Pitcher Filtration

Studying. The act of learning outside of the classroom. The concentrating on information in a way that allows your brain to soak it in and grow. The opening of a book and sitting near it while you text, eat, scroll social media, catch up on a show … wait. Not that last bit. But often, isn’t that what happens to us all? It’s incredibly difficult to have the discipline and attention for an effective study session. Making the learning process extra painful. Why can’t you just focus? It seems so simple.

And sometimes, it’s as simple as remembering that your study focus is tied to your overall wellness. Things like sleeping, eating right, and exercising are all simple efforts that increase how captivated you are by studying. But often we overlook the thing that’s all around and in us: water. With bodies that are made up of approximately 75% water, it’s the basic foundation that keeps everything functioning at peak performance.

If water’s the thing that’s getting between you and an easier time studying, let’s tackle some of the common concerns with taste, safety and expense.

Taste

If you’ve avoided water because it doesn’t excite your taste buds, there are a few simple options for adding zing to your H2O. Obviously, lots of products exist for quick flavored water. But if you have certain preferences, try infusing your water with fruits or vegetables like oranges, strawberries or cucumbers to create a natural and refreshing beverage. Want an option you can make ahead? Put that ice tray to good use by freezing herbs like mint in ice cubes, or filling the tray with a strong flavored natural fruit juice like cranberry or pomegranate. Pop ‘em out of the freezer and create an extra cold and flavor-forward drink of water.

Safety

You’re aware that our water tables are at risk of being tainted by any number of contaminants ranging from pesticides to pharmaceuticals. Not to mention the journey your water takes from the treatment plant to your faucet opens up ample opportunity for more harmful exposures. If this is your concern, there’s an option that can help you feel more confident in the water you drink. Water filtration systems like the line of pitchers developed by PUR represent leading and certified filtration technology.

Cost

At typically $1.50 per 20-ounce bottle, you’re going to feel the cost of good-tasting water on your budget. Think of it this way: if 20 ounces is $1.50, that means you’re spending approximately $4.80 daily on water alone. Not to mention, the cost to the environment. Water filtration systems like those in the conveniently slim sized (and colorful!) PUR Plus 11 Cup Pitcher can save you on average up to $75 a month over bottled water¹!

Next time studying looms over your head, give yourself an advantage. Drink your water and reap the benefits this next semester.

¹Based on comparing a year's worth of bottled water (16.9 oz) to a PUR system and 5 refills. Based on Nielsen US Scantrak sales.

Professional baristas don’t use tap water to make coffee. It’s a matter of taste. Not "taste" in a snobby sense, but in a "this would taste bad to my customers" sense. Let’s look at why and what non-baristas should know about making great cups of coffee.

If Tap Water is Safe to Drink, Why Don’t Baristas Use It to Make Coffee?

Water is the most plentiful ingredient in a cup of coffee or espresso. (At least 90 percent.) Your barista needs a constant supply of water that consistently tastes great and has other characteristics beneficial to their coffee-making process.

The primary reason tap water is a barista’s enemy: Tap water contains chlorine. Communities add chlorine to their drinking water to kill parasites, bacteria, and viruses. A small amount of chlorine isn’t harmful to people, but chlorine has an oxidizing effect that makes coffee more bitter and "bleaches the creamy layer on the surface" of espresso. 

Additionally, chlorine compromises water’s effectiveness at extracting flavor from coffee grounds during preparation, resulting in a less flavorful cup. Using chlorinated, unfiltered tap water for preparing coffee is counterproductive for true coffee lovers.

So What Kind of Water Do Baristas Use?

Starbucks is proud of the filtered water they use in their coffee and tea drinks. (Request a cup of water at Starbucks to sample that same filtered water.) According to the coffee education site xLatte, Starbucks equips its stores with sophisticated filtration systems that use carbon filters to remove chlorine from water.

Leading-edge coffee professionals currently have science and scalability on their minds. Much brainpower and enthusiasm are focused on water chemistry, ultra-precise measuring, and other micro-details.

Where does that leave you, a regular joe who loves an exceptional cup of joe?

Can I Make Great Coffee at Home?

Yes! When it comes to being your own barista, you can make high-quality coffee beverages using filtered water. You don’t have to buy fancy bottled waters or special additives that optimize water for coffee making (yes, they exist). 

Filtering the water from your tap is easy, inexpensive, doesn’t create plastic bottle waste, and can be part of your method for producing great cups of coffee and espresso. 

PUR Products for Coffee Lovers (and Everyone Else)

Start by checking out PUR faucet systems, PUR pitchers, and PUR dispensers. Genuine PUR filters ensure that you’re benefiting from activated carbon, which coffee experts recognize as eliminating chlorine from water. 

