Did you know that tiny plastic pieces, smaller than a grain of rice, are showing up in our drinking water? These are called microplastics, and they’re a growing concern for our health and the environment. It can be confusing and even a little worrying when you start thinking about how to get them out of your tap water. You see lots of different water filters advertised, but how do you know which one actually works to remove these pesky microplastics?
Choosing a water filter in the UK for microplastics can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands and types, each promising the best results. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the technical terms and different filtration methods. You want to be sure you’re making the best choice for your family’s well-being, without wasting money on something that won’t do the job.
This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what microplastics are, why they matter, and most importantly, guide you through finding a water filter in the UK that’s truly effective at removing them. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to enjoy cleaner, safer water right from your tap.
Our Top 5 Water Filter To Remove Microplastics Uk Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Water Filter To Remove Microplastics Uk Detailed Reviews
1. LifeStraw Go Series – BPA-Free Water Filter Bottle for Travel and Everyday use removes Bacteria
Rating: 8.5/10
The LifeStraw Go Series bottle in “Merlot Me Away” is your ultimate travel buddy. This BPA-free bottle makes sure you always have safe drinking water. You can fill it up anywhere, from airport bathrooms to a gas station on a road trip. It even makes your water taste better by removing chlorine and other yucky stuff.
What We Like:
- It filters out 99.999999% of bacteria like E.coli and Salmonella.
- It also removes 99.999% of parasites, including Giardia.
- It stops 99.999% of microplastics, sand, and dirt.
- The carbon filter improves taste by reducing chlorine and odors.
- The main filter lasts for a super long time, up to 1,000 gallons!
- It helps save the planet by reducing plastic bottle waste.
- The bottle holds 22 ounces of water.
What Could Be Improved:
- The carbon filter only lasts for about two months.
- You need to remember to replace the carbon filter more often than the main filter.
This bottle is a smart choice for anyone who wants clean water on the go. It’s good for your health and good for the environment.
2. Culligan with MaxClear Technology 2.25 Gallon Gravity Water Filter System
Rating: 8.6/10
The Culligan with MaxClear Technology 2.25 Gallon Gravity Water Filter System is a smart choice for anyone wanting cleaner, safer water right from their countertop. This system uses advanced technology to tackle some of today’s most concerning water contaminants.
What We Like:
- It’s the only gravity filter certified to remove microplastics, lead, and total PFAS. This means you get water free from tiny plastic bits, harmful lead, and “forever chemicals.”
- The filter keeps important minerals like calcium and magnesium, which is good for your health and makes water taste better.
- It’s NSF/ANSI certified, meaning it’s been tested and proven to reduce many contaminants, including chlorine and chloramine, for a great taste.
- Setting it up is super easy – no electricity or special plumbing needed. Just fill it up and pour!
- The 2.25-gallon size is great for a small family, needing fewer refills.
- Its brushed stainless steel design looks sleek and modern on any counter.
- It’s also portable, making it ideal for camping or as an emergency water filter.
- The system nests for easy storage, taking up less space.
What Could Be Improved:
- This filter doesn’t reduce TDS (total dissolved solids), which can affect water’s taste and appearance. Your TDS readings might not change much, but the water will still be healthier.
This Culligan system offers peace of mind and delicious, safe water for your home or adventures. It’s a practical and effective way to improve your daily hydration.
3. Waterdrop TSA 8 Layer Under Sink Water Filter System
Rating: 9.3/10
The Waterdrop TSA 8 Layer Under Sink Water Filter System offers a robust solution for improving your home’s tap water. It’s designed to tackle common contaminants like PFAS, PFOA/PFOS, and fluoride, while also enhancing taste and odor. National Geographic even recommends it, highlighting its compact and user-friendly design.
What We Like:
- Effectively reduces harmful contaminants like PFAS, PFOA/PFOS, and fluoride.
- Greatly improves water taste and odor thanks to its multi-stage filtration.
- National Geographic recommended and praised for its compact, space-saving design.
