Ever take a sip of tap water and wonder about what’s really in it? Chlorine taste, maybe some cloudiness? You’re not alone. Many of us want cleaner, better-tasting water without spending a fortune on bottled water. That’s where Brita water filters come in, offering a simple solution right on your countertop or in your fridge.
But standing in the store aisle looking at all the different Brita models can feel overwhelming. Do you need the basic pitcher, the dispenser, or one of those faucet attachments? Each one promises cleaner water, but which one fits your life and budget best? It can be tricky to figure out which filter type works hardest for your needs.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key differences between the popular Brita models. You will learn exactly what each filter removes and which one saves you the most money in the long run. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Brita system is your perfect match.
Top Water Filter Brita Recommendations
- WATER DISPENSER: One BPA-free, large 27-cup Brita UltraMax Filtered Water Dispenser includes one Standard filter to help remove impurities from your tap water
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: Brita water purifier dispenser cuts the taste and odor of chlorine and also reduces copper, mercury and other impurities
- SUSTAINABLE: By switching to a Brita water filter system, you can save money and replace up to 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles a year
- FRIDGE-FRIENDLY: Space-efficient Brita water dispenser is fridge-friendly, and it features an easy-locking lid and precision-pour spigot
- REPLACEMENT INDICATOR: Sticker filter indicator lets you know when it is time to change your Brita filter
- TRAPS 2X MORE CONTAMINANTS: The BritaPlus high density water filter traps twice as many contaminants as the Brita Standard Filter; packaging may vary
- GREAT TASTE, LESS WASTE: This replacement filter improves water taste and odor by reducing chlorine, so you can get great tasting filtered water without the waste of single use plastic bottles
- FROM THE BRAND: Put your trust in a filter from the number one brand in water filtration; for at home or on the go, Brita delivers great tasting filtered water
- CHANGE EVERY 2 MONTHS: Approximate timing based on 40 gallon filter life and average family usage of 11 glasses per day; works in all Brita systems except Stream
- DITCH PLASTIC BOTTLES FOR GOOD: Just one Brita filter can replace up to 300 plastic bottles; that makes 1,800 bottles replaced per year when you switch to Brita
- Get cleaner*, great-tasting, water without the waste with Brita Elite water filter replacements; you can save money and replace 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles per year; Packaging may vary
- Reduces 99% of lead, filters Chlorine (taste and odor), Cadmium, Mercury, Benzene, Asbestos, and more; Brita Elite filters out more than 3x the contaminants vs. standard Brita filters*
- The Brita Elite lasts 3x longer than Pur filters and 6x longer than standard ZeroWater filters; only replace the Brita Elite water filter 2x a year, about 6 months**
- Compatible with all Brita pitchers and dispensers except Stream; just insert filter into reservoir, line up pitcher notch with filter groove, press firmly to ensure tight seal
- Blue in color and made without BPA, Brita Elite filters feature a pull-top cap for easy removal and with no presoaking, filter installation is fast and simple
- EUROPEAN ORIGIN: Manufactured in Europe, our water pitcher filter, Brita filter replacement, for sink tap water upholds quality standards as part of home and apartment essentials
- COMPATIBILITY: These replacement carbon water filters are compatible with Amazon Basics and Brita pitchers and dispensers, excluding Brita Stream. They also serve as a Brita water filter replacement cartridge to fit your preferred filtration system
- REDUCE WASTE & SAVE: Replace 300 single-use bottles with each Amazon Basics and Brita pitcher water filter cartridge, suitable for your water filter for fridge, new apartment essentials, college apartment essentials, and sustainable hydration
- WQA CERTIFIED: Our replacement water filters are WQA certified against NSF 42, 53, 401 & 372 standards to reduce 9 contaminants including chlorine taste & odor, zinc, copper, cadmium, mercury, benzene, atenolol, linuron, & trimethoprim in filtered water pitchers for delicious filtered water. *Note: packaging may not yet match these updated contaminant claims*
- FRESH TASTE: Multi-stage filtered H2O system delivers fresh, great tasting output. Each Brita water pitcher filter replacement lasts 40 gallons or two months and is steam treated to ensure highest hygiene standards for clean drinking water
- The BPA-free Everyday water pitcher with filter holds 10 cups of water, enough to fill 3 24-ounce reusable water bottles; Product reservoir and lid may vary
- Get great-tasting water without the waste; by switching to Brita, you can save money and replace 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles* a year; *16.9 oz water;**Based on IRI data;***vs. tap
- This space efficient Brita pitcher fits perfectly on refrigerator shelves, features an easy-fill locking lid and is easy to pour; Height 10.47"; Width 5.59"; Length/Depth 10.94"; Weight 2.29 pounds
- Brita is the #1 water filter** reducing chlorine (taste & odor), Mercury, Copper, Zinc and Cadmium; always get cleaner***
- Compatible with Longlast and Standard water filters; for the freshest tasting water, replace your Longlast filter after 120 gallons or approximately every 6 months or Standard filter after 40 gallons or approximately every 2 months
- WATER FILTER PITCHER: One BPA-free, small 6-cup Brita Metro Water Pitcher includes one Standard filter to help remove impurities from your tap water
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: Brita water filter cuts the taste and odor of chlorine and also reduces copper, cadmium and mercury impurities
- SUSTAINABLE: By switching to a Brita water pitcher with filter, you can save money and replace up to 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles a year
- EASY TO USE: Easy-fill locking lid on this water pitcher with filter helps prevent unwanted spills and makes pouring and refilling a breeze
- REPLACEMENT INDICATOR: Electronic SmartLight filter indicator lets you know when it is time to change your Brita filter
- TRAPS 2X MORE CONTAMINANTS*: The BritaPlus high density water filter traps twice as many contaminants as the Brita Standard Filter; packaging may vary
- GREAT TASTE, LESS WASTE: This replacement filter improves water taste and odor by reducing chlorine, so you can get great tasting filtered water without the waste of single use plastic bottles
- FROM THE #1 BRAND***: Put your trust in a filter from the number one brand in water filtration***; for at home or on the go, Brita delivers great tasting filtered water
- CHANGE EVERY 2 MONTHS****: Approximate timing based on 40 gallon filter life and average family usage of 11 glasses per day; works in all Brita systems except Stream
- DITCH PLASTIC BOTTLES FOR GOOD: Just one Brita filter can replace up to 300 plastic bottles*****; that makes 1,800 bottles***** replaced per year when you switch to Brita
The Ultimate Brita Water Filter Buying Guide
Drinking clean, great-tasting water is important. Brita makes popular water filters that help clean your tap water at home. This guide will help you choose the right Brita filter for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a Brita filter, look closely at what it offers. These features make a big difference in how well the filter works and how easy it is to use.
