving water quality, resulting in softer hair, healthier skin, and reduced buildup on tiles. However, others experience leakage issues and a minor decrease in water flow.

Read the Full AquaBliss SF100 Review

This hypoallergenic filter by miniwell is one of the few to make it to our list that doesn’t rely on calcium sulfate as a filtration media. Sulfite sensitivity may cause various respiratory symptoms, including wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing (source).

To clean your body before it hits your body, miniwell relies on an activated carbon filter that will remove chlorine. If that weren’t enough, a second stage filter has been added to remove unpleasant odors, contaminants, heavy metals, and other debris.

While we only reviewed their shower filter, miniwell offers a shower filter with head combo and multipack filters for further savings.

When researching customer feedback about the L720, the biggest complaint was the size of the shower filter and the duration of the filter life. At ‎3.1″ x 4″ x 9.5″, it is a fair bit longer than most and may cause some space issues, especially for those with a small shower. Additionally, customers noted that the filter life (6-9 months) was shorter than some of the competing models on our list.

What customers are saying: Customers find this shower filter effective in improving water quality, resulting in better hair and skin health. However, some mention the need for more frequent filter changes and a restricted water flow.

If you want an all-in-one solution that looks sleek and performs well, you must consider this shower filter and head by Speakman. Able to effectively filter 99% of chlorine and other water impurities, the Anystream shower head allows you to easily and seamlessly transition from one of the three available showering settings.

With a standard 1/2″ NPT connection, the Speakman showerhead will fit most standard shower fixtures.

Furthermore, Speakman makes this shower head in several different GPM flow rates, including 1.75, 2.0, and 2.5 gallons per minute. So depending on your needs, you can find the perfect flow rate for your home without sacrificing performance.

Changing the filter is equally easy, simply unscrew the shower head, remove the old filter, and insert the new one. No need to call a plumber or fiddle with any complex hardware.

What customers are saying: Most customers enjoy the shower head’s performance and settings, while some experience issues with water pressure and the need for expensive filter replacements. The product may not be suitable for those with low water pressure or water districts using chloramine.

When tap water comes in contact with Vitamin C, it undergoes a chemical reaction that reduces chlorine. This is the basis for the Sonaki shower filter, which uses a transparent side cartridge containing a high vitamin C concentration that will remove 99.9% of chlorine and some chloramines from your water.

This unique filtration system is not only practical, but it’s also very efficient. Without having to pass through a multi-stage filtration chamber like other brands, you have more water pressure and a better flow rate – which ultimately translates to a better showering experience.

Although most vitamin C filters need to be replaced every six months, the Sonaki will last up to 12 months before you need a new cartridge.

Casings are limited on this filter, so it might not look aesthetically pleasing in every bathroom, but it’s still a reliable and effective.

What customers are saying: Most customers appreciate the shower filter’s effectiveness in reducing skin irritation and improving water quality. However, some customers report leaks and cracks in the filter, as well as its inability to soften water or work properly with hot water.

Read the Full Sonaki 300 VPX Shower Review

With over 1,000 ratings and priced under $25, the Sprite SL2-CM is one of the market’s most popular and affordable shower filters. Carrying an ANSI/NSF 177 certification, the filter effectively reduces chlorine, rust, dirt, and other water impurities.

One of the best features of this shower filter is the low-profile design. Extending the shower head only 1.5″, it can easily fit into most standard shower fixtures without sticking out or looking obtrusive. This is particularly important, especially if you have taller family members who might bump into a larger filter.

The filter is built to last and requires replacement once every six months. Unfortunately, Sprite only makes this shower filter in a chrome finish. So you might have to get creative if you’re looking for a different color to match your bathroom fixtures.

Lastly, if you haven’t heard of Sprite, don’t worry; they’re a well-respected manufacturer of quality shower filters and have been in business for over 40 years. Additionally, they back their products with a 1-year warranty.

