Healthy Kitchen 101

The Heart of The Home Beats in The Kitchen

  • Home
  • Recipes
    • Main Course
    • Side Dishes
    • Beverages
    • Desserts
    • Appetizers & Snacks
  • Reviews
    • Nutrition
    • Water Filters
    • Juicers
    • Blenders
    • Food Processors
    • Kitchen Knives
    • Garbage Disposals
    • Kitchen Faucets
    • Refrigerators
    • Grills
    • Cookware
    • Toaster Ovens
    • Air Fryers
  • About
Home›Reviews›Water Filters

The 8 Best Shower Head Filters of 2020 – Buying Guide & Reviews

Last Updated: December 18, 2020
Disclaimer: The products featured in our Top Pick List are chosen independently and without conscious bias following our Product Review Procedure. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links at no additional costs to you.
Written by Luna Regina on February 2, 2020

Contents

  • 1 Why do we need a shower filter?
  • 2 Criteria For A Good Shower Filter
  • 3 Reviews of the Best Shower Filters 2020
  • 4 Top-rated Shower Filters Comparison Chart
    • 4.1 1. AquaHomeGroup 15+ Stage Filter Shower Head – Best To Buy in 2020
    • 4.2 2. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter – Best For Hair Loss
    • 4.3 3. AquaBliss High Output Universal Shower Filter – Best for Hard Water
    • 4.4 4. Vitamin C Filter Inline Shower by Sonaki – Best Vitamin C Shower Water
    • 4.5 5. Culligan WSH-C125 Wallmounted Filtered Shower Head – Best Culligan Shower Head Filter
    • 4.6 6. Barclay’s Buys Filtered Showerhead – Best Budget Shower Head Filter
    • 4.7 7. AquaHomeGroup Vitamin C Shower Water Filter – Best Affordable Vitamin C Filter
    • 4.8 8. Berkey Shower Filter – Best KDF 55 Shower Head Filter
  • 5 Do Shower Water Filters Work For Hard Water?

Good day to you all!

First, a question: have you ever wondered, for yourself, why your hair and skin feel a bit weird after a shower? Even worse, they both keep feeling weird and start to LOOK terrible after a while?

Best Shower Head Filters 2020 review

If you do, well then, you’re not alone, as a matter of fact. Lots of other people (that includes me for a while) have also experienced itchiness, dryness and irritation after showering in unfiltered tap water.

It’s time for you to start considering picking up one of the best shower head filters to put this matter to rest permanently.

I say, first, we take a better look at the cause of such annoyance and, later, at which product would be the most suitable one for you.

Why do we need a shower filter?

Studies have shown that the number one suspect for dry, itchy skin and weak hair is the water that runs in our houses. And I think you all know what’s the cause— or at least make a guess in the ballpark: disinfectants and impurities.

In truth, water is rarely just… water. In many cases, water prior to being pumped towards households, is disinfected with chlorine or chloramine. As those substances are beneficial to some aspects of our health, they are not so nourishing to the human skin and hair.

Shower Head Water Softener
Is your shower water safe enough?

Also, along the pipes, chemical reactions can occur, leading to the creation of disinfection by-products, causing unpleasant taste or smell, or even rendering water unsafe for consumption.

To deal with disinfectants in the shower, shower head filters were introduced and have been the number one choice for such issues. These filters are known to remove various potential harmful elements – so effectively you can actually FEEL the rejuvenation at the first try.

I am going to make a quick list of filters that, to my knowledge, offer the best prices and utilities. Please, for the sake of your own skin and hair, and Buffalo Bill, buy yourself a shower filter ASAP.

Hope this will help! Drop a comment if it does. Thanks!

Criteria For A Good Shower Filter

In case you are a person of your own knowledge and opinion who prefers to do your own research on desirable products, here are some things that should be looked at prior to a purchase.

Filtration Measures

Different products apply different methods to suit different needs. Therefore, there are quite a few of them. Make sure that you know what needs to be filtered out of your water, then do a quick check of the technology offered.

Lifespan

Keep this in mind: filter cartridges are not meant to last forever. You will have to replace them once in a while, but NOT every week. Typically, they last an average of 6 months, depending on the amount of showers you take, despite other claims.

Replacement Filters

You definitely don’t want any trouble in finding extra filter cartridges for your system. It would mean that you would have to buy a brand new set if you wanted to continue your use. So check if you can get replacement cartridges with no problems before you commit to a certain type of shower filter.

Practical Use

This might be unnecessary to say, but you should take a look at the reviews on the product to see if it really does what it means to be doing.

Chlorine or Chloramine

For many years, countries have been using chlorine as the major disinfectant in their water treatment. However, over the years, many water companies have switched to chloramine because of its long-lasting nature in water pipes and the lack of smell and taste.

Though it’s said to be safer as a disinfectant than chlorine, chloramine might lead to skin, eye, or respiratory problems.

