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Do cloudy spots litter the glasses that come out of your dishwasher? Does your skin feel dry and your hair brittle? Chances are, your home has hard water — after all, hard water is very common in the U.S., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. And one of the places you'll notice it most is in the shower. Enter the best shower filters.
When water contains high levels of minerals, including magnesium, calcium and iron, it’s considered "hard." These minerals can prevent shampoo from forming a nice lather and make it harder to rinse all the soap away, taking a toll on your hair and skin over time. Not to mention, many public water providers add chlorine to their water supply to help keep the water clean — but, too much chlorine in the water can also be bad for your skin. "At higher levels, chlorine is known to be drying and can lead to a rash on the skin known as contact dermatitis (a type of eczema)," says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., the director of cosmetic and clinical research at the Mount Sinai Hospital Department of Dermatology.
Like the point-of-use water filters installed at kitchen faucets or under the sink to remove contaminants like lead and pesticides, a shower filter is specially designed to capture chlorine and minerals associated with hard water. To find the best shower filters, our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab reviewed more than a dozen shower filters to fit a variety of budgets and shower types.
Take note that there are two main types of shower filters:
- In-line shower filters, which sit between your current showerhead and the shower arm.
- All-in-one shower filters, which are basically a replacement showerhead with a filter built into the fixture.
At the bottom of this guide, read more details on how we vet shower filters and what to look for when choosing one for your own bathroom.
1
Best Overall Shower Filter
Jolie Filtered Showerhead
Pros
Sleek design
Excellent chlorine filtration
Easy to install
Cons
Steep cost of showerhead and replacement filters
The Jolie showerhead is one of the most popular online, so we knew we had to try it out. After extensive home testing, we can confirm that the popular fixture does indeed live up to the hype, offering the best-looking design and overall user experience of all shower filters we reviewed. That said, it is also the most expensive pick in this report, both to purchase and to maintain.
Despite this, we love that it has a simple all-in-one design and direct-to-consumer business model (it’s been called the Warby Parker of showerheads). The Jolie is also extremely user-friendly. "It was such an easy install, especially considering I’ve never replaced a showerhead before," says Good Housekeeping Institute commerce editor Jacqueline Saguin. "Following Jolie’s helpful three-step guide, it took me about 15 minutes to get it up and running."
Jolie’s filter, which needs to be replaced every three months, contains a proprietary blend of KDF-55 and calcium sulfate that the brand says is better than typical carbon-based filters at capturing contaminants from hot, high-pressure shower water and that the showerhead "far exceeds" the industry's NSF/ANSI 177 water filtration certification. Unfortunately, we were not able to verify those claims, as the brand did not share its third-party testing data with us.
In our ongoing home tests of Jolie, however, we've noted some positive effects against hard water. "There's been less scale buildup near the drain of the tub since using the showerhead," says Saguin, adding that the "water feels softer without any sacrifice in pressure."
Filter type | All-in-one |
---|---|
Filter capacity | N/A (brand recommends replacing every 3 months) |
Dimensions | 8" x 8" x 5" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $144 |
Pros
Excellent value
Easy installation
Trustworthy brand
Cons
Plain design
If you’re looking for a quick and inexpensive way to test out the benefits of a shower filter in your home, consider this no-frills model from GE. It costs three to four times less than other top picks, but is backed by the same NSF/ANSI 177 certification. That means, it should do the job of removing chlorine and other impurities from your water.
The in-line filter is compatible with standard ½-inch plumbing, so our engineers say it should retrofit to any shower configuration without the need for extra tools. Replacing the filter is simple too — simply unscrew the housing and swap in a new filter.
Like other in-line filters, it isn't necessarily the prettiest option out there. Overall, the value is there though — especially for newbies. We didn't formally test this model, however GE is a household name in plumbing and appliances. And it's one we've had much success with over the years. GE fixtures are all over our category testing, from dishwashers to washing machines to refrigerators.
Filter type | In-line |
---|---|
Filter capacity | 10,000 gallons |
Dimensions | 2" x 3" x 4" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $32 |
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3
Most Popular Shower Filter on Amazon
Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower System
Now 52% Off
Pros
Excellent chlorine filtration
Multi-spray settings
Quality construction
Cons
Less water-efficient than some
Cost of filters adds up
A 25-year leader in water filtration, Aquasana impressed us with the Deluxe Shower System's combination of performance, value and ease of use. Like all filters in this round-up, it's certified to the NSF/ANSI 177 standard, so it's guaranteed to remove virtually all chlorine from your home’s water.
The all-in-one filter and showerhead combines superb filtration with a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, meaning you won't have to give up an invigorating spray for filtered shower water (though, because of this, it may be less water-efficient than others). Our experts also like that the adjustable showerhead offers multiple settings, from gentle to pulsing.