- Built with durable, age-resistant, and freeze-resistant materials, tested for high pressure to prevent leaks and cracks.
- Features an upgraded filtration area that significantly reduces clogging.
- Offers long filter lifespans, up to 18 months for the entire system.
- Extremely quick and easy installation (under 3 minutes) and filter replacement (3 seconds).
- Maintains essential minerals like calcium and potassium in your water.
- Provides a stable water flow for your daily needs.
- Comes with free connection fittings for quick-connect faucets upon request.
What Could Be Improved:
- This filter system does NOT reduce TDS (Total Dissolved Solids).
- Only works with cold water sources and is not suitable for well water or hot water without pre-filtration.
- Requires specific faucet thread sizes (1/2″ or 3/8″ FEMALE NPT) for direct connection.
- Replacement filters have specific ASINs that need to be searched for.
The Waterdrop TSA system is a fantastic choice for enhancing your tap water quality for drinking and cooking. It offers peace of mind with its advanced filtration and durable construction, though it’s important to note its limitations regarding TDS and water source.
4. PUR Plus 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of that funny taste in your tap water? The PUR Plus 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher is here to help! This pitcher makes your water taste cleaner and fresher, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink every time. It’s designed to be easy to use and fits right in your fridge. Plus, it helps you save money and reduce plastic waste from bottled water.
What We Like:
- It cleans your water better than Brita, removing more impurities for a superior taste.
- You’ll get delicious, crisp water with every pour thanks to its advanced 3-in-1 filtration.
- The pitcher is slim and fits easily in your refrigerator.
- Cleaning is a breeze because the pitcher and its parts are safe to put in the dishwasher.
- The filter lasts a long time, up to 2 months or 40 gallons, and a handy light tells you when to swap it out.
- Switching to this pitcher can save you a lot of money compared to buying bottled water.
- The LockFit Cap keeps everything secure while filtering and pouring.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for general use, some very specific contaminants might not be fully removed.
- The initial cost of the pitcher might seem a bit high for some budgets.
If you’re looking for a simple way to get better-tasting water and cut down on waste, the PUR Plus 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher is a solid choice.
5. DWSS Under Sink Water Filter for RV
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your water quality with the DWSS Under Sink Water Filter for RV. This NSF 53 certified system tackles microplastics, cysts, and chlorine, delivering cleaner, fresher water right from your tap. It’s a smart choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and especially RVs.
What We Like:
- Renter-Friendly & Easy Install: Connects to your existing cold water line and faucet. It’s compact (under 15” tall, 3.5” wide) and fits even small spaces. Most installations are simple DIY with the included 3/8” adapters.
- Cutting-Edge Filtration: Removes particles smaller than 1 micron, which is 25 times smaller than what the naked eye can see. It also reduces chemicals like chlorine.
- Quick Connect Filter Design: Changing the filter is super easy – just a 1/4 turn disconnects it. Replacement filters are readily available.
- NSF/ANSI Certified: Certified to reduce particulate matter, chlorine taste and odor, microplastics, and harmful cysts like Cryptosporidium and Giardia. You can trust its performance.
- Versatile Use: Delivers a fast flow of 2 gallons per minute. It works in kitchens, bathrooms, offices, and RVs. No permanent changes are needed. The filter lasts over 6 months or 2000 gallons.
What Could Be Improved:
- Plumbing Compatibility: While adapters are included, some older plumbing systems might need extra parts for installation.
- Cold Water Only: This system is designed for cold water lines exclusively.
This DWSS filter provides excellent water purification for various settings. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure you and your family have access to healthier drinking water.
Your Guide to a Microplastic-Free Sip: Choosing a Water Filter in the UK
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that can end up in our water. They’re too small to see, but many people want to remove them for cleaner drinking water. This guide helps you find the best water filter in the UK to tackle these little plastic invaders.
1. Key Features to Look For
What Makes a Water Filter Great for Microplastics?
