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Best filtered drinking water


Best water filters: 8 top picks for pure water at home

(Image credit: LARQ)

For many, one of the best water filters is an absolute essential in the home, unlocking access to purified water whenever you want it. An inexpensive yet hugely impactful investment, one of these filters will make your drinking experience more enjoyable, and allow you to reduce your plastic use at the same time. 

It's important to note that the best water filters are versatile when it comes to design. If you want purified water when you're in the office, or out on a run, you don't need to strictly decant from your water filter jug. Instead, you can browse bottles with water filters built-in, or adapt your faucet to have purified water flowing all of the time. 

If you are ready to make a permanent change to your faucet, this type of filtration can help to remove impurities such as lead, chlorine, microplastics, and more. For the short-term option, water filter pitchers are excellent value too, and you can get thousands of uses out of one before you need to replace it.  

Identifying the best water filter for you is essential to have a more satisfying experience as you hydrate. Here, you'll find a thorough round-up of a number of different outstanding water filters, including details on inserts and sizes, as well as information on filters we've tested. You could also consider investing in one of the best hard water kettles, to ensure the boiling water that you consume is also filtered to its best.

The 8 best water filters worth your investment

LifeStraw Filter

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 264 gallons
Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 14 inches

+ Comes in glass and plastic
+ Plenty of colors to choose from 
- Not the longest lasting filter out there 

We love the look of the LifeStraw Home Filter Pitcher, which has a range of colors to choose from and comes in either glass or BPA-free plastic. The seven-cup design means it will fit into most refrigerator doors while still catering to the whole family. 

The microfilter claims to last up to last a year with regular use and when it comes to the filtering function, there's a two-stage process present in order to make your water taste great.

AquaSana Filter

Type: Under-sink
Filter life: 500 gallons
Dimensions: 8.25 x 4.25 x 9 inches

+ Great price
+ Low running costs
- DIY installation process 

When properly installed: the two-stage filtration system in the AquaSana Under Sink Filter will remove up to 97% of chlorine, as well as lead, asbestos, herbicides, and pesticides; dealing with upwards of 60 common water contaminants with every use, and at a flow rate of only 0.5 gallons per minute. All-in-all: owners have agreed that their water tastes exceptionally better after implementing this system.  

LARQ Pitcher

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 60 gallons
Dimensions: 9.5" x 10" inches

+ Advanced filtration method
+ Excellent tasting water
- Requires some charging

We loved this LARQ choice when we tested it, as it combines the practical elements of a pitcher with the advanced features you find in countertop filters. It has a two step filtration process, with an innovative filter that has been designed to ward off harsh contaminants and prioritize taste. Within the body of the pitcher, there is a rechargeable lithium polymer battery that works to destroy bio-contaminants at a molecular level, including viruses and mold. 

Cleanwater4less System

Type: Countertop
Filter life: 10,000 gallons
Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 9.5 inches

+ Simple installation
+ Well priced
- No replaceable filters

The Cleanwater4less Countertop Water Filtration System is easy to install, with a universal diverter valve that should connect directly to most faucets. In terms of value with this filter, it is one of the better ones on the market; with a system rated to purify 10,000 gallons of water, it is sure to impress. The integrated filter isn’t as extensive as some other products but is said to reduce chlorine by 97%, plus it can deal with volatile organic compounds and sediment. 

Waterdrop Pitcher

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 200 gallons
Dimensions: 10.40 x 5.30 x 10.00 inches

+ Well priced
+ Good capacity
- Filter itself can be tricky

While filter jugs can be an expensive option, Waterdrop Lucid is one of the best value choices out there. Its 10-cup capacity is a good balance between size and portability, and the filter lasts for 200 gallons before you it will need to be replaced. Lastly, this choice turns to a seven-stage filtration system to improve the taste and quality of your water. 

Apex Filter

Type: Countertop
Filter life: 750 gallons
Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 14 inches

+ Looks great
+ Clean-tasting water
- Filter can be hard to replace 

The Apex Countertop Drinking Water Filter comes equipped with a clear filter that is sure to be a talking point for anyone in your kitchen. Much like any other typical countertop model, this choice connects directly to your faucet, and it’s fed directly with tap water. Designed to last for up to 750 gallons — remove chlorine, sediment, radon, and more! — this easy-to-install option will look sensational in any kitchen.