You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that PUR filters have been certified by two independent water testing organizations, NSF (originally the National Sanitation Foundation) and the Water Quality Association (WQA). Anyone who loves a glass–or refillable water bottle–of clean, great-tasting water will appreciate PUR pitchers and faucet systems.  

Let PUR products transform your tap water. Your barista would approve.

We’ve all heard it’s important to stay hydrated, making it an almost automatic add to any healthy living pledge. But don’t you ever wonder what all the water’s for? Why does it matter if you reach your goal of staying hydrated? It has a lot to do with the fact that our bodies are made up of a whopping 55-60% of water, depending on the amount of lean mass we carry. For something that takes up over half of us, it’s got to be doing something pretty big for our health, right? Indeed, it does! 

Water is a sneaky thing responsible for lots of stuff that makes us feel amazing. Most obvious is in digestion. Water aids in saliva creation, flushes body waste, and drives the nutrient conversion process. But it doesn’t stop there! Water is the ultimate cushy ride. Think of it as our internal bubble wrap. Not only does it lubricate our joints and keep us fluid, it also acts as a shock absorber for our neurological system. And if that’s not enough motivation to stay hydrated, it’s also critical in manufacturing hormones and neurotransmitters. Literally the stuff that makes us tick and function well. You can imagine what robbing those processes of key materials might do to how you feel. One more thing: feeling hot or cold? Water is part of regulating the temperature of our body. 

But how do we stay on track? Read on for simple tools to keep hydrated.

Eat Your Water

That’s right. The food we eat is a great place to slip in extra water, or ensure we aren’t losing water. Lots of foods are magically water rich. The most obvious being whole fruits and vegetables (try them in a smoothie!). But did you realize you can also replace carb heavy foods with these same items and get all the benefits with one easy replacement? Zucchini replaces noodles, cauliflower is a tasty swap for crusts, and lettuce can always take the place of breads or rice. It’s also important to pay attention to how much salt you add to your food. On average, we’re taking in 47% more than what we actually need, taxing our kidneys and body’s ability to retain water. Keeping your sodium intake lower keeps you happy and hydrated. 

Carry It with You

You’re on the go, so leaving your hydration at home isn’t an option. Lucky for you, taking it along has never been easier. For the active individual hiking or on a long ride, you can keep safe and at top performance with hydration packs. This practical equipment allows you to carry water directly on your back, comfortably distributed for easy carrying, and with a hands-free means of getting at a much-needed drink of water. And for everyday carrying, water bottles have continued to advance and provide selection for every need and price point. Bring on the joy! Water bottles come in any style or color imagined, making this accessory an easy statement of style. Healthy and fashionable? Yes, please! 

Start With Great Water

When it comes to the water you consume and carry, have you ever thought making it even tastier and healthier would increase your ability to reach your goals? An effortless way to improve the quality of the water you drink is to consider all of the many options you have for filtering your home’s water. These simple and low-cost options deliver all of the benefits of filtration, from removing contaminants to improving our environment, and PUR filters are certified to deliver these benefits. 

You can start with the faucet itself, by simply anchoring a water filter to the faucet. You can guarantee with a water purifier for home that each glass of water will give you peace of mind and the purest taste. PUR Faucet Systems come in numerous contemporary and standard colors, and offer various placements to ensure it fits your space needs. For the highly connected individual, PUR also has Bluetooth enabled features, tracking everything from your filter status, water consumption, and money saved. Staying hydrated has never been this clear!  

If you would rather tuck your filtered water out of sight, a filtered water pitcher or dispenser is worth keeping in your refrigerator. If you prefer the convenience of being able to serve fully filtered water beyond your kitchen, PUR pitchers are an excellent option. Sleek and comfortable, there are several varieties based on your preferences.  But if getting water from an easy pour spout and overall higher capacity is your ideal, the space conscious PUR water dispensers will provide the perfect glass of water at your fingertips. 

Happy hydrating!

Explore the PUR line of at-home water filtration products.

Saying that the holiday season is stressful is an understatement. No matter how hard we may try to be organized and plan ahead, this season always seems to creep up on us, with the events, gift-giving, and celebrations piling up in a short period of time. For many of us, our minds are on an endless stream of holiday to-do lists and calendar invitations. Rising Inflation continues to be a concern, which makes this holiday season even more stressful.

When it comes to holiday gift-giving, you want to be mindful. Buying something that your family and friends will love is important. But it is also important to be mindful of your budget.

Shopping for a practical holiday gift is something to consider this holiday season. Here are a few items to consider this holiday season for your family and friends that are sure to help them breathe a little easier this year. 

For the Fitness Friend

If you’re shopping for a friend who’s a gym rat or a runner, consider buying them a PUR water pitcher in one of their favorite colors. This is a practical gift that they can use to reach their daily hydration goals — even more important to those who take their physical fitness seriously. There is nothing more refreshing than a cool glass of water straight from a pitcher created to reduce lead and contaminants. 

A water pitcher may not seem like the ideal holiday gift until you stop to consider that everyone drinks water, and even people who already have a water filtration system could often benefit from having an additional water pitcher to keep at their desk or in their bedroom.

For the Beauty Lover

If your loved one is a beauty fanatic, always looking for the next quality skin-care product or eye shadow palette, consider treating them to a premium hair styling tool like the Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Dual Plate Salon Flat Iron or the Hot Tools Pro Artist QuietAir Power Dryer. 

Another practical gift for a beauty lover is a humidifier with an essential oil diffuser and tray, like the Honeywell Ultra Glow Light Changing Humidifier & Diffuser to keep the moisture in the air to help with skin health and wellbeing. 

For the Highly Sensitive 

We don’t often take the time to think of the air we breathe unless there is something wrong. With the winter months approaching, it would be a great idea to start thinking about your home's air quality. Those who tend to get sick often or who have compromised immune systems may appreciate a powerful air purification system as a gift this year.

This Honeywell air purifier is a great practical holiday gift that many people might not think to purchase for themselves. Those who battle more illness than others can breathe a little more comfortably this season. 

Another great option for those prone to illness is a waterless vaporizer. This is a gift that offers a slew of benefits while staying within budget. The 5 different scents of this vaporizer are perfect to calm the entire household. 

For the Foodies

Are you shopping for someone who is always tinkering in the kitchen? Bring that kitchen new life by gifting your loved one a new baking set or a specialty kitchen tool they may not think to purchase for themselves. 

A customized apron or online cooking course might also be a thoughtful, practical gift as well.

For the Career-Driven

We’ve been slowly entering normalcy, which means heading back to the office for some. Is your loved one big on meal prep? Consider getting them a Prep & Go 10-Piece Container Set so they can be sharp and organized when packing their lunch for work every day.

For the Eco-Friendly

Are you shopping for a climate-friendly fan of sustainability? If so, a OXO Cut & Keep Silicone Produce Saver Set might be a thoughtful choice for a holiday gift this year. 

For the Wine Lover

A true wine lover cares deeply about the temperature and condition of their wine, which makes the Hydro Flask Wine Gift Set a perfect, practical holiday gift as it helps keep your wine at the ideal temperature, whether hot or cold. Pair the set with Vertical Lever Corkscrew, which makes opening wine bottles much easier than with standard wine bottle openers. 

Water intake is key to our survival, but proper hydration can be difficult to achieve on a daily basis for a variety of reasons. In fact, as much as 75% of the US population is chronically dehydrated, and dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue and occasionally more serious conditions like seizures and kidney problems.

When it comes to sufficient water intake, there’s likely a few tired tips you’ve encountered time and time again. You’ve likely seen athletes carrying gallons of water throughout their day, or perhaps you’ve seen those large water water bottles that have measurements to ensure sufficient hydration. Perhaps you yourself have carried around one of these water bottles!

If you’re still struggling to drink enough water on a daily basis, there’s one hack you might not have tried.

The #1 Hack for Hydration? Make It Easy

Whenever you’re establishing better habits — like drinking enough water — studies show there’s one factor that helps more than others: Ease. By making the task easy, you increase your likelihood of completing it more regularly. When a task is more difficult to accomplish, a person is less likely to do it. Experts have a word for this layer of difficulty associated with habit-building; they call this “friction.”

As you’re looking to increase your daily water intake, identify areas of fiction. For example, when you’re sitting at your desk all day and you have to walk to the kitchen to refill your water, that walk to the kitchen creates friction. Or, if you’re in the car all day and you have a water bottle with you that requires opening with two hands while driving, this is friction. Similarly, if you simply don’t like the taste of certain water, this also causes friction.

By eliminating areas of friction, we make an action easier, and when a task is easier, people are more likely to do it regularly, like drinking enough water.

So, how can you eliminate friction when it comes to your hydration habits? Simple: Identify every small barrier you encounter every day in your journey to becoming a more hydrated version of yourself and work to eliminate it.

Taste Is Key

Ultimately, it’s harder to build a healthy habit like proper water hydration if we simply don’t care for the taste of the water we’re drinking. But, by investing in a water filtration system that fits right on your sink faucet, you can ensure you’ll have fresh, clean-tasting water every time.

Hydrating on the Go

Think through even the smallest considerations that may keep you from proper hydration. For example, do you hesitate to throw a water bottle in your gym bag because you’re afraid it will leak on your clothes? Invest in a leak-proof water bottle that screws tight every time.