Reviews of the Best Shower Filters 2020

Still not confident which is the right showerhead filter to install in your bathroom? We’ve made this detailed review of the signature products from leading brands of showerhead filters and filtered showerheads this year, in case you need some references.

  1. AquaHomeGroup 15+ Stage Shower Head Filter – Best to Buy in 2020
  2. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Filter – Best for Hair Loss
  3. AquaBliss SF100 Universal Shower Filter – Best for Hard Water
  4. Vitamin C Filter Inline Shower by Sonaki – Best Vitamin C Softener
  5. Culligan WSH-C125 Filtered Shower Head – Best Culligan Showerhead
  6. Barclay’s Buys Filtered Shower Head Filter – Best Budget Filter
  7. AquaHomeGroup Luxury Shower Head – Best Affordable Vitamin C
  8. Berkey Shower Filter WITHOUT Shower Head – Best KDF 55 Filter

Top-rated Shower Filters Comparison Chart

A quick overview on the shower filters/ filter shower heads in this section:

FiltersLongevity (gallons)Filtration MethodTarget of filtrationWarranty
AquaHomeGroup Filter Shower
Head
(Editor's Choice)
10,000-12,00015 Stages (KDF + Vitamin C + E included)Chlorine + Heavy metals + Fungi, scale, mold, bacteriaN/A
Aquasana AQ-410010,000KDF 55 +
Activated carbon
Chlorine + Heavy metal + Volatile organic compounds1 year
AquaBliss 12-Stage12,00012 Stages*Chlorine + Heavy metals + sediments + Fungi, scale, mold, bacteria 1 year
Sonaki Vitamin C5,300Vitamin CChlorine + Chloramine4 months
Culligan WSH-C12510,000 NSF 177 certifiedChlorine + Scale2 years
Clearly Pure Shower12,000Calcium sulfiteChlorine + Sediments1 year
AquaHomeGroup10,000Vitamin C
Polypropylene cotton
Chloramine + Bacteria + SedimentsN/A
Berkey Shower Filter20,000 KDF 55Chlorine + Iron + Other heavy metals1 month

Here’s our picks for the Best Shower Filters.

1. AquaHomeGroup 15+ Stage Filter Shower Head – Best To Buy in 2020

In terms of “rising stars” in the industry, the AquaHomeGroup 15+ stage filter shower head sure fits any description put forth, surpassing many other opponents to become one of the best filter shower heads to have ever been made.

AquaHomeGroup 15 Stage Shower Filter
Pros
  • 15-stage filtration
  • Skin-nourishing Vitamin C + E
  • Universal design + Easy installation
  • 6 months filter life
  • Teflon tape and spare filter cartridge included
  • Gift: shower caps
Cons
  • No warranty (but refund/exchange is possible)

It’s not without cause that consumers are crazy about this particular product out of all inline shower filters out there. Its affordability in association with what it has to offer— a 15-stage filtration system, that not only eliminates and inhibits unwanted, unnourishing elements but also revitalizes damaged skin and hair. 

To put it in simpler words, the item uses a stack of 15 different, specifically designed ‘sieves’ to filter shower water.

Let’s investigate these methods of water purification in depth.

Stages 1, 3, 13, and 15 (ultra-fine and high-density stainless steel meshes) intervene with sediments, preventing them from entering and damaging the filter itself.

Stages 2 and 14 ( PP cotton) set up tight nets that block out even smaller particles, including dust and turpitudes.

Serious filtration happens at stage 6, with KDF55. It filters out chlorine, bacteria, and algae, even in hot water. Every bit of chlorine that somehow manages to pass through, along with trihalomethanes (THM’s), organic materials, and impurities, will once again be tested and fully stopped by the microporous ceramic balls in stage 7, activated carbon layer in stage 9 and calcium sulfite in stage 11.

The rest of the filter is specifically designed to improve the condition of our skin and hair.

Alkaline ceramic balls in stage 4 and maifan stones in stage 5 will release revitalizing minerals and other beneficial elements into the water.

The vitamin C in stage 8 helps with collagen synthesis and protects your skin from free radical damage.

Stage 10 with Germanium balls raise the level of negative ions and oxygen in water. Magnetic energy balls in stage 12 further enhance the oxygen quantity to reform your hair, skin and nails.

All of those come in one filter, which you can purchase separately. The famous universal, no-tool-required design of AquaHomeGroup filters that fits with all types of shower heads make it a piece of cake to install one in your bathroom.

If you buy the whole shower head set, there’s an extra stage where Vitamin C and E are released to the water right before it comes out. These are both antioxidants known to have great protective and nourishing effects on your skin over long term use. Together, they’re actually one of the greatest skin care ingredient combos— you must notice them on a plethora of serums and moisturizers!

At this point, we should just call it a shower water filter system. A simple ‘filter’ just doesn’t feel good enough.

