Brita® Pitcher FAQ

Where can I purchase a Brita® Pitcher/Dispenser?

Locate your local and online retailers that carry Brita products.

What do Brita® products remove from tap water?

Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers reduce copper, chlorine (taste and odor) and mercury — all of which may be found in tap water. Brita® Faucet Filtration Systems reduce lead, benzene, TTHMs and microbial cysts.

What certifications or seals of approval do Brita® products currently have?

Brita’s products are certified under the Water Quality Association (WQA) Gold Seal Product Certification Program. WQA’s Gold Seal immediately identifies that Brita’s products meet or exceed industry standards for specified contaminant reduction, structural integrity and material safety. Additionally, Brita’s Faucet Filtration Systems meet the NSF/ANSI standards for lead reduction.

Why aren’t Brita® pitchers certified by NSF International for Lead reduction?

While current Brita® pitcher filters haven’t changed, the industry standard for lead reduction in water filtration products has been modified for insoluble lead measures. Current Brita® Pitcher systems met the previous lead reduction standard but do not meet the revised standard. Brita’s Faucet Filtration Systems do meet the revised standard for reducing lead.

What is the difference been soluble and insoluble lead?

Simply put, soluble lead dissolves completely in water, whereas insoluble lead does not dissolve in water.

Do Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers remove fluoride?

Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers have been tested and verified to remove only a trace amount of fluoride over the life of a filter. (Many brands of bottled waters do not contain the level of fluoride recommended by dentists.) Learn more about how water can enhance your child’s health.

Does the Brita® Pitcher/Dispenser add or remove sodium?

Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers do not add or remove sodium.

How do I assemble a Brita® Pitcher/Dispenser?

1. Wash hands with soap and water, then remove filter from filter bag.
2. Soak the filter upright in cold water for 15 minutes.
3. Hand wash pitcher/dispenser, lid and reservoir with a mild detergent.
4. Hold filter upright under cold, running tap water for a few seconds.
5. Insert filter into reservoir by lining up groove in filter with notch in reservoir. Press firmly to ensure a tight seal. Fill the reservoir with cold water. Note: DO NOT USE HOT WATER (max = 85°F/29°C, min = 32°F/0°C). Use with cold water only.

It is normal for carbon dust to appear in your first fillings. Discard your first two pitchers of filtered water (or first dispenser) or use this water for plants.

How often do I need to change Brita® Pitcher Filters?

Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers should be replaced every 40 gallons (about every two months for the average family).

BRITA® SMART PITCHER FAQ

How does the Smart Pitcher work?

Each time you insert a new filter into the reservoir, reset the electronic change indicator by pressing the “Start” button until the indicator reads “100%” and all four bars are flashing. Every two weeks a bar automatically disappears as the indicator counts down the remaining filter life. After two months, an arrow will flash at the top of the display reminding you to replace the filter.

The electronic indicator contains a nonreplaceable sealed battery that is designed to last for approximately 5 years, depending on usage.

What is the shelf life of unused replacement filters?

Brita® Pitcher Filters have an indefinite shelf life and should be stored in a cool, dry place until they’re ready to be used. Remember to soak the filter for 15 minutes prior to using.

How do I either soak and/or flush my pitcher filter?

1. Wash hands with soap and water, then remove filter from filter bag.
2. Soak the filter upright in cold water for 15 minutes.
3. Hold filter upright under cold, running tap water for a few seconds.

How should I clean my Brita® Pitcher/Dispenser?

Hand wash pitcher/dispenser, lid and reservoir with a mild detergent.

How should I clean my Brita® Chrome Pitcher Lid?

For best results cleaning chrome pitcher lids, wipe with a soft sponge soaked in a solution of one teaspoon of white vinegar in a cup of water.

Can Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers be refrigerated?

Yes. We recommend that you store your Brita® Pitcher in the refrigerator to get cold great-tasting water.

Can Brita® Pitchers/Dispensers be used with well water?

Brita® Pitcher Filters are intended to be used only with municipally treated tap water or well water that is regularly tested to be microbiologically safe.

What ingredients are found in a Brita® Pitcher Filter?

The Brita® Pitcher Filter contains activated carbon and an ion-exchange resin. All of the ingredients in the filter have been approved by the Water Quality Association. As you may know, activated carbon is widely used in the food and medical industry. Its function in Brita® Filters is to reduce the chlorine (taste and odor)¹. The activated carbon utilized is made from coconut shells that have been subjected to a special heating process that produces a large surface area capable of maximum absorption. The ion-exchange resin acts like a magnet and reduces mercury, copper, cadmium and zinc¹.

¹Substances reduced may not be in all users’ water.