FAQ - Filters & Cartridges

Person inserting MAXTRA filter cartridge in BRITA water filter jug Style Essential.

FAQs about BRITA cartridges

BRITA cartridges in general

How can I recycle my household water filters after use?

Environmental awareness is important to us! This is why we have run our own recycling programme for used filters since 1992. However, we can only recycle filters we receive from you. Therefore, we encourage you to return your BRITA filters to us.

Unfortunately, we cannot offer recycling options in all countries. For further information regarding your local recycling options please check our website www.brita.net/recycling

How does the recycling process for BRITA household water filters work?

For BRITA household water filters the same recycling process applies: The filters are collected locally and transported to our recycling facility in Germany. On our website www.brita.net/recycling you can find information on how the recycling process works in detail.

What is the advantage of BRITA water filtration?

Drinking water can contain substances that may affect its taste, odour or overall quality – such as chlorine, limescale or trace metals. By filtering tap water, these elements can be reduced, resulting in a better taste and an improved drinking experience. At the same time, essential minerals like calcium and magnesium are retained.

Our BRITA filtration solutions are designed to provide reliable filtration performance, while being easy to use, install and integrate into everyday life.

Depending on your needs and lifestyle, different BRITA filtration technologies offer tailored benefits:

Some filter types are designed to reduce limescale and metals such as copper and lead, helping to protect appliances and improve water taste
Others focus on reducing taste- and odour-impacting substances, such as chlorine, while preserving beneficial minerals
Filter lifespan and capacity can vary, with options designed for daily use over several weeks or for higher water volumes on the go

BRITA offers a variety of filtration solutions across different product categories, including:

Water filter jugs with replaceable filter cartridges
Bottles and systems using compact filter discs or filter cartridges
Other integrated filtration solutions tailored to different use cases

This allows you to choose the solution that best fits your individual preferences, usage habits and filtration needs.

Why do the water filter cartridges I have at home not fit into my BRITA jug anymore?

Please check what kind of water filter cartridges you are using at home. BRITA can only guarantee "PerfectFit" for original BRITA water filter cartridges.

How do I prepare my BRITA water filter for use?

Both the BRITA MAXTRA and BRITA MicroDisc have been designed for quick, easy installation.

BRITA MAXTRA water filter:

Simply fill a jug or bowl with water. Immerse the BRITA MAXTRA water filter in cold water and shake gently to remove any air bubbles. Insert the water filter into the jug’s funnel and run water through the filter twice. After discarding the first two litres, your BRITA water filter is ready for use.

BRITA MicroDisc:

Before using the MicroDisc for the first time, place it under running water and lightly rub both sides with your fingers for approx. 30 seconds. This effectively removes any loose carbon dust that may be present.

Are the contents of the water filter safe?

Yes. The contents of all BRITA water filter are food-grade quality and completely harmless, even if accidentally ingested.

What happens when the water filter is exhausted? Can impurities leak back into the water?

Once the BRITA water filter is full it simply stops filtering. It does not leak impurities back into the filtered water.

Do BRITA water filters remove fluoride?

No. BRITA water filters are not designed to remove fluoride. Some fluoride is naturally present in tap water, whilst some water companies add fluoride to the water. If you are concerned about the presence of fluoride in your tap water, check with your local water supplier.

Do BRITA filter cartridges have an expiration date?

If properly stored, all original BRITA cartridges can be kept for several years. Proper storage means at temperatures between 1 °C and 50 °C, without exposure to direct sunlight or heat. The cartridge should also remain sealed in its original packaging.

What is the best way to store BRITA filtered water?

Store your BRITA filtered water in a cool place, such as the fridge. Also, protect your BRITA product from direct sunlight to avoid algae and consume the filtered water within one day.

How can I track my filter’s performance?

Depending on which BRITA water filter system you have, BRITA METER, BRITA MEMO or BRITA Smart Light monitors your filter's performance. Please refer to the product manual for more information.

I am on a potassium restricted diet. Can I drink filtered water?

The filtering process can cause a small increase in water's potassium level. However, one litre of BRITA filtered water contains less potassium than an apple. If you have kidney disease or watch your potassium intake for other reasons, consult your doctor before using a water filter.