The long-lasting filter cartridge won’t need changing until after 6 months of normal use. As a plus, the package includes an extra cartridge, so you can enjoy fresh shower water for a whole year before having to buy replacement filters!

AquaHomeGroup offers an exchange for defective products or a full refund if you return the product unused and in the original packaging within 30 days.

Check Latest Price On AquaHomeGroup

2. Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter – Best For Hair Loss

Chlorine is responsible for skin irritation and illness, while dissolved solids have harmful effects on hair strength. By eliminating both, AQ-4100 will improve your complexion and issues with hair loss to a significant extent.

Best Aquasana AQ-4100 Shower Water Filter
Pros
  • Maintain strong water pressure
  • Multiple spray settings
  • 10,000 gallon or 6 month long cartridge
  • Simple replacements – no tools required
  • 1 year limited warranty
Cons
  • Crunchy feel plastic
  • Possible minor leaking (can be fixed with tape)
  • Old model

The filter offers double filtration with coconut shell carbon and KDF copper/zinc media— a combination applied in many advanced household water filters to get rid of chlorine, sediments, and other volatile organic compounds found in your tap water.

There is a particular concern regarding how the said media don’t work as advertised. But don’t you worry! The coconut shell carbon and KDF filtration combo have been certified by the NSF to standards 42 and 61, which guarantee that the products tested are safe to use and effective in removing aesthetic impurities, including chlorine.

Moreover, this seemingly bulky piece of lavatory equipment is actually very easy to install. It takes most people about 10 minutes, depending on their existing shower, to set it all up.

The bulky look, however, is not there without reasons. It’s designed to give room for thick layers of coconut shell carbon and KDF 55. The filtration mechanism also allows for longer contact time with the media compared to other canister designs, resulting in more efficiency.

Admittedly, the product is no “youngster” concerning the slightly outdated design. That being said, it is a veteran in the market and proves to be aging wonderfully. Additionally, Aquasana is a brand with no small reputation of appreciated quality.

The AQ-4100 deluxe lasts for 10,000 gallons or 6 months of shower use. Adding to that, the company offers Water for Life autoship program for replacement filter cartridges, a 1-year limited warranty and a 90-day full-refund guarantee.

Check Out Best Price On Aquasana

3. AquaBliss High Output Universal Shower Filter – Best for Hard Water

Talking about a showerhead water softener for hard water, one simply can’t leave the Aquabliss SF100 to pass. Having been one of the best seller shower filters, the item easily earns a top spot in our list.

AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
Pros
  • Works for hard water
  • Easy Installation
  • 6-8 months or after 10,000-12,000 gallons
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • 1-year limited warranty
Cons
  • No shower heads included

Introducing the Universal Shower Filter by AquaBliss. This Inline Shower Filter features a 12-Stage System. The first stages are similar to the SF220, with a mix of KDF-55, Active Carbon and Calcium Sulfite. It removes chlorine and harmful impurities, and prevents bacteria and fungi from growing.

Although its efficiency in removing iron— or in dealing with hard water— is not outstanding compared to larger water filters, it is effective to a certain extent nonetheless. Adding to that, the filter prevents irritation by removing chlorine and harmful substances.

Unlike the SF220, this filter offers extra media that can help revitalize your skin. The Vitamin C, zeolite, tourmaline, and magnetic energy beads all contribute to a refreshing and nourishing shower experience.

The showerhead filter performs well and would be perfect for those who want to test out what a shower softener can do at an almost next-to-nothing cost.

Plus a universal design that works with all shower types— including rainfall and handheld showers, this filter is certainly one of the best rated and most favored filter units.

The cartridge lasts 6-8 months or after 10,000-12,000 gallons of water use, whichever comes first before a replacement is needed. You can look to buy more filter cartridges right here.

If there’s any dissatisfaction within the first 30 days, AquaBliss will happily refund your money and take the product back. Additionally, a 1-year warranty is also offered.

Check Latest Price On Amazon

4. Vitamin C Filter Inline Shower by Sonaki – Best Vitamin C Shower Water

Recently, Vitamin C has been considered as one of the dechloramination methods in AWWA (American Water Works Association) Standard (AWWA, 2005b). This water filtration method has brought about such successful results that many manufacturers have adopted it to their shower filter system designs. One of them is Sonaki, the no.1 water treatment brand in Korea.

Best Vitamin C Inline Shower Filter
Pros
  • Removes chloramine & chlorine
  • Good for skin
  • Goes with existing shower head
  • Easy set-up, wrench included in package
  • 4 months money back guarantee
Cons
  • Pricy
  • Only 5300 gallons long cartridge

I am betting good money that Korean models with goddess-like skin would know a thing or two about Vitamin C shower filters.

The Vitamin C Inline Shower Filter Assembly by Sonaki has continuingly been the Amazon’s Choice for “Vitamin C water filter”. This product promises a 99.9% chloramine and chlorine reduction in disinfected water, which will absolutely bring a reform to your skin/ hair.

