The Best Filtered Shower Heads For Hard Water That Remove Chlorine & Chemicals

The perfect shower starts with a shower head that really delivers. And whether you have hard water or worry about chlorine and chemicals in your water supply, today's filtered shower heads are an essential part of an amazing shower. We know there are a lot to choose from when you're searching for the perfect filtering shower head, but we're here to help. From budget to luxe, and hand-held to dual filtering shower heads, we've scoured the offerings so you don't have to.

Choosing the Best Filtered Shower Head for You & Your Family

Buying a shower head with a filter is really a no-brainer. These shower heads filter hard water, removing chlorine, heavy metals, and other impurities, leaving soft water behind. They're generally simple to install using your existing shower set-up, with no plumbing experience or special tools needed. If you've been considering upgrading your shower head to one that filters and softens the water, let our top picks guide you to the one that will suit your needs. Here's what we considered when choosing the best ones.

Filter Materials

Shower heads with filters contain some common materials that filter the water and remove the chlorine and everything else you don't want in your shower. Many of them include a combination of materials in various layers, which you'll see described as "steps" in a filtration system. Some of these include:

• Activated carbon - Most commonly derived from coconut shells, though activated carbon can also come from coal or wood. Its primary function is to absorb chlorine, and it is generally the first media listed in your filter.
• KDF media - KDF stands for kinetic degradation fluxion, and it's a copper and zinc alloy. It further reduces chlorine, and also heavy metals present in your water.
• Calcium sulfite - This component turns chlorine into salts that are effective at softening the water.
• Vitamin C - Surprisingly, vitamin C is a simple and inexpensive way to remove chlorine.
• Ceramic beads - Clay-based ceramic beads soften water and add trace minerals.

While these are not all of the materials found in water filtration shower heads, they are among the most common.

Benefits

Most shower heads that include a filter have similar benefits, but you'll want to prioritize your needs and expectations so you can find one that does exactly what you need it to do. The primary benefits of these shower heads include:

• Filtered water - The main thing you want is a filter that drastically reduces chlorine as well as heavy metals from your water.
• Increased water pressure - Most filtered shower heads increase your water pressure, which is an enjoyable effect of the filter.
• Skin benefits - Softened water is kinder to your skin, especially if you have issues with psoriasis, acne, or other conditions. It's less drying, so your skin will feel softer overall.
• Hair benefits - Just like the effects on your skin, softened water is better for your hair. It's better for battling dandruff and dry scalp, gentler on colored or permed hair, and is less drying.

Another added benefit is that you won't have to battle hard water stains in your shower any longer!

Certifications

There are two main groups that certify filtered shower heads. They are the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and the Water Quality Association (WQA). Both organizations test to ensure that the manufacturer's claims are consistent with their product's results. NSF-177 is the standard certification that verifies the filter removes chlorine effectively.

Standard, Handheld, or Both

This really comes down to personal preference, and there are plenty of options in each style. Consider who will be using the shower head, and choose the one that best meets your needs.

• Standard - The shower head is installed on the wall and stays there, there are no detachable pieces. You can still adjust the angle and usually the water flow, however.
• Handheld - The shower head is on a hose that you can detach from the wall, and have full control over. This one is perfect for small kids and pets, since you want the water flow to be close to their bodies.
• Dual - This type is the best of both worlds, featuring both shower heads. Generally you can use one at a time, or both together.

Enjoy the Benefits of Your New Filtered Shower Head

In addition to the essentials listed above, shower heads with filters for hard water come in lots of different finishes and styles, so have some fun choosing this new hardware for your bathroom. Then jump in and enjoy a spa-like experience with enhanced water pressure and, most importantly, water that's free from chlorine, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals.