The best filtering carafes in the UK 2023

Drinking plenty of water contributes to a healthy life. However, bottled water can quickly become expensive and tap water often tastes bad because of limescale, chlorine, lead and tartar. This is why it can be interesting to acquire a carafe filter. In order to get rid of all these impurities, we would like to draw your attention to the best filter carafes of the moment.

Brita Elemaris XL
9/10

Best value for money

Brita Elemaris XL

The best filter carafe in 2021

The Brita Elemaris XL is a benchmark in the water filtration market. Its Maxtra+ filter cartridge effectively removes limescale, heavy metals and chlorine.

28 £ on Amazon

If there was only one filter carafe to recommend, this would be it. The Brita Elemaris XL is the reference in its field and provides pure, filtered water. You can use tap water without affecting the taste and smell of your drink (hot or cold). The Maxtra+ MicroFlow Technology filter ensures the removal of impurities such as scale, chlorine and lead. Even the most stubborn impurities will not be able to resist.

Thanks to the Brita Meter technology integrated in the lid of the Brita Elemaris XL, you will know exactly when it is time to change the filter cartridge. The intelligent indicator takes into consideration the elapsed time, the water hardness and the total amount of water consumed. Note the total capacity of 3.5 L for 2.2 L of filtered water,

Philips Micro X-Clean
7/10

Best value for money

Philips Micro X-Clean

The best entry-level filter carafe

The Philips Micro X-Clean carafe filter improves the taste of your water by reducing chlorine, limescale and heavy metals. Highlights include a digital timer and an innovative anti-dust spout.

10,39 £ on Amazon

Take care of your health, drink only filtered water. And how can you do that without hurting your wallet? By getting an inexpensive carafe filter like the Philips Micro X-Clean, of course! With a capacity of 2.6 L and a water flow rate of 0.3 L/min, it can handle both hot and cold drinks. It includes a Micro X-Clean filter that acts on all harmful substances such as chlorine, PFOA, microplastics, heavy metals and limescale. The water will go through 4 stages of filtration, including a layer of non-woven fiber, a layer of granular activated carbon, a layer of ion exchange resin and a new layer of non-woven fiber.

This model features a digital timer to let you know when it's time to replace the filter. The lid is easily removed and replaced, making it simple to refill the filter carafe. Plus, it has a dust-free spout, ideal for keeping dust and other particles out of the container. Brita compatible replacement filter cartridges are available (AWP210/ AWP211/AWP212).

PearlCo 3559
8/10

Best premium value for money

PearlCo 3559

The best high-end filter carafe

Do you want to enjoy an aesthetic and practical filtering carafe? With its dozen Alkaline Classic filter cartridges, the PearlCo 3559 is a great option.

91,92 £ on Amazon

It must be said that the PearlCo 3559 makes up for its high price with quality workmanship and 12 complimentary Alkaline Classic filter cartridges. It has an attractive design that allows you to place it in the center of the dining table. The filtered water it collects is free of all types of pollutants, including lime. To stand out, this filter carafe makes use of activated carbon and ion exchanger. It is equipped with an automatic opening and closing mechanism.

Each filter cartridge has been steam sterilized before being packaged. With a borosilicate glass body and a BPA-free plastic handle and lid, it is both durable and shock resistant. The biggest advantage of the PearlCo 3559? It supports other cartridges like Universal, Protect+, as well as Brita Classic and AquaMag compatible models.

Brita Marella XL 3 mois
7/10

A great alternative

Brita Marella XL 3 mois

To meet the needs of the most demanding

Brita Marella XL 3 months helps to get rid of all impurities in your water such as pesticides, copper, drug residues, chlorine...

19,70 £ on Amazon
Buying guide • November 2023

Best filtering carafe

Any specific needs?

