PUR Plus Pitcher Review

The PUR Plus Pitcher is one of the most popular water filtration pitchers on the market, and for good reason. It is affordable, easy to use, and improves the taste of tap water significantly. But is it the right choice for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest review.

Design and Build Quality

The PUR Plus Pitcher has a simple, functional design. It holds 7 cups of water total, with about 5 cups of filtered water ready to drink. The body is made of BPA-free plastic, which is sturdy enough for daily use. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the spout pours cleanly without dripping.

The lid is a common complaint among users. It fits snugly when new, but some buyers report that it becomes loose over time or cracks if dropped. The filter is inserted into a compartment in the reservoir, and it stays in place well. The filter has a small sticker that you can write the change date on, which is a handy feature.

One thing to note is that the pitcher is not the most compact option. It measures about 10.5 inches tall and wide, so it takes up a fair amount of space in the fridge. If you have limited shelf space, you might want to measure your fridge before buying.

Filtration Performance

The PUR Plus filter uses activated carbon and ion exchange to reduce chlorine, lead, mercury, copper, zinc, and other contaminants. It is certified by NSF International to meet standards for these reductions. In real-world use, most buyers notice a significant improvement in taste and odor, especially if their tap water has a strong chlorine smell.

However, it is important to understand what this filter does not do. It does not remove dissolved solids like calcium, magnesium, or total dissolved solids (TDS). If you have hard water, you may still see mineral deposits in your kettle or coffee maker. For that, you would need a reverse osmosis system or a ZeroWater pitcher, which uses a different technology.

The filter life is rated at 40 gallons or two months. This is longer than many competitors, such as the Brita Grand, which typically lasts 40 gallons as well but is often replaced monthly. The longer life means you replace filters less often, which can save money in the long run.

Ease of Use

Using the PUR Plus Pitcher is straightforward. You fill the top reservoir with tap water, and it filters down into the bottom chamber. The flow rate is decent, taking about 10 to 15 minutes to filter a full pitcher. Some users find this a bit slow, but it is typical for gravity-fed pitchers.

Pouring is easy, and the handle is ergonomic. The spout is designed to minimize drips, which is a nice touch. The filter change process is simple: remove the old filter, soak the new one in water for 15 minutes, rinse it, and insert it. Then run two pitchers of water through before drinking.

The filter indicator is a simple sticker, not an electronic light. Some users prefer an electronic indicator, but the sticker is reliable if you remember to write the date. You can also set a reminder on your phone.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The pitcher body is top-rack dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning easy. The lid and filter are not dishwasher safe, so you need to hand wash the lid. The filter should never be washed or placed in the dishwasher.

To keep the pitcher in good condition, clean it every few weeks with mild soap and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the plastic. If you notice any mold or mildew, use a vinegar solution to clean the reservoir.

One issue some buyers report is that the filter can become clogged if you have very hard water, which slows the filtration rate. In that case, you may need to replace the filter more often or consider a pre-filter.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the PUR Plus Pitcher has mostly positive reviews, there are some recurring complaints. The most common is the lid: it can be flimsy and may not seal perfectly after heavy use. Some users also mention that the filter replacement cost adds up over time, especially if you change it every two months as recommended.

Another complaint is that the pitcher does not remove all impurities. If you are looking for a filter that removes fluoride or nitrates, this is not the right product. Also, the pitcher is not ideal for large families, as the 5-cup filtered capacity may not be enough for a day's drinking water.

Finally, some users find the filtration speed slow, especially if the filter is near the end of its life. This is not a defect, but it is something to be aware of.

Comparison with Alternatives

When compared to the Brita Grand Pitcher, the PUR Plus offers a longer filter life and a slightly better reduction of contaminants like lead. Brita filters are more widely available, but PUR filters are also easy to find. The ZeroWater Pitcher is a better choice if you want to remove TDS, but it is more expensive and requires frequent filter changes.

The Aquasana AQ-5300 is another alternative, but it is larger and more expensive. It uses a different filtration technology that reduces more contaminants, but it also costs more upfront and for filters.

Overall, the PUR Plus Pitcher is a balanced choice for most households. It is not the cheapest or the most advanced, but it offers good value for the price.

Value and Verdict

The PUR Plus Pitcher is a solid investment for improving your drinking water. It is affordable, easy to use, and effective at reducing common contaminants. The filter life is longer than many competitors, which lowers the ongoing cost.

If you are looking for a simple, reliable water pitcher, the PUR Plus is a great option. Just be aware of its limitations and make sure it fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the PUR Plus filter?

PUR recommends replacing the filter every 40 gallons or every two months, whichever comes first. If you have a large family, you may need to change it more frequently. The filter has a sticker that you can write the date on to remind you.

Does the PUR Plus pitcher remove lead?

Yes, the PUR Plus filter is certified to reduce lead, along with other contaminants like mercury and copper. However, it is not designed to remove all heavy metals or dissolved solids, so if you have specific water quality concerns, check the certification data or consider a different system.

Can I put the PUR Plus pitcher in the dishwasher?

The pitcher body is top-rack dishwasher safe, but the lid and filter are not. Wash the lid by hand with mild soap and water. The filter should never be washed or placed in the dishwasher.

How do I know when to replace the filter?

PUR includes a sticker on the filter that you can write the change date on. Some models have a small indicator light on the filter that turns from green to red when it is time to replace. If not, keep track of the date or use a reminder on your phone.

Is the PUR Plus pitcher BPA-free?

Yes, the pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic. The filter housing is also BPA-free. This is a standard feature for most modern water pitchers.