What customers are saying: Customers report mixed experiences with this shower filter. Some praise its affordability, ease of installation, and effectiveness in improving skin and hair health. However, others complain about issues such as leaks and difficulty replacing the filter.

Read the Full Sprite SL2-CM Shower Filter Review

If you came here looking to add a shower filter but want to upgrade your shower head as well, you should take a long look at the Luxau shower head combo. For under $40 bucks, you can transform your shower with a high-quality rain shower head and an 18-stage filter.

Installation is a breeze and can be done in minutes, even if you’re not the handiest person. Simply unscrew your old shower head and screw on the new one – no plumbers or tools are necessary.

The handheld shower head comes equipped with a 59″ long flexible stainless steel hose that makes it easy to reach all areas of your body. Additionally, the long length makes it easy to use on both children and pets.

For the filter itself, Luxau uses several different media that will reduce chlorine, rust, dirt, heavy metals, and more. After a few uses, you can expect to have improved skin and hair health.

What customers are saying: This shower filter has mixed reviews. Many customers enjoy the improvements in their hair and skin and find it easy to install, but some face issues with water pressure and the handheld holder not sticking properly.

If you want a slightly more affordable all-in-one shower head and filtration system, then the WSH-C125 by Culligan is a great option. This shower head filter combo comes at around $55 and offers many of the same features as more expensive models, such as the unit we reviewed by Speakman.

Within the 8.5″ long shower head is the WHR-140 (included with the WSH-C125 showerhead). The WHR-140 is a multi-stage filter targeting sulfur odor, chlorine, and scale. Together this should provide you with softer skin, less fading of your shampoo and soap, and no dryness.

The filter works well on a wide temperature range and is easy to install. Simply twist off your old shower head and screw this one in its place – no tools required.

If this model had any downsides, it would be the reduced GPM. At 1.8 GPM, it’s not the highest flow rate on our list, but it should still be plenty for most showers.

Lastly, Culligan backs this shower head with an industry-standard, 1-year warranty.

What customers are saying: Customers report that the showerhead is difficult to operate and change settings, and has low water pressure. Some also mention difficulty in replacing the filter. However, a few customers find it easy to install and like the water quality improvement.

Whether you want to improve the water quality in a compact shower or enjoy a small and discreet filter, the VivaSpring Compact by Brondell is unimposing yet still effective.

This inline shower filter relies on a KDF-55 media to reduce chlorine and other contaminants. The KDF-55 works by the process of adsorption and oxidation to remove impurities from the water.

Following NSF/ANSI standards, the VivaSpring Compact has been tested and certified to perform exceptionally well, even when it is an estimated 55% thinner than some of the other shower filters we reviewed.

Typically, one would expect to have to change out the filter more frequently with a thinner design, but the VivaSpring filter has a 6-month lifespan. That’s not the longest on our list, but it’s still pretty good.

But perhaps the most significant selling point of this filter is the price; at only $20, it’s one of the most affordable filters on our list.

While Brondell is by no means a household name, they are backed by legendary investor from Shark Tank, Mark Cuban (source), and have been in business for nearly 20 years.

What customers are saying: Customers praise the easy installation and noticeable improvements in water quality, hair, and skin condition with this shower filter. However, some experienced leaks and questioned its durability.

There’s something to be said about a Kohler product’s exquisite design and quality craftsmanship. When you add any Kohler product to a bathroom, it immediately elevates the design. The Aquifer shower filter is no different.

As you would expect from a Kohler product, the Aquifer is a thing of beauty. The filter is encased in a polished chrome housing and has a replacement indicator that lets you know when it’s time to change the filter. Rated to last up to six months or 8,000 gallons (whichever comes first), the Aquifer uses a unique multi-stage filtration system to remove chlorine, contaminants, and odors from your shower water.