Brita Ultra Max Dispenser

Type: Dispenser
Filter life: 120 gallons
Dimensions: 5.1 x 14 x 9.6 inches

+ Won't take up much space
+ Dispenser with large capacity
- Heavy to refill

If you like the idea of having a lot of filtered water readily available but don’t want the DIY hassle of an under-counter or countertop filter, the Brita Ultra Max Dispenser could be for you. With an 18-cup capacity, this slimline dispenser has enough water for the entire family. Designed to sit on a counter without taking up too much space, but you can slide it into a refrigerator, too. As this is a large item and heavy when filled with water, there’s a spigot on the front for filling up cups or bottles, and it has a decent flow rate.

LARQ Water Bottle

Type: Bottle  
Filter life: N/A
Dimensions: 9.6 x 2.7 x 2.7 inches

+ Kills germs and viruses
+ Self cleaning
- Quite expensive 

The LARQ Bottle is slightly different from the other products on this list: as it doesn’t have a filter; instead, it uses a rechargeable battery in the lid to power a UV light that kills bacteria and viruses, making water safe to drink. There are two cleaning modes: typical is for regular tap water, where you’ve got a fair idea of how trustworthy the source is; Adventure mode is a longer cycle for less reliable sources. 

How we chose the best water filters 

At Homes & Gardens we like to have hands-on experience wherever we can with products that we feature in our buying guides, as we explore in our guide to how we test. In the case of water filters, we haven't had the opportunity to test every single top-rated option, just yet, but water filters, jugs and bottles are on our agenda to test out at home, and there's an explanation below on who has tested the filters we have experienced ourselves.

The options that we are yet to test have been chosen based on a number of criteria, including what shoppers are searching for and user reviews that give true insights into what the filter is like. We've also carefully looked at the sustainable credentials of each, and how long the filter will last for.

Ecommerce Writer

Molly is the Ecommerce Writer for Homes & Gardens, and can often be found reviewing new appliances and buys for your home. She has tested out the LARQ water filter pitcher in this guide, and found it made a noticeable difference to the quality of drinking water in her home. It's also the sleekest filter jug you'll find, though it does require being charged from time to time in order for the filter element to work to its best ability.  

Browse more water filters...

Securing the optimum water filter for your home is essential for hydration you enjoy. If you're still on the lookout for your ideal filter, then head to our recommended retailers to select your favorite:

How do I choose a water filter? 

All water filters work in the same way: tap water passes through a filter that removes contaminants. There are different styles of filter, though.

Under-counter water filters are designed to fit into a cupboard and usually come with a new faucet. These give you clean, filtered water at the same flow rate as your regular faucet. Although harder to install, you get the benefit of a single faucet to use for everything, and you can quickly use filtered water everywhere, from cooking to filling a water bottle to take away.

Countertop water filters work in a similar way to under counter, but they’re usually connected to your faucet. You get the same advantages as with an under-counter model, but these models are easier to install. Having a bulky device on your kitchen counter is the main downside.

Pitcher water filters have everything built into a jug. You fill up the top reservoir with tap water, and it’s filtered through to the bottom as clean water. These are quick and easy to use, and you can store a jug of filtered water ready for use. The downsides are that you need a jug double the size (half for tap; half for filtered), and there’s a short wait for filtered water every time you fill up.

Bottle water filters are designed for on-the-go use. They’re handy if you’re on the move and want to refill your water from anywhere.

What does a water filter remove?

Each water filter system is different, so you need to check carefully what each one offers and their particular need. It’s worth pointing out that bacteria are generally not removed by most water filters.

Water filters will generally all remove chlorine and prove to be roughly 90% effective. Other contaminants include volatile organic compounds (harmful chemicals), heavy metals, and sediments. 

How often should I change the filter itself?

Filters are rated: by the gallon, and most water filter systems will track how much of the filter was used. Once it’s time to replace the filter, you’ll get a warning. Cheaper systems that don’t track actual usage will tell you how long each filter will last.

Typically, you should replace filters promptly, as they’ll stop working effectively, and you may as well have non-filtered water.

 Molly is the Ecommerce Writer for Homes & Gardens and spends her time searching the internet for the next best thing for your home, with a focus on shopping edits and buying guides. Before joining Homes & Gardens, Molly graduated from the University of Exeter with a degree in English Literature, with previous internships undertaken at The Economist in her summer breaks.

The 7 Best Water Filters For The Sink, Fridge & More

Author:

Emma Loewe

July 8, 2022

mbg Sustainability + Health Director

By Emma Loewe

mbg Sustainability + Health Director

Emma Loewe is the Senior Sustainability Editor at mindbodygreen and the author of "Return to Nature: The New Science of How Natural Landscapes Restore Us."