Is filtered water the same as distilled water?

No. BRITA water filters which contain ion exchange resin and activated carbon reduce substances from tap water that can affect its taste and appearance. The process only partially de-mineralises water. Distilled water, in contrast, is fully de-mineralised. That’s why filtered water is not suitable for use when distilled water is required, such as car batteries.

What is water hardness and why should you reduce it?

Water hardness falls into two categories: permanent hardness and temporary hardness. Permanent hardness does not influence water’s taste or how household appliances work. Temporary hardness affects the taste of food and beverages prepared with hot water. Further, it causes limescale deposits in home appliances that heat water, such as kettles, steam irons, coffee makers and washers.

By reducing water’s temporary hardness, BRITA water filter cartridges reduce taste and aroma impairing substances and limescale build-up. The result is great tasting water for hot drinks and dishes prepared with water, and less lime scale build-up in home appliances. How hard is your water? Order a free water hardness test strip to find out.

How can I recognise hard or soft water in my home?

Your water hardness can be influenced by various factors. Information on water hardness is usually provided by the respective utility company. So you may ask there.

To get an indication by yourself:

A value > 5°dH indicates medium to hard water. Additionally, the following factors typically indicate medium/hard water:

• Heavy occurrence of limescale deposits in household appliances and around kitchen taps and bathroom fittings.
• Appearance of limescale spots on glasses.
• Oily streaks or scum appearing on surface of hot drinks, especially tea.

A value < 5°dH is considered soft water. In addition to this value, the following factors can also help you to indicate soft water:

• Your home has a plumbed in water softener.
• Low occurrence of limescale deposits in your household appliances and around kitchen taps and bathroom fittings.

How long can you leave water sitting with a filter cartridge?

In general, you shouldn’t leave water sitting for too long, as bacteria can grow. This also applies to BRITA-filtered water—like any beverage, it is a food product. The exact duration depends on various factors, such as temperature. However, you shouldn’t leave water sitting outside the refrigerator for more than a day.

How long can you use the same BRITA filter?

That depends on the type of filter or cartridge and how often you use it. You can find information on the recommended usage period in the product description for the specific filter or filter cartridge.

Advantages of BRITA cartridges

Is BRITA filtered water suitable for steam irons?

It’s better to use BRITA filtered water over tap water in steam irons to help reduce limescale build-up. However, for most steam irons with an aluminium base, de-mineralised water is recommended for optimum performance. Filtered water is ideal for irons with a chrome plated steel base. If you are uncertain what kind of iron you have, refer to your instruction manual or contact your iron’s manufacturer.

This applies to BRITA water filters based on ion exchange resin and activated carbon, e.g. MAXTRA PRO water filter cartridges.

What are the benefits of BRITA filtered water?

Mains water is strictly regulated and monitored, but may contain substances that impair its taste and appearance. A BRITA water filter can reduce mains water’s:

• carbonate hardness/limescale (calcium and magnesium ions)
• free and bound chlorine (if present)
• lead and copper

BRITA filtered water provides you and your family the ideal basis for aromatic hot drinks, such as coffee and tea. It’s ideal for cooking and effectively protects domestic appliances against limescale build-up.

These advantages apply to BRITA water filters based on ion exchanger and activated carbon, e.g. MAXTRA filter cartridges. An exception is the MicroDisc water filter, which is based on activated carbon. It has been developed as a mobile and simple solution to optimise the taste of cold water. It fits into the water filter carafe and the water filter bottles.

Do BRITA water filters help protect the environment?

BRITA products reduce plastic waste, have a significantly lower CO₂ footprint than bottled water, and thus make an important contribution to a more sustainable society. As a company we also want to make such a contribution by reducing the environmental impacts of our business activities to a minimum while we continue to develop and grow at the same time.

Filter subscription

How does the BRITA filter subscription work?

With the BRITA Filter Subscription, your filters are delivered regularly and conveniently to your home—with no additional shipping costs. On the product page for selected filter products, you can choose the number of filters you want and see right away how long they’re expected to last.

A MyBRITA account is required to use the subscription. In your MyBRITA account, you can manage, adjust, or cancel your subscription at any time. This gives you full control and ensures you always have fresh filters on hand without having to worry about reordering.

