Do Filtered Shower heads Work?

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes

Quick Answer:
Filtered shower heads can help reduce some chemicals (often chlorine), but most do not fix hard water minerals. If your main problem is white buildup and low flow, you may need a bigger solution than a shower filter.

What a filtered showerhead can help with

1) Chlorine smell
Some people notice less “pool smell” when chlorine is reduced.

2) How your skin and hair feel (sometimes)
Some people report feeling less dry. This depends on the filter and your water.

3) A simple first step
If you rent, or you don’t want big changes, a filtered showerhead is an easy start.

What a filtered SHOWER HEAD usually does NOT fix

1) Hard water minerals
Hard water is minerals like calcium and magnesium. Those minerals can still cause white buildup and clogged nozzles.

2) Low pressure from plumbing problems
If the valve is worn, or the pipe is partly clogged, a filter won’t fix it.

Signs you need more than a filter

• White crust on faucets and showerheads

• Soap scum that returns fast

• Water pressure slowly getting worse

• Hot water runs out faster than it used to

What to look for before you buy

• Clear info on what it reduces (many focus on chlorine)

• Easy filter changes (because old filters don’t help much)

• A spray pattern you actually like

FAQs

Is a shower filter the same as a water softener?
No. A softener is made to reduce hard water minerals across the whole home.

Can a filter fix white buildup?
Usually not. White buildup is often hard water minerals.

CTA:
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