Quick Take
Score: 9.2/10 | The Clearly Filtered pitcher is our top pick for families who want maximum contaminant removal without the complexity of under-sink or reverse osmosis systems. It's the only pitcher I've found that removes fluoride effectively while maintaining NSF certifications for PFAS.
The Research
When I started researching water filter pitchers, I expected the differences to be marginal. They're not. Clearly Filtered removes 365+ contaminants - that's not marketing fluff, it's backed by third-party lab testing from IAPMO (formerly QFT), an ISO 17025 certified laboratory.
The key certifications tell the story:
- NSF 42: Aesthetic effects (chlorine, taste, odor)
- NSF 53: Health effects (lead, cysts, VOCs)
- NSF 401: Emerging contaminants (pharmaceuticals, herbicides)
- NSF P473: PFOA/PFOS reduction
In my independent Tap Score testing, THMs and chlorine were completely eliminated while beneficial minerals remained. That's the holy grail of filtration - removing the bad while keeping the good.
Real-World Testing
The August 2024 redesign addressed my main complaints about the original. The new comfort handle actually feels comfortable, and the hinge fill lid means one-handed refilling is finally possible.
Filtration takes about 12 minutes for a full 10-cup pitcher. Yes, that's slower than Brita. But that extra contact time is exactly why it removes more contaminants. Physics doesn't offer shortcuts here.
The Honest Assessment
What I Love: The peace of mind is real. When water advisories hit my area, I didn't panic. The 100-gallon filter life keeps ongoing costs reasonable at roughly $0.90 per gallon.
What Could Be Better: At $90 for the pitcher and $70 per replacement filter, this is a premium investment. The 12-minute filtration time requires planning ahead. And while Clearly Filtered has NSF certifications for 3 specific contaminants, the 365+ claim relies on third-party lab testing rather than full NSF certification for each substance.
The Bottom Line
For families prioritizing PFAS, fluoride, and comprehensive contaminant removal, the Clearly Filtered pitcher delivers the most thorough filtration available in pitcher form. The premium price reflects premium performance.