What are the benefits of the BRITA filter subscription?

The BRITA Filter Subscription offers a convenient and cost-effective way to receive new filters on a regular basis. Compared to buying filters individually, you pay less per filter—with savings of up to 25%.

The subscription also makes changing filters easier: delivery is automatic, so there’s no need to reorder manually or make an extra trip to the store. This ensures you always have a fresh filter on hand.

Another benefit is the reduction in plastic bottles, as each BRITA filter cartridge replaces numerous water bottles. This can result in both financial and environmental benefits over time.

The BRITA Filter Subscription can be paused or canceled at any time and offers a flexible solution for a reliable water supply.

How can I pause my BRITA filter subscription?

Sometimes the timing just isn’t right. That’s why, after your first delivery, you have the option to pause your filter subscription for 1, 2, or 3 months. The next delivery will be postponed by the corresponding period.
To do this, follow these steps:

Log in to your MyBRITA account.
Go to the “Subscriptions” section.
Select the desired subscription, click on “Manage Subscription,” and then on “Pause Subscription.”
Choose a pause of 1, 2, or 3 months. The next delivery date will be displayed based on your selection.
Confirm by clicking “Pause Delivery.”

After the next delivery, you’ll have the option to pause your subscription delivery again.

Which BRITA filters and filter cartridges can I subscribe to?

The BRITA filter subscription is currently available for the following filters:

MAXTRA PRO Extra Limescale Protection and MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE
P 1000
MicroDisc
LARQ Filter Pack
ON TAP V and ON TAP Pro V-MF filter cartridges

When you sign up for a subscription, you’ll receive these filters at a discount compared to buying them individually.

How can I cancel my BRITA filter subscription?

You can easily cancel your BRITA filter subscription at any time through your MyBRITA account. To do so, follow these steps:

Log in to your MyBRITA account.
Go to the “Subscriptions” section.
Select the desired subscription and click “Cancel.”
Follow the instructions to confirm the cancellation.

After canceling, you will receive a confirmation email. Your subscription will then expire at the end of the current billing period, and no further deliveries will be made.

If you’d like to sign up for a subscription again later, you can do so at any time.

MAXTRA PRO filter cartridge

Does the MAXTRA PRO filter fit in all BRITA water filter jugs?

Yes. To make your life as easy as possible, the MAXTRA PRO filters are compatible with all BRITA water filter jugs, including those with PerfectFit feature.

What exactly can I use the MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE water filter for in everyday life?

The MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE water filter is perfect for everyday preparation and filtration of tap water. It provides soft, filtered, fresh tasting water and protects your valuable kitchen appliances from calcification.

At a glance:

• Aromatic tea and coffee
• Delicious cold drinks
• Fresh, filtered water for cooking
• Appliance protection and limescale reduction

Can I use my MAXTRA PRO LIMESCALE EXPERT water filter for both hot and cold water?

With the MAXTRA PRO LIMESCALE EXPERT filter you can prepare both delicious hot and cold drinks. The filter is particularly suitable for areas where the tap water is hard to very hard.

Please note: the official advice for boiling tap water also applies to BRITA filtered water. The rule is: filter first, then boil!

What exactly can I use the MAXTRA PRO LIMESCALE EXPERT water filter for in everyday life?

The MAXTRA PRO LIMESCALE EXPERT water filter is ideal for achieving a fuller flavour in tea and coffee. The filter also reliably protects household appliances from limescale build-up (50 % better limescale protection compared to MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE). It is therefore designed for hard to very hard water areas.

At a glance:

• Aromatic tea and coffee
• Best appliance protection and limescale reduction
• Suitable for very hard water areas
• Fresh, filtered water for cooking

How long can I use my MAXTRA PRO water filter cartridge once it has been used?

To always enjoy freshly filtered water with BRITA, you should change the water filter cartridge at regular intervals.

The service life of a filter cartridge depends on the local water quality. If your tap water has a hardness level of 10 -12° dH, the water filter cartridge should be replaced after 150 litres of water. If the water is harder or the water consumption is higher, the life of the filter cartridge will be shortened accordingly.

The water filter cartridge should be replaced at least every 4 weeks.

What is the BRITA PerfectFit System?

BRITA PerfectFit ensures that your BRITA water filter fits perfectly into your BRITA water filter jug so it can filter all the tap water reliably through the filter. The water will only run through your water filter jug if a BRITA MAXTRA PRO water filter is firmly and correctly inserted.

What are the black particles in my water after filtering?

It's just activated carbon from your BRITA water filter. The granulated activated carbon is made of coconut shells. Like all natural products, coconut shells are subject to natural variations in product quality. Sometimes this leads to abrasion of parts of the carbon into your filtered water. Preparing your water filter as described in the product manual can help eliminate this dust.

The inside of my filter cartridge is damp. What should I do?

Don’t worry, it’s completely normal. Whether it’s damp or dry has no effect on the water filter’s performance.

My tap water is not flowing through my MAXTRA PRO water filter properly or only dripping? What has happened?

A) You have not used an original BRITA MAXTRA PRO water filter.
B) You have not fully inserted the MAXTRA PRO water filter into your water filter jug. Please press the filter down a little more into the funnel and try again.
C) You have not prepared your MAXTRA PRO cartridge as per the instructions on pack.

How can I download the refill exchange reminder?

Scan the QR code from the packaging with your smartphone. For Android devices, the installation of a QR code app may be required.
Your calendar opens with a 4 weekly calendar entry for the filter exchange. Simply save the BRITA calendar entry to your calendar. Your calendar will now remind you every 4 weeks to replace your filter.

Why are there two different MAXTRA PRO water filters? How does the refill exchange reminder work? Which one should I use for my tap water?

To meet your personal water needs even more individually, BRITA has developed two different water filters.

The MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE water filter is recommended for soft and hard water areas and offers the best taste experience. It effectively reduces chlorine, herbicides, pesticides and pharmaceutical residues, if present in the water. It reduces metals such as lead and copper, as well as particles from pipes. It moderately reduces water hardness and is ideal for your daily hydration.

The MAXTRA PRO LIMESCALE EXPERT is recommended for hard and very hard water areas and offers the ultimate limescale protection. It provides 50 % better limescale reduction compared to the MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE water filter and protects your kettle and coffee maker from limescale build-up. It retains particles from the pipes, reduces chlorine and substances that affect the taste, look and smell of your tap water. Your tea and coffee will therefore have a fuller flavour.

Which MAXTRA PRO water filter is included when buying a BRITA water filter jug?

The standard package of a BRITA water filter jug usually includes a free MAXTRA PRO PURE PERFORMANCE filter. Please check your local product packaging to see which water filter is included for your area.

BRITA LARQ Filter

How does the BRITA LARQ filter work?

The BRITA LARQ filter features activated carbon, a blend of granulated carbon and carbon fiber, which effectively reduces PFAS *, chlorine, and trace impurities such as certain pesticides, herbicides, and hormones ** ***.

* PFAS such as PFOS/PFOA (forever chemicals). Tested in reference to NSF/ANSI 53.
** Tested in reference to NSF/ANSI 42, 53 & 401 standards
*** As far as contained in tap water

Are the ingredients of the BRITA LARQ filter food-safe?

Of course! You can be sure that all the ingredients in BRITA LARQ filters are food-safe.

Are unpleasant odours and flavors reduced by filtration?

Yes, the BRITA LARQ filter removes unpleasant odours and flavors from your water.

Can I also use another BRITA LARQ filter with the bottle?

No, only the BRITA LARQ filter can be used for the BRITA LARQ iQ bottle.

Does the filter have an expiration date?

If you store them correctly, all original BRITA LARQ filters can be kept for several years. Correct storage means that they are stored at temperatures between 1 °C and 50 °C and are not exposed to direct sunlight or heat. You should keep the cartridge sealed in its original packaging.

How can I check the remaining filter life time?

The filter life time can be checked at any time in the BRITA app.

How do I clean the BRITA LARQ filter upgrade kit?

Before cleaning, remove the filter and place it on a clean surface while you clean. Rinse the straw (including the adapter) and the filter module regularly with a mild detergent under warm water, or wash the components in the dishwasher.

