Shower filters are crucial in maintaining health and well-being by removing harmful chemicals like chlorine and heavy metals from tap water. These impurities can cause skin irritation and hair damage. Moreover, shower filters prevent inhaling harmful vapors while showering, promoting a safer and healthier shower environment.
If you are wondering how such little things can do miraculous things and what materials are used in their making, you are at the right place. Let’s explore what materials are inside shower filters.
Different Materials Used in Shower Filters
Activated Carbon (Charcoal)
Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a commonly used filter material. It works through adsorption, where contaminants bond to the surface of the carbon particles. Activated carbon is excellent at removing organic compounds, chlorine, and sediment. However, it’s less effective in hot water, making it a better choice for cold water filtration.
Contaminants Removed: Chlorine, Sediment, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion)
KDF is a high-purity copper-zinc formulation used in shower filters. It uses a chemical process known as redox (reduction and oxidation) to remove chlorine, lead, mercury, and other metals. It’s also effective against bacteria, algae, and fungi. Unlike activated carbon, KDF works well in both hot and cold water.
Contaminants Removed: Chlorine, Lead, Mercury, Bacteria, Algae, Fungi
Calcium Sulfite
Calcium sulfite is highly effective at removing chlorine, even in hot water, making it an excellent choice for shower filters. In addition to chlorine, it can also reduce some other impurities. However, it doesn’t effectively remove heavy metals or bacteria.
Contaminants Removed: Chlorine
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is not commonly used for water filtration but can be found in some shower filters. It’s an excellent agent for neutralizing chlorine and chloramine. Vitamin C filters provide a natural solution and can even add a layer of skin and hair protection.
Contaminants Removed: Chlorine, Chloramine
Ceramic Balls
Ceramic balls, typically made from various beneficial minerals, are used in shower filters. They help to soften water, adjust pH, and remove impurities. However, their efficacy varies greatly depending on the specific minerals used.
Contaminants Removed: Varies, can include Chlorine, Heavy Metals, and others depending on the type of ceramic.
Quartz Crystal
Quartz crystals in shower filters energize the water by breaking water molecules into smaller clusters, making them more readily absorbed by your skin and hair. While quartz doesn’t directly filter contaminants, it improves water’s overall quality, enhancing your shower experience.
Contaminants Removed: None directly, but improves water quality.
Which Shower Filter is best for Hair Health?
Vitamin C shower filters can be beneficial for hair health. They neutralize chlorine and chloramine, which can make hair dry and brittle. Plus, the additional vitamin C can provide nourishment to your hair.
Which Shower Filter is best for Skin Allergies?
A multi-stage shower filter could be the most effective for individuals with skin allergies. These filters remove many contaminants, including chlorine, which can irritate the skin. They also help soften the water, which can benefit sensitive skin.
Which Shower Filter is best for Asthma Patients?
Asthma patients would benefit from a shower filter that effectively removes chlorine, such as a KDF or Vitamin C filter. Inhaling chlorine vapor can trigger asthma attacks, so eliminating chlorine from shower water can reduce these risks.