Why You Need Water Filters and How to Choose The Right Ones
Ah, water. The most basic thing we consume daily, yet most of us have no idea what's really in it. Unfortunately, it's not just H2O coming out of those taps.
Here's the ugly truth. Even if your water meets legal standards, it doesn't necessarily mean it's safe. Depending where you live, you might be sipping on chlorine, heavy metals, or even - brace yourself - traces of pharmaceuticals. Yikes! That's why it's time to get serious about filtering your water - for drinking and bathing.
Why Should You Filter Your Water
Water quality varies depending on where you live. Contaminants can sneak in from old pipes, environmental pollution, and even the treatment process itself. And honestly, who wouldn't rather skip the side of heavy metals with their morning coffee?
In additional to pollutants like chlorine and lead, trace amounts of pharmaceuticals - including antibiotics, painkillers, and hormones - have been found in drinking water. This happens when leftover medication or antibiotics make their way into the water system, either through improper disposal or from being flushed down the toilet. Unfortunately, conventional water treatment plants aren't designed to filter out these chemicals completely.
What's The Water Quality Where You Live?
Thanks to the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Tap Water Database, you can easily check what's flowing into your home. Based on your zip code, the EWG will give you a comprehensive analysis of potential pollutants. Arsenic, lead, PFAS (aka "forever chemicals"), pharmaceuticals, and even radioactive elements may be in your water. Your Stanley wouldn't approve!
Even when legal standards are met, many contaminants are still present in levels that can affect health. That's where solid water filters come into play. Here are some that are worth the hype.
Drinking Water Filter
AquaTru Counter Top Reverse Osmosis Filter
Choosing the right water filter can feel overwhelming because there are so many options. Different filters target different contaminants. There are three main factors to consider when choosing a drinking water filter:
Contaminants in your local water: Use the EWG Tap Water Database to find out what's in your water. Some areas have high levels of lead, while others might have pesticides or pharmaceuticals. A targeted filter will be most effective.
Type of filtration: There are several popular types of water filters. For example, carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and UV filters. For removing the widest range of contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, reverse osmosis is one of the most effective.
Installation and convenience: If you own your home, you might be able to install an under-the-sink filtration system for maximum water purification. But for those who are renting or want something portable, a countertop system is great.
I prefer a reverse osmosis water filter. I've had the AquaTru Countertop Water Filter for about 5 years now, and love it. It doesn't require any installation and it filters all the bad things out.
What's Reverse Osmosis, Anyway?
Trace Mineral Drops remineralize water after reverse osmosis
Reverse osmosis is like the VIP pass of water filtration. These filters only allow pure stuff through. They don't let unwanted guests through, like lead, flouride, chlorine and traces of medication.
Studies have shown that reverse osmosis is one of the best ways to remove traces of pharmaceuticals from your water. But - there's always a but- this process strips everything, including essential minerals.
That's why after using reverse osmosis, it's important to remineralize your water. A simple pinch of Himalayan salt or Trace Mineral Drops can do the trick. This will restore the balance and make your water truly hydrating.
The Best Shower Filter for Healthier Skin and Hair
Did you know that your skin can absorb contaminants from water too? Not to mention, unfiltered shower water can wreak havoc on your skin and hair. It can make your skin and hair dry and can cause breakouts. This is where a good shower filter comes to the rescue.
I love the AquaBliss Shower Filter because it's not super pricey, but it gets the job done well and it comes in different colors to match your shower head.
Shower filters reduce chlorine. If you haven't used a shower filter, you might not know the potential of your glowing, clear skin and healthy hair. But trust me, once you switch, your skin and hair will thank you!
Bath Filter: A Must for Little Ones and Bath Enthusiasts
If you have kids splashing around in the bath, you're going to want to pay attention. Children are even more susceptible to absorbing chemicals from water. And we really don't want our little ones absorbing trace pharmaceuticals from unfiltered water. To protect their tiny bodies, I highly suggest a bath filter, like the Crystal Quest Bath Filter.
Same goes for us bath lovers. Whether you're taking an epsom salt bath for sore muscles or just unwinding after a long day, a bath filter will upgrade your bath. Remember, if you wouldn't drink the water, don't bathe in it.
Bonus Tip: Don't Forget Your Air Quality!
Okay, this one's a bit off-topic, but it's too good not to mention. We're filtering our water, but what about the air we breathe at home or in our office? For an all-around healthy home environment, consider investing in an air filter like the AirDoctor. This bad boy removes pollutants, allergens, and toxins from the air. It's like a breath of fresh air - literally!
Small Changes, Big Differences
At the end of the day, it's the small changes that add up to big differences in our health and wellness. Whether it's choosing a reverse osmosis filter for drinking water or a shower filter. Taking control of your water quality is a simple, impactful way to keep yourself healthy. And now that you know tap water can contain everything from chlorine to medications, it's worth every penny to invest in the right water filters. Because let's face it, we have enough to worry about - our water shouldn't be one of those things!
*This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice.