6 Best Glass Water Filter Pitchers (*Update 2024)
Written by: Gene Fitzgerald // Expert Fact-Checking: Buddhini Dolapihilla, MBSS // Last Updated: Jan 31, 2024
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Looking for a good glass water filter pitcher? The market is full of different models suitable for the needs of households of various sizes and water consumption habits, and it can take a while to find the ideal model for your situation.
There are several factors to consider: Filtration performance, storage volume, filtering speed, and how often filters need to be replaced. Some buyers might also be interested in features like easy cleaning and a durable body.
Here are some of our top suggestions for the best glass water filter pitchers on the market right now.
Without further ado…
Contents
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No Time to Read? Check Our List of the Best Glass Water Filter Pitchers!
| Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|
 Best Glass Water Filter Pitcher: LifeStraw Home |
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Price: $$ Size: 7 Cups Filter Life: 40 to 264 Gallons NSF: 42, 53, 401, P231, P473 Annual Cost: ~$90-150 Read Review: Click |
 Our Runner-Up: ZeroWater 40-Cup |
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Price: $$ Size: 40 Cups Filter Life: 20 Gallons NSF: 42, 53 Annual Cost: ~$130 Read Review: Click |
 For Alkaline Drinking Water: pH Restore |
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Price: $$ Size: 15 Cups Filter Life: 96 Gallons NSF: – Annual Cost: $50 Read Review: Click |
Best Glass Water Filter Pitcher Reviews
Our Top Picks
- LifeStraw Home – Best Overall
- ZeroWater 40-Cup – Runner-Up
- pH Restore – For Alkaline Water
- Soma – Best Budget Pick
- KOR Water Fall – For Catalytic Carbon Filtration
- Dafi Crystal
1. Best Overall: LifeStraw Home 7-Cup Glass Water Filter Pitcher
In our opinion, the best glass water filter pitcher in 2024 is the LifeStraw Home.
It combines a membrane microfilter with activated carbon and ion exchange filter media to remove various contaminants from your drinking water: Lead and other heavy metals, chlorine, chemicals, as well as bacteria and cysts.
This not only greatly improves the taste of the water, it also makes it much healthier to drink.
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LifeStraw Home 7-Cup Glass |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Cups: | 7 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 40-264 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | 42, 53, 401, P231, P473 |
| Annually: | ~$90-150 |
|
Our Rating
|
|
Pros
- 3 filter stages remove:
- 99.999999% bacteria such as E. coli
- 99.999% cysts
- 99.999% microplastics
- 99.999% asbestos
- 97% chlorine taste and odor
- PFOA and PFOS
- 98.9% lead, 83.3% mercury, 99.7% cadmium, and other heavy metals
- Up to 90% and more of pharmaceuticals and pesticides among other chemicals
- Above results come from independent labs. Lab reports were publicly shared.
- Testing conducted against NSF/ANSI standards P231, 42, 53, 401, and 473.
- Guaranteed performance!
- All in all, you get healthy and great-tasting water with all essential minerals retained.
- Sleek pitcher is made from borosilicate glass.
- Shatter-resistant.
- Easy to use thanks to fill lid.
- Easy to maintain. The membrane microfilter lasts up to 264 gallons or 1 year, whichever comes first. Carbon and ion exchange filter cartridge needs replacement every 40 gallons or 2 months.
- Product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 3 years.
- When you buy the filter pitcher LifeStraw will donate 1 year safe drinking water to a child in need.
Cons
- Filtration is often slow due to submicron membrane.
- Slow but thorough!
- Annual filter replacement cost is quite high.
- The glass jug is prone to cracking. It is very delicate.
- The jug is also rather unbalanced. When full it can be difficult to handle and pour.
- The filter cartridges are plastic.
Best for
The LifeStraw Home is ideal for people who want a glass filter pitcher that’s affordable, easy to use and maintain, and highly effective.
2. The Runner-Up: ZeroWater 40-Cup Glass Water Filter Dispenser
The runner-up for the best glass water filter pitcher is the ZeroWater. Although, to be more precise, this is a water filter dispenser and not a pitcher.
It uses the standard ZeroWater filter cartridge to remove unwanted water contaminants.
