Many who hear the term “hard water” for the first time aren’t quite sure what that means: Most people think water is just water, so how on earth can you tell if water is “hard”?
It is quite easy to tell if water is hard or soft. For instance, when you try to rub soap there is a lack of foam formation with hard water. Hard water will perform dismally with soaps and detergents; it hardly bubbles.
But What Exactly is Hard Water?
Simply put,
Hard water is water that has a high concentration of minerals and other chemical contaminants.
These include calcium, magnesium, chlorine, fluorine to name a few chemicals.
True, some minerals such as calcium and magnesium may be naturally occurring in water.
But also in many cities water is disinfected or treated with chlorine before being pumped to our houses.
Much as those substances are supposed to make our water safe by neutralizing contaminants,
But…
They are not nourishing at all to our skin and hair.
Additionally,
As the water moves in the pipes, chemical reactions occur that may contaminate it causing unpleasant taste or odors.
Does Hard Water Pose Any Problem?
Much as it is potentially harmful to our health when drunk, it is equally hazardous when used on our skins.
Ever wondered to yourself why your hair feels a bit coarse after a shower and doesn’t look over time?
Or have you experienced irritation, itchiness or dryness after taking a shower?
Recent studies have established that the water that runs in our taps at home is the chief suspect for skin problems and eczema and also weak hair.
And probably you didn’t know that when these toxins are more harmful in your shower water than they are in drinking water!
Yes, you read correctly, and here is the reason:
In the shower, chlorine is re-vaporized and you inhale it into your lungs going straight into your bloodstream.
What Is The Solution?
Well, as frightening as it may sound…
There is no need for alarm because you can reduce the danger posed by your shower water.
In this article, we will guide you on how to filter hard water in shower by deploying a shower filter.
And to make it easy for you…
We have combed the market and singled out the 4 best shower filters that will be both value for your money and effective in filtering out harmful contaminants.
Below we review their main features, highlight why they are top on the list, whilst stating their pros and cons.
1. AQUABLISS High Output 12-Stage Shower Filter
This unique, heavy-duty 12-stage sediment shower filter delivers maximum filtration that effectively eliminates heavy metals, chemicals, contaminants, and chlorine.
Also, it efficiently neutralizes any present odors in the water.
Furthermore, it will balance out the pH levels of your shower water and infuse beneficial minerals to your body courtesy of the crystal balls included in its filtration system.
It is engineered to work with all shower types, including fixed, rain and handheld.
This shower filter has been proven to improve the condition of your skin, hair, and nails.
Pros
- Efficient 12-stage filtration
- Easily installed without tools
- Durable filters that last up to 8 months or after 12,000 gallons
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- No shower heads included
2. AQUA-HOME Group 15 Stage Shower Water Filter
It stands out for its unique 15-stage filtration system that is highly effective in water softening, removal of heavy metals, contaminants, irritants, bacteria, pesticides, and unpleasant odors. It inhibits the growth of scale, mold or algae in the bathtub or shower cubicle. As a result of its stronger filtration and disinfection ability, this shower filter promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is ideal for bathing children and pets for its stimulation of immunity.
Pros
- A highly effective 15-stage filtration system
- Acts as a moisturizer, softener, and purifier
- Ensures consistent water pressure
- Flexible use as it can be placed overhead or handheld
Cons
- Some units, albeit rarely, have some issues when installing leading to leakages
3. CULLIGAN WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Shower Head
This lightweight showerhead offers a refreshing shower experience by neutralizing harsh chlorine and preventing scale buildup. Renowned for a unique, sleek chrome finish, this shower filter cartridge is housed in the showerhead itself, unlike other brands. It features an anti-clog rubber spray nozzle and we appreciate the longevity of its filters as they require replacement after 10,000 gallons of water filtering. Its filtration system effectively removes up to 99% of impurities in water and gives you more hydrating nourishment for your skin and scalp.
Pros
- 5-spray setting to suit your needs
- Easy to install, no tools required
- Highly efficient and durable, filter lasts up to 6 months
- Effectively removes foul odors and tastes from water
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Lowers water pressure
4. AQUASANA AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System
Has a unique two-stage up-flow filter design that encompasses a combination of coconut shell carbon and an oxidation process to remove harsh chemicals in your shower water. This customizable shower filter will effectively remove harsh chlorine, lead, mercury and other chemical pollutants in water and steam, resulting in pristine water and better quality air when you shower. The results are moisturized skin and healthy, shiny hair.
Pros
- Simple to install, no tools required
- Comes with a premium massaging showerhead with multiple settings
- Maintains strong water pressure
- Filter cartridge lasts up to 6 months
- Enhances the taste and smell of shower water
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Has a crunchy, plastic feel
- There’s a possibility of leaking but can be fixed with Teflon tape
Final Thought
Sure, most of our water sources are contaminated giving us hard water.
The adverse effects of hard water on our skin, hair, and nails cannot be underestimated. Fortunately, we don’t need to panic!
This article has given you an insight of how to filter hard water in showers by installing any of the above best shower filters.
Significantly, shower water filters are affordable and easy to install.
It’s evident from this review that as much as each shower water filter is different, all of them are effective in filtering out the contaminants that are harmful to our body.
One important thing you could so before going to buy one is to test your water and establish which contaminants affect your water source.
Once you do that, you can choose a shower filter that will effectively soften your water and make it safe and healthy for your body.