Or do you find yourself in the car often, struggling to get the cap of a water bottle unscrewed? Maybe Hydroflask’s All Day Bundle featuring a 28 oz All Around Tumbler with a straw and a closeable leakproof lid will make it easier to increase your hydration while driving all day.

Hydrating At Home

When you’re at home, having easy access to drinking water will decrease friction and likely result in increased water intake. By keeping a water pitcher in several locations throughout your home in addition to your kitchen — like in your home office or your bedroom — you’re making it easier for yourself to drink the water your body needs.

Choosing the perfect gift for a college student doesn’t have to be as hard as Calculus II.

Are you overwhelmed by too many gift possibilities? Use this two-step approach to narrow your options: 1) consider where the student lives during school, then 2) check out the short, curated list of gift ideas below. Each gift idea includes a link to experts’ top picks and reviews.

Does the student in your life live in a dorm? At a sorority house or shared apartment off-campus? At home with the folks? The answer will help you settle on a gift you might not have thought of but one the recipient will use frequently.

Gift ideas were selected independently by the author. No commissions will be earned from purchases made using the links.

Truly Effective Earplugs

Reusable earplugs block distractions when studying or sleeping, and protect healthy eardrums against loud noise — a must for concert-goers. We’re not talking about your old-school foam cylinder earplugs. Earplugs have evolved into highly engineered devices that surprisingly don’t break the bank. And because they’re reusable, they won’t break the Earth.

Perfect for students who… are poor sleepers; have raucous roommates; study in noisy coffee shops; play in bands, or date people in bands.

They’re perfect because… earplugs can promote focused studying and restful sleep. They’re much less expensive than most noise-canceling headphones — so inexpensive that losing them won’t be too big of a deal, but just expensive enough that they’ll be a gift that’s much-appreciated.

Link: “The Best Earplugs for Gig-goers, Insomniacs, and Anyone With Ears,” Wired.com

Trendy Shower Shoes

Athletes aren’t the only students susceptible to athlete’s foot. The fungi that cause athlete’s foot can hang out in any warm/damp/humid/sweaty environment–not just the locker room. Shower shoes (also called shower sandals or slides) protect wearers from germy, wet floors in shared bathrooms, limiting exposure to germs.

Fashion-conscious students desire some brands’ shower shoes as casual-wear staples. Think of them as designer flip-flops worn around the pool or dining hall. 

Perfect for students who… have more roommates than bathrooms; live in the gym; are fashion influencers.

They’re perfect because… they’re practical while being stylish and sporty. There are many inexpensive options.

Link: “The Best Shower Shoes for Men & Women in 2022,” Travel + Leisure

A Water Pitcher for Overall Health & Wellness

Every college student owns a surplus of water bottles, which is ideal! Staying hydrated wherever they go is vital for their comfort and health. Have you thought about what goes into their bottles? A PUR Filtration Pitcher will provide great-tasting water to take to class, the gym, or a hike. Just remember to include genuine PUR pitcher filters with your gift. Only genuine PUR pitcher filters are certified to reduce lead and other contaminants in water.

Perfect for students who… take a water bottle everywhere; are concerned about what’s in the water they drink; don’t want to add more disposable plastic bottles to the environment.

It’s perfect because… it can provide cost-savings compared with constantly buying bottled water. PUR Filtration Pitchers come in sizes to suit any fridge and color accents to suit anyone’s style.

Link: PUR Pitchers

Safety Lights for Cyclists and Runners

“See and be seen” isn’t a mantra reserved for the cool kids. It should be on students' minds when bicycling or running. Modern lights are powerful, sophisticated devices, light-years beyond reflectors used in the past.

Perfect for students who… bike or run competitively or for fitness; commute to class or a part-time job by bike or on foot; are often outdoors early in the morning or late at night.

They’re perfect because… they’ll help keep your student safe.

Links: “The 14 Best Bike Lights for Every Kind of Ride,” Bicycling; “10 Best Running Lights for Safer Nighttime Runs,” Runner’s World

An Upgraded Webcam

Virtual lectures, meetings, and study groups. College has changed. What hasn’t changed is the need for professors and students to see each others’ faces. A high-quality camera will do the job better than the tiny one built into your student’s laptop. Ask anyone who’s been on the other end of a low-res video call with fuzzy audio.

Perfect for students who… collaborate with peers in other locations; attend lectures remotely; are finishing up their graduation requirements through distance learning.

It’s perfect because… of all of the above. Plus, parents will see their kids with superior video quality during weekly calls.

Link: “The Best Webcams 2022: Top Picks for Working and Streaming,” TechRadar

If you’re a parent, you know your college student needs more than just your streaming passwords and gas card. If your next gift contributes at all to their success in and out of the classroom, that would be perfect.