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ZeroWater 40-Cup Filter Dispenser |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Cups: | 40 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 20 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | 42, 53 |
| Annually: | ~$130 |
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Our Rating
|
|
Pros
- We have 5 filter stages combined: Filter screen, foam pad, activated carbon and KDF filter media, ion exchange resin, second screen filter. This removes sediments and other dirt, chemicals like chlorine (97.5%), some heavy metals (99.65 chromium 6, up to 99.7% lead, up to 96.7% mercury), organics, and salts (e.g. 99% fluoride, 98% nitrate, 99% nitrite).
- Filter process is NSF-tested against standard 42 and 53.
- Sleek countertop design with large 40-cup water-holding capacity.
- Dispenser body and lid are made from glass. Base is stainless steel.
- Using the spigot you can dispense water while the filter is still working.
- Comes with a free TDS meter. It helps determine the current state of the filter cartridge.
- 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons
- Filtration is slow and there have been complaints about clogged filter cartridges. Mind you, one filter is rated at no more than 20 gallons.
- At least replacements are cheap (~$10-15).
- For some users, the spigot either leaked or water flow was slow due to a vacuum.
- Spout location is too high. About ¼ of the water cannot be dispensed.
- Filter reservoir + cartridges are still plastic.
- We read reports where the chrome plating of the spigot flaked off and contaminated the water.
- In our opinion, TDS (total dissolved solids) is not ideal for measuring drinking water quality.
Best for
The ZeroWater is ideal for people who value large water storage volume and effective contaminant removal (TDS in particular).
3. For Alkaline Water: pH Restore Glass Water Filter Pitcher
If you are looking for a glass water filter pitcher providing alkaline water, the pH Restore is your best bet.
It increases your water’s pH level by 0.5 to 2.0+ points and enriches it with healthy minerals, all while removing contamination.
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pH Restore Alkaline Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Cups: | 15 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 96 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | – |
| Annually: | $50 |
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Our Rating
|
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Pros
- The standard PH001 filter cartridge combines granular activated carbon derived from coconut shells with ion exchange resin and zeolite. The mixture reduces sediments, chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals such as lead, volatile organic compounds, microplastics, some fluoride, and other organic and inorganic matter.
- For much healthier drinking water.
- Filtration removes some unpleasant odors.
- Additionally, mineral stones release calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.
- Increases alkalinity.
- Added minerals improve water taste.
- Optional PH002 filter cartridge applies ultrafiltration to remove up to 80% fluoride and 99.9% of cysts, protozoa, and other harmful parasites.
- The jug is made from food-grade borosilicate glass.
- Comes with a bamboo lid.
- 15-cup water storage capacity is enough for family use.
- Rubber base avoids scratching on your kitchen counter.
- Both standard and optional filter are reasonably priced. They last 96 and 264 gallons respectively, keeping maintenance requirements at a minimum.
- Invigorated Water offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. If you are not happy with your purchase you can return it for a full refund.
Cons
- The jug may be glass but the reservoir and cartridges are plastic which means you are not save from plastic leaching.
- Filtration is not very thorough.
- We miss NSF certifications with contaminant reduction rates.
- PH002 filters are prone to clogging.
- Health benefits associated with alkaline drinking water like improved hydration and immune system boost aren’t entirely backed by scientific research.
Best for
The pH Restore is ideal if you are into alkaline drinking water.
4. Best Budget Option: Soma Glass Filter Carafe
The Soma could be right for you if you want a stylish glass filter carafe that provides basic water filtration.
It comes with its very own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Soma Glass Filter Carafe |
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| Price: | $$ |
| Cups: | 6 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 40 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | 42, 53 |
| Annually: | ~$65 |
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Our Rating
|
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Pros
- This glass water filter carafe does look nice.
- Uses a mix of activated coconut shell carbon, charcoal, and ion exchange resin to neutralize chlorine taste and odor, and remove mercury, cadmium, copper, and zinc.
- NSF-certified against standards 42 and 53.
- The glass carafe is shatter-resistant.
- Lid door opens automatically for easy filling.
- Glass, cone, and lid are dishwasher-safe.
- You get 40 gallons of filtered water per cartridge, not a whole lot but still acceptable.
- Cost: $10 per piece and slightly less if you subscribe which is affordable.
