The best water filter to remove chlorine ensures purified, great-tasting water for your entire household, improving health and reducing chemical exposure. Choosing the right one involves considering filtration technology, flow rate, and ease of installation, as a mismatch can lead to ineffective removal and compromised water quality. Different filter types, like activated carbon or KDF, target chlorine with varying degrees of success, and pitcher filters differ significantly from whole-house systems in capacity and convenience.
Factors such as filter lifespan and maintenance requirements also impact long-term effectiveness and overall user satisfaction. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 water filters specifically designed to tackle chlorine, optimizing your home’s water supply.
For effectively removing chlorine, the PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System stands out due to its ultra-high 22,000-gallon capacity, certified by IAPMO for filtration of 99.99% of chlorine. This type of under-sink system offers a long-lasting and robust solution for comprehensive chlorine reduction, ensuring improved water quality for extended periods.
Best Water Filter to Remove Chlorine: Top Picks at a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | ICEPURE Under Sink Water Filter System, 3 Years or 22000 Best for: Long-term filtration | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter System, Reduces PFAS, PFOA/PFOS, Best for: Advanced contaminant reduction | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Brita Extra-Large 27-Cup Elite Water Filter Dispenser, WQA NSF/ANSI Certified, Best for: Large capacity dispenser | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher – Lead, Chlorine, PFOA/PFOS, Microplastics Filter, Best for: Comprehensive contaminant removal | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System, 22000 Gallons, 99.99% Chlorine Best for: High-volume under sink | Check Price |
How We Picked
We prioritized real-world performance and durability when selecting the best water filter to remove chlorine. Products were evaluated based on their advertised contaminant reduction capabilities, particularly for chlorine. Build quality and safety were paramount, leading us to favor certified systems like Brita Elite.
We also considered standout features such as extended filter life, represented by systems like ICEPURE and PUREPLUS offering thousands of gallons. Extensive filtration stages, as seen in Waterdrop and iSpring models, also contributed to their inclusion, ensuring comprehensive purification and long-term value for buyers.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Filter Capacity for Chlorine’s Endurance
When targeting chlorine, a key differentiator is the filter’s capacity. Higher capacity means fewer replacements and consistent chlorine reduction over time. For example, the PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System boasts an impressive 22,000-gallon capacity, certified by IAPMO.
This translates to regular, reliable chlorine removal for years, far outlasting smaller-capacity filters. Always check the stated capacity, especially for under-sink systems, to ensure long-term effectiveness against chlorine and cost savings.
Understanding Chlorine Reduction Claims
Chlorine removal is often measured by NSF certifications. Look for NSF/ANSI Standard 42, which specifically addresses chlorine taste and odor reduction, along with aesthetic effects. Products like the Waterdrop CTF-01 Water Filter for Sink Faucet are NSF/ANSI 42 Certified, assuring you of their effectiveness in tackling chlorine’s unpleasant qualities.
While some filters may claim high percentage reductions, NSF certification provides an independent, verifiable benchmark for chlorine removal performance.
1. ICEPURE Under Sink Water Filter System, 3 Years or 22000
Best for: For quick, professional-free under-sink setup.
This ICEPURE under-sink system offers a significant 3-year or 22,000-gallon filter life, allowing for extended operation without frequent replacements. Its design prioritizes straightforward installation and user convenience.
Boasting NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certifications, this filter ensures effective chlorine reduction and adherence to safety standards. It features a 2.5 GPM flow rate at 60 PSI for ample water delivery and a cartridge-based system for easy maintenance.
Pros
- 3-year/22,000-gallon filter life
- NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certified
- 2.5 GPM maximum flow rate
- Plug-and-play installation
Cons
- Not compatible with smart home systems
Homeowners seeking a long-lasting, certified under-sink solution for chlorine reduction will appreciate its longevity and ease of maintenance. It’s built for consistent performance in a busy household.
2. Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Water Filter System, Reduces PFAS, PFOA/PFOS,
Best for: For cost-conscious under-sink filter replacement.
The Waterdrop 10UA under-sink system’s replacement filters, available for under $25.99, offer significant long-term savings, potentially over 50% on subsequent uses. This makes it a financially attractive option for consistent water purification.
Certified to NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 standards, it specifically targets chlorine reduction, along with PFAS, PFOA/PFOS. It operates with a 2.5 GPM flow rate and is suited for municipal cold-water sources, with a 1-year filter life.
Pros
- Economical replacement filters
- Reduces PFAS, PFOA/PFOS & Chlorine
- NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certified
- 2.5 GPM flow rate
Cons
- Only suitable for cold municipal water
This is an ideal choice for renters or homeowners who want effective chlorine and contaminant reduction without a high ongoing cost. Its design is optimized for standard cold water lines.