When you’re shopping for a filter to remove microplastics, keep these important features in mind:
- Filtration Size: Look for filters that can capture very small particles. The smaller the micron rating, the smaller the particles the filter can catch. For microplastics, a rating of 5 microns or less is ideal.
- Filter Type: Different filters work in different ways. Some common types include activated carbon, ceramic, and ultrafiltration. Each has strengths in removing different things.
- Flow Rate: This tells you how quickly water passes through the filter. A faster flow rate means you get clean water quicker, but sometimes a slower flow can mean better filtration.
- Filter Lifespan: How long will the filter last before you need to replace it? More expensive filters might last longer, saving you money over time.
- Ease of Use and Installation: Some filters are super simple to set up and use, while others might need a bit more effort.
2. Important Materials
What are Filters Made Of?
The materials inside a water filter are crucial for its ability to clean your water. Here are some common ones:
- Activated Carbon: This is a very popular material. It has lots of tiny holes that trap impurities, including some microplastics and chemicals that can affect taste and smell.
- Ceramic: Ceramic filters have small pores that physically block larger particles, including some microplastics. They can be cleaned and reused, which is good for the environment.
- Ultrafiltration (UF) Membranes: These are very fine membranes with tiny pores. They are excellent at removing bacteria, viruses, and a wide range of microplastics.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO): This is a more advanced method that pushes water through a special membrane. It’s very effective at removing many contaminants, including almost all microplastics, but it can also remove beneficial minerals.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Filter Better or Worse?
Not all filters are created equal. Here’s what impacts their quality:
- Filtration Technology: Advanced technologies like ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis generally offer superior microplastic removal compared to basic activated carbon filters.
- Build Quality: A filter made with durable, food-grade materials will last longer and won’t add unwanted chemicals to your water.
- Certification: Look for certifications from reputable organizations. These confirm that the filter has been tested and performs as claimed.
- Maintenance: If a filter is hard to clean or replace, it might not be used as often, reducing its overall benefit.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How Will You Use Your Filter?
Think about how you plan to use your water filter. This will help you choose the right type and style.
- Pitcher Filters: These are simple to use. You fill the pitcher with tap water, and it filters into the bottom. They are great for individuals or small families who want cleaner drinking water in their fridge.
- Tap Filters: These attach directly to your kitchen tap. They provide filtered water on demand, which is convenient for drinking and cooking.
- Under-Sink Filters: These are installed under your sink and connect to your cold water line. They offer a continuous supply of filtered water and are often more powerful.
- Whole-House Filters: These filter all the water entering your home. They are a bigger investment but ensure all your water is cleaner.
For most people focused on microplastics, a pitcher or tap filter is a good starting point. If you want the most thorough removal, an under-sink or whole-house system might be better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What exactly are microplastics?
A: Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic, smaller than 5 millimeters, that can get into our water sources.
Q: Can all water filters remove microplastics?
A: No, not all filters can. You need to choose one specifically designed to capture small particles.
Q: What is the best type of filter for microplastics?
A: Filters with very small pore sizes, like ultrafiltration or reverse osmosis, are most effective.
Q: How do I know if a filter is working?
A: Look for certifications that prove it removes microplastics. Also, follow the replacement schedule for the filter.
Q: How often do I need to replace a microplastic filter?
A: This depends on the filter. Check the product instructions, as it varies by brand and model.
Q: Are there different sizes of microplastics?
A: Yes, microplastics come in various sizes, from large enough to see to microscopic.
Q: Do pitcher filters remove microplastics?
A: Some do, but you need to check the product specifications. Look for a small micron rating.
Q: Will a filter remove chemicals as well as microplastics?
A: Activated carbon filters are good at removing chemicals that affect taste and smell. Some advanced filters remove both.
Q: Is it safe to drink water with microplastics?
A: Scientists are still studying the long-term effects of drinking microplastics. Many people choose to filter them out as a precaution.
Q: Where can I buy water filters for microplastics in the UK?
A: You can find them in major homeware stores, online retailers like Amazon, and specialist water filter shops.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!