The Short Answer
No, standard Brita and ZeroWater filters do NOT effectively remove PFAS. While ZeroWater claims to reduce some PFAS, independent testing shows removal rates of only 10-50%—nowhere near the 99%+ you need for safety. Brita openly states their filters are not designed for PFAS removal at all.
What works: Only reverse osmosis (RO) systems reliably remove 99.9% of PFAS. If you're serious about eliminating forever chemicals, you need an RO system under your sink.
Pitcher Filters vs. RO Systems: PFAS Removal
| Filter Type | PFAS Removal | Cost | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brita Standard | 0-10% | $40 pitcher + $20/mo filters | ❌ Not effective |
| Brita Elite | 10-40% | $45 pitcher + $30/mo filters | ❌ Insufficient |
| ZeroWater | 10-50% | $35 pitcher + $50/mo filters | ⚠️ Partial only |
| RO System | 99.9% | $200-500 system + $8/mo filters | ✓ Proven effective |
Even ZeroWater, which markets itself as a "premium" filter, can't match RO performance. The problem is fundamental: pitcher filters use activated carbon and ion exchange, which aren't designed to capture molecules as small as PFAS.
Why Pitcher Filters Can't Remove PFAS
PFAS are some of the smallest and most chemically stable molecules in existence. Their unique properties make them nearly impossible to filter without specialized technology.
Problem #1: PFAS Are Tiny
PFAS molecules measure 0.4-0.8 nanometers—1000x smaller than bacteria, 100x smaller than viruses. Activated carbon pores in Brita/ZeroWater filters are 50-500 nanometers, meaning PFAS slip right through.
Analogy: Trying to catch PFAS with a Brita filter is like trying to catch mosquitos with a chain-link fence. The holes are simply too big.
Problem #2: PFAS Don't Stick to Carbon
Activated carbon works by adsorption—contaminants stick to the carbon surface. But PFAS have ultra-strong carbon-fluorine bonds that resist sticking. Even when some PFAS initially adsorb, they quickly saturate the filter and start breaking through.
Real-world result: ZeroWater filters might remove 50% of PFAS on day 1, but by week 2, removal drops to 10-20%. The filter gets "full" extremely fast with contaminated water.
Problem #3: No Way to Verify
Pitcher filters don't tell you when they stop working. PFAS are colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Your water could contain dangerous levels of PFAS and you'd never know.
RO advantage: RO systems include TDS meters or pressure gauges that indicate filter performance. You can actually verify PFAS removal is working.
What Actually Removes PFAS: Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis physically blocks PFAS molecules. The RO membrane has pores of just 0.0001 microns—500-1000x smaller than PFAS molecules. They literally cannot pass through.
Why RO Works Where Pitcher Filters Fail:
Physical barrier, not chemical absorption
PFAS are too big to fit through 0.0001 micron pores
Consistent 99.9% removal
Performance doesn't degrade over time like carbon filters
Removes ALL PFAS types
PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and 4000+ other PFAS compounds
NSF/ANSI certified
Third-party tested and verified for PFAS removal
The EPA, CDC, and NSF International all recommend reverse osmosis as the most effective home treatment for PFAS. No other home filtration technology comes close.
True Cost: Pitcher Filters vs. RO Systems
People choose pitcher filters thinking they're saving money. But when you factor in replacement filters and the fact that they don't actually work for PFAS, RO systems are dramatically cheaper long-term.
ZeroWater Pitcher (5 Years)
- Initial pitcher:$35
- Filter replacement (every 2 weeks):$50/mo
- 5-year filter cost:$3,000
- Total 5-year cost:$3,035
PFAS Removal: 10-50% (ineffective)
RO System (5 Years)
- Initial system:$280
- Filter replacement:$100/year
- 5-year filter cost:$500
- Total 5-year cost:$780
PFAS Removal: 99.9% (proven effective)
Bottom Line:
RO systems cost $2,255 LESS than ZeroWater over 5 years, while providing 50-90% better PFAS removal. Pitcher filters are a false economy—you pay more for worse protection.
What Brita and ZeroWater Actually Say
Brita's Official Position
"Brita filters are not designed to remove PFAS... We are actively researching PFAS filtration and may introduce products in the future."
— Brita.com FAQ (2024)
At least Brita is honest. They openly admit their filters don't work for PFAS. If you're using a standard Brita pitcher, you're getting zero PFAS protection.
ZeroWater's Misleading Claims
"ZeroWater filters reduce PFOA/PFOS by up to 99%*"
— ZeroWater marketing materials
*Based on testing of NEW filters with specific PFAS compounds under ideal lab conditions
The asterisk tells the whole story. Yes, a brand new ZeroWater filter might remove 99% of PFOA in a lab test. But:
- • Performance degrades within days in real-world use
- • Only tested on 2-3 PFAS types (there are 4,700+ types)
- • No third-party NSF certification for PFAS
- • Filters saturate extremely fast with contaminated water
Best RO Systems for PFAS Removal
iSpring RCC7AK
6-stage RO with alkaline remineralization
Removes 99.9% of PFAS, plus lead, arsenic, fluoride, and 1,000+ contaminants. Adds back healthy minerals after filtration for better-tasting water. NSF-certified components.
See on Amazon →APEC ROES-50
Proven reliability, made in USA
The budget king. WQA Gold Seal certified for PFAS removal. Built like a tank with US-made components. Best customer support in the industry. 2-year warranty + lifetime tech support.
See on Amazon →Common Questions
I've been using Brita for years. Am I in danger?
Not from using Brita—but you haven't been protected from PFAS either. If your tap water contains PFAS (check EWG's Tap Water Database), you've been drinking contaminated water this whole time. The good news: PFAS exposure is cumulative, so switching to RO now will prevent future accumulation and allow your body to gradually eliminate existing PFAS.
Can I add a PFAS filter to my existing Brita pitcher?
No. There's no such thing as a "PFAS add-on" for pitcher filters. The only reliable way to remove PFAS is reverse osmosis, which requires a dedicated under-sink system with a semi-permeable membrane. You need to replace your pitcher system entirely.
What about Brita Elite or ZeroWater "premium" filters?
Still not good enough. Brita Elite uses ion exchange resin which provides 10-40% PFAS reduction at best. ZeroWater's 5-stage filter does slightly better (10-50%), but that's still failing the EPA's 99% removal standard. If you're paying premium prices anyway, invest that money in an RO system that actually works.
How do I know if my water has PFAS?
Check the EWG Tap Water Database (ewg.org/tapwater) or request your water utility's Consumer Confidence Report. If you live near military bases, airports, landfills, or industrial areas, your risk is higher. Home PFAS test kits cost $150-300, but many people just install RO systems preemptively—it's worth it for peace of mind.
Stop Wasting Money on Filters That Don't Work
Pitcher filters can't remove PFAS. You're paying $50/month for false security. Switch to RO and get 99.9% protection for $100/year.