Unlike many other filters that may slow the flow of water down to as low as 1.5 GPM, the Aquifer is designed to maintain a flow rate of 4.0 GPM, which is great for those who like a vigorous and high-pressure shower.

Lastly, Kohler makes this filter in polished chrome or brushed nickel finish to perfectly match their shower heads and fixtures line.

What customers are saying: Some customers faced leakage issues but resolved them with a thicker rubber washer, resulting in positive experiences. Others found the product quality lacking and returned it.

Unlike many shower filters that may have cumbersome instructions to follow when switching out the filter once every six months, the Berkey inline filter has a unique design that is both easy to install and replace.

Shaped similar to the oil filter on your car, the Berkley inline filter can be installed in minutes without the need for any tools. Simply remove the old filter, screw on the new one, and you’re done.

But don’t let the convenience of changing the filter fool you; the Berkley inline filter is no slouch regarding performance. Capable of filtering out all the contaminants naturally found in your water, you will notice a difference in both the smell and feel of your water.

What’s more is that the filter is rated to last an impressive 30,000 gallons, which is two times longer than many other filters on the market. So rather than having to change it once every six months, you only need to change it once a year.

What customers are saying: Mixed reviews reveal that some customers find the shower filter to be effective, improving water quality and benefiting their hair and skin. On the other hand, a few customers faced issues with the quality, water pressure, and damaged products.

Read the Full Berkey Shower Review

Want cleaner water without the unsightly design of an inline shower filter? Then take a look at the T3 – Source Hand-Held Showerhead. Unlike all other shower filters that rest between the shower arm and the shower head, the T3 – Source has a filter built directly into the shower head.

With the neck of this handheld shower head is a zinc, copper, and calcium sulfide media blend designed to remove chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, and other contaminants from your shower water.

The extendable hose can reach up to 78″ in length, making it perfect for family members of any age or height. Additionally, the long reach can work wonders if you have pets that you like to give a bath.

When compared to others, the one notable downside of this filter is longevity between filter changes. With a rated capacity of only 3,000 gallons, you will need to replace the filter more often than other filters on the market. However, the filter is easy and inexpensive to replace.

What customers are saying: Customers report mixed experiences with this shower filter; while some praise it for improving hair quality and being easy to install, others mention reduced water pressure, leaks, and occasional difficulty during installation.

Founded in 1966, Brita is a company that is best known for its water pitchers and filtration systems. With their ability to deliver fresh water to your lips, it is no surprise that they have expanded their product offerings to include a shower filter.

This Brita showerhead contains a unique single-stage filtration system that targets chlorine and other impurities that can be found in your shower water. The result is water that smells and feels cleaner than ever before. Within the filter is a KDF and carbon media blend designed to remove scale, sediment, and chlorine.

The filter will last up to six months between changes and is easy to install without needing any tools. The shower head has no frills and lacks some popular spray settings that can be found on other shower heads. However, the water pressure and flow rate are very good at 5 GPM.

What customers are saying: This shower filter has met expectations, with easy installation and effective chlorine removal. However, some customers have had issues with filter replacements and restricted water pressure.

Read the Full Brita In-Line Shower Review

Looking for a shower filter that can do it all? Then take a look at the AquaHomeGroup Shower Head Filter. Combining the strict filtration in the AquaBliss with the unique design of the Culligan, this filter has everything you could ever want in a shower head filter.

This all-in-one shower head and filter combo feature a powerful 15-stage filtration system that removes just about everything within your water. The result is clean, soft, refreshing water that can improve your skin health and hair quality.

A KDF 55 media, calcium sulfite, activated carbon, and ceramic balls are within the filter. This blend of filtration media is designed to remove chlorine, iron, heavy metals, rust, sediment, and more. The result is water that smells and tastes great.

The design is a bit bold, which some users may consider unsightly. However, the shower head is straightforward to install and use.

What customers are saying: Customers highly recommend the Aqua Home Group shower filter for making water feel soft, benefiting hair quality, and being easy to install. However, some were unhappy with receiving a used product.

