WIRED Tests Shower Filters: Rorra Named Best, Curo Praised for Low Plastic Use
Technology outlet WIRED has released its 2026 test of the best shower filters, naming the Rorra filter as the overall winner and highlighting the Curo model for its minimal plastic construction.
WIRED journalists conducted extensive testing of shower filters, evaluating their effectiveness at removing chlorine and chloramine from water. The test included seven leading models and several honorable mentions.
Top Pick The Rorra Filtered Showerhead was named the overall winner, capable of reducing total chlorine to undetectable levels even in chloramine-treated systems. Its filters are easy to replace without removing the fixture, and replacement costs $45 every three months.
Low-Plastic Alternative The Curo shower wand stands out for using significantly less plastic than competitors. Its three-layer filter also reduced total chlorine to undetectable levels in tests. However, US consumers should note that Curo is a handheld showerhead without an adapter for American pipes. The unit itself is cheaper, but replacement cartridges are more expensive at around $45 every three months.
Other Notable Models The Weddell Duo inline filter is NSF-certified to remove chlorine and lead, with replacement costing $25–$30. Canopy models offer good value: both the original and mini versions reduce chlorine to undetectable levels initially, but efficacy drops by half after three months. Canopy boasts the easiest installation.
Honorable Mentions The most expensive test – HigherDose Red Light Shower Filter ($599) – includes red light therapy, but its effectiveness is difficult to assess and the company did not share independent lab data. The Boroux inline filter removes about 98% of chloramine, but performance halves after three months. Afina A-01 and Filterbaby Diamond Series filter chlorine to undetectable levels, though Afina lacks independent tests. Sproos has recyclable filters and removed most chlorine in testing. Hydroviv reduces chlorine to undetectable levels initially but shows significant efficacy loss after four months.
Special Mentions ShowerClear is not a filter but a showerhead that can be opened and cleaned internally to prevent potentially infectious mycobacteria growth. Croix is effective for free chlorine but not chloramine systems. Aquasana inline filter works and has lab data, but weak spray pressure and leakage tendencies.
WIRED notes that consumers should consider both initial costs and filter replacement frequency and price, as well as the availability of independent testing.