- Casings are made from 60% sugar cane plant-based materials for a reduced carbon footprint.
- 60-day trial period. Return the product for a full refund.
- 1-year limited warranty.
- For each product sold, Soma donates to community-based water projects in developing nations.
Cons
- We assume that filtration is lackluster. Water flows through the filter element rather quickly and we miss additional NSF certifications.
- Some people still got a hint of chlorine or other bad taste.
- Only the carafe is glass, rest is plastic.
- Occasionally, the lid does not open when trying to fill the pitcher. This results in water splashing everywhere.
- Due to spout design, pouring takes some getting used to if you want to avoid spilling.
- Small areas that are difficult to clean – think mold.
- 6 cups filtered water storage isn’t much.
Best for
The Soma filter carafe is ideal for people on a tight budget.
5. For Catalytic Carbon Filtration: KOR Water Fall Glass Water Filter Pitcher
The KOR is the only glass filtration pitcher so far using catalytic carbon. Sounds promising – time to find out more!
KOR Water Fall Filter Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Cups: | 4 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 80 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | 42 |
| Annually: | ~$130 |
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Our Rating
|
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Pros
- Uses coconut shell-based catalytic carbon to reduce chlorine and chloramine + bad taste and smell from your water.
- There is a start & stop lever that lets you control water flow.
- The package includes 2 glass carafes with lids.
- We like the no slip base.
- Filtration capacity is 80 gallons or 2 months which is pretty standard.
- Filter replacements are affordable ($22 per piece) and you can save an extra 20% when you subscribe.
- KOR provides a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- Several reviewers complained about relentless leaking of the top container. And the issue only gets worse over time.
- It’s mainly plastic with 2 glass carafes.
- KOR says their filters are tested and certified to NSF standard 42 for chlorine and chloramine removal, a claim we could not verify.
- Not all users liked the taste of their filtered water.
- A bit more complicated to use than regular water filter pitchers.
- 4 cups capacity is too small for larger households.
Best for
KOR’s Water Fall uses catalytic carbon and is thus ideal for people with chloramine in their water supply.
6. Dafi Crystal Glass Water Filtering Pitcher
The last of our glass water filter pitcher reviews features the Dafi.
Dafi Crystal Filtering Pitcher |
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| Price: | $$$ |
| Cups: | 8 |
| Filtration Capacity: | 40 gal |
| NSF/ANSI: | – |
| Annually: | $80-100 |
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Our Rating
|
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Pros
- Granular activated carbon derived from coconut shells removes chlorine taste and odor from tap water
- Borosilicate glass is shatter-proof and resistant to scratching and staining.
- Anti slip base.
- Standard filter lasts 40 gallons.
- LED timer reminds you of filter replacements.
- Download My Dafi app for additional tracking.
Cons
- Filter funnel of the water pitcher are made of plastic.
- Filtration is slow and it stops before all water has emptied the upper reservoir.
- No NSF/ANSI testing conducted. No certifications.
Best for
The Dafi Crystal is ideal for people who like the idea of tracking their filter status with an app.
More Reviews:
Comparison List
How do the best non-plastic water filter pitchers perform when directly compared?
(Mobile Hint: Swipe to Scroll)
| Model | Price | Cups | Filtration Capacity | NSF/ANSI | Annually | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LifeStraw Home 7-Cup | $$ | 7 | 40-264 gal | 42, 53, 401, P231, P473 | ~$90-150 | |
| ZeroWater 40-Cup Filter Dispenser | $$ | 40 | 20 gal | 42, 53 | ~$130 | |
| pH Restore Alkaline Filter Pitcher | $$ | 15 | 96 gal | – | $50 | |
| Soma Glass Filter Carafe | $$ | 6 | 40 gal | 42, 53 | ~$65 | |
| KOR Water Fall Filter Pitcher | $$$ | 4 | 80 gal | 42 | ~$130 | |
| Dafi Crystal Filtering Pitcher | $$$ | 8 | 40 gal | – | $80-100 |
Buying Guide: How We Picked the Best Glass Filter Pitchers + What You Need to Consider
The following are things worth considering before you go out and buy a glass water filter pitcher. These are also the very same criteria we focused on when picking our top products for this guide.