Resources:

https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear/a20023360/8-bike-lights-we-love/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g38004859/best-running-lights/
https://www.techradar.com/news/computing-components/peripherals/what-webcam-5-reviewed-and-rated-1027972
https://www.travelandleisure.com/style/shoes/best-shower-shoes-and-sandals
https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-earplugs/

10 Thoughtful ways to make first-time moms feel extra special this holiday season.

Becoming a mom is an exciting and magical new chapter for many, but it can also be an exhausting, chaotic and nerve-wracking time as well. Taking time out for yourself can be overwhelmingly difficult – even grabbing a shower is often a struggle – and the holidays can add an extra layer of stress to the equation for many new parents. If you’re shopping for a new mom this holiday season, show her a little extra TLC with an extra special gift that reminds her that she’s totally got this mom thing down. Sure she might be wrapped up in her new bundle of joy, but we’ve found 10 ways to show Mom she’s just as important.

1. A Coffee Subscription
“But first, coffee,” isn’t just a mantra for many new moms but a way of life. Getting adjusted to those late-night feedings and early-morning cry sessions can take some time, which makes added caffeine support a must. Make those first sips of java especially delicious by gifting Mom with a monthly, bi-weekly or even weekly shipments of small-batch, global coffee blends. Having one less item on the grocery list is also an added perk!

2. Self-Heating Coffee Mug
Coffee is great as long as you’re able to drink it when it’s hot. But round-the-clock feedings, diaper changes and being stuck under a sleeping baby can make it pretty tough to enjoy that welcome cup of coffee uninterrupted. The solution? A self-heating coffee mug that keeps Mom’s brew deliciously warm no matter how long it takes to enjoy.

3. Ultra Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier
Not only is a cool mist humidifier recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to keep infants comfortable, but it becomes crucial in the winter months when heaters can make for especially dry air indoors. Opt for a filter-free model that’s easy to clean.

4. A Self-Care Package
After months of swollen feet and heartburn followed by labor and delivery, Mama is in serious need of self-care. Put together a pampering care package just for her (no baby gear allowed!). Ideas include a gift card to a spa for a massage, her favorite face mask, a yummy scented candle, a box of truffles, and richly hydrating body lotion. Throw in a coupon offering free babysitting for bonus points!

5. Meal Delivery
It’s easy to forget to feed yourself when your day revolves around the eating habits of a new baby. Save Mom from yet another frozen pizza and treat her to a few weeks of deliciously nourishing meals she won’t have to think twice about.

6. Super Soft Pjs
A post labor and delivery mom is a sore mom, and cuddly-soft pjs can make all the difference when recovering. Look for pajama sets made from extra soft material like bamboo cotton, and if Mom is breastfeeding, opt for a button-down style.

7. Stroller Organizer
Baby brain is real, which is why tools that help bring order to the chaos are very much welcome amongst new moms. If Mom is finally getting outside with her little one, help her keep her essentials in check and her arms light with a stroller organizer. Perfect for carrying her wallet, water bottle, keys, and phone, a handy organizer means she can happily leave her purse at home.

8. PUR 11 Cup Pitcher
Whether Mom’s mixing bottles of formula or working to keep herself hydrated (or both!), a trusted water filter is a must. Opt for a pitcher filter, which allows her to have the option of room temp or refrigerated water and is easy to clean with a dishwasher safe model.

9. Personalized Jewelry
Jewelry is always a welcome gift, especially when it’s personalized. Add the name, initials or birthstone of the new baby to a delicate necklace or bracelet. Or, include a special inscription that’s meaningful to Mom herself to commemorate this milestone.

10. Honeywell Designer Series HEPA Tower
With a never-ending onslaught of visitors and a serious need for quality sleep, an aromatherapy-enabled air purifier is just about the perfect new-mom gift. Give the gift of cleaner air while also creating an environment that helps Mom feel extra Zen. And be sure to look for a model that’s especially quiet so that Baby and Mama are sure to get their rest.

Take some of the stress out of entertaining with large-batch alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that are sure to wow your guests.

Parties are meant to be fun, not stressful, but if you’re stuck mixing drinks rather than mingling with your guests, finding a moment to enjoy yourself as the host can be tough. Rather than stock the bar with every spirit and mixer imaginable or make made-to-order drinks throughout the event, take some of the heavy lifting out of your next soiree with make-ahead drinks that can be crafted in bulk.

We’ve gathered 8 tasty large-batch beverages that are sure to keep the party going while keeping stress levels to a minimum. And if you’re catering to those who don’t imbibe, not to worry! We have some delicious mocktail recipes. too.

But before we start with the fancy drinks, make your guests stay well hydrated by setting a pitcher of fresh filtered water out where everyone can easily pour themselves a glass or three throughout the night.