3. Brita Extra-Large 27-Cup Elite Water Filter Dispenser, WQA NSF/ANSI Certified,
Best for: For large-volume countertop water dispensing.
This Brita Elite dispenser provides an extra-large 27-cup capacity, capable of holding ample water for a family’s daily needs. Its Elite filter is designed to last 6 months or 120 gallons, significantly reducing filter change frequency.
Using Advanced Carbon Core Technology, it reduces 99% of lead and over 30 contaminants, including chlorine. The BPA-free dispenser is designed for easy countertop placement and features a built-in filter change indicator.
Pros
- 27-cup extra-large capacity
- 6-month/120-gallon filter life
- Reduces 99% of lead
- BPA-free construction
Cons
- Filter lifespan shorter than some under-sink systems
Suitable for large families or households needing a constant supply of filtered water readily available on the counter. It’s a convenient option for reducing lead and chlorine without plumbing.
4. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher – Lead, Chlorine, PFOA/PFOS, Microplastics Filter,
Best for: For filtering more contaminants with pitcher convenience.
The Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher filters 20X more contaminants than standard pitchers, including lead, chlorine, and microplastics, while preserving essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. Its design prioritizes comprehensive purification.
Each filter boasts a 6-month or 120-gallon lifespan, three times longer than many competitors. This pitcher utilizes a combination of activated carbon and ion exchange for its purification method, supporting water TDS up to 500 PPM.
Pros
- Filters 20X more contaminants than standard
- Preserves healthy minerals
- 120-gallon filter lifespan
- Includes filter recycling program
Cons
- Manual operation requires filling
Ideal for individuals or small households looking for a convenient, countertop pitcher that goes beyond basic chlorine removal. It suits those who want to retain beneficial minerals in their drinking water.
5. PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System, 22000 Gallons, 99.99% Chlorine
Best for: For ultra-high capacity under-sink filtration.
This PUREPLUS under-sink filter system boasts an immense 22,000-gallon capacity, certified by IAPMO for a 5-year lifespan, offering exceptional value and minimal maintenance. It’s designed for sustained high-volume performance.
Certified against NSF/ANSI 42, it achieves 99% chlorine reduction using a 6-in-1 composite filter. The system delivers a high flow rate of 2.5 GPM at 60 PSI, significantly exceeding common under-counter filters.
Pros
- 22,000-gallon/5-year capacity
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified
- 99% chlorine reduction
- 2.5 GPM flow rate
Cons
- Requires manual installation under sink
This is a prime choice for households needing a powerful, long-term under-sink solution for significant chlorine reduction. Its ultra-high capacity means infrequent filter changes for busy families.
6. Waterdrop PT-07W Water Filter Pitcher, 10-Cup, NSF Certified, 200-Gallon Long-Life
Best for: For compact, long-lasting pitcher filtration.
The Waterdrop PT-07W 10-cup pitcher features a long-life filter rated for 200 gallons, providing purified drinking water for an extended period before needing replacement. Its efficient design makes it ideal for daily use.
This NSF certified pitcher uses activated carbon purification to enhance taste and reduce chlorine. It’s designed for countertop placement and offers a 3-month filter life cycle in a portable, easy-to-use format.
Pros
- 200-gallon long-life filter
- NSF Certified
- 10-cup capacity
- Portable design
Cons
- Filter life cycle shorter than some under-sink systems
Perfect for individuals or small apartments seeking a reliable pitcher for daily drinking water needs. It offers a good balance of capacity and filter longevity for a countertop solution.
7. Waterdrop TSA 8 Layer Under Sink Water Filter System, Under
Best for: For advanced 8-stage under-sink filtration.
The Waterdrop TSA under-sink system features an advanced 8-stage filtration process, ensuring comprehensive contaminant removal while retaining beneficial minerals. Its design allows for a 1.5 GPM flow rate for efficient water delivery.
Certified to NSF/ANSI 42 & 372, this system effectively reduces chlorine and other impurities. It boasts an 18-month filter life and supports municipal cold-water sources, working with standard faucet connections.
Pros
- 8-stage deep filtration
- 18-month filter life
- Retains beneficial minerals
- NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certified
Cons
- Lower flow rate than some under-sink systems
This under-sink system is best for those who desire multi-stage purification and want to keep healthy minerals in their water. It provides a robust solution for improving tap water quality over a long period.
8. Waterdrop CTF-01 Water Filter for Sink Faucet, NSF/ANSI 42 Certified
Best for: For easy faucet-mount chlorine reduction.
The Waterdrop CTF-01 faucet filter attaches directly to standard faucets, offering a quick and convenient way to reduce chlorine in your drinking water. Its stainless steel construction is built for durability and a clean aesthetic.
This NSF/ANSI 42 certified filter provides long service life and effectively removes chlorine. It’s designed for straightforward installation on compatible faucets, improving tap water taste without altering TDS levels.
Pros
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified
- Easy faucet installation
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Reduces chlorine
Cons
- Not compatible with pull-out or spray faucets
Homeowners with standard faucets looking for an immediate, visible improvement in their tap water’s taste will find this a practical solution. It’s ideal for improving drinking and cooking water quality.
9. iSpring WGB21B 2-Stage Whole House Water Filtration System, with 10″
Best for: For whole-house chlorine and sediment filtration.
The iSpring WGB21B is a 2-stage whole house filtration system designed to tackle both sediment and chlorine from your water supply. Its heavy-duty construction ensures it can handle the demands of unfiltered incoming water.
The system includes a 5-micron sediment filter to catch particles and a coconut shell carbon block filter to remove over 90% of chlorine, bad tastes, and odors. It operates without needing external power, with a 15 GPM flow rate.
Pros
- Whole house filtration
- Removes sediment and chlorine
- 15 GPM flow rate
- No power needed
Cons
- Requires plumbing for installation
This system is perfect for homeowners who want to filter their entire water supply, addressing chlorine and sediment issues from the source. It provides cleaner water for all taps and appliances.
10. Purewell 2.25G Gravity Water Filter System with Water Level Window,
Best for: For gravity-fed countertop purification.
The Purewell 2.25G Gravity Water Filter System uses a 3-stage filtration process to reduce chlorine and other contaminants, ideal for countertop use. Its transparent water level window allows for easy monitoring of filtered water.
Featuring a 0.01μm hollow fiber UF membrane, silver ion membrane, and activated carbon block, this system effectively minimizes contaminants. It operates via gravity filtration, with a modest flow rate suitable for dispenser use.
Pros
- 3-stage filtration
- Water level window
- Reduces chlorine
- Gravity-fed operation
Cons
- Low flow rate for dispensing
This Purewell gravity filter is an excellent choice for off-grid living or areas without reliable tap water pressure. It provides purer drinking water through a simple, gravity-driven process on your countertop.
Lifespan Not Gallons for Chlorine Filters
The true cost and effectiveness of a best water filter to remove chlorine are best assessed by its lifespan, not just its stated gallon capacity. While brands like PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System and ICEPURE Under Sink Water Filter System tout impressive figures like 22,000 gallons, this number often becomes a red herring if the filter’s physical limitations or maintenance schedule make reaching that capacity impractical or uneconomical. The PUREPLUS model cites a 5-year lifespan alongside its gallon figure, aiming for a more holistic view of longevity, which is a better indicator for most households concerned primarily with chlorine reduction.
Consider the direct-to-faucet options like the Waterdrop CTF-01 Water Filter for Sink Faucet. Its utility is undeniable for immediate, on-demand filtered water, and its NSF/ANSI 42 certification confirms chlorine reduction. However, the inherent brevity of its filter life, often measured in months rather than years and with significantly lower gallon counts than under-sink systems, means a higher frequency of replacement.
This can quickly negate the perceived initial savings and convenience for someone looking for sustained, robust chlorine removal. The key differentiator isn’t just the technology, but the practical integration into your daily routine and the resulting maintenance burden.
Under-sink systems, generally those labeled as under sink water filter system by brands such as Waterdrop (specifically the 10UA and TSA 8 Layer models), offer a different approach. They move filtration out of sight and integrate directly into plumbing, promising longer intervals between replacements. The Waterdrop 10UA, for example, emphasizes savings on replacement costs, implying a longer-term view than a pitcher system.
This is where the 22,000-gallon claim on the ICEPURE and PUREPLUS models finds its most sensible application: these are designed for serious, sustained filtration where the cost per gallon amortizes over a long period, making the initial higher investment justifiable if you plan to stay in your home and maintain the system.
For those prioritizing ease of use and immediate chlorine reduction without extensive installation, pitchers remain a viable, albeit less impactful, choice. The Brita Extra-Large 27-Cup Elite Water Filter Dispenser and Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher provide accessible filtration, with Brita’s WQA NSF/ANSI certification and Aquagear’s emphasis on removing 20X more contaminants than a traditional pitcher. However, their filter capacities are minuscule compared to under-sink units, demanding frequent and costly upkeep.
The true value proposition for significant chlorine reduction lies in the capacity and lifespan of systems designed for longer-term, higher-volume use, where the upfront complexity and cost translate to superior convenience and economy over time.
Ultimately, for consistent and cost-effective chlorine removal, buyers should prioritize under-sink systems with higher gallon ratings and longer stated lifespans, such as the PUREPLUS Under Sink Water Filter System, acknowledging that the initial installation is a trade-off for years of consistent performance.