How water filters workFilters vs. purifiersHow we pickedWhat we skippedThe 7 best filters

Do you really need a water filter?

July 8, 2022

Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.

It's easy to trust that the water coming out of your tap is totally pure and safe to drink. But unfortunately, decades of lax water quality standards mean that most—if not all—water sources in the U.S. have at least some impurities. This makes water filters an essential item in any healthy home.

Nix the need to buy expensive and unsustainable bottled water with these filter systems that are certified to get rid of the toxins flagged by drinking water experts.

Quick list

Best for sink:

PLUS Faucet Mount Filtration System

Best water filter pitcher:

ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour Pitcher

Best under-sink water filter:

APEC Water Systems RO-90

Best whole house filter:

Rhino® 600,000 Gallons

Best water bottle with filter:

astrea ONE

Best for camping:

GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle

Best dispenser:

Brita 18-Cup UltraMax Pitcher

How do water filters work?

There are two main kinds of water filters you'll spot for sale: carbon filters and reverse osmosis filters. Most pitchers, bottles, and dispensers are powered by a carbon filter.

These have a layer of activated carbon that can trap larger impurities like lead. Sydney Evans, an Environmental Working Group (EWG) science analyst focused on tap water contaminants, notes that these are the more accessible, understandable, and affordable types of filters. The caveat is they can only tackle so many contaminants. They also need to be regularly replaced, as contaminants can build up inside carbon filters and actually make water quality worse over time.

Reverse osmosis filters contain a carbon filter and another membrane(s) to catch smaller contaminants that carbon can't. "It will filter out virtually everything from your water, to the point where you actually might want to add back some things like salts or minerals to give it some taste," explains Erik D. Olson, a senior strategic director with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

While these filters are more effective at trapping small particles, they also tend to be more expensive and difficult to install. Evans also notes that they can waste a fair amount of water as they run, which is something to keep in mind if you live in an area with water shortages.

As for which type of filter to choose, it depends on the contaminants in your water source. Every major (serving more than 50,000 people) water utility in the U.S. is legally required to test their water every year and share a public report on the findings. This is called an Annual Water Quality Report, a Right to Know Report, or a Consumer Confidence Report, and it should be easy to access on your utility's website. You can also head to the EWG's tap water database to get a quick read on the most recent findings in your area. (These reports don't account for impurities that might come from your pipe system; to get a complete picture of those, you'll need to get your home's water professionally tested1, which is very pricey.)

And be prepared: There's probably a lot to see on your water quality report. Over 300 contaminants have been detected in drinking water systems in the U. S., and Evans explains that "of those, only about 90 are actually regulated." Even if a certain contaminant is regulated (meaning there is a legal limit on how much of it can be present in tap water), that doesn't necessarily mean that it's safe.

Olson notes that many of the safe drinking water standards in this country haven't been updated since the 1970s and 1980s, and are not up to date on the latest scientific findings. They also don't always account for the fact that while a certain substance may be safe to drink in low doses, it might cause adverse effects when consumed every single day, multiple times a day. "You have an array of things that have an immediate effect, but also things that have effects that take years to show up but are very serious, like cancer," he notes.

Here are a few of the most common tap water contaminants that Evans and Olson see in their work:

Water filters vs. purifiers

Those who use well water or are on a small municipal system that they suspect is not well maintained may also want to look into water purifiers. Beyond filtering out chemical contaminants, these also sterilize waterborne pathogens that can cause illnesses like legionella. Most water treatment systems will remove these, though, so they won't be an issue for most people.

Summary

Over 300 contaminants have been found in tap water across the U.S.—some of which have been linked to serious health threats in adults and children. Reverse osmosis filters will remove the vast majority of them. More affordable carbon filters can remove some of them. It's smart to look into your area's water report to see which contaminants are in your water before deciding which filter to choose.

What to look for in a water filter.

Both Olson and Evans are hesitant to suggest one filter over another, as the best choice for you will depend on your water source. Your lifestyle will also play a role, as some people are fine filling up a small water pitcher every day, while others find it annoying and need a larger filtration system. Maintenance and budget are other factors to consider; while reverse osmosis systems are more expensive up front, they don't require as much maintenance and replacement filters.

With this in mind, we went ahead and did the legwork of finding seven filters that approach water cleaning a little differently—but all do it really well. We pored over customer reviews to find the products that have the fewest pain points and make daily use a breeze.

The following options span budgets, sizes, and systems, but all earn high marks for how easy they are to install, use, and replace as needed. Each company is transparent about the contaminants that their filters reduce—and has had them independently certified by a third-party tester to do what they say they do.

