The sweet sensation of a refreshing shower on a weary morning – it’s a daily ritual that sets the tone for the day ahead. But have you ever stopped to think about the water flowing from your showerhead? Are you getting the most out of your daily dose of H2O, or is it merely a lukewarm drizzle that’s more suited to a sad, neglected garden?
The truth is, many of us are stuck with showerheads that are as much a relic of the past as a VHS player or a landline phone. They’re often clogged, inefficient, and downright harsh on our skin. But what if we told you that there’s a better way? A way to upgrade your shower game with filtered showerheads that not only purify the water but also provide a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home?
How I Tested Filtered Showerheads
While shopping for filtered showerheads, think about the following factors: Filter type: This dictates what impurities the showerhead removes. Activated carbon, KDF-55 and calcium sulfate are some of the most common filter types you’ll find in showerheads — they remove chlorine, heavy metals and other minerals from water that can impact your skin and hair. Brands often add different filters to their fixtures to offer maximum purification. (Read more about each type here).
Certified claims: Make sure any filtered showerhead you buy has evidence backing up its performance claims, preferably via third-party testing data, says Anderson. This information may be available on brand websites, or you can contact a brand and ask for a copy. There are no federal regulations around residential water filters, but there are voluntary standards (set by organizations like public health nonprofits) that brands can test their products against. Anderson recommends buying from a brand that tests its filtered showerheads against the National Sanitation Foundation’s NSF 177 standard, which certifies models that reduce chlorine in water. (Chlorine can cause dry skin and hair damage, according to experts.)
Flow rate: Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (gpm), refers to the amount of water that comes out of a fixture (like a showerhead) during a certain period of time. In the U.S., showerheads can’t exceed a flow rate of 2.5 gpm, according to federal standards created to conserve natural resources like water. To further conserve water, some states require a lower maximum flow rate, which means you may need a device called a flow restrictor to reduce the water stream. (Learn more about flow rate in our guide to the best bidets.)
The Best Filtered Showerheads to Shop
Top picks from popular brands: Jolie, Canopy, Act+Acre, and Afina.
Budget-friendly options: Affordable alternatives for those on a tighter budget.
Special features: Showerheads with added benefits, such as KDF-55 and activated carbon.
What Types of Filters to Look For
KDF-55
The benefits and limitations of copper-zinc filtration.
Activated Carbon
How it works and what it removes from water.
Calcium Sulfate
The role of this filter type in showerhead technology.
What is Flow Rate?
Understanding gallons per minute (gpm) and its impact on shower performance.
How flow rate affects water conservation and pressure.
Comparing flow rates among different showerhead models.
Why Trust NBC Select?
The importance of expert advice and third-party testing.
How NBC Select ensures the accuracy and reliability of its product recommendations.
The value of expert opinions in making informed purchasing decisions.
Conclusion
As we conclude our comprehensive review of the best filtered showerheads, it’s clear that investing in a high-quality showerhead can make a significant impact on one’s daily routine. Our testing and evaluation process revealed that the top-performing filtered showerheads not only removed impurities and contaminants from the water but also provided a more refreshing and rejuvenating showering experience. From reducing chlorine and heavy metals to improving water pressure and temperature control, these showerheads demonstrated a tangible improvement in overall shower quality.
The significance of this topic extends beyond personal experience, as it speaks to a broader concern about water safety and quality. As our water infrastructure continues to age and face challenges, it’s crucial that we prioritize innovative solutions that ensure access to clean and healthy water. By choosing a filtered showerhead, individuals can take an active role in protecting their health and wellness, while also supporting a more sustainable future. As the demand for eco-friendly and health-conscious products continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions emerge in the market.