Cranberry Moscow Mule
You might be familiar with the popular Moscow Mule, traditionally made with vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer. This is a tried-and-true classic, with a cranberry twist.

You Need:

For the Cranberry Simple Syrup:
1 cup filtered water
1 cup sugar
1 cup fresh cranberries

For the Cocktails:
2 ½  cups vodka
2/3 cups Cranberry Simple Syrup
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
4 cups ginger beer

Directions:

For the cranberry simple syrup, pour 1 cup filtered water into a saucepan. Add 1 cup of sugar, stirring constantly over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Add cranberries and let simmer on low until cranberries burst and the syrup begins turn red. Remove from heat. Once cool, remove the cranberries using a sieve.

Combine the cranberry simple syrup, vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer and serve over ice.

Slow Cooker Hot Toddies
When hosting a party, anything cooked in the slow cooker is a big win for reducing stress. Perfect for winter gatherings and cold nights, this spiced-infused hot, boozy beverage is sure to make spirits bright.

You Need:

Slow Cooker
12 cups of filtered hot water
2 lemons thinly sliced
1 orange sliced
5 star anise
10 cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
3 “nobs” of raw ginger
Bourbon for serving

Directions:

Add everything but the bourbon to a slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours. To serve, add 1.5 oz of bourbon mug or teacup (leave out for mocktails) and ladle warm mixture on top.

Sangria
Fruity, refreshing and surprisingly adaptable for parties throughout the seasons, sangria makes our list as a near-perfect drink for large parties. You can choose red, white or even rosé wine as your base, but we like a traditional Spanish Red Sangria since it’s a favorite throughout the year. Note: We’ve opted for more traditional ingredients, but feel free to mix up your fruit to include pineapple, strawberries or grapes.

You Need:

½ cup chopped apple
½ slice orange
3 tablespoons sugar
¾ cup orange juice
1 bottle Spanish red wine
⅓ cup brandy
1 large pitcher

Directions:

Muddle fruit with sugar at the bottom of a pitcher. Add juice and brandy and muddle again. Add red wine and stir. Store in a fridge to chill and serve in a glass over ice.

“Eggnot”
There’s no question that eggnog is a holiday party favorite, but it can also be a bit labor intensive. Instead of breaking out the standing mixer and separating egg yolks, opt for this eggnog hack that is still sure to be a crowd pleaser.

You Need:

1 gallon vanilla ice cream
1 cup bourbon
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Cinnamon sticks for garnish
1 can whipped cream
Nutmeg, to taste

Directions:

Add ice cream to a punch bowl and let melt at room temperature. Once melted, add bourbon and chill in the fridge. To serve, ladle into glass and garnish with whipped cream, grated nutmeg and cinnamon stick.

Mulled Wine
If you’re looking for an easy, cozy drink for a wintertime party, try putting on a pot of mulled wine. Also known as “spiced wine,” this delicious sipper combines red wine with aromatic spices (aka mulling spices) and, similar to sangria, can be spiked with brandy.

You Need:

1 bottle of dry red wine
Mulling spices (or if unavailable, add 8 cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks and 2 star anise)
1 orange sliced
3 tablespoons honey
¼ cup brandy

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a large pot and stir to combine. Cook over medium heat to a low simmer. Drop heat to low and cover. Simmer for at least 15 minutes to fully infuse flavors.

Hot Chocolate Bar
Planning a family affair? Delight the kiddos (and even the grownups) with whimsical hot chocolate bar with all the fixings.

You Need:

1 gallon whole milk
1 ¼ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup hot water
1 bar dark chocolate

Toppings: Sprinkles, marshmallows, chocolate chips, peppermint sticks, whipped cream

Directions:

Whisk together cocoa, sugar and salt in a large soup pot. Place over medium heat and add hot water and a broken up chocolate bar to melt. Once heated, bring to a simmer and slowly whisk in milk without letting it curdle. Serve in a large hot beverage dispenser with mugs and toppings alongside.

Apple Cider
If you’re looking for a large-batch beverage that you can serve as a cocktail or mocktail, look no further than apple cider. Not only is apple cider a favorite amongst guests, but this deliciously aromatic recipe also doubles as a home fragrance system.

You Need:

1 gallon apple cider
3 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
1 tablespoon cloves
1 tablespoon whole allspice
1 orange sliced
1 cup dark rum (optional)
1 cup cinnamon schnapps (optional)

Directions:

Add cider, spices and orange to a pot and bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for 2-3 hours. If serving as an alcoholic beverage, add rum and schnapps to cider mixture and strain out aromatics before serving in a mug with a cinnamon stick as an optional garnish.