What we skipped:

"It's really important that people aren't just buying filters because [the company] says it's a good filter. You need to get one that's certified," says Olson. So, all the products on this list have been certified by either NSF International or the Water Quality Association (WSA)—two premier independent testers in the tap water space. You won't find any that make vague claims that aren't supported by third-party testing.

How we picked

Functionality

These filters have all been independently tested to prove that they reduce the contaminants they claim to. We call out some of the major contaminants in the product description.

Upkeep

All of these filters are designed to last longer than their competitors, and they are easy and intuitive to swap out when the time comes.

Format

From a small fridge pitcher to a whole-house system, you'll find a filter on this list to fit your preferences.

Budget

We were sure to include both carbon and reverse osmosis filters on the list, to fit a variety of needs and budgets.

mbg's top picks for the best water filters of 2022:

Best for sink: PLUS Faucet Mount Filtration System

PLUS Faucet Mount Filtration System

VIEW ON Amazon | $30VIEW ON Walmart | $35VIEW ON Home Depot | $35
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Carbon

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Pesticides, Chlorine, Disinfection byproducts

Certification: NSF

PUR's carbon filter comes with three screw attachments that make it easily fit on most faucets (just don't try it on a pullout or handheld one). Reviewers note that it's easy to install in a matter of minutes, and it leads to noticeably cleaner-tasting water. A standout of this product is the attached light, which alerts you when the filter needs to be replaced, reducing the chance of a dirty filter contaminating your water. Each filter typically cleans about 100 gallons of water and lasts for three months. This filter is NSF certified to reduce 70 contaminants (check out the full list here), and it's a great choice for those who are looking to protect their kitchen tap water from lead, pesticides, and disinfection byproducts and don't need a more comprehensive reverse osmosis system.

Best water filter pitcher: ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour Pitcher

ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour Pitcher

VIEW ON Amazon | $30VIEW ON Walmart | $30
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Carbon

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Fluoride, Nitrates, Chlorine, Chromium, PFOS/PFOA

Certification: NSF

If you are someone who always likes to have cold filtered water in the fridge (and doesn't mind constantly refilling pitchers), this option is the way to go. It's lightweight and features a unique design with both a top pour and side spigot that allows you to quickly fill water bottles and access clean water while the top compartment is still filtering. Reviewers appreciate its sleek design and accompanying water testing meter that helps them gauge when to replace the filter. (You can expect to get 20 gallons' worth of clean water from each filter, and they usually last around one to two months depending on how much you're using it.) Be sure to stay on top of replacing the filter, as well as washing and drying the inside of the pitcher so mold doesn't form. This filter is NSF certified to reduce PFOS/ PFOA, lead, and the contaminants on this list.

Best under-sink water filter: APEC Water Systems RO-90

APEC Water Systems RO-90

VIEW ON Amazon | $230VIEW ON The Home Depot | $230
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Reverse Osmosis

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Pesticides, Fluoride, Nitrates, Sodium, Chlorine, Disinfection byproducts, Chromium, PFOS/PFOA

Certification: WQA

The APEC system is great for a set-it-and-forget-it sink filter. Its reverse osmosis design features five stages of filtration to reduce 1,000-plus contaminants from drinking water. A downside is that each filter does need to be replaced separately —but you shouldn't need to do this more than once a year. While there is an installation manual for installing yourself, you may need to call in a professional if you're not all that handy. Once installed, reviewers appreciate the fact that this system is reinforced against leaks and leads to super-clean water, beyond what you'd get with just a standard carbon filter.

Best whole-house filter: Rhino® 600,000 Gallons

Rhino® 600,000 Gallons

VIEW ON Aquasana | $1,498VIEW ON Amazon | $751
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Reverse Osmosis

Regular replacement required: No

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Pesticides, Microbes, Fluoride, Nitrates, Sodium, Chlorine, Disinfection byproducts, Chromium, PFOS/PFOA

Certification: NSF

This whole-house system will ensure your water is filtered for up to six years, and it cycles through 600,000 gallons without replacements. Its multi-tank design both filters out chemical contaminants as well as softens water and purifies water to remove tiny microbes, viruses, and bacteria. It's designed in a way that allows for quick water access without clogging and is treated to prevent bacteria and algal growth. Reviewers note that once installed (you'll likely want to get a professional to come in), this system basically runs itself and requires very little upkeep.