The best filter carafe in 2021

The best entry-level filter carafe

The best high-end filter carafe

To meet the needs of the most demanding

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best filtering carafes

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Brita Elemaris XL
9/10
Philips Micro X-Clean
7/10
PearlCo 3559
8/10
Brita Marella XL 3 mois
7/10
OUR SELECTION
Brita Elemaris XL
Philips Micro X-Clean
PearlCo 3559
Brita Marella XL 3 mois
The Brita Elemaris XL is a benchmark in the water filtration market. Its Maxtra+ filter cartridge effectively removes limescale, heavy metals and chlorine.
The Philips Micro X-Clean carafe filter improves the taste of your water by reducing chlorine, limescale and heavy metals. Highlights include a digital timer and an innovative anti-dust spout.
Do you want to enjoy an aesthetic and practical filtering carafe? With its dozen Alkaline Classic filter cartridges, the PearlCo 3559 is a great option.
Brita Marella XL 3 months helps to get rid of all impurities in your water such as pesticides, copper, drug residues, chlorine...
Filtered water capacity
2.2 L
1.5 L
1 L
1.4 L
Total capacity
3.5 L
2.6 L
2 L
2.4 L
Filter life span
100 L or 1 month of filtered water
1 month
Up to 100 L
1 month
Number of cartridges supplied
1
1
12
3
Cartridge change indicator
Brita Meter
Digital timer
LED sensor
Brita Memo

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Buying guide - filtering carafe

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How to choose your filtering carafe

The carafe filter is an indispensable utensil. It allows you to filter tap water so you can drink it directly. You can also use it to demineralize water so that it is more suitable for ironing your clothes. To take advantage of its benefits, you must first choose the best carafe filter. Here are the criteria to take into account to make a wise choice.

#1 - The capacity

The filter carafes are presented with two volumes. The larger volume refers to the total capacity of the carafe. The smaller volume refers to the capacity of the compartment intended to receive the filtered water. This is the most important one, as it defines the maximum amount of water received after each filtering. The ideal quantity will depend on your needs, but also on the number of people using the filter carafe.

#2 - The material

The majority of filter carafes on the market are made of plastic. The type of plastic used (PE, SAN, Makrolon) must be up to standards and must not contain harmful substances such as phthalate or bisphenol A. There are also glass or steel models that cost more.

#3 - The filter

The activated carbon filter is the most commonly used on filter carafes. Some models are equipped with ion exchange resin filters. These types of filters are effective at removing solid debris, bacteria, limescale and organic molecules from the water. Some filters can be recycled, which is good for the environment.

#4 - The filter replacement indicator

The

filter is replaced at a more or less regular rate. On some models, cartridge replacement is required when the filter changes color. There are also much more advanced cartridges that incorporate electronic detection systems

. They take into account the duration of use, but also the quantity of water filtered and even its hardness. Thus, when the limits are reached, the filter turns on a light indicating the need for a replacement.

#5 - The efficiency

This criterion refers to the filtration speed, but also to the efficiency of the filter in purifying the water. On average, a carafe filter can filter up to 100L of water per month. Ordinary cartridges remove bacteria, limescale, chlorine, pesticides and heavy metals. Some more efficient filters also remove nitrate. They cost more, but are much more effective.

Proper maintenance of a carafe filter

The maintenance of a carafe filter is quite simple. The first thing to do is to avoid any contact with materials other than water. This will keep it safe from other agents that can affect the quality of the water.

Take care to clean your carafe filter at least once a month. A hand wash is ideal to reach every nook and cranny with a sponge and dishwashing liquid. However, you can also put the carafe in the dishwasher.

Change the filter regularly, every month or every time you have filtered about 100 L of water. A change in the color of the filter or an indicator light that comes on also implies a replacement.

Filtering efficiency will be significantly reduced if you use a used filter. Always choose a compatible filter. During use, avoid exposing the filter to direct sunlight.

The different types of filtering carafes

Filter carafes work on the same concept. Water is stored in an upper compartment, passes through the filter and is received in the lower compartment. The type of filter makes the difference between the different models. We can therefore distinguish: the filter carafe with an activated carbon filter and the one with an ion exchange resin filter.

Activated carbon filter carafe

Activated carbon is used on this type of cartridges for filtering carafes. This material has the advantage of retaining all organic pollutants in the water at a satisfactory rate. Activated carbon also eliminates unpleasant odors and tastes in the water. It is less effective in retaining inorganic matter

. Nevertheless, its efficiency rate remains high.

