Water filter: types, how it works and which one suits you
Want to know which water filter suits you? In this guide you'll read what a water filter does, which types there are, what they filter and how to choose. Dutch tap water is clean, but contains traces of PFAS and microplastics; a good filter provides extra assurance and better taste.
What is a water filter and what does it filter?
A water filter removes impurities from water through a physical
barrier, activated carbon or a combination of both. A simple pitcher focuses on chlorine and limescale (taste); an under-sink system also tackles PFAS, microplastics and heavy metals.
Dutch tap water meets the standards, and according to Waternet and the Drinkwaterplatform is among the cleanest in the world, but research still finds traces of PFAS and microplastics, and old pipes can release lead. A filter is therefore not a necessity, but a conscious choice for extra assurance and better taste.
The types of water filters at a glance
Under-sink water filter
An under-sink water filter is connected to the cold water pipe under your sink: unlimited filtered water straight from your tap, broad filtration, cartridge lasts up to a year. The best choice for most households.
Filter pitcher
A cheap entry-level option (such as Brita): you fill the pitcher, the water trickles through activated carbon. Limited filtration (hardly any PFAS or microplastics) and a new cartridge every four weeks. See also our PureFilter vs Brita comparison
Gravity and portable filters
A tank on the counter or a portable filter for on the go and emergencies (Berkey, LifeStraw, Sawyer), works without electricity. Thorough, but bulky or not intended for daily household drinking water.
How do you choose the right water filter?
Step 1: Look for independent lab tests
A report from an independent laboratory shows what a filter actually reduces, and by what percentage. Without a measurement a claim cannot be verified.
Step 2: Decide what you want to filter
Just taste and limescale, or also PFAS, microplastics and heavy metals? That determines which water filter suits you.
Step 3: Compare cost and convenience
A pitcher may look cheap (60 to 120 euros per year in cartridges), but an under-sink filter, with a replacement filter from €65.00 per year, is often more cost-effective and lower-maintenance.
Meet the PureFilter Mineral+
The PureFilter Mineral+ is a compact under-sink system. Five filter layers: pre-filter, two carbon fibre layers, Swedish Mineral Rock™ and a post-filter.
All 40 tested chemicals reduced, from 75% to 99.97%. 83% to 85% less PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS. Measured by an independent lab. Lead, mercury, arsenic and cadmium brought below the detection limit. No chlorine taste, no chlorine smell: 99.97% less chlorine.
● One filter lasts up to 12 months for 1 to 3 people, up to 6 months for 4 or more.
● You can install it yourself in 10 minutes. Compatible with a Quooker.
● Swedish Mineral Rock™ adds calcium, magnesium and potassium in the final filter step and gives your water a soft, fresh taste.
● 5-year warranty on the filter housing. Try PureFilter for 40 days at home. Not satisfied, money back.
View the full range of water filters for home.
Frequently asked questions
Which water filter is best for home use?
For daily use at home, an under-sink filter scores highest: broad filtration, low cost per litre and filtered water straight from your existing tap. For the PureFilter Mineral+ this was measured independently: all 40 tested chemicals reduced, from 75% to 99.97%.
Is a water filter really necessary?
Not for safety: Dutch tap water meets the standards. But it does offer extra assurance against traces of PFAS and microplastics, or for better taste. So it's a conscious choice, not a necessity.
What is the healthiest water filter?
A system that removes harmful substances while retaining useful minerals. Reverse osmosis strips everything away, including minerals; the PureFilter Mineral+ has Swedish Mineral Rock™ in the final filter step. Swedish Mineral Rock™ adds calcium, magnesium and potassium in the final filter step and gives your water a soft, fresh taste.
Which water filter for emergencies or travel?
For travel or emergencies, choose a portable gravity or hollow-fibre filter that works without electricity. For home use, a fixed under-sink system is more suitable.
Does a water filter also filter out PFAS and microplastics?
The carbon block has very small pores. Microplastics that are larger, and most of them are, get caught in it.
83% to 85% less PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS. Measured by an independent lab.