Not only that, it is not without a transparent cartridge for easy filter checking, completely made of Brass and Durable resin with a chrome finish, which provides a luxury feel.

Also, the package includes 3-Vitamin C filters and a wrench for changing out filters. Each cartridge life span varies around 1400 gallons.

Oh, have I mentioned that you don’t have to replace or change anything major in your bathroom to install this product? You’ll just have to attach it to your existing shower arm and head and you are good to go. The process is unexpectedly easy.

The price for the assembly is somewhere between $60 and $80.

I understand it is a bit expensive for a shower filter. But hey, some people would tear down a house! Just saying.

Check Latest Price On Amazon

5. Culligan WSH-C125 Wallmounted Filtered Shower Head – Best Culligan Shower Head Filter

Also easy to install, Culligan wall mounted is still one of hottest filtered showerheads (yes, pun intended). Installation should only take up less than 10 minutes, reading from customer reviews. The filtration system has been tested and certified following ANSI Standard 177 to decrease free available chlorine effectively.

Best Culligan Filtered Shower Head
Pros
  • 5 spray settings
  • 10,000 gallon or 6 month long cartridge
  • Easy to install
  • 2 year limited warranty
Cons
  • Old model

Other than that, it can also help with the typical smell and taste of processed water and contribute to the promised low levels of bacteria, scale, mold… Building on that, the shower head offers 5 different spraying settings with easy-to-clean rubber nozzles.

Evidently, the product is of an old model, like the Aquasana. With that being said, it is a fighter and proves to be long-lasting. Additionally, Culligan is well considered by most customers

The cartridge can filter shower water of 10,000 gallons in volume or 6 months of shower use and the product (housing) is under the effect of a 2-year limited warranty.

You can purchase this shower filter on Amazon for less than $35.

Check Latest Price On Amazon

6. Barclay’s Buys Filtered Showerhead – Best Budget Shower Head Filter

Don’t want to spend too much on a shower filter? Only curious about how it could possibly help your skin and hair? Then an inexpensive, yet not actually cheap, filtered shower head should do the trick for you.

Best Clearly Pure Budget Filtered Shower Head
Pros
  • High water pressure
  • Cheap
  • 6-8 month long cartridge
  • 1-year guarantee
Cons
  • Only 2 spray settings
  • Possible clogs and leaks

The Clearly Pure Filtered Shower Head has been receiving positive reviews after positive reviews. Of course there are complaints, but nothing of serious matter so far. It’s fair to say that this item is one worth considering.

Constructed with plastic as the main material, the unit is expectedly light. With a simple design, it is not a hard task to set it up in your bathroom and to disassemble it to replace the filters when the time comes.

Water pressure coming out of this shower head sure is a nice feature, maintaining at 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). It is not completely surprising since the item adopts the calcium sulfite filtration method only, which has been said to be effective against chlorine.

The only noticeable drawback is the occasional leaks or clogs. But with a filtered shower head under $25, it’s a good bargain. Especially true in this case, where the filter can last up to 8 months and the unit is covered with a 1-YEAR manufacturer guarantee.

Check Latest Price On Amazon

7. AquaHomeGroup Vitamin C Shower Water Filter – Best Affordable Vitamin C Filter

If you are not into luxurious shopping or you are more interested in economical choices, then this filtered shower head should be perfect for you.

Best Filtered Shower Head 2 Cartridge
Pros
  • Consistent water pressure
  • Easily adjusted shower head
  • Easy installation, tool-free
  • Comes with gift box
  • Cheap
Cons
  • Poorly manufactured shower head
  • Possible leaking problems

As another Vitamin C filtration adaptation, plus the incredibly low price for a Vitamin C shower filter at under $40, this particular product is a common recommendation.

The shower head is expected to be durable and lightweight, given the fact that it is made of class metal. Laser cut micro-holes that maintain strong and balanced water pressure accompany an integrated swivel ball joint which allows smooth angle adjustments.

Regarding installation, it is not much different from other products. No tools are required thanks to its universal design, easily attached to a ½ inch fixed mount and adjustable shower arm. But the best thing about this item is the bonuses: 2 Vitamin C cartridges and 5 bath caps in a premium gift box. Now THAT’s economical!

Another worth-mentioning quality of this potential purchase is its manufacturer. Aquahomegroup has been in customer’s favor and stealing their hearts away. According to Amazon customer’s overall reviews on the company, over 90% of them has been positive, more specifically on the customer’s service. Take a look and see it for your own assurance.

Check Latest Price On AquaHomeGroup

8. Berkey Shower Filter – Best KDF 55 Shower Head Filter

Okay straight off the bat, this is not the greatest looking water softener shower filter out there. But don’t let looks deceive you. The product is capable as far as shower filters for hard water go.

