As a mother, I’ve always been particular about what my family consumes, especially when it comes to water. When my son came along, I started questioning the quality and safety of our tap water. What began as a personal quest for clean water quickly turned into a deep dive into the world of water filtration—a journey that eventually led me to a career in the water filtration industry. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from distillers to benchtop water filters and reverse osmosis systems. But when the Sydney Morning Herald revealed that PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) were present in Australian tap water, my focus shifted to one critical factor: certification.

If you’re in the market for a water filter, don’t make another purchase until you understand why NSF certification matters and which systems truly deliver. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned—and why it’s so important for your family’s health.

Why Certification Matters

When I first started researching water filters, I’ll admit, I was overwhelmed by the options. But one thing became clear: not all filters are created equal. Certification, particularly NSF certification, is the gold standard for ensuring a water filter does what it claims. NSF International is an independent organisation that rigorously tests and certifies products to meet strict public health standards.

For me, certification became non-negotiable after learning about PFAS in our tap water. These “forever chemicals” are linked to serious health issues, and not all filters can remove them. An NSF-certified PFAS water filter, however, is specifically tested to reduce these harmful contaminants, giving me peace of mind that my family is protected.

My Journey Through Water Filtration Systems

My search for the perfect water filter has been a journey of trial and error. Here’s a look at the systems I’ve used and what I’ve learned along the way:

1. Water Distillers

I started with a water distiller, attracted by its promise of pure, contaminant-free water. While it effectively removed impurities, I quickly realised it wasn’t practical for everyday use. The process was slow, required a lot of energy, and stripped the water of beneficial minerals. Plus, it didn’t address volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could evaporate and re-condense with the water. 

2. Benchtop Water Filters

Next, I tried a benchtop water filter. I loved its simplicity—no installation required, just fill it up and let gravity do the work. Many benchtop filters use ceramic and carbon elements to remove contaminants like chlorine, sediment, and bacteria. However, not all are certified to remove PFAS or other specific contaminants, so it’s crucial to check the NSF certification.

3. Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

Finally, I moved to a reverse osmosis (RO) water filter. This system uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove up to 99% of contaminants, including heavy metals, chlorine, and PFAS. While RO systems are more complex and require installation, they’re incredibly effective. The key is to choose an NSF-certified reverse osmosis water filter to ensure it meets the highest standards for contaminant reduction.

What to Look for in an NSF-Certified Water Filter

If you’re considering a water filter, here are the key factors I’ve learned to prioritise:
NSF Certification: Always look for NSF/ANSI certifications. For PFAS, ensure the filter is certified to NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 58 standards. These certifications guarantee the filter has been tested to reduce specific contaminants.
Contaminant Removal: Identify the contaminants in your water. If you’re concerned about PFAS, choose a filter specifically certified to address these chemicals.
Ease of Use: Consider your lifestyle. A benchtop water filter might be ideal for simplicity, while a reverse osmosis system offers comprehensive filtration.
Maintenance: Check the filter’s maintenance requirements. Some systems, like RO filters, require periodic membrane and filter changes, while benchtop filters may need regular cleaning.
Water waste:  Be mindful of water waste, especially with RO systems. Some modern RO filters are designed to minimise waste, making them more environmentally friendly.

My Top Recommendation

After years of testing and research, I’ve found that a reverse osmosis water filter with NSF certification offers the most comprehensive protection. It’s the only system I’ve used that effectively removes PFAS, heavy metals, and a wide range of other contaminants. For smaller households or those seeking a simpler solution, a certified benchtop water filter can also be a great option, provided it’s designed to address your specific water concerns.

Your Next Steps to Cleaner, Safer Water

Choosing the right water filter is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family’s health. As someone who’s been through the process—both as a concerned mother and a professional in the water filtration industry—I can’t stress enough the importance of NSF certification. It’s the only way to ensure your filter is truly effective against contaminants like PFAS. So, before you buy another filter, take the time to research and invest in a certified system. Your family’s health is worth it.