10 Best Shower Filters in the Philippines 2025 | Kohler, 3M, Philips, and More

Activated carbon is one of the most widely used filters, even in drinking water! They are known for their excellent adsorption properties, which means contaminants will adhere to their surface and become trapped. 

It is great for removing chlorine and chloramine, which is the by-product of chlorine and ammonia, as it is also used to disinfect water. Carbon can also filter sediment, rust, debris, and large bacteria and viruses, making it a great choice if you are looking for a reliable, everyday filter.

However, its chlorine reduction decreases as water temperature increases, so this may not be the best option if you frequently take hot showers. Moreover, it has a relatively short shelf life, thus you would have to replace it more often.

Also known as kinetic degradation fluxion, KDF or KDF-55 uses two opposing metals such as copper and zinc alloy to create an electrical-chemical charge that changes the water’s electrons and removes contaminants. This process is called oxidation-reduction. 

It is effective enough as a standalone filter and in combination with others. Plus, it is not affected by changes in water temperature. Aside from chlorine, it can also filter contaminants, including algae, fungus, lead, arsenic, iron, mercury, and copper. 

It is also bacteriostatic, meaning it can prevent bacterial growth. This makes it ideal for those with lots of skin sensitivities or little ones who have a tendency to drink water while bathing. However, it doesn’t remove organic compounds such as pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceuticals.

Calcium sulfite or CaSO3 is mostly used as a food preservation ingredient, and it can be found in wine, soft drinks, and canned fruits & vegetables. It is also the most effective for filtering 99% of chlorine. 

Chlorine and chloramine are some of the top contaminants in our water, so this is a great option, particularly if your water prominently smells of chlorine. However, it is not as effective for filtering other contaminants.

Another great option for filtering chlorine and chloramine is vitamin C, which can neutralize chemicals in the water. And it provides a bit of added nourishment to your skin as well due to its antioxidant properties.

Similar to calcium sulfite, it is great in filtering chlorine and chloramine. But it also is not that effective for other contaminants. Still, it provides aromatherapy and a soothing effect, so think of it as an indulgent shower tool akin to a spa experience, perfect for those long days!

In-line filters are installed between your showerhead and your waterline. It consists of a wide tube and does not come with a showerhead attachment. This allows you to utilize your current showerhead, although it may look a little bulky. It is also ideal if you use an overhead shower and not the handheld kind.

Showerhead filters look like regular showerheads, but it comes with a built-in filter inside. This blends with your bathroom fixtures easily, although it can be a bit heavier than what you’re used to sometimes. One drawback is that showerhead filters tend to have low water pressure, so the water may not come out as strong as you want it to. 

Plastic filters are lightweight and more affordable than their metal counterpart. And corrosion is never a problem. Some filters are even see-through, so you would be able to see the water go in and out.

Unfortunately, some plastic tends to be flimsy, so it can easily crack if you accidentally drop it. It can also fall apart under the pressure of the water, particularly for showerhead filters.  

Metal filters are more durable as they are less likely to crack or chip. And metals could come in chrome finishes, making them look shiny and giving them a sleek look, which adds to their appeal.

But metal tends to corrode over time due to the accumulated deposits of hard water, which contain high mineral content such as limescale, calcium, and magnesium. And this, in turn, may affect the flow of water.