I drink two fluids – water and tea, which is mostly water. We all need water and safe, healthy, convenient water doesn’t come in a plastic bottle.

According to EndBottledWater.com, our landfills are overflowing with over 26 billion plastic bottles from water every year.  Aside from the negative effects of BPA that could come from ingesting water from plastic bottles, the manufacturing and disposal of these containers are stressful on our environment and natural resources.

I would love to have a great whole-house system, but we’re not there yet. I have a Brita filter container for the fridge and frequently refill my stainless steel containers, but recently, I’ve had the opportunity to review a few amazing personal water purification systems. See what I’ve discovered . . .

Restore Clear Water System
This counter-top, pitcher system uses a double filtration method.  Using a UV Clean Technology in addition to a more traditional charcoal filter, this clever pitcher removes bacteria, viruses and microbial cysts (ick) all while reducing heavy metals, chlorine (taste and odor), and some industrial and agricultural pollutants. For about $100, it is a reasonable investment that is easy to use (once you get used to the process).

Clean Water on the Road . . .

Wellness H2O
A personal, reusable water bottle AND filter system. This bottle is made of BPA-free plastic and has a 22 oz. capacity. The filter is good for one year or 150 gallons.  They are on a serious campaign to eliminate the need for water bottles and claim one bottles replaces 1100 plastic water bottles – that’s a lot of plastic and about $1000. Not bad for a $29 investment.

Ech20 by EcoUsable
Taking stainless steel water bottles to the next level, these bottles come with their own amazing filter! The BPA-free filter insert removes 99.9% of pollutants, including biological (ick again). The Ionic-Adsorption Micro-Filtration System allows you to refill with confidence almost anywhere. The filter is good for one year or 100 gallons. A great deal for $39.

AquaSafe Straw
This super straw removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria including pseudomonas, escherichia coli, staphylococcus, and fecal coliforms, plus parasitic contamination by cryptosporidium, and giardia – YIKES! It is designed for travel and is promoted for water safety in the event of disaster. Chemical-free, this slightly large straw seems worth owning at $44.95.

The Wellness Wand 
Not a straw, but a filter of sorts only slightly bigger than an average pen, this magic water wand removes chlorine and other harmful free radicals from tap water. A great device to keep in your pocket or purse for restaurant dining. It really does improve the nasty taste of some chlorinated water. A good stocking stuffer @ $30.

Remember, drink responsibly.

eat. blog. be merry!
gd meg