Best Water Filters for Microplastics UK (2026)
72% of UK tap water contains microplastics. Here's how to remove them.
Waterdrop Day Sale — up to £800 off RO systems (23–26 June)
Key Takeaways
- Reverse osmosis removes 99%+ of ALL microplastics and nanoplastics
- Carbon block filters (under 1 micron) remove larger microplastics at lower cost
- Bottled water is worse - contains 22x more microplastics than tap water
- Budget option from £59 - premium RO systems from £399
Looking for the best water filter for microplastics? You're in the right place. This guide covers the best microplastic water filters available in the UK — from budget carbon blocks at £59 to full reverse osmosis systems that remove microplastics and nanoplastics down to 0.0001 microns. Every filter here is NSF-certified and tested against UK tap water. We also cover PFAS removal, because most people searching for a water filter to remove microplastics want protection from forever chemicals too.
Let me be direct: microplastics are in your tap water. A 2018 study found 72% of UK tap water samples contained microplastic particles. These tiny plastic fragments (under 5mm) come from packaging breakdown, synthetic clothing fibres, and industrial processes. Bottled water is worse — it contains 22x more microplastics than tap. So what filter removes microplastics? A carbon block filter (0.5 micron) handles the larger particles. A reverse osmosis system removes 99%+ of all microplastics and nanoplastics. Here's exactly what works and what doesn't.
The health effects of microplastics are still being studied, but early research links them to inflammation, oxidative stress, and potential hormone disruption. If you're concerned (and I think you should be), these are the filters that actually work — with prices, certifications, and honest limitations.
Read next: Best water filters UK 2026 · Best lead removal filters · Best PFAS filters UK · Certifications explained
Best Value: Waterdrop 10UA
Waterdrop 10UA Under Sink Filter
£59.48
NSF 42/53 certified carbon block filter with 0.5 micron pore size. Removes chlorine, lead, VOCs, and microplastics larger than 0.5 microns. Won't remove nanoplastics (under 1 micron), but handles most microplastic contamination at a fraction of RO cost.
Best Pitcher: LifeStraw Home Glass
LifeStraw Home Glass Water Filter Pitcher
£64.95
Most pitchers can't touch microplastics — they rely on carbon which doesn't catch particles that small. LifeStraw is different: a 0.2-micron hollow-fibre membrane physically blocks microplastics (which are typically 1–5000 microns). It's the same membrane technology used in their survival straws. Also removes bacteria (NSF P231), lead (NSF 53), and chlorine (NSF 42). Glass body eliminates microplastic leaching from the container itself.
Limitation: Gravity-fed so it's slow (5–10 min to fill). 7-cup capacity. Carbon filter needs replacing every 2 months (~£15). Won't remove dissolved chemicals like fluoride. For whole-kitchen microplastics protection, the Waterdrop 10UA or G3P600 below are better — but for a no-installation pitcher, this is the only one I'd trust for microplastics.
Best Overall: Waterdrop G3P600
Waterdrop G3P600 Reverse Osmosis System
£399
Tankless RO system with 0.0001 micron membrane. Removes 99%+ of ALL microplastics AND nanoplastics - the only technology that catches the smallest particles. Also removes PFAS, lead, fluoride, arsenic, and virtually every other contaminant.
The G3P800 adds UV sterilisation and 10-stage filtration. Full comparison →
Microplastics Removal: Filter Types Compared
| Filter Type | Pore Size | Microplastics | Nanoplastics | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reverse Osmosis | 0.0001 micron | 99%+ | 99%+ | £200-500 |
| Carbon Block (fine) | 0.5-1 micron | Most (>1μm) | No | £50-150 |
| LifeStraw Glass (membrane) | 0.2 micron | Yes (>0.2µm) | Partial | £65 |
| Standard Jug (Brita etc.) | 20-50 micron | Some large only | No | £20-40 |
| Boiling | N/A | No effect | No effect | Free |
Don't Switch to Bottled Water
If you're worried about microplastics, bottled water is NOT the answer. A 2018 study found bottled water contains an average of 325 microplastic particles per litre - compared to just 14.8 in tap water. That's 22x more microplastics. The plastic bottles themselves shed particles into the water, especially when stored in warm conditions. Filtered tap water is the safest option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do water filters remove microplastics?
Yes, certain water filters effectively remove microplastics. Reverse osmosis systems remove 99%+ of microplastics. Activated carbon block filters with pore sizes under 1 micron can remove larger microplastics (5+ microns). Look for NSF 401 certification which tests for emerging contaminants including microplastics.
Are there microplastics in UK tap water?
Yes. Studies have found microplastics in UK tap water, though at lower levels than bottled water. A 2018 study found 72% of UK tap water samples contained microplastics. The main sources are plastic packaging breakdown, synthetic clothing fibres, and industrial processes. UK water treatment removes some but not all microplastics.
What size filter removes microplastics?
Microplastics range from 1 micron to 5mm. To remove most microplastics, you need a filter with pore size under 1 micron. Reverse osmosis membranes (0.0001 microns) remove virtually all microplastics. Carbon block filters typically have 0.5-1 micron pores, removing larger microplastics but not nanoplastics.
Is bottled water better than tap water for microplastics?
No - bottled water typically contains MORE microplastics than tap water. A 2018 study found bottled water contained 22x more microplastics than tap water on average. The plastic bottles themselves shed particles into the water, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight. Filtered tap water is the best option.
A Simple Guide to Which Filter Type Usually Suits Which Concern
A simple guide to which filter type usually suits which concern.
Jug Filters
Typical price: £20-40Best for improving chlorine taste and odour, with no installation needed.
Under-Sink Carbon Filters
Typical price: £80-150A good middle-ground option for better taste, odour, sediment, and some chemical reduction.
Multi-Stage Under-Sink Systems
Typical price: £150-300Designed for broader reduction, but performance varies by model and certification.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
Typical price: £200-400Best for broader contaminant reduction, including concerns about lead, PFAS, fluoride, and microplastics.
Whole-House Systems
Typical price: £500-2000+Best for protecting appliances and treating water throughout the home, rather than just at one drinking tap.
Most UK homes do well with a simple under-sink carbon filter or a reverse osmosis system, depending on the concern. If you are worried about lead pipes or broader contaminant reduction, start by comparing certified under-sink and RO options carefully.
About Keith
Mechanical engineer with 24 years of water filtration experience
Keith has spent over two decades working with water filtration systems. His engineering background and hands-on experience with water quality testing provide the technical foundation for Filter Authority's practical, evidence-based guidance.
Read full bio and methodologyRelated Reading
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