Brita (company)

Brita is a brand name associated primarily with water filtration products. These products are designed for home use and include water filter pitchers, faucet water filters, and reusable water bottles with integrated filters. The core function of Brita products is to reduce impurities such as chlorine, lead, copper, mercury, and cadmium from tap water, improving its taste and odor.

The company was founded in 1966 in Germany by Heinz Hankammer. Initially, Hankammer aimed to provide better tasting water for his family. The business grew, expanding its product line and market reach internationally. Brita entered the North American market in the 1980s.

Brita products employ activated carbon and ion-exchange resin filters. Activated carbon absorbs impurities while the ion-exchange resin attracts and traps certain metals. Filter lifespan varies depending on the product and water quality, requiring periodic replacement.

Brita is now a subsidiary of The Clorox Company, which acquired the brand in 2000. The company emphasizes sustainability and offers recycling programs for used filters in certain regions. These programs aim to minimize the environmental impact associated with filter disposal.

Beyond residential water filtration, Brita also produces professional-grade filtration systems for commercial applications. These larger systems cater to businesses and institutions seeking purified water solutions. The brand is widely recognized and distributed in many countries.