Berkey Shower Filter Shower Head Review
Pros
  • Compatible with many shower head types
  • Installed without tools
  • 12 months or after 20,000 gallons
  • 30 day money-back guarantee
Cons
  • No shower heads included
  • Relatively expensive

It is partly fortunate that the picture was so unappealing. Because had it not been so, I wouldn’t have had to dig deep like I did to find out why customers love it so much.

And as it turned out, there are actually nicer pictures of it. Thank goodness!

Getting back to the matter at hand, first of all, it’s a Berkey. It is a brand with no small reputation when things come around water filtration. Despite the incident with their Black Filters, which has been dealt with, products from Berkey rarely fail their consumers.

Second of all, it’s the compatibility of the design with standard shower head types and the easy installation. It’s probably will only take you less than 5 minutes to hook it on to your existing shower head. No problems whatsoever!

Third of all, it actually does what it’s meant to do. Reading through the comments section, there are plenty of satisfied reviews on how the item clears out the taste and smell of chlorine right away.

Adopting KDF 55 granules, one of the most popular filtration media, Berkey’s shower head filter can also inhibit the growth of bacteria, algae, scale, mold, and fungi.

The filter cartridge should last 20,000 gallons or 1 year before a replacement is needed. Sadly, Berkey does not list a warranty. However, this one is covered with a 30-day guarantee, so test your product right after you receive it.

Check Latest Price On Amazon

Do Shower Water Filters Work For Hard Water?

To set the record straight one more time: hard water DOES have negative effects on skin and hair.

As drinking water, it may not be damaging, but hard water in showers will surely do a number on hair strands, gradually turning rough and dull. How?

Soap in contact with hard water will combine with the dissolved metals and form a film of soap curd.

The curd will stick to our hair, making it more and more lifeless and difficult to manage. In addition to that, the film will prevent filth and bacteria from being cleansed off and hinder the skin’s ability to recover back to its normal condition.

In short, “we’d like our shower water to be soft, please. Thanks!”

Which begs the question: how do we effectively remove unwanted minerals and sediments from our water?

Since the problem occurs mainly in the bathroom, shower filters seem like a decent choice. However, when put next to other water filtering systems for hard water, they are indeed inferior. All things considered, the ultimate way to deal with water hardness is a combination of water softener systems and shower filters.

If someone says that you only need shower filters to deal with the dissolved metals such as calcium and magnesium, they’ve been misled, or they’re trying to sell you something.

Think about it, how can a single, small unit of shower filter completely remove all the sediments and dissolved metals? It NEEDS help. As in, help from a bulky assembly that will take the hard water straight on, like this Fleck 5600SXT which uses ion exchange mechanics – one of the few methods proved to be effective against hard water.

Filed Under: Water Filters

Related Posts

  • best refrigerator water filter review 2020

    Best Refrigerator Water Filters in 2020: Buying Guide and Reviews

  • Best Water Softeners 2021

    The Best Water Softeners in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

  • best water cooler dispenser review 2020

    Best Water Cooler Dispensers in 2020: Buying Guide and Product Reviews

Luna’s Handbook

  • CuZn UC 200 Non RO Under Counter Water Filter

    CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter Review

  • PUR FM-3333 Classic Vertical Water Filtration Faucet Mount

    PUR Water Filter Review: A Glance at the PUR FM-3333 Faucet Filter

  • Aquagear Chromium-6 Filter Pitcher

    Fluoride Water Filter Review: The Aquagear Fluoride Filter Pitcher

  • Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

    Gravity Water Filter Review: The Travel Berkey

  • Samsung Electronics HAF-CIN Refrigerator Water Filter

    Samsung Refrigerator Water Filter Review: HAF-CIN-model two-pack

  • EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter 2

    Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter Review: NSF-Certified Everydrop Filter 2

Comments

  1. Avatar for Aaron KesslerAaron Kessler

    April 15, 2018 at 7:59 am

    I have not enough ideas about it and never take it seriously but after read this article i knowing that how much is important shower head for our skin and hair. N ow i understand what should i do and i am going to purchase some of these. Thank you so much for sharing a informative article also helpful.

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      April 16, 2018 at 6:12 am

      I’m so glad that you find this article useful 🙂

      Reply
  2. Avatar for JackieJackie

    May 14, 2018 at 8:23 am

    Tbh I didn’t think there are so many choices. I have seen one, the Aquasana, at my friend’s house and been thinking about getting the same one. Now it seems like I’ve more to look in to. But are there any shower filters that remove fluoride and chlorine both? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      May 15, 2018 at 8:24 am

      Hello Jackie
      I appreciate you taking the time reading the article and I’m so glad that you found something useful.
      As for your question, there are not many shower filters that filter out fluoride since the substance is not damaging to our skin and hair, especially with the concentration in drinking water, and it tends to get into our system through the digestive tract. You can see there’s not much of a need for a fluoride filter in the shower
      But if your really want to be extra careful, which is wise, I suggest you take a look at this filter which has zeolite crystal filtration: pH ENERGIZE 8-Stage Shower Filter
      Best of luck!