With a claimed filter life of 10,000 gallons, you'll only need to change the filter a couple of times a year. Each filter is about $70, so the cost does add up.
Filter type | All-in-one |
---|---|
Filter capacity | 10,000 gallons |
Dimensions | 8.5" x 7.25" x 3.2" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $140 |
4
Best Handheld Shower Filter
Culligan Hand-Held Filtered Showerhead
Pros
Excellent chlorine filtration
Quality construction
Works as handheld or overhead
Cons
Takes up more space than others
If you prefer a handheld spray, we recommend this option from Culligan, another brand that’s performed well in our tests over the years. With its NSF/ANSI 177 certification, the filter is sure to remove chlorine from your water, and Culligan claims it can also take care of sulfur odor and scale. The filters are meant to last for six months, and they cost less than $20, adding to the overall value of this option.
In terms of user experience, the five spray settings provide a range of massage options, and the magnetic dock makes it easy to switch from handheld to overhead. Our engineers say the stainless-steel construction and anti-clog rubber spray nozzles should extend the life of the system, a fact backed by the product’s generous five-year warranty. Compared with the one-year warranty of many other filters, this is very generous and should provide added peace of mind. Because of its 5-foot-long handheld design, this shower filter does takes up more space than some others.
Filter type | All-in-one |
---|---|
Filter capacity | 10,000 gallons |
Dimensions | 8" x 5" x 12" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $32 |
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Pros
Saves water
Multi-spray settings
Sleek design
Cons
Low filter capacity
This high-efficiency, all-in-one shower filter from Kohler uses just 1.75 gallons of water per minute (GPM), down from 2.5 GPM of standard showerheads. That’s good enough for the EPA’s WaterSense seal and, better yet, it could save you up to 3,000 gallons of water over the course of the year. The filter is not certified to NSF/ANSI 177 though, so we can't speak to the Aquifer’s ability to reduce chlorine levels in water.
Still, our engineers like its smart design, including the multi-spray feature that lets you switch from a gentle mist to a concentrated pulse with the press of a button. In terms of style, this is one of the better-looking filters our experts reviewed, whether you choose the polished chrome or brushed nickel finish. At 8,000 gallons, the filter capacity is lower than others on the list.
Not to mention, Kohler is one of the more popular brands of plumbing fixtures — and for good reason. The brand is known for its marriage of affordability, aesthetic and function. In fact, one of Kohler's showerheads tops our list of the best showerheads to buy. One drawback is that its filter capacity, at 8,000 gallons, is lower than others on this list.
Filter type | All-in-one |
---|---|
Filter capacity | 8,000 gallons |
Dimensions | 7" x 8" x 8.5" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $60 |
Pros
Easy to install
Exceptional capacity
Excellent filtration
Cons
Plain, plastic design
We consider Multipure another top brand in residential water filtration, thanks to our experts' experience with its consistent performance and reliability over the years. The brand's Aquaversa MP750 is one of our top-rated under-sink water filters, and our engineers expect the same filtration power from the Aquashower, especially with the removal of chlorine, since it carries the NSF/ANSI 177 certification.
But it’s the simplicity of the installation that makes the Multipure our top pick for DIYers. Simply unscrew your current showerhead and thread the Aquashower onto the pipe, then put the showerhead back on. When it comes time to replace the filter — something that only has to be done once every six or seven months, thanks to its incredible capacity — the Aquashower unscrews at the middle. It's one of the smartest designs we've seen in the category, but we do wish the design was a little more imaginative. Its plain, plastic housing does not make for a very sleek look.
Filter type | In-line |
---|---|
Filter capacity | Up to 25,000 gallons |
Dimensions | 3" x 4.75" |
Filter replacement annual cost | $120 |
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How we choose the best shower filters
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, our market analysts stay on top of trends by attending trade shows and industry events, including the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. That's how we noticed the increased consumer interest in shower filters starting a few years back.
For this report, we researched and identified the top-selling shower filters that you’re most likely to find at home centers and online. Then, drawing on two decades of combined experience testing water filters, our pros focused on about a dozen brands with a proven track record for performance and reliability.
Though formal Lab tests were not part of this review, the filter industry is closely regulated, so we were able to review reams of technical data based on rigorous standards set by NSF and third-party certifications to determine the best of the best. Our engineers also reviewed user manuals to get a sense of how easy each filter is to install and replace. Finally, we pored over thousands of consumer reviews to spot any red flags related to usability, safety and maintenance.
