More and more shower heads have a built-in filter, and separate shower filters are gaining popularity too. But does such a filter actually make sense in the Netherlands? The honest answer: it depends on your water and on where you shower. In this guide we set out what a shower filter does and does not do.
What is in Dutch tap water?
Let's start with the good news: Dutch tap water is among the best in the world and is strictly monitored. It is also normally made without chlorine, so on that point there is nothing to filter out. In the Netherlands, a shower filter is therefore not a safety measure. The real difference lies in the hardness of the water: the amount of dissolved lime varies by region. The harder the water, the more limescale in your bathroom. In addition, loose particles such as rust can sometimes end up in the water, for example through older pipes.
How does an 8-stage shower filter work?
An 8-stage filter, like the one in the Besjaar shower heads with filter, lets the water flow through several filter layers, including calcium sulfite, maifan stone and ceramic balls. These layers hold back particles, such as rust and lime particles from pipes, and break down free chlorine – without giving up pressure. What a filter does not do: remove dissolved limescale from the water. The water flows through the filter far too quickly for that, and in an independent test no shower filter lowered water hardness. So your water does not become softer.
When is a shower filter worth it?
A shower filter is especially worthwhile in one of these situations: you travel or live where the tap water is chlorinated, such as in Belgium, France and Spain, or in a holiday home; you want to hold back loose particles from your shower water; or you simply like the 10 spray modes and the pause button of the Besjaar shower head with filter. Mainly seeing limescale spots on your shower head, tiles or shower screen? A filter won't help with that, but descaling will: read descaling your shower head: vinegar or citric acid? Do you have hard water throughout the house and limescale everywhere? Then a water softener is the only real solution. Read water softener or shower filter?
When is it of little use?
Do you live in a region with soft water and have no complaints? Then a shower filter is mainly a luxury upgrade and the difference will be small. For most Dutch households, a filter makes little difference for skin and hair: there is normally no chlorine in the water and a filter does not make the water softer. Some people find filtered water more pleasant, but that is a personal experience and not a promise. An honest story is part of it: a shower filter is not a miracle cure and not a medical treatment.
How long does a filter last?
A Besjaar filter cartridge lasts 3 to 5 months, depending on how often you shower; with the set of two cartridges you are covered for up to ten months. Replacing it takes no tools with the refill set with two cartridges.
Conclusion: worth it or not?
For most Dutch households, a shower filter is not necessary: Dutch tap water normally contains no chlorine and a filter does not make the water softer. It can make sense if you travel or live where the water is chlorinated, or simply for the convenience of a shower head with 10 spray modes and a pause button. You tackle limescale by descaling or, with hard water throughout the house, with a water softener. Want to try it? Take a look at the Besjaar Shower Head with Filter or the complete collection of shower heads.