Tap water is available everywhere in the UK, but its taste, limescale content and the condition of your pipes vary from one area and one home to another. A BRITA MAXTRA PRO filter cartridge can be a great way to improve the taste of your water, reduce some limescale deposits and cut down on buying bottled water.
But you need to choose the right model. With names like Pure Performance and All-in-1, packs of two or four cartridges, and reinforced versions for hard water, the differences aren't always obvious.
BRITA has changed the names of its cartridges. On some packaging, ALL-IN-1 becomes PURE PERFORMANCE, with the manufacturer stating the technology is identical. However, it's best not to rely solely on the picture on the box.
Check your jug model, especially if it uses the PerfectFit system. MAXTRA PRO cartridges are generally designed for newer BRITA jugs, while older Classic systems may need a different refill.
A cartridge is typically rated for up to 4 weeks or 150 litres, whichever comes first, depending on usage. A single person might be fine with a two-pack. But a family filtering water for drinking, cooking, tea and coffee will get through their stock much faster.
The price shown isn't enough to compare offers. Work out the cost per cartridge and the total duration the pack covers.
A filter jug mainly improves taste and can reduce certain elements mentioned on the product sheet, such as chlorine, limescale, copper or lead. It does not make non-potable water safe to drink and cannot replace a system designed to treat local contamination.
To find out the composition of your local water supply, check the official results available from your local council or the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Only use cold tap water that is considered safe to drink.
Find the exact model of your jug: Marella, Aluna, Style, Flow or another BRITA model. The words "compatible MAXTRA PRO" should be clearly shown on the packaging or product page. For a jug from another brand, a compatible BRITA cartridge may not be suitable.
PerfectFit systems are designed to hold the refill securely in place and ensure a steady flow. If in doubt, compare the shape of your old cartridge with the dimensions and manufacturer's instructions.
According to BRITA, the BRITA MAXTRA PRO Pure Performance cartridge combines activated carbon from coconut shells with an ion-exchange resin. Its multi-stage filtration aims to reduce the taste of chlorine, limescale and certain impurities.
If your water is particularly hard, a BRITA anti-limescale cartridge from the Extra Limescale Protection range may be more suitable for protecting your kettle or coffee machine. But don't choose it just for the name: check the water hardness in your area and what you'll be using it for.
A BRITA water filter refill must be replaced by the end of the stated period, even if the maximum volume hasn't been reached. Filtered water is best consumed on the day it's made if kept at room temperature. In the fridge, follow the instructions in your model's manual.
Before first use, submerge the cartridge in cold water, let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse it as instructed. Clean the jug regularly and never filter hot water, milk or juice.
Why this choice suits this profile: Two cartridges cover up to eight weeks depending on how much you use, for a limited initial outlay.
The smaller pack means you don't have to store several refills before you've checked compatibility with your jug.
A four-stage filtration system, up to 150 litres per cartridge and compatibility with BRITA jugs fitted with the right system.
Why this choice suits this profile: The four-pack gives you a supply covering up to sixteen weeks, based on a replacement every four weeks.
The duration is clear from the start, which reduces last-minute orders and running out of refills.
Activated carbon and an ion-exchange resin according to the product sheet, with 50% bio-based plastic as stated by the manufacturer.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its total capacity of 3.5 litres is ideal for families who want to refill their jug less often.
The total volume is clearly distinguished from the actual filtered amount – something to check before comparing this jug with a more compact model.
A total capacity of 3.5 litres, an electronic memo and a cartridge rated for four weeks or 150 litres.
If you already own a BRITA filter jug, a Pure Performance, All-in-1 or anti-limescale refill may be all you need. To lower the unit price, also compare packs of four or six cartridges, such as the MAXTRA PRO All-in-1 6-pack.
A countertop or under-sink water filter works differently: it takes up more space, requires different maintenance and uses specific filters. Reverse osmosis systems, for example, are not compatible with BRITA refills. This option should be compared separately, taking into account the purchase price, installation and filter replacement costs.
We've put together an up-to-date selection of products that meet practical criteria for compatibility, maintenance and everyday use.
The stated lifespan is generally four weeks or 150 litres, whichever comes first. High consumption, hard water or heavy use may mean you need to replace it more often.
Yes. Activate it in cold water, install it in the jug, then follow the instructions for the first rinse cycles. The water from these initial cycles should be discarded.
It is suitable for current BRITA models designed for MAXTRA PRO and PerfectFit, but not necessarily for Classic systems. Check your jug model before buying a refill or pack of filter cartridges.