How to Choose the Best Water Filter to Remove Chlorine
Filtration technology
When eliminating chlorine, activated carbon filtration is your primary, and often best, defense. Look for filters where activated carbon is the main filtration medium. This porous material effectively adsorbs chlorine molecules, drastically improving taste and odor.
While ion exchange can soften water and catalytic carbon tackles chloramines (a more persistent form of chlorine), for straightforward chlorine removal, a high-quality activated carbon filter, often found in pitcher filters and faucet attachments, is the most direct and reliable choice. Prioritize filters explicitly stating ‘activated carbon’ for efficient chlorine reduction.
Flow rate and capacity
Your ideal flow rate and capacity depend on how you use water. For quick tasks like washing hands or filling a small pot, a faucet filter with a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute (GPM) is sufficient, offering instant filtered water. If you need larger volumes for drinking or cooking, a pitcher with a capacity of 6-10 cups and a decent filtering speed is practical.
For whole-house systems, a higher GPM rating ensures that even with multiple taps running, your chlorine reduction is consistent throughout your home. Choose based on immediate water needs; faucet filters offer convenience, pitchers serve drinking water needs, and whole-house systems provide comprehensive coverage.
Filter lifespan and replacement
Consider filter lifespan to manage ongoing costs and ensure effective performance. Filters are rated by total gallons filtered or estimated months of use, whichever comes first. For a single person or light use, a pitcher filter rated for 40 gallons or about two months is usually adequate.
Families or heavy users should seek filters, like under-sink or whole-house systems, rated for hundreds or even thousands of gallons, or typically 6-12 months. Prioritize models with easy-twist or tool-free filter replacement mechanisms to simplify maintenance.
Always check the specified lifespan and select a filter that aligns with your household’s typical water consumption.
Installation and maintenance
Installation and maintenance vary, but aim for simplicity to ensure your filter is consistently used. For most faucet filters and pitchers, DIY installation is the standard and requires no special tools or skills. Under-sink and whole-house systems may require basic plumbing knowledge or a professional installer for optimal setup.
Routine cleaning, typically involving rinsing a pitcher or wiping down a housing, is minimal for most types. The most crucial maintenance is timely filter replacement.
Pick a system with readily available replacement cartridges, and stick to the recommended change schedule for guaranteed chlorine-free water.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you want a simple, easy-to-install solution for your entire kitchen, choose an under-sink system with a high gallon capacity.
- If you’re on a budget and primarily want to improve taste and odor, choose a large-capacity pitcher filter.
- If you need to remove a wide range of contaminants beyond chlorine, such as lead and microplastics, choose a pitcher or under-sink system with advanced multi-stage filtration.
- If you want a dedicated filter that attaches directly to your faucet, choose a faucet filter designed for standard spouts.
Quick Best Water Filter To Remove Chlorine Buying Checklist
- Check Certifications Look for NSF/ANSI 42 for chlorine reduction.
- Evaluate Filter Media Activated carbon is standard for chlorine, but explore enhanced options.
- Consider Flow Rate Ensure it meets your household’s typical water usage needs.
- Assess Filter Lifespan Factor in the cost and convenience of replacement filters.
- Installation Type Choose between countertop, under-sink, pitcher, or whole-house systems.
- Maintenance Needs Understand how often cleaning or filter changes are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Chlorine Removed From Drinking Water?
Chlorine is removed from drinking water primarily to improve taste and odor. While effective as a disinfectant, residual chlorine can give tap water an unpleasant chemical smell and flavor. Removing it creates a more palatable and enjoyable drinking experience.
What Type Of Filter Is Best For Removing Chlorine?
Activated carbon filters are generally the best choice for removing chlorine from water. This porous material effectively adsorbs chlorine molecules, significantly reducing their concentration and improving the water’s taste and smell without removing beneficial minerals.
How Long Do Filters Typically Last For Chlorine Removal?
The lifespan of a filter for chlorine removal varies by model, but many standard pitcher or faucet filters last for about two to six months, or 100 to 300 gallons. Whole-house systems have longer lifespans, often lasting a year or more.
Can Chlorine Filters Remove Other Contaminants?
Many activated carbon filters designed for chlorine removal also reduce other common contaminants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improve sediment filtration. However, for specific contaminants like lead or heavy metals, additional filtration stages are usually required.
Are There Different Types Of Activated Carbon Filters?
Yes, activated carbon filters come in granular form (GAC) or solid blocks (CTO). Carbon block filters generally offer finer filtration and more consistent contact time, leading to superior chlorine reduction compared to GAC filters.
Final Words
Investing in the best water filter to remove chlorine significantly enhances your daily hydration. Enjoying cleaner, better-tasting water is a simple yet impactful way to improve your health and home’s water quality. Make the switch today for a refreshing and pure drinking experience.