      Reply
      • Avatar for Dominic BarnesDominic Barnes

        January 3, 2019 at 11:24 am

        It is not true that fluoride cannot be absorbed through the skin.

        Fluoride CAN be absorbed through the skin, just like many other molecules that are below 150kDa.

        https://www.des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/factsheets/ard/documents/ard-ehp-14.pdf

        Reply
        • Avatar for LunaLuna

          January 4, 2019 at 9:55 am

          Hey Dominic! Thanks for stopping by and for the correction

          You are absolutely right, fluoride CAN be absorbed through the skin. I do remember reading about it somewhere. I also remember reading that the effect of low concentrated fluoride, in usual tap water for example, was not that severe to be damaging in the shower, especially through skin absorption. I think that’s why I just kind of left it out.

          But thanks again for pointing that out. It sure will be helpful to others as well.

          Reply
      • Avatar for amyamy

        June 12, 2020 at 9:28 pm

        I’m super surprised at your answer. Those of us concerned about fluoride don’t drink city water without first filtering flouride out. The skin is the largest organ and really easily absorbs things so your skin is absorbing a lot of fluoride and other chemcials. It is VERY damaging to our skin. There is a great need for shower filters that take out fluoride. Propur makes a fluoride filter for the shower. pureaction also makes one.

        Reply
  3. Avatar for ReeseReese

    October 24, 2018 at 1:29 pm

    I don’t get it. What’s the difference between the various AquaBliss models? The descriptions sound the same, and they’re all the same price. So what’s the difference?

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      October 26, 2018 at 2:57 am

      Hello Reese!

      Thanks for stopping by and giving my article a read.

      The two AquaBliss models mentioned are indeed different. The AquaBliss 12-stage has a filter system that includes the thick stainless steel meshes, the KDF-Calcium Sulfite-Activated Carbon combination and the revitalizing balls. Meanwhile, the AquaBliss Universal only has a 3-stage filter system that mainly exploits the redox properties of KDF, calcium sulfite and activated carbon. In short, the 12-stage is an updated version of the Universal.

      As for their prices, the 12-stage is actually at a 47% discount at the moment, that’s why they’re at the same price. Original costs of the 12-stage and the Universal respectively were $59.95 and $35.95. So if you want to pick up one, now might be the best time.

      Thanks again for reading. Hope this was helpful.

      Reply
  4. Avatar for JamesJames

    October 31, 2018 at 5:36 pm

    Your article is super helpful. Some of them seem very high-tech. I’ve started looking for a shower filter after my doctor recommended i get one for my skin. He recommendeda Aquaspace shower filter. Do you have any experience with these?
    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Avatar for DannyDanny

      November 5, 2018 at 5:34 am

      You got me curious as well. I looked for offers on google and they are listed on the official website, but it seem like retailers are not stocking these Aquaspace shower filters yet. I’m keeping an eye out for reviews on that one because DOCTOR RECOMMENDED FILTER !!! Definitely checking that out. Until then, I’m sticking with that Aquabliss either 12 or 3 stage. The two are looking fresh!

      And to the author, awesome job man. This was indeed helpful.

      Reply
  5. Avatar for Alvin MorrellAlvin Morrell

    November 11, 2018 at 5:55 am

    Thanks a lot for another excellent information. This website has been my gateway to knowledge. ?

    Reply
  6. Avatar for LilyLily

    December 16, 2018 at 10:55 pm

    Thanks for this current list on shower filters Ive been looking into getting one and still trying to figure out if Los Angeles water has chlorine or chloramine in it. The report they sent me from 2017 says chlorine amounts many other scary metals and chemicals but their website says they are switching over to chloramine and so trying to get someone on the phone that actually knows which it is currently.

    Do you know if the Aquabliss or Aquasana filter out chlorine and chloramine? From what I read most filters work best for one or the other. I really want to get one soon I have noticed since Ive moved here my hair sheds so much more and its always limp, dull and dry strays which I never had before living in Chicago or NYC. I thought it was the dry climate which Im sure doesn’t help but the water is well known for being bad here so Im thinking thats the real issue. I am looking for a filter for my hair and skin but also to filter out the terrible chemicals that are not good to breathe when the shower makes so much steam and our skin absorbs so much as well we probably get more contaminants in our system from the shower even though we drink filtered and bottled water here. If you happen to know which filter is best for this area please let me know thanks!

    Reply
    • Avatar for sitasita

      March 10, 2019 at 4:56 pm

      Hi, Los Angeles has chloramine in the water- Aquabliss does not help for that. Pelican has some filters that claim to reduce the chloramine and most other stuff. Vitamin C filters are said to neutralize the chloramine. So maybe to be safe it is good to have two filters, that is what I am thinking at this point, even if it annoying and costly.