Best water bottle with filter: astrea ONE

astrea ONE

VIEW ON Amazon | $10
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Carbon

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Pesticides, Chlorine, Chromium

Certification: NSF

This durable stainless steel bottle filters through 23 contaminants you'll find in the tap, including lead, chlorine, and pesticides, and the bottle itself is BPA-free. Its filter can churn through up to 30 gallons of water and typically lasts about three months. It's a good idea to stock up on a few replacement filters up front; each one costs $12.99. Reviewers appreciate the bottle's sleek and durable design but do note that sucking up the filtered water through the straw does take some effort. This is a good option to take with you on the road if you're traveling to a new area and are not sure what the water situation will be.

Best for camping: GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle

GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle

VIEW ON Amazon | $100VIEW ON GRAYL | $100
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Carbon

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Pesticides, Microbes, Chlorine, Chromium, PFOS/PFOA

Certification: NSF

Campers who need to quickly clean and purify their freshwater source will want to look into GRAYL. This heavy-duty purifier can remove pathogens and bacteria, as well as chlorine, pesticides, and some heavy metals. You simply fill the bottle with water from a river or spigot, press down on the cap for eight seconds, and release to get three cups of clean water at your fingertips. Each carbon filter lasts for about 65 gallons of water before needing to be replaced. Reviewers note that it works great on multi-day camping trips but caution that you'll always want to bring a backup water source when you head into the backcountry, just in case.

Best dispenser: Brita 18-Cup UltraMax Pitcher

Brita 18-Cup UltraMax Pitcher

VIEW ON Bed Bath & Beyond | $33
Pros
Cons

Type of filter: Carbon

Regular replacement required: Yes

What it filters: Lead, Mercury, Chlorine, Chromium

Certification: NSF

This BPA-free dispenser can be placed on your countertop or fridge for quick clean-water access. It fits 18 cups of water, and reviewers note that it's nice and easy to fill up at the sink. We'd recommend using it with Brita's longlast+ filter, which is NSF-certified to remove chlorine, lead, and mercury and last for up to six months (120 gallons). Bonus: Unlike most carbon filters that should be thrown in the trash, these can be recycled through TerraCycle's program.

Do you really need a water filter?

In short, yes. "Even though there are some regulations in place, what's coming out of your tap does have some level of health risk depending on which contaminants and at what levels they are detected in your drinking water," Evans reiterates. "I don't think, in all of my research, I've come across a water system that has zero contaminants. There's probably going to be something there that's worth filtering."

And with significant gaps between what's legal and what's safe to be drinking, it's worth erring on the side of caution and filtering the water you drink daily.

The takeaway.

Filtering your water with one of these seven certified systems is one way to ensure that you're not accidentally drinking anything that could make you sick. Once you make the individual choice to buy a filter, you can also consider taking action to clean up your water system as a whole.

"The best solution is for everybody to be getting tap water that is safe and fully tested, so it's not every man, woman, and child for themselves having to buy and maintain at-home filters," says Olson.

Strengthening drinking water regulations in the U.S. will undoubtedly be a long and complicated process, but you can show your support by reaching out to your local Congress member or an EPA representative to demand safer drinking water standards in your community. Here's hoping for a day when we won't need to filter our drinking water at all.

5 Sources

1.

https://www.epa.gov/dwlabcert/contact-information-certification-programs-and-certified-laboratories-drinking-water

2.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15097021/

3.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541097/

4.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1638204/

5.

https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#

2021 Best Bottled Water Ranking

Water is not just what comes out of your faucet. It's big business, and it's a quality that affects your health and longevity, which is why it's important to distinguish the best bottled water from the worst.
According to market researchers, sales of bottled water are growing every year.

But if you're going to pay for a product that you can get for free (the quality can be really debatable here), it's good to know what you're actually buying.

We've compiled a list of the top brands and their products, with brief descriptions, to help you make an informed decision about what kind of water you'll drink. There is always a choice, so choose what you like and suits you, these are just recommendations and help in choosing.
This time we have ranked by category and selected the best in each of them, in our opinion, based on performance, sales and history of the brand and the origin of the water.

Best overall: pure and natural spring water from Austria, oxygenated by WildAlp.

Check current price

Wildalp - is a pure and natural spring water, the premium quality of which is based on the purity of the source gushing from the heart of the Styrian Alps, which has been regularly monitored since 1935 and is a valuable product.

WILDALP Alpine spring water, 100% natural.

It acquires its outstanding qualities during a whole year of filtration through the Alpine rocks of the Austrian national park of the Hochschwab region.

WILDALP originates at 2277 meters above sea level and during this year passes through the territory of the water protection zone, protected by the state since the time of Emperor Frans Joseph.