Considerations When Buying a Shower Filter

When choosing a shower filter, there are several factors you should keep in mind. Here are some things to consider when making your selection:

Filtration Media

The type of filtration media used in the shower filter will determine what impurities it can remove from your water. Be sure to choose a filter that uses media that will target the contaminants you are most concerned about. This article covers more types of filtration media used in shower filters.

Flow Rate

The flow rate is important because it determines how much water can pass through the filter. A higher flow rate means more water will pass through, resulting in higher water pressure. However, due to legal restrictions, most shower heads are limited to only 2.5 gallons per minute.

Ease of Installation

Some filters are easier to install than others. If you are not familiar with plumbing, then you may want to choose a filter that is easy to install or hire a handyman to do it for you.

Initial Cost

Shower filters range from around $20 to $100. Price largely varies depending on the brand and type of shower filter (inline vs. in the shower head).

Maintenance Cost

In addition to the initial cost of the shower filter, you also need to consider the cost of replacement filters. Replacement filters typically need to be replaced every six months and can cost anywhere from $10 to $30. Be sure to factor in the cost of replacement filters when choosing a shower filter. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a filter you don’t want to use because it’s too expensive to maintain.

Warranty

Most shower filters have a limited warranty of one year or less. However, some higher-end filters may come with a longer warranty of up to five years. Be sure to purchase a filter from a reputable company offering a reasonable warranty as it proves they are willing to stand behind their product.

How to Install a Shower Filter

Like a shower head, installing a shower filter is relatively straightforward and can be done in just a few minutes. Here’s a quick overview of how to install a shower filter:

• Turn off the faucet that is connected to the shower.
• Remove the old shower head or filter.
• Wrap the shower arm with Teflon tape. This is typically included with the shower filter. If not, you may need to purchase separately. Be sure not to skip this, as it will help create a water-tight seal.
• Attach the new shower filter or head to the shower arm. Hand tightens only as you don’t want to overtighten and crack the shower arm.
• Wrap the connecting bolt with a cloth and tighten a half to complete turn with a pipe wrench.
• Turn on the water and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the connection a bit more.
• Enjoy your new shower filter!

How We Rated the Shower Filters

There are hundreds of shower filters on the market, so choosing the best one for your needs can be daunting. When compiling this list, we looked at various factors beyond the product descriptions and the core features. Our team looked at the following:

Customer Feedback

We spent hours reading through customer feedback on various platforms, including Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot. This gave us a good sense of what people liked and didn’t like about each shower filter. By seeing the pros and cons of actual users, we got a better sense of which filters were the best on the market.

Online Reviews

Beyond customer feedback, we also read dozens of expert reviews from various sources, including buying guides, YouTube videos, forums, and more. This helped us understand what the experts thought about each shower filter and which ones they would recommend.

Brand Reputation & Ranking

As there has been an influx of knockoff brands in recent years, we only included filters from well-known and reputable brands. We also looked at each brand’s ranking on popular online marketplaces. This gave us a sense of which brands customers trust and are willing to spend their money on. 

Build Quality

Some shower filters rely on cheap and flimsy materials that break easily or don’t work as advertised. This is frustrating for you and adds unnecessary waste to landfills. So we made sure to only include filters built with high-quality materials that will last for years to come.

Product History

Companies are always making modifications to products and coming out with new and improved versions regularly. So to ensure we were only recommending the best possible products, we looked at the product history of each filter and chose the ones with the most positive reviews and feedback.

Proprietary Algorithm

After researching and reviewing all shower filters on the market, we developed a proprietary algorithm to help us identify the best of the best. This algorithm considers all the abovementioned factors and assigns each shower filter a score. Naturally, the higher the score, the better the shower filter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

After reading this guide, you should have everything you need to know to confidently pick the appropriate shower filter for your home. But, of course, if you still have questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to help.