What to look for when shopping for the best shower filter
First and foremost, confirm the shower filter is certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 177. "This ensures that the product is capable of reducing the levels of chlorine by 50%, or to 1mg/L or less," says Stefan Buck, senior manager of the Global Filtration Division, NSF, the organization that develops public health standards and certification programs for the filtration industry. "It also ensures that the product does not leach contaminants that would be harmful to your health and also ensures its structural integrity under household pressure." The certification should be clearly listed on the product packaging and website.
From there, the decision comes down to the installation method. There are two basic types to consider:
✔️ In-line shower filter: This type of filter sits between your current showerhead and the main shower arm that connects to your home’s plumbing. Installation and filter replacement can be a bit more complicated, since you have to make a new connection in two places (at the the arm and showerhead). But in-line filters allow you to keep your showerhead — both a cost savings and an aesthetic win.
✔️ All-in-one shower filter: With this type, you replace your existing showerhead with a new showerhead that's designed with a built-in filter. It’s an easy swap, but might not be worth it if you love the look and feature set of your current showerhead.
If you go the all-in-one route, you'll then need to sort through all the same features you'd find with standard showerheads:
- Multi-setting vs. single-setting: Some showerheads feature 10 or more spray settings. You’ll usually pay more for this luxury compared to showerheads with just one type of spray.
- Overhead vs. handheld: If you like to luxuriate under the shower, go for the overhead. If you like the option of holding the showerhead to spray your body from different angles, choose the handheld.
- Flow vs. efficiency: Showerheads can crank out as much as 2.5 gallons per minute for an invigorating spray. Water-efficient models that carry the EPA’s WaterSense badge can't emit more than 2.0 gallons per minute. Consider your personal preferences, and weigh the pros and cons when making your decision.
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Do shower filters actually work?
The answer to this question is a hard "maybe."
A lot of the marketing claims focus on removing chlorine, which makes sense when you think about the damage swimming pools can do to hair and skin. But residential tap water is usually a different story. “Chlorine is present in municipal water at minutely small concentrations which are low enough to kill bacteria, but not affect [hair],” says Trefor Evans, Ph.D., Director of Research and Institute Fellow at TRI-Princeton, an independent hair fiber science research organization.
The impact on skin is more plausible, especially for people with extreme sensitivities, like eczema for example, exacerbated by hard water. But the best treatment for hard water is installing a whole-house water softener, since mineral buildup also wreaks havoc on plumbing and water-consuming appliances, like the dishwasher and washing machine. "Water softeners usually treat water at the point of entry into a building, so these devices can help treat hardness throughout the house, including showers," explains Kyle Postmus, Senior Manager of Residential Water at NSF International.
Having said all that, there are still times when a shower filter makes sense. Maybe you do have very sensitive skin. Or you’re a renter and your landlord won't put in a water softening system to fix the hard water. Or you don’t like the smell of treated water. Or science be darned, you just know that chlorine is causing your bad hair days.
One thing is certain: No real harm can come from putting in a shower filter, apart from the ongoing cost of replacement filters. So if you want to give shower filtration a try, our advice is to go for it. You can always switch back to a traditional showerhead if you don’t notice any positive results.
How often should shower filters be replaced?
Most shower filters need to be replaced every 10,000 gallons, though that’s admittedly a little hard to measure. This is why brands also suggest replacing the filter every six months. This is based on the average person’s shower consuming 17 gallons of water, according to a study by the Water Research Foundation. That works out to 68 gallons per day for an average four-person household, or 12,240 gallons over six months.
Not every household member will shower every day, so it’s safe to assume 10,000 gallons in a six-month timeframe. These are rough guidelines, but you can use the basic math to figure out how often you’ll need to change the shower filter in your home. Keep in mind that water quality is yet another variable. For example, if you have very hard water, the scale buildup will cause the filter to clog more quickly.
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Why trust Good Housekeeping?
The Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab provides expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, including water filtration systems.
In his role as director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico brings more than 20 years of experience to the Institute, having reviewed thousands of products for Good Housekeeping, as well as brands like Consumer Reports and This Old House. He has also overseen the testing of all types of point-of-use water filters, including carafe-style, under-sink and faucet-mounted.
For this report, Dan worked closely with Birnur Aral, Ph.D., Good Housekeeping Institute's former Health, Beauty & Sustainability Lab Director, who provided insights into hair and skin care and helped evaluate the contamination-removal claims behind each of our picks.
Dan DiClerico
Home Improvement & Outdoor Director
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
Reviewed byBirnur K. Aral, Ph.D.
Birnur (she/her) led the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute from 2007 to 2023. In addition to overseeing product testing and GH Seal applications, she conducted our annual Beauty Awards selection process and was an active leader in GH’s green initiatives, including the Sustainable Innovation Awards and Raise the Green Bar Summit. In addition to earning M.Eng. and Ph.D. degrees in chemical engineering, she also has a professional certificate in sustainability management from Columbia University.