What Is PFAS and Why Does It Matter?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used in non-stick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam, and waterproof clothing since the 1940s. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or the human body. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), more than 176 million Americans are exposed to PFAS-contaminated drinking water.
Long-term PFAS exposure has been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, immune system disruption, and developmental problems in children. The EPA set legally enforceable limits for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water in 2026 — and on April 14, 2026, launched its PFAS OUT initiative to proactively help water systems reduce contamination ahead of compliance deadlines.
The problem: most common water filters — including Brita — are not certified to remove PFAS. You need a filter specifically tested and certified against NSF/ANSI Standard 53 (contaminant reduction) or Standard 401 (emerging contaminants).
NSF/ANSI Certification Standards for PFAS
Our Top Picks for PFAS Removal
🥇 1. Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher — Best Overall
At a Glance
The Clearly Filtered pitcher is the standout option for anyone specifically worried about PFAS. Its proprietary Affinity Filtration Technology is independently tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401 — meaning it meets third-party standards for removing PFAS, lead, chromium-6, chloramines, and 360+ other contaminants.
The 99.5% PFAS removal rate (per manufacturer's third-party test results) is the highest published figure for any gravity-feed pitcher. For context: Brita's standard filter removes ~0% of PFAS and isn't certified for it at all.
Pros: Best-in-class PFAS removal, NSF certified, removes 365+ contaminants, straightforward pitcher format.
Cons: Smaller capacity than whole-house or under-sink systems, filters need replacing every ~100 gallons.
Verdict: If PFAS removal is your priority and you don't want to install anything, this is the clear winner.
Shop Clearly Filtered →
🥈 2. AquaTru Countertop Reverse Osmosis — Best for Maximum Filtration
At a Glance
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are among the most effective technologies for PFAS removal. The AquaTru uses a 4-stage RO process and is certified to NSF/ANSI 58 plus Standards 42, 53, and 401. It requires no plumbing installation — it sits on your countertop and plugs into a standard outlet.
Pros: Extremely comprehensive filtration, removes virtually all contaminants, no installation needed.
Cons: Expensive upfront (~$449), produces some wastewater, takes up counter space, slower flow rate than a pitcher.
Verdict: Best choice if budget allows and you want the most thorough filtration available without installing under-sink plumbing.
⚠️ 3. Berkey — Popular But Not NSF-Certified for PFAS
At a Glance
Berkey is a well-known gravity filter with a loyal following. The company claims its Black Berkey filters remove PFAS, but these claims are based on in-house testing — not independent third-party NSF certification. This is a meaningful distinction: NSF certification requires independent lab verification under standardized conditions.
Berkey also faced an FDA import ban in 2023 related to its marketing claims, though this was subsequently reversed. The brand does not currently hold NSF/ANSI 53 or 401 certification for PFAS removal.
Verdict: High capacity and popular, but if you're buying specifically for PFAS protection, you can't verify the claims independently. See our full Berkey vs Clearly Filtered comparison.
❌ 4. Brita — Not Recommended for PFAS
At a Glance
Brita is America's best-selling water filter, but its standard activated carbon filters are not certified to remove PFAS. Brita does offer a "Longlast+" filter that claims some PFAS reduction, but it does not carry NSF/ANSI 53 or 401 certification for PFAS specifically. If you're buying a filter specifically to address PFAS contamination, Brita's standard line will not meet that goal.
See our full breakdown: Does Brita Remove PFAS?
✅ 5. Epic Water Filters — Solid PFAS Alternative
At a Glance
Epic Water Filters publishes independent test results for PFAS removal across their pitcher and bottle product lines. While they don't consistently carry full NSF/ANSI 401 certification across all products, they provide more transparency than most brands. Their Outdoor and Pure pitcher filters have shown strong PFAS reduction in published testing. A solid second-tier option if Clearly Filtered is out of stock or budget is a constraint.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Filter | PFAS Removal | NSF Certified | Price (pitcher) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearly Filtered | 99.5% (3rd-party tested) | ✅ 42, 53, 401 | ~$90 | 🥇 Best Overall |
| AquaTru RO | 99%+ (RO process) | ✅ 42, 53, 58, 401 | ~$449 | 🥈 Best Premium |
| Berkey | Manufacturer-claimed | ❌ Not NSF PFAS certified | $300–$600+ | ⚠️ Unverified |
| Brita (standard) | Not certified | ❌ No PFAS certification | ~$35 | ❌ Not for PFAS |
| Epic Water Filters | Published test results | Partial (varies by product) | $35–$80 | ✅ Solid Alternative |
How to Choose the Right PFAS Filter
Just want PFAS protection, easiest possible? Get the Clearly Filtered pitcher. NSF certified, no installation, ~$90.
Want the most comprehensive filtration money can buy? AquaTru countertop RO. More expensive but filters nearly everything.
Already have a Berkey? Be aware it's not independently certified for PFAS. If PFAS is your primary concern, consider switching or supplementing with a certified pitcher.
Using Brita? It won't help with PFAS. Here's why →
Read our guide on how to test your home water for PFAS and other toxins. The EWG Tap Water Database is also a free first step.