      Reply
      • Avatar for LunaLuna

        March 18, 2019 at 8:11 am

        Hey, Sita. Thanks for stopping by.

        Unfortunately, I think you’re right. Dealing with chloramine is expensive and I guess we just have to accept it for now. But you don’t have to own two different filters, one for each disinfectants. For your information, Vitamin C cartridges can take care of both chloramine and chlorine efficiently, although it is indeed more costly than the regular chlorine filter.

        Hope this helps.

        Best of luck.

        Reply
  7. Avatar for LilyLily

    December 16, 2018 at 11:02 pm

    I forgot to also ask what you thought of the reviews on Amazon that test some of these models with chlorine and other test strips and find they are not working? Do you think they are accurate tests? Both the Aquabliss 12 stage and Aquasana have some reviews with test strip photos stating that they didn’t remove anything with their test strips but their are lots of reviews that people notice a significant improvement to their skin and hair. How would you compare these two when one is trying to decide what is best for their water are they basically going to do the same type of filtrations?

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      December 17, 2018 at 11:48 am

      Welcome back, Lill.

      To your wondering if the Aquabliss 12-stage and the Aquasana filter out chloramine, they sadly DON’T. The two shower filters are specifically designed to manage chlorine, and they’re good at it (NSF certified and all). To deal with chloramine, you’d do well to go for a vitamin C shower filter since it’s currently the best medium for the task. The Sonaki Vitamin C inline shower filter on our list and the Vita-fresh Vitamin C shower filter are two promising choices.

      Regarding the unsuccessful water tests, I doubt that it is due to the capability of the two models. The reviews from the majority of users say it all. Plus, the KDF and activated carbon are both NSF certified to standard 42. Do note that shower filters can filter out chlorine only to a certain extent, not COMPLETELY. If the chlorine level is high in the original water, it’s likely that, after filtration, you’re still left with a considerable amount of it.

      Personally, I think that they may unfortunately have received faulty units. If you ever find yourself with one, both companies offer a trial period (30 days for the Aquabliss and 90 days for the Aquasana), during which you can return the products for a full refund.

      I hope that answers your questions. Once again, thanks for stopping by. Hope you’re skin and hair will get better soon.

      Reply
  8. Avatar for SandieSandie

    March 15, 2019 at 3:05 pm

    Actually, I have a question re. the Aquabliss 12-Stage shower filter. Does it reduce water pressure?

    Thank you, Sandie

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      March 18, 2019 at 8:12 am

      Hi, Sandie. Thanks for your question.

      While most users experience no major change in water pressure, it does happen from time to time. If the water flow is restricted right after installing the filter or after it’s been in use for a while, have a read at this support page to see the possible fixes for the issue.

      Good luck.

      Reply
  9. Avatar for stephenstephen

    April 28, 2019 at 4:06 pm

    the sonaki vitamin c filter doesn’t take care of heavy metals?

    Reply
    • Avatar for LunaLuna

      May 23, 2019 at 8:30 am

      Hi there, Stephen. Thanks for visiting and leaving us a comment.

      The Sonaki Vitamin C filter indeed DOES NOT have much of an impact on the mineral level in the water. Vitamin C, as a medium, is developed and used to only neutralize chlorine and chloramine. Other shower filters with KDF 55 and/or activated carbon are much more effective in this regard. However, always remember that to actually influence the quality of ACTUAL hard water, one will need bigger units of water filters.

      Cheers!

      Reply
  10. Avatar for KellyKelly

    June 19, 2019 at 6:20 am

    Do any filter take out fluoride???

    Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      June 24, 2019 at 8:51 am

      Hello, Kelly. Thanks for stopping by.
      There aren’t any shower head filter in our list that filter fluoride, but there are some of them on the market. You may want to check out the pH ENERGIZE 8-Stage Shower Filter.

      Reply
  11. Avatar for MiekeMieke

    June 23, 2019 at 6:30 pm

    Does any shower filter remove lead?

    Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      June 24, 2019 at 8:48 am

      Hey there, Mieke.
      Most of the filters in our list— those that are with an activated carbon filtration layer— can remove lead from water.

      Reply
  12. Avatar for GregGreg

    July 11, 2019 at 11:15 pm

    Thanks for a great review!!