Elegant Lemonade
Daytime parties and lemonade go hand-in-hand, but if you want to level up this lemon-infused beverage without a lot of effort, add a splash of vodka, a handful of berries and a sprig of mint to instantly elevate this classic beverage.

You Need:

2 cups sugar (can reduce to 3/4 cup)
2 cups water (for the simple syrup)
2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
Vodka (optional)
Fresh mint
Blueberries

Directions:

Start by making a simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a simmer to fully dissolve sugar. Remove from heat and set aside. Juice lemons and combine. If too sweet or too sour, add filtered water to taste. Serve over ice with fresh blueberries and mint. Add a splash of vodka if desired.

If you’re not using filtered water in your cooking and baking, you might not be doing your recipes justice. Filtered tap water can help reveal flavors in your food and baked goods in ways unfiltered tap water can’t. Let’s get into filtered tap water’s multiple benefits and why switching from unfiltered makes so much sense.

Water Is an Important Food Ingredient  

Because we’re all so busy these days, cooking and baking are labors of love. So if you spend time in the kitchen, you care about what you’re making and who you’re making it for. You want to make food that tastes good.

Bon Appetit knows, “The way your water tastes will affect the way everything tastes.” It’s easy to understand how bad-tasting water could ruin broth, ice cubes, coffee, and tea. It’s similar to why experienced chefs insist on cooking only with wine they would drink.

Unfiltered tp water contains chlorine. Municipalities add chlorine to drinking water as a disinfectant, which is good. PUR Water Filters reduce chlorine in the water flowing from your kitchen tap when changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, enabling you to deliver dishes and baked goods that taste their very best.

Filtered Water is Good for Bread Making, Especially Sourdough

If you’re an amateur bread baker, you should know that the chlorine in unfiltered tap water could sabotage your hard work. Robust commercial yeasts can stand up to the chlorine, but less robust yeasts in your sourdough starter, for example, could be weakened.

The Pioneer Woman recommends that tap water with chlorine be filtered before it’s added to your sourdough starter. PUR products are designed to reduce that chlorine.

Filter Out Unwelcome Ingredients

Using costly and wasteful bottled water isn’t the best way to care for your kitchen creations and whoever you’re feeding. Consider the money you’d spend for the amount of water you use cooking and baking in a week. Also, consider the number of bottles you’d add to the environment.

PUR faucet filtration systems, pitchers, and dispensers are easy and cost-effective ways to reduce the variety of contaminants that can seep into your tap water. Filter your tap water, and you’ll allow flavors in your soups to shine through. Your cup of coffee will taste better. Your sourdough starter will actually rise. Your family may take pleasure in drinking clean, hydrating water, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind.

Resources:
https://www.bonappetit.com/gallery/cooking-with-water
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/water_disinfection.html
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/water/
https://www.jamesbeard.org/blog/cooking-with-wine
https://kneadrisebake.com/should-i-use-purified-water-for-making-bread/
https://www.thehealthy.com/hydration/what-is-filtered-water/
https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a99222/sourdough-101/
https://waterandhealth.org/safe-drinking-water/wp/

Did you know a whopping 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated? Add in the stress of the holidays — the travel, the events, the general chaos — and dehydration may persist all season long. 

The benefits of drinking water are extensive, and we know dehydration may lead to headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, while long-term dehydration can have serious consequences like the possibility of kidney failure. [3] [4] Naturally, we want to feel our best every day, but it’s even more important we feel good and stay hydrated during the holidays. What a disappointment it would be to miss your favorite holiday party because of dehydration!

With a little planning and intentionality, staying hydrated during the holidays can be an easy way to help keep you feel your best all season long with these hydration tips.

At Home

1. Holiday Spa Water

Most often, when we think of a bright, sophisticated spa water, we think of cucumbers, strawberries, and mint — flavors that typically appear in spring and summer. Alas, there are many ways to elevate a simple pitcher of water that feels cozy and joyful during the winter months. And the more enjoyable it is, the more likely we are to drink it!

One easy way to elevate a pitcher of water for yourself, your family, or for guests is to simply add a handful of pomegranate seeds to the water for a bit of flavor and vibrant color. You can even muddle them a bit in the water if you’d like so the pomegranate juice mixes with the water.

Another refreshing spa water idea that feels festive and cozy is to add orange peels and a few whole cloves to your pitcher of water. After sitting for a few hours in the fridge or on the counter, the oils from the orange peel — a traditional winter holiday fruit — will seep into the water, making for a slightly sweet, subtly spicy spa water. 

2. Upgrade Your Tea Ritual

While many people may tend to think of cocktails and glasses of champagne come holiday season, there’s an understated beauty in the ritual of tea. Ahead of the holiday season, invest in a beautiful tea kettle you’re proud to display for guests. If you’re spending time in a winter wonderland, consider stocking up on sleek Hydroflask mugs to keep your tea the perfect temperature for hours at a time. 