To preserve the purity of the spring water, the water is bottled directly at the source, allowing it to retain its origin, its natural energy and its special character, which it has developed during its long journey.
This makes Wildalp spring water taste fresh even at room temperature.
WildAlp has a unique and balanced mineralization, a high content of natural oxygen and a low sodium content, which is why it is recommended for diets.

The uniqueness of the chemical composition of WILDALP water lies in the rare balance of elements, and not in any one indicator, as is often the case.

Key features:

Best price: Purified drinking water RusseQuelle

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The RusseQuelle plant was established in 2010 through cooperation with Austrian and Italian partners.
The concept of RusseQuelle is based on the principle of absolute purity. The source has a history of more than 500 years and is located in a unique place in Russia, the city of Gorokhovets, which is part of the Golden Ring of the country.

Today, the production technology is to preserve the original naturalness of mineral water and absolute purity in production. The plant is certified and operates according to HAACP standards.

RousseQuelle water contains a sufficient amount of fluorine, which has a positive effect on the human body. Water contains little calcium, which is also noted in a positive direction by all experts.

According to all the characteristics that RusseQuelle water has, its cost remains adequate and, most importantly, lower than the cost of its analogues of water from other countries.

Main features:

Best Premium Bottled Water: VOSS Artesian Still Water

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VOSS water isn't cheap, but that's probably a good thing. It is a popular choice of water for high-end restaurants and bars, as well as other premium customers. It was even approved by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and this celebrity - filtration is exclusive to this brand only.

VOSS water comes from an artesian spring in southern Norway. It is extracted from an underground aquifer that produces natural pure water that can hydrate your body in a fresh and easy way.

However, it's not just about looks. The brand is committed to environmentally friendly practices. It works with 100% carbon neutrality. The company even sponsors its own Voss Foundation, which provides access to clean drinking water in sub-Saharan Africa.

What we love about VOSS water is that it is available in a variety of packages. Most often it is bought in high-quality and unique glass bottles, but all products of the brand can also be bought in PET bottles (bottles made from 100% recycled PET) or aluminum cans. The ability to purchase reusable glass containers makes this a very environmentally friendly choice. Although expensive. And why VOSS water is so expensive, we have already sorted it out.

Key features:

Best Taste: Natural Artesian Still Water Acqua Panna

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Tastes differ. They say it, they think it, they believe it. But we are obliged to single out those who, in our opinion, have the best taste.

Therefore, we have something to say: natural artesian still water Aqua Panna. It tastes like the best bottled water. It has a mild and light flavor that will quench your thirst and keep you hydrated with water taken directly from a natural source.

It all started back in 1564 at Villa Panna, the summer residence of the Medici family, which gave way to the Italian Renaissance. The Medici discovered the source of Acqua Panna and gradually moved its extraction closer to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region.

Acqua Panna originates in the famous region of Tuscany, which gives it a soft, balanced and refreshing taste of Italy. The water of Aqua Panna has a small natural mineralization (192 mg/l), which allows it to be given even to children.

The natural filtration process also gives Acqua Panna a unique and smooth taste. It has a pH of 7.9, natural minerals and electrolytes, and comes from an incredibly pure source. That is why we value this water so highly. A unique taste comes from a 14-year journey through the aquifer, through the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany. This gives ultra-low mineralization, which refers it more to spring waters.

A bottle size to suit every situation and each bottle is filled with some of the best mineral water on the market.

Key features:

Best Green Option: Waterful Water Pure still spring water

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If you're looking for the most environmentally friendly packaging, the best bottled water for you has to be Waterful. The company takes a very sustainable business approach, offering a quality product that provides consumers with water balance in an environmentally friendly and environmentally friendly way.

The value of water lies in its natural origin from a source that has been considered curative for many centuries due to its rich mineral composition. The peculiarity of the spring is in its natural filter, the function of which is performed by the ancient seabed of the times of the Middle Sarmatian Sea.

Water is extracted from a spring (No. 9271, N 45°09’39.7″, E 42°52’40.4″) located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains on the territory of the Salt Lake nature reserve.

Minimal use of pipes and pumps to preserve the natural structure of the water. When filtering, they do not use a reverse osmosis system, but purify water with coarse and fine mechanical filters, a carbon filter and disinfect it with ultraviolet light. Rejection of the reverse osmosis system allows you to save the full range of salts and minerals vital for health - magnesium, sodium, calcium, selenium, silicon, potassium, bromine, iodine.