How do I dispose of the BRITA LARQ filter?

Please dispose of the LARQ filter responsibly, following local guidelines. Ensure the BRITA LARQ filter remains unopened.

How do I prepare my BRITA LARQ filter for use?

How to use the BRITA LARQ filter with your BRITA LARQ Essential/BRITA LARQ iQ bottle:

Remove the previous filter from the BRITA LARQ bottle.
Remove the foil packaging from the new filter.
Hold your BRITA LARQ filter under clean tap water for 10 seconds.
Insert the BRITA LARQ filter into the pod and close the pod.
Insert the pod with the straw (inclusive adapter) into the bottle.
Fill up with cold or room temperature water (leave some space for water displacement).
Twist the lid on the bottle to close it.
Take a sip and enjoy clean, filtered water!

How long can I leave water with a BRITA LARQ filter?

In general, water should not be left to stand for too long, as germs can form. This also applies to BRITA filtered water - like any drink, it is a foodstuff. The exact period depends on various factors such as the temperature. However, you should not leave water outside the fridge for longer than a day.

How often does the BRITA LARQ filter need to be replaced?

The BRITA LARQ filter should be replaced every 150 litres or about 2 months.

What contaminants will the BRITA LARQ filter remove?

The BRITA LARQ filter improves taste and reduces PFAS*, smallest particulates, chlorine and trace impurities such as certain pesticides, herbicides and hormones** ***

*PFAS such as PFOS/PFOA (forever chemicals). Tested in reference to NSF/ANSI 53
**Tested in reference to NSF/ANSI 42, 53 & 401 standards
***As far as contained in tap water

What is the BRITA LARQ filter made out of?

The BRITA LARQ filter has two types of carbon - carbon fiber and carbon particle. Carbon particle is derived from coconut and carbon fiber is derived from plant cellulose.

Will the minerals remain in the water that has been filtered with the filter in my BRITA LARQ iQ bottle?

Yes, minerals are retained with the BRITA LARQ filter. It was developed to filter out unwanted substances (e.g. chlorine or microparticles) and ensure that minerals (e.g. calcium and magnesium) are retained.

BRITA MicroDisc

How does the BRITA MicroDisc work? What does the BRITA MicroDisc consist of?

The BRITA MicroDisc uses Pure-Taste-Technology to effectively filter unwanted substances while allowing minerals to pass through.

The main ingredient of the BRITA MicroDisc is fine grained activated carbon made from natural coconut shells that contains a highly porous structure. This porous structure has a very large inner surface with millions of tiny pores that trap and lock away unwanted substances such as chlorine and other taste impairing substances, as well as micro particles (≥ 15 μm). The result is fresh and pure-tasting water.

To create the solid disc of the MicroDisc, a fleece and a small amount of a binder is required to bind the granulated activated carbon together. All ingredients of the BRITA MicroDisc have been tested to food-grade quality.

How to dispose of the BRITA MicroDisc?

Dispose of used MicroDiscs in your general waste. Although the BRITA MicroDisc has a high amount of biobased ingredients a small fraction is non-biobased and this is why the MicroDisc is not compostable.

How long can I use a BRITA MicroDisc?

For optimal performance and hygiene reasons we recommend to exchange your BRITA MicroDisc after four weeks. We can help remind you to exchange your MicroDisc:

For the water filter bottles, simply download the BRITA refill reminder app for your smartphone by scanning the QR code on the packaging.

For the water filter carafe, either activate the Memo on the lid of the carafe, which monitors the lifetime of the MicroDisc, or download the BRITA refill reminder app to your smartphone by scanning the QR code from the packaging.

Are lime and metals also filtered?

We at BRITA have specifically designed the MicroDisc filter for lime-containing beverages. It reduces chlorine and other taste- and odor-disturbing substances as well as microparticles ≥ 15 μm. Since minerals like calcium and magnesium are intentionally not filtered out, and they are important for the formation of lime, the water filter cannot reduce lime. Neither does it filter metals like copper and chlorine. For this, we recommend our popular BRITA table water filters with MAXTRA Pro cartridges, for example.

Woman in office with laptop helds a beige BRITA LARQ water filter bottle.

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