Contaminant Removal
For many buyers, contaminant removal is one of the primary factors when comparing different glass water filter pitchers.
Some models on the market utilize a combination of filter media to remove as many different contaminants from the water as possible. These may include activated carbon, ion exchange resin, and various other materials that, when combined, can remove all the contaminants types. If you insist on thorough decontamination, you should focus on pitchers with a wide variety of filter media.
With other water filter pitchers, filtration is usually more basic and only removes things like relatively large particles.
NSF Testing + Certifications
You should pay attention to NSF/ANSI testing and certifications if you insist on buying a filter that filters your water as thoroughly as possible. These standards indicate that a filter is specifically designed to remove specific types of contaminants.
It’s important to look at the fine print though: Just because a filter has a certain certification doesn’t mean that it actually removes every single type of contaminant that falls under that standard. It’s possible that it only targets one item out of the entire list. In addition, filtration strength can vary from one filter to another – think overall contaminant reduction rates.
Materials & Durability
Another common reason to buy a glass water filter pitcher is to avoid plastic. Plastic can both affect the taste of water and is less durable in the long term. Glass is not indestructible either – in fact, most glass water filter pitchers on the market will probably shatter from a drop that would leave a plastic or steel model intact. But it’s more resistant to scratches and doesn’t leave any deposits in the water.
If this is an important feature to you, make sure to verify exactly how the pitchers you’re considering are designed. Some models only utilize glass for the external body, using plastic for the actual water container inside the pitcher. Metal is frequently used in higher-end models, and is a good substitute for plastic when you want more durability and a stylish look.
Filter cartridges are commonly made of plastic and this can be hard to avoid.
Cleaning
Another benefit of glass compared to plastic is that it’s easier to clean. Glass can be easily wiped down with a soapy sponge, while a plastic pitcher might require some additional soaking if it’s been a while since it was cleaned last.
Many glass water filter pitchers also tend to have a smoother, round shape to their bodies. On the contrary, plastic pitchers sometimes feature intricate patterns in their designs, which can make them more difficult to clean thoroughly.
Ease of disassembly plays a role here too. Some models need to be taken apart while others can be cleaned as a whole unit. Glass makes no real difference here, and you should pay attention to the general design of each pitcher if this is an important factor to you.
Filtering Speed
A common point of frustration with water filter pitchers is the slow filtration speed of some models. You may need to wait up to 20-30 minutes after filling the pitcher before you can pour a glass of water from it.
Some models attempt to alleviate that by utilizing solutions that allow you to dispense water even if there is still some left in the upper reservoir.
As a general rule, water filter pitchers with more advanced, thorough filtration will need more time before your water is ready to drink. Buyers with larger households should consider investing in a pitcher with an appropriate volume to ensure that water is always available.
Filtration Capacity
Many glass filter pitcher manufacturers measure the capacity of their filters in gallons. Most models on the market can filter between 40 to 80 gallons of water before they require replacement. For most households, that should be equivalent to roughly two months of use.
Some filters need to be replaced much less frequently. It’s possible that you might not have to swap out certain filters for up to 4-6 months.
It’s important to pay attention to the filtration capacity of each model you’re considering, as it will impact the long-term cost of using it. The initial purchase price should be seen as a secondary factor when estimating the overall cost of using a particular model, with filter replacements coming first.
Storage Volume
Some glass water filter pitchers can only hold a small amount of water like six to eight cups. These are far from ideal for large families, as they will require constant refilling and cleaning.
A larger storage volume isn’t exclusively beneficial, however. It can lead to water sitting in the container for prolonged periods, resulting in a stale taste. This will be particularly noticeable if the pitcher is left out in the sun often.
It’s important to consider the water consumption habits of your family and align those with the pitchers you’re comparing. You must try to find a good balance between having enough fresh water available, and avoiding having that water sit around for too long.
Warranty
A one-year warranty period is standard for most manufacturers on the market. There are some exceptions, with certain companies offering longer warranties, including some models that are covered for life.
A good glass water filter pitcher is often a long-term investment, making it important to get a good deal on its warranty.
Price
As we mentioned above, the initial purchase price of a glass water filter pitcher is not as important as the cost of replacing its filters in the long term. Cheaper models often end up more expensive in the long run, as they require frequent filter replacements, and their filters may be more expensive than the average pitcher on the market.
