What are the best showerhead filters?
Taking the top spot is the Hello Klean shower head 2.0, thanks to its sleek design, easy installation, improvement to water softness, and overall streamlined solution to hard water. You can also find it available at multiple retailers and directly from the brand, which makes it easy to stay on top of replacing filters and refilling capsules.
How I tested
I spent more than a year testing some of the leading showerhead filter brands, examining each one to see how easy it was to install, if there were any immediate differences in water pressure, what exactly the filtration system offers, how aesthetic it looked in my bathroom (let’s be honest, no one wants an ugly shower head on show), as well as factors such as price and long-term results. I also researched heavily prior to testing and interviewed experts to find out what to look out for in a shower filter and why you need one. In more detail, here’s everything I considered:
- Installation: Typically, shower heads are screw on and off, so I wanted to see just how easy that was, as any difficulty or time-consuming installation is off-putting, especially considering they don’t come cheap.
- Value for money: Shower head filters are traditionally a high up-front cost, often upwards of £50, with purchasing filter refills required after a specified time. With that in mind, it is a significant investment into your beauty routine, so I wanted to find out if it's worth the splurge.
- Results: Shower head filters make a litany of promises about improving water softness, skin irritations, hair frizz and condition, so I kept a close eye on any difference I experienced in both short and long-term.
- Aesthetic factor: Let’s be honest, no one wants an ugly shower head, so I wanted to discover brands offering shower head filters in a variety of different designs and colourways.
Do shower head filters work?
The efficiency of a shower head filter depends on the filter type and what you’re hoping for them to remove. Most good quality shower filters are designed to reduce chlorine, sediment and heavy metals. However, there are limitations to some shower filters: most can’t remove dissolved minerals that cause hard water, meaning they are not a complete solution for all water contaminants.
What to look for in a shower head filter?
When choosing a shower head filter, take note of the filtration technology's lifespan and ease of installation. Look for filters that use effective media such as activated carbon, KDF or calcium sulphate to reduce chlorine, sediment and some heavy materials. A multi-stage filter can remove a wider range of impurities, while a replaceable cartridge (usually every three to six months) helps maintain performance. It’s also worth checking that the filter fits standard shower fittings and won’t noticeably reduce water pressure.
Can hard water cause hair loss?
Hard water can’t directly cause hair loss, but it can contribute to breakage and scalp irritation, which may lead to thinning. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium can build up on the hair and scalp, leaving hair feeling dry, brittle and harder to manage.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
Louise Whitbread is one of our go-to beauty experts. She has covered everything from skincare to hair care and make-up for IndyBest since March 2020. Her product reviews are expansive and detailed, from the best hair bonding treatments and cleansing balms and sheet masks. When it comes to hair care, Louise is well-placed to guide your purchases after testing which showerhead filters made a difference on her skin and hair.
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