Drinking water is essential, but not everyone enjoys the taste of tap water. While bottled water is harmful to the environment, water filter jugs offer a practical solution. In the UK, tap water is safe to drink, but a filter jug can improve taste and reduce limescale, especially in hard water areas. David Jenkins, associate professor at the University of Plymouth, notes that filters primarily address taste and softness by removing chlorine added during treatment.
There are various jugs on the market, from those adding minerals to those with refillable cartridges to cut plastic waste. Key considerations include ongoing refill costs, ease of cleaning, and fridge compatibility. The Phox Water wave jug stands out as the best tested, featuring the world's first refillable filter cartridge. Instead of replacing the entire cartridge, fresh granules are added every 45 days, reducing landfill waste. It offers three filter options for different water types and has a comfortable, BPA-free design with a turquoise handle.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Dunelm water filter jug is an excellent choice. It improves taste, reduces hardness, and fits in a fridge door. Replacement filters are affordable, and a cartridge life indicator is included, though it can be clunky. It achieved a TDS reading of around 290ppm, indicating soft water with balanced minerals. For those seeking scientific verification, the Culligan zerowater jug claims to remove 99.9% of impurities, including chlorine, lead, and PFAS, and comes with a built-in TDS monitor. Tests showed readings as low as 0-3ppm, far below typical tap water levels.