The carafe filter with activated carbon cartridge is made for general household use. If you don't have any particular substance to remove, this type of filter will work well for you.

Ion exchange resin filter carafe

The

filters in these carafes are equipped

with

special resins

. These cause chemical reactions that trap pollutants in the water and release neutral agents that are in the filter. The resin can exchange cations (positive ions), anions (negative ions) or both.

This type of filter targets one or more specific substances. The filtration action is less generalized, but more effective on the targeted substance. The manufacturers therefore mention on the label the type of substance retained by the ion exchange resin filter carafe.

This type of filter is made for people who are looking to remove a particular substance from their water. It is also suitable for people who live in areas where the water contains a pollutant or mineral in excessive quantities.

Carafe filter or water osmosis system?

Carafe filter

The carafe filter is a kitchen utensil. It allows to keep the tap water in order to filter it and make it more drinkable. The filtration is done with a carbon filter or ion exchange resin. These filters retain a large part of the chlorine, bacteria, heavy metals and organic agents that can affect the quality of the water. It is easy to use, without having to install anything.

Water Osmosis

The water osmosis unit is a device installed at the tap. It filters water very efficiently to make it as neutral as possible. To do this, the water passes through a pre-filter that eliminates chlorine and any solids contained in the water. A reverse osmosis membrane then retains the finest organic and chemical particles, including minerals. This results in perfectly pure water, which is called H2Origine.

Verdict

The osmosis machine offers the best filtration capabilities. The water obtained is perfectly pure, perhaps even too pure. Indeed, this device retains polluting agents, but also minerals such as magnesium and calcium. These minerals are essential, especially for people who do not drink milk for health reasons or out of conviction. The carafe filter remains the best option for drinking water rich in minerals.

Why buy a carafe filter?

Health first

Using a carafe filter gives you the chance to drink purer water with fewer health risks. The device has the ability to filter out various pathogens such as chlorine, sand grains...

Saves money and time

This small utensil will also save you a lot of money. You won't need to spend more money buying bottled mineral water every time. Your household appliances will also benefit from its advantages. Thanks to the filtered water, these equipments will have a longer life span.

Ecological

On average, a family of four consumes the equivalent of 112 bottles of mineral water per month. The use of a carafe filter is therefore more ecological. It also means fewer plastic bottles are released into the environment.

For the taste

You will be pleased because the filter improves the taste of the water and eliminates its unpleasant odors. As a result, you will use water that is free of limescale, pesticides and heavy metals. You should also know that filtered water will prevent your rice and pasta from sticking.

To have style

Many brands today focus on the aesthetics of their products. You will find a wide range of models on the market in a variety of colors. This device is as stylish as it is ergonomic, and will find its place in the refrigerator or follow you everywhere.

The best brands of filtering carafes

In our opinion, the best brands of filtering carafes in 2022 are :

Brita
AmazonBasics
Aqua Optima
FilterLogic
Terraillon

With 45 years of experience, the Brita brand offers its customers quality items that are both design and performance. Moreover, its filtering carafes have the capacity to offer you water with a more pleasant taste.

More recently, the AmazonBasics brand has also launched itself on the market by offering filtering carafes with interesting and particularly affordable functionalities.

Among the leaders of the market, Aqua Optima puts at your disposal its wide range of filtering carafes with various designs. They will be offered at a very advantageous price.

Available in various colors, the filter jugs of the FilterLogic brand are very popular because of their performance. They stand out for their filtration quality.

The high quality Terraillon filter carafes are equipped with an innovative technology allowing for optimal filtration efficiency.

What is the price for a filtering carafe

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 30 £
Mid-range
30 £ to 70 £
High-end
more than 70 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Review the manual

The very first thing to do after purchasing your carafe filter is to read the manual. The manual contains instructions on how to best operate the unit, replace the filter, clean it, etc.

Use a test kit

Use

a test kit to check your water for bacteria, chlorine, hardness, heavy metals, pesticides, nitrates and viruses. It will help you choose the best water filtration system.