    Reply
  13. Avatar for MignonMignon

    July 13, 2019 at 11:13 pm

    Wow. I’ve been using Sprite’s handheld shower filter for 5 years & while searching for what to replace it with, I found your article.
    So, a few Q’s:
    I’m in LA/Santa Monica, so have the issue of chloramine (not chloride). If the Vitamin C filter is the only one that addressed chloramine, just physically speaking, how can 2 filters be attached to the same shower head?
    Do any hand-held shower filters come close to the effectiveness of the non-handhelds that you review in your article?
    Last question: Can I install one of the filters you recommend and have it work with a no-filter handheld showerhead..ie, filter + handheld showerhead, rather than combined as I have now.
    Very very grateful to you for all the work you put into this & for communicating your findings it so clearly & meticulously.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      July 16, 2019 at 2:43 pm

      Welcome, Mignon. Thanks for visiting and sharing.
      Shower head filters all have ½” fittings. Technically, we can link them up indefinitely. The problem doesn’t lie with “can we,” but “should we?” Because if we were to attach two or more of them together, the overall effectiveness may increase, but the flow rate would decrease drastically. Personally, I don’t recommend such a combination.
      As for the other questions, normal shower filters work fine with no-filter handheld showerheads, but you’ll also suffer from reduced water pressure— though not as badly as stacking multiple filters. When we set them up on the shower arm, gravity is on our side. We don’t have that with handheld. For the same reason, filtered handheld showers aren’t as efficient as dedicated cartridge filters. They may still be effective, but not as efficient.
      Hope that answers your questions. If there’s something else, feel free to ask.
      Thanks again for your support.
      Good luck!

      Reply
  14. Avatar for Natalie RosenNatalie Rosen

    August 10, 2019 at 1:16 am

    Hi!
    I was just about to purchase a vitaclean showerhead after seeing an advertisement on Instagram. Then thought to myself, “why not look them up and see what the Internet says.“ That is when I found your review. It looks like I want to have a vitamin C filter and your editors choice filter do you think or do you know if the vita clean will attach to the AquaBliss filter thank you!!

    Natalie

    Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      August 19, 2019 at 8:27 am

      Hi, Natalie. Thanks so much for sharing and reading our blog.
      It looks like the vitamin C showerhead from Vitaclean has typical fittings. The Aquabliss should be able to connect with no trouble.

      Reply
  15. Avatar for Johanna StinsonJohanna Stinson

    December 9, 2019 at 5:19 pm

    Which is the best for well water with maganese and iton…no chlorine…hard water though…shower filter needed please

    Reply
    • Avatar for Johanna StinsonJohanna Stinson

      December 9, 2019 at 5:20 pm

      Iron sorry

      Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      December 27, 2019 at 8:00 am

      Welcome to our blog, Johanna.
      Sadly, the high mineral level in well water is an issue that shower filters alone are not going to be enough. The Berkey and Aquabliss in our list are known to help with iron and manganese but only to a certain extent. We recommend adding a water softener system to effectively deal with the minerals.
      Best of luck.
      P/s: No need to be sorry. We understood what you meant just fine 🙂

      Reply
  16. Avatar for BilalBilal

    January 20, 2020 at 6:10 am

    WOW incredible information about the shower Filters,
    Thanks Admin

    Reply
  17. Avatar for Donkey KongDonkey Kong

    September 7, 2020 at 2:06 am

    Hi! We have a whole house filter for our public water. I want a shower filter just to help remove any potential lead that is in the pipes of our house because the whole house filter is installed at entry to house….Please let me know what is the most cost effective option for us! I would appreciate it greatly!!! Thank you

    Reply
    • Avatar for Luna ReginaLuna Regina

      September 7, 2020 at 4:40 am

      Hi Donkey Kong,

      Aquabliss says their shower filters can reduce lead, but to completely remove it, I believe you need a stronger filer— a KDF or RO system. You may have to upgrade the entry-point system…
      At a high lead concentration, a shower filter won’t help much. Also, if your water has lead, it’s important to also filter it at the kitchen sink, where you likely drink it/cook with it.
      I’d test the water first to see if the metal is really there, and go from there.

      Reply
  18. Avatar for George SGeorge S

    September 19, 2020 at 10:55 pm

    Hello, is there any study / independent certification that these shower filters indeed clean up heavy metals?

    Many Thanks
    George

    Reply
  19. Avatar for JoeJoe

    September 21, 2020 at 3:27 pm

    Really cool article. I knew very little about the benefit of a water filter in my home shower. I am convinced. I will give your #1 option a try. Thanks for the article.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Written by Luna Regina on February 2, 2020
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Related Posts

best refrigerator water filter review 2020

Best Refrigerator Water Filters in 2020: Buying Guide and Reviews

Best Water Softeners 2021

The Best Water Softeners in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

best water cooler dispenser review 2020

Best Water Cooler Dispensers in 2020: Buying Guide and Product Reviews

Best Whole House Water Filters 2021

The Best Whole House Water Filters of 2021 – Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

Best Water Filters 2021

12 Best Water Filters of 2021 – Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

As Seen On

Healthy Kitchen 101 Featured

HealthyKitchen101.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.ca

  • Home
  • About
  • Guideline
  • Affiliate Disclosures
  • Privacy Policy
  • California Privacy Notice
  • Contact

Copyright © 2017–2021 · Healthy Kitchen 101, LLC
DMCA.com Protection Status