The most exciting part of the Waterful ethos is the brand's approach to packaging. Avoiding plastic, the company uses eco-friendly water packaging boxes. The production is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified, which guarantees that all cut trees are replanted. "BPA Free" - this symbol on the packaging indicates that it does not contain bisphenol A, as well as polymers based on it.

Pure Pak - only 3% packaging material and 97% product. This is an aseptic package that preserves the natural qualities of water, therefore, unlike plastic packaging, it is not afraid of temperature changes during transportation. For the formation of blocks during transportation, cardboard and biodegradable tape are used.

Key features:

Best sparkling water: Vichy Catalan carbonated mineral water (no longer available in Russia)

No longer supplied to Russia

Needless to say, many months have passed since Vichy Catalan water is not supplied to Russia, but we are constantly asked, maybe it will, maybe it will appear? The popularity of this carbonated water is simple - a delightful bottle design and a great, unique taste.

Extracted from the Vichy Catalan thermal spring in the Caldes de Malavella region (Girona, Spain), well known since Roman times as a place with thermal springs.
Water emerges from a depth of 2000 meters at a constant temperature of 59 ° C and spills immediately after rising to the surface

One of the most delicious and balanced waters with natural gas. Vichy Catalan is a legendary brand among Spanish mineral waters. Its authentic taste and undeniable mineral and medicinal properties have earned it an excellent reputation among consumers and gastronomy professionals.

Recent scientific studies have shown that regular daily intake of Vichy Catalan with meals helps to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

We've compiled a whole ranking of 2021 soda bottled water so you can choose what's available, but we just couldn't award 1st place to any other water.

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Best spring water: 100% Norwegian origin spring water

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FJORD water is sourced. The temperature of the water in the spring is 8°C all year round. The FJORD water source is located in Füresdal (Telemark), Norway. Füresdal is one of the most ecologically clean places in Norway with untouched nature and a very low population density (about 1000 people).

FJORD water is one of the cleanest on the planet. One of the few that can be classified as "natural mineral water".

The beautiful county of Telemark is Norway in miniature: fjords, mountains, forests, inland waters, rivers and wildlife. This beautiful, untouched nature is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Norway. And Norway has a lot to offer in this area. We love the freedom that close contact with untouched nature and fresh air can give us - the Norwegian way of life - in summer or winter.

One of the few springs in the country that are allowed to be classified as natural mineral waters. This means that the water has a natural purity and a combination of minerals/salts, making it a unique natural mineral water - no additives, no pollution and no "human touch".
A unique combination of minerals produces soft, gentle water with an exceptionally low total dissolved solids (TDS) level.

Key features:

Best natural water: Icelandic glacial natural spring water

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If you want truly pure water, it must be as pure as possible. Derived directly from the legendary Icelandic spring Elfus, one of the cleanest ecosystems in the world, this water has a low mineral content and a naturally alkaline pH of 8.4. It does not contain harmful minerals, silicon or heavy metals, as well as bacteria.

Not only is the water 100% natural, Icelandic Glacial was officially the first bottled water company to be carbon neutral certified in every aspect of production, from the product itself to the entire company. If you are looking for an ecological choice, this water is definitely worth considering.

The packaging is as environmentally friendly as possible. Customers have the choice to buy BPA-free bottles or glass options. It is available in a wide range of different sizes to suit your needs.

The bottling process takes place in professionally equipped and sterile laboratories that meet the highest international standards.
Icelandic Water is supplied directly from an underground source to the bottling facility, which maintains positive air pressure to prevent outside air from entering.

As a result, for the first time Icelandic Water comes into contact with open air only when you open the bottle, therefore, all the most useful properties and minerals remain in their original form.

Another interesting feature of the Icelandic Glacial natural spring water range is the variety of flavors. It is also available in elderberry, Tahitian lime and Sicilian lemon flavors. However, we recommend pure, odorless water for a truly natural taste!

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The best water for restaurants and gourmet cuisine: Italian natural mineral water Surgiva

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Mineral water from Italy, Surgiva, originates in the Adamello Brenta park. The Adamello Brenta National Park is located in the western part of the Italian region of Trentino-Alto Adige and consists of the Adamello and Brenta mountain ranges, separated by the Val Rendena valley. Surgiva owes its origin to the glaciers and the beautiful nature of Italy.

Water from a source of constant temperature at 6. 9°C. The Surgiva takes its name from the pure peaks of the Adamello Brenta Nature Reserve, where it flows from a high mountain spring near Madonna di Campiglio.