Filtration Performance
- Contaminant Reduction: Check the label! Good Brita filters remove things like chlorine (which affects taste) and sometimes heavy metals like lead. Some advanced filters remove more stuff than basic ones.
- Filter Life Indicator: This is a lifesaver! It tells you exactly when to change the filter. Most last about two months or 40 gallons. Don’t guess when to replace it.
Capacity and Design
- Pitcher Size: Brita pitchers come in different sizes (small, medium, large). Pick one that fits easily in your fridge and holds enough water for your family.
- Dispenser Style: Some pitchers have a spigot (tap) for easy pouring. Others require you to lift the lid and pour from the top.
Important Materials in Your Brita System
The material of the pitcher and the filter itself matters for safety and durability.
Pitcher Construction
- BPA-Free Plastic: Always make sure the pitcher is made from plastic that does not contain BPA. This keeps your water safe. Most modern Brita products are BPA-free.
- Durability: Thicker plastic lasts longer. If you drop it often, choose a sturdier model.
Filter Core Materials
- Activated Carbon: This is the main cleaning ingredient. Carbon traps bad tastes and odors. Higher quality filters often use more or better-processed carbon.
- Ion Exchange Resin: This material helps reduce certain metals, like copper or lead, depending on the filter type you buy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all Brita filters are the same. The type you select changes the water quality you receive.
Upgrading Your Filtration
- Standard vs. Elite Filters: Brita offers standard filters and “Elite” (or “Longlast”) filters. Elite filters usually last much longer (up to six months) and remove more contaminants. If water quality is your top concern, spend a little extra for the Elite version.
- Filter Maintenance: If you forget to change the filter on time, the water quality goes down quickly. Old filters stop working well.
Reducing Filter Effectiveness
- Water Temperature: Extremely hot water should never go through the filter. It damages the carbon inside. Only filter cold tap water.
- Water Source: If your tap water is very murky or dirty to start with, the filter will clog faster.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how and where you will use your Brita filter.
Daily Use
- Refrigerator Fit: Measure your fridge shelf space before buying a large pitcher. Some large models do not fit well.
- Refilling Ease: Some lids are tricky to remove when the pitcher is full. Look for an easy-fill opening that lets you run the faucet without taking the whole top off.
Best Use Cases
- Apartment Living: Brita is perfect for renters because you don’t need to install anything under the sink.
- Office Desks: Smaller, 5-cup pitchers are great for keeping clean water right on your desk without taking up much space.
Brita Water Filter FAQs
Q: What is the main difference between Brita Standard and Elite filters?
A: Standard filters clean water for about two months and focus mostly on taste and odor. Elite filters last up to six months and remove more impurities, including some heavy metals like lead.
Q: How often should I change my Brita filter?
A: You should change the Standard filter every 40 gallons or two months, whichever comes first. Always follow the indicator light on your pitcher.
Q: Can I put juice or iced tea in the Brita pitcher?
A: No. Brita pitchers are designed only for filtering cold tap water. Putting other liquids in can ruin the filter and the pitcher.
Q: Do Brita filters remove all bacteria and viruses?
A: Generally, no. Standard Brita filters are not designed to kill germs or remove viruses. They are made to improve taste and reduce common contaminants found in treated tap water.
Q: What should I do if my filtered water tastes funny?
A: If the water tastes off, the filter is probably old and needs replacing immediately. Sometimes, new filters need to be flushed with water a few times before the first use.
Q: Are Brita pitchers dishwasher safe?
A: Most Brita pitchers are top-rack dishwasher safe, but you must check the specific model instructions. The filters themselves should never go in the dishwasher.
Q: How do I know if my water quality is actually improving?
A: The best way is to trust the indicator light that tracks usage. If you are concerned about specific metals, you can send a sample of your tap water and filtered water to a lab for testing.
Q: Does Brita filter out fluoride?
A: Most standard Brita filters do not remove fluoride. If removing fluoride is a must for you, you need to look for specialized filtration systems, not standard Brita pitchers.
Q: My filter indicator light is blinking red. What do I do?
A: This means it is time to change the filter immediately. Remove the old filter, insert the new one, and reset the indicator light according to the pitcher instructions.
Q: Can I use generic or off-brand replacement filters in my Brita pitcher?
A: While some fit, it is strongly recommended to use official Brita filters. Generic filters might not fit correctly or achieve the same level of tested contaminant reduction.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.