The basic steps to swap out your old filter
Replacing a Brita filter takes about five minutes and requires no tools. You turn off the water supply to the pitcher or dispenser, press or twist the old filter out of its housing, rinse the new filter under cold water for 15 seconds, insert it into the same housing, and turn the water back on. The exact motion—twist or press—depends on which Brita model you own, but the principle is identical across all of them.
Most people get stuck on one detail: whether to soak the new filter first. You do not need to. Rinsing it under running water for 15 seconds removes loose carbon dust and is all that's required. Soaking was recommended in older Brita instructions but is no longer necessary with current filters.
Key Takeaways
- New Brita filters need only a 15-second rinse under cold water before installation—soaking is not required.
- Turn off the water supply at the pitcher or dispenser before removing the old filter to avoid spills and pressure buildup.
- The filter housing is located under the pitcher lid or inside the dispenser tank, depending on your model.
- After inserting the new filter, run water through the pitcher or dispenser for 30 seconds to clear any remaining carbon particles.
Locating the filter housing on your model
On a standard Brita pitcher, the filter sits in a plastic housing under the lid. Lift the lid off the pitcher and look inside the top—you will see a cylindrical cartridge hanging down from the underside of the lid. That cartridge is the filter housing. On Brita dispensers (the larger models that sit in your refrigerator), the filter housing is usually mounted on the inside wall of the tank, toward the back or bottom. Check your model's manual or the Brita website if you cannot locate it; the housing is always white or gray plastic and roughly the size of a marker.
Some older Brita models have the filter mounted horizontally rather than vertically. The principle is the same—find the cylindrical cartridge—but the removal motion may differ. If you are unsure which direction to turn or press, the housing itself usually has arrows molded into the plastic showing the correct direction.
Removing the old filter without mess
Before you touch the old filter, turn off the water supply. On a pitcher, this means closing the valve on the intake tube (the small plastic tube that hangs into the water reservoir). On a dispenser, locate the water line connection at the back or bottom of the unit and turn the shut-off valve clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from flowing into the tank while you work and stops pressure from building up inside the housing.
Once the water is off, grip the old filter firmly and either twist it counterclockwise or press it straight down, depending on your model. Most Brita filters twist out, but some press-fit models require downward pressure. The filter will come free with a small amount of resistance—this is normal. Have a small bowl or cup ready to catch any water that drips from the housing. Empty the pitcher or dispenser of standing water first if you want to avoid a larger spill.
Preparing and installing the new filter
Unwrap your new Brita filter and hold it under cold running water for about 15 seconds. Rotate it gently under the stream so water flows over the entire surface. You will see some black carbon dust wash away—this is expected and harmless. Do not use hot water, and do not soak the filter in a bowl; running water is sufficient and faster.
Insert the new filter into the housing by reversing the removal motion. If you twisted the old one out, twist the new one in clockwise until it stops. If you pressed the old one down, press the new one up into the housing until it clicks or seats firmly. Do not force it; it should slide into place with gentle, steady pressure. Once it is seated, turn the water supply back on—close the shut-off valve counterclockwise on a dispenser, or open the intake valve on a pitcher.
Running water through the new filter
After the water is back on, let water flow through the pitcher or dispenser for about 30 seconds before you drink from it. This flushes out any remaining carbon particles and ensures the filter is seated correctly. On a pitcher, pour water from the pitcher into a sink or cup and discard it. On a dispenser, press the dispense button and let water run into a cup for 30 seconds, then discard it. The water may look slightly cloudy or gray during this flush—this is normal and will clear after a few seconds.
If water does not flow at all after you turn the supply back on, the filter may not be seated properly. Turn the supply off again, remove the filter, and reinstall it, making sure it clicks or seats all the way into the housing. If water still does not flow, the filter may be defective; contact Brita's customer service with your receipt and they will send a replacement.
When to replace your filter
Brita filters are designed to last 40 gallons of water, which is roughly two to three months for an average household. Most Brita pitchers and dispensers have a small electronic indicator on the lid or tank that counts down as you pour water. When the indicator turns red or displays a "replace filter" message, it is time to swap it out. If your model does not have an indicator, mark the installation date on the filter itself with a permanent marker so you know when to replace it.
Do not wait until water stops flowing or tastes bad to replace the filter. A clogged filter still removes some contaminants but becomes less effective over time. Replacing it on schedule ensures you get the full benefit of the filtration system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to soak the new filter before using it?
No. A 15-second rinse under cold running water is all that is needed. Soaking was recommended in older Brita instructions but is no longer required with current filters. Rinsing removes loose carbon dust and is faster and more effective.
What if water leaks from the housing after I install the new filter?
The filter is not seated properly. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and reinstall it, pushing or twisting firmly until it clicks or stops. Make sure the rubber seal inside the housing is clean and not cracked. If leaking continues, the seal may be damaged and you may need to contact Brita for a replacement housing.
Can I use the pitcher or dispenser while the new filter is flushing?
You can, but it is better to discard the first 30 seconds of water. The initial flush clears carbon particles that may affect taste. After that, the water is safe to drink, though some people prefer to run a full pitcher through before using it.
How do I know which Brita filter to buy for my model?
Check the model number on your pitcher or dispenser—it is usually printed on the bottom or back. Search that model number on the Brita website or on the retailer's site where you buy filters. Brita makes different filter types for different models, so matching the model number ensures you get the right one.
What should I do with the old filter?
Brita filters contain activated carbon and plastic and should not go in the regular trash in most areas. Check your local recycling program—many accept Brita filters through mail-back programs or at retail locations. Brita's website has a recycling locator tool that shows drop-off points near you.