Surjiva is known for her amazing features. Its nitrate content is extremely low, which testifies to the purity of the source, and its neutral taste is as charming as the natural habitat surrounding its source.

One of the main features of Surgiva water is the choice to use only glass bottles, not plastic, in order to keep the product at its best, not pollute the environment, positioning itself in the water market as a high quality product in all aspects.

Key Features:

The best medical table: Georgian mineral medicinal table water Nabeghlavi

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The water source is located on the territory of the Nabeglavi resort, in western Georgia - hence the name. The history of "Nabeglavi" begins in 1905, when the source was discovered. According to legend, the local population drew attention to the source, from which buffaloes drank water rapidly. It was this source that turned out to have an exceptional taste and useful properties.

In 1921, the well-known Latvian researcher Robert Kuptsis carried out the initial study of the chemical composition of water. Further hydrogeological work was carried out by famous Georgian and foreign scientists in the 30s.

Regular consumption of Nabeglavi as table water helps cleanse the body of harmful substances and enrich it with essential minerals. In addition, Nabeglavi mineral water can be used for medicinal purposes.

Nabeghlavi is a natural carbonate-hydrocarbonate sodium water from an ecologically clean environment. It is formed at a depth of 2000-3000 m, feeding on infiltration waters, enriched with minerals and trace elements from water-bearing rocks, which determine its unique taste and beneficial properties.

Nabeglavi natural carbonated water, as it is saturated with oxygen dioxide (CO2) in the bowels of the earth, at the place of formation; however, it is additionally enriched with natural CO2 immediately before bottling.

Main features:

Whatever is written on the bottle, don't be fooled by interesting labels or images of mountains.


All manufacturers strive for their financial gain, however, at the same time, some of them are ready to be responsible for the quality of their products, production and the brand as a whole. Therefore, we have prepared this rating based on your purchases, water quality, production quality and the brand as a whole.

There is always a choice and it is always yours. We are what we drink. We drink water.

How to choose the right water

Where does the bottled water come from?

The bottle can contain natural spring water and filtered tap water. GOST allows the manufacturer to package water from the city water supply system in bottles, but only after additional treatment and on condition that it meets sanitary and hygienic requirements.

Always read the label for the source of the water. See the price - the one from the tap is cheaper

Natural water is artesian and spring (key). Artesian water is extracted from wells that drill to a depth of at least 100 meters into aquifers protected from pollution. Artesian water, having found a natural outlet to the surface, becomes spring water.

Water can also be obtained from surface sources - rivers, lakes, mountain glaciers. The chemical composition will be different. But whatever the natural source, the water from it must undergo the necessary purification.

What can water be made of?

The liquid we drink and call "plain water" is not only H2O. Organic and inorganic substances, salts and ions are dissolved in drinking water - calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfates, chlorides, bicarbonates, etc. The amount of these substances is determined by such an indicator as mineralization. Measured in grams per litre.

With a mineralization of 0.2 g/l - 0.5 g/l, water is considered fresh, and with an indicator of 1 g/l - 3 g/l - mineralized

The freshest, that is, pure from impurities, is glacial melt water. The most mineralized, apart from therapeutic mineral waters, is artesian water.

Did you know that...

Water is tested according to 93 indicators: they check for the content of toxic substances and pollution - nitrates and cyanides, mercury, lead, oil products and phenols, arsenic and so on. There should be no parasites and bacteria in the water, its radioactivity is determined, and, finally, the content of useful elements - calcium, magnesium, potassium, fluorine and iodine.

The most stringent requirements apply to special baby water. This is a complete ban on harmful chemicals and a clearer framework for the content of useful elements - given that children drink 2-3 times more than adults.

What is the difference between drinking water and table water?

Drinking water can be drunk or used for cooking or coffee**.

Dining room - this is water from artesian springs with mineralization. Cooking on such water is not recommended: when boiling, an abundant salt precipitate falls.

What happens if you drink tap water?

According to domestic standards, this water is safe. But large particles can come across in water systems, and therefore tap water must be filtered before drinking.

However, alternative solutions are available:
0.5, 1.5 and 18.9 liter Eden* water formats.
All filtration stages already passed

How to recognize a fake?

There is no easy way to identify counterfeit. The only way to accurately know the quality of the contents of the bottle is to send it for examination.

At home, at least study the label.

"Water from Alpine glaciers" must be bottled in the Alps. If the place of production of such water is the Moscow region, we do not recommend buying it.

Glacier melt water is the freshest in composition, and there are much fewer minerals in it than in artesian water, not to mention therapeutic mineral water.

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