Always do a rough estimate of how much a pitcher would cost you over a year before assuming it’s a good deal.
More on Glass Water Filter Pitchers
What’s a Glass Water Filter Pitcher?
Glass water filter pitchers are commonly found in many households these days. They combine the convenience of using a pitcher for water storage with advanced filtration that removes various contaminants from the water – all without any plastic involved!
On the outside, most models resemble a classic glass water pitcher. Most of the difference is internal, with the filter typically seated right in the middle of the pitcher.
How Do Glass Filter Pitchers Work?
To use a glass water filter pitcher, you’d fill it by opening or removing its lid. Water then runs down through one or more stages of filtration that capture and/or eliminate various contaminants. In the end, water makes its way down into the storage container, from where it can be poured out.
Most glass water filter pitchers require the user to lift the pitcher to pour out of it, but some incorporate a dispenser to assist in the process. This feature is more often found in larger units, but some smaller pitchers might also have it.
Benefits – Reasons to Use a Glass Water Filter Pitcher
Even if your water supply isn’t highly contaminated, you can still get a lot out of a good glass water filter pitcher.
- It will help remove contaminants you didn’t even know you should be concerned about.
- And it may improve the taste of your water in some cases.
- It’s also a significantly cheaper option than installing a filtration system in your home.
When it comes to choice of material, glass is superior to plastic for a number of reasons. It’s more durable in the long run, doesn’t leave any residue in the water, and is often easier to clean. Plus, it looks nicer than plastic in most cases.
One major downside of glass is that it can break more easily if dropped. However, plastic is not immune either, and it’s also prone to cracking even when it doesn’t break completely.
Who Should Be Using a Glass Pitcher?
Anyone who enjoys drinking water but isn’t happy with the quality of their tap or well water should look into purchasing a glass water filter pitcher.
This includes families with small children. Having a good filter pitcher in the house can be great for promoting drinking water from a young age. And building that habit early on is no small benefit nowadays when kids are constantly bombarded with ads for sugary drinks at every corner.
Glass filter pitchers are also great in situations where you want to filter your water, but installing a filtration system hooked to your plumbing is not an option. Maybe you live in an apartment and don’t have access to your plumbing, or you live in a house where a water filtration system can’t be attached without extensive modifications of the existing pipes. In any case, a glass water filter pitcher can allow you to enjoy the benefits of filtered water despite those limitations.
When and How to Change the Water Pitcher Filter
How often you should replace the filter used in your glass water pitcher is indicated by the manufacturer. In some models, you’ll need to exchange it every couple of weeks, while others can last for up to 6 months on a single cartridge.
If your filter doesn’t have a filter change indicator, it’s up to you to keep track of when the filter was last replaced and when the next replacement is due. Besides, keep in mind that those indicators aren’t always very precise. In some pitchers, they measure the amount of water poured out. Others track how long the flap has been open. And in some very simple models, the indicator is just a timer that doesn’t actually track how much water has been dispensed at all.
Changing the filter is usually pretty easy. Filter cartridges are designed to be simple to swap out without any advanced technical knowledge. The only important thing to remember is that you might need to prime your cartridge. This is typically done by running a certain volume of water through it, usually the equivalent of two or three full pitchers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there a glass water filter pitcher?
Yes, there are several glass water filter pitchers. Most are made from borosilicate glass. However, their interior is usually made from plastic. This also goes for the filter cartridges. - Does Brita make a glass filter pitcher?
Yes, Brita does make glass filter pitchers – or at least they used to. - Which glass filter pitcher removes the most contaminants?
That’s probably the LifeStraw Home. According to NSF standardized testing, it removes all kinds of things such as lead, chlorine, and PFAS. - Which glass filter pitcher has the best taste?
The LifeStraw Home is the glass water filter pitcher providing the best tasting drinking water.
Questions? Ask away!
About the Author Gene Fitzgerald
Information provided on BOS is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.
We adhere to strict editorial guidelines. Rest assured, the opinions expressed have not been provided, reviewed, or otherwise endorsed by our partners – they are unbiased, independent, and the author’s alone. Our licensed experts fact-check all content for accuracy. It is accurate as of the date posted and to the best of our knowledge.