Don't use a filtering device if you run out of minerals

Don

't use a carafe filter if you're low on minerals. Because this kind of device also tends to remove some of the good minerals in the water.

Replace the filter in your filter carafe every month

Many

models have a light that flashes to let you know it's time to change the filter. If it doesn't, simply change the filter every month.

Clean your carafe

After a month, cleaning with water will be very effective in preventing germs from building up inside

.

FAQ

What is the best carafe filter?

The best carafe filter depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.

How long can I keep the water in the carafe filter?

If

you leave the filtered water in the carafe for more than 24 hours, there is a tenfold increase in the risk of bacteria growth. Your water will not be as pure as it was after filtering. So take care to store the water elsewhere after each filtering.

Can I pour boiling water into the carafe filter?

This

is not recommended. Let the boiling water cool before pouring it into your filter carafe, especially if it is a plastic model. Several studies have shown that drinking hot water in contact with plastic (which meets current health standards) can increase the risk of cancer.

Can the filter be completely dried out?

The

filter in your carafe filter can deteriorate if it remains completely dry for more than three days. So, make sure that the top compartment of the carafe always contains water. This will prevent the filter from drying out.

What is the life span of my filter?

The

manufacturer defines a life span for the filters. This can be limited in time (30 days on average) or by the quantity of water filtered (100 L on average). Opt for a filter with a replacement indicator if you want to avoid errors in the count. Also note that the filter should be replaced when it starts to change color.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Carafe filter : how it works, femmeactuelle.fr
  2. Biological activity in a granular activated carbon filter, erudit.org
  3. Domestic water filtrationOsmosis water, terrevivante.org
  4. carafe filters... "60 millions de consommateurs" points out the dangers of this "too pure" water, 20minutes.fr
  5. Filtering carafes: the right gestures for an optimal use, radins.com
  6. 7 tips to purify water, consoglobe.com
  7. https://alternativi.fr/les-differentes-methodes-pour-purifier-l'eau-du-robinet/140, alternativi.fr
  8. Carafes filterantes : faut-il filtrer l'eau du robinet, particulier.lefigaro.fr
  9. Carafes filterantes et filtre sur robinet, uae.fr
  10. Carafes filterantes - Darty, darty.com
  11. Carafes filterantes - Retrait 1h en Magasin* | Boulanger, boulanger.com
  12. Les 7 Meilleurs Carafes Filtrante (Août 2021) - Les Avis ...., lacomparaison.fr
  13. Amazon.co.uk : carafe filtering, amazon.co.uk
  14. Carafe filtering - Black Week Cdiscount Electromenager, cdiscount.com
  15. Carafe filtering - Useless or worse! - News ..., quechoisir.org
  16. Are filter carafes safe for the health of ..., sain-et-naturel.ouest-france.fr
  17. BRITA filter carafes | BRITA®, brita.fr
  18. The 3 Best Glass Filter Carafes - 2020 Comparison, ecomparatif.fr
  19. Is using a filter carafe a danger ..., femmeactuelle.fr
  20. Brita filter carafes - 1 hour in store* | Boulanger, boulanger.com
  21. Filter carafes - Wikipedia, fr.wikipedia.org
  22. Filter carafes : a danger for health ? - Dangers ..., dangersalimentaires.com
  23. Carafe filter - ALKANATUR - Alkaline ionized water, eaualcaline.fr
  24. Carafe Filter : Comparisons & Cartridges of ..., carafefiltrante.net
  25. Best 10 Filter Carafes of 2021 - Decider, decideur.co
  26. Best Filter Carafe: Comparison & Top 5 2021, maxi-comparatif.fr
  27. Comparative filter carafe: test and review in November 2021, meilleure-note.com
  28. Are filter carafes really effective ..., santemagazine.fr
  29. Filter Carafe | Action.com, action.com
  30. Filter Carafe - Water Filter Carafe, watersfrance.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Brita Elemaris XL
Brita Elemaris XL
Philips Micro X-Clean
Philips Micro X-Clean
PearlCo 3559
PearlCo 3559
Brita Marella XL 3 mois
Brita Marella XL 3 mois

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