To elevate your tea ritual for guests (or for yourself after an evening of wrapping presents in pajamas), use a Cut and Keep Silicone Lemon Saver so you can easily add a squeeze of lemon to each cup of tea you enjoy.

3. Keep Water Accessible

Whether you’re busy prepping and planning, packing for travel, or hosting a holiday event, you’ll want to keep a fresh pitcher nearby. Considering purchasing a PUR pitcher for each main living space. PUR even has pitchers in a variety of beautiful shades you can choose from to complement your home decor! Having a fresh pitcher of water nearby when you’re busy packing, cooking, or wrapping gifts in preparation for the holiday celebrations can save you time from having to stop and locate your stray water bottle or glass. 

4. Change Your Water Filters

The best way to ensure your water tastes fresh and delicious is to make sure your PUR water filters have been replaced within the last 2-3 months. Before the holiday season really gets going, ensure you’re serving your guests (and yourself!)  crisp, refreshing water with a new filter. 

Water on the Go

5. Water Canteen

We are much more likely to integrate a habit — like drinking water — if we make that habit easy to achieve. If you take a good, hard look at your hydration habits, you’ll likely discover minor ways you’re kept from drinking enough water. For example, when you’re driving, does your travel water bottle fit in your cupholder or does it sit out of reach? Do you often travel on foot and find yourself without a sealable water bottle you can toss in your backpack without leaking? 

6. Holiday Water Game

When you’re out and about running holiday errands, you’ll often encounter a new set of holiday tunes blasting out on a speaker nearby. Use this as a reminder to take a sip of the water bottle you brought with you from home! Treat it like a game to help ensure you’re staying hydrated.

Is filtered water cleaner and better tasting than tap water? Here’s a go-to guide for making the most of your H2O.

We all know that drinking water regularly is integral to our health and wellness — and with good reason! Every cell in our body needs water in order to function so staying hydrated is a must. But if the water you’re drinking isn’t as clean-tasting as you’d like, it’s unlikely you’re going to get enough daily sips. Thankfully, there are a variety of filtration systems to make your water a little cleaner and a whole lot more palatable to drink. Read on to discover what makes filtered water the best drinking choice and why it’s smart thinking to filter your water rather than to go with the flow.

What is filtered water?

Sure, many of us prefer the taste of filtered water, but what exactly are we drinking? Filtered water is groundwater or tap water that has undergone a process to remove impurities and a variety of physical and chemical contaminants in an effort to make the water cleaner for drinking (not to mention far more refreshing). These chemical and physical contaminants include certain bacteria, fungi, parasites, copper, lead, and other unwelcome pollutants. In most cases, the filtration process also works to remove chlorine in an effort to improve the water’s overall taste. However, unlike distilled water, filtered water isn’t completely free of particulates. Filtered water may still contain healthy minerals that are safe to consume and are actually beneficial to your health.

How is water filtered?

During a traditional filtration process, water flows through groupings of different materials, including gravel, sand, and activated carbon. Think of these filters like tiny nets trapping unwanted water invaders. These filters work to absorb and/or dissolve unwanted particles along with neutralizing bad odors.
But some filtration systems, like PUR, go a step further to include filters made from activated carbon for even smaller pores for the water to pass through. PUR filters also include ion exchange materials for trapping unwanted metals. As water flows through the filter, physical and chemical contaminants are adsorbed by the carbon while heavy metals like lead and mercury are adsorbed by the ion exchange materials.

Is filtered water cleaner than tap water?

Filtered water is generally cleaner to drink than tap water. However, that is not to say that tap water is unsafe to drink. Generally, tap water is safe to drink, but not all tap water is created equal. The safety of your tap water depends on its source.

Should I filter my own water or drink bottled water?

Whether to drink filtered water vs. bottled water is more of an environmental-conscious and cost decision opposed to a decision regarding taste or safety. Both bottled water and filtered water undergo processes to remove unwanted contaminants, which can range according to water bottle brand or individual filtration system. However, plastic water bottles account for a sizable portion of our planet’s daily plastic consumption. In fact, humans use about 1.2 million plastic bottles per minute in total and purchase about 50 billion plastic water bottles per year. Plus, buying bottled water on a regular basis can really add up from a cost perspective.
Alternatively, drinking filtered water in a glass or reusable water bottle can save just one person about 156 plastic bottles

What is the best way to filter water?

The two most common at-home water filters are faucet filtration systems and pitcher filtration systems. Both are effective ways to reduce physical and chemical contaminants and improve the taste of tap water, but choosing the best water filter for you depends on your individual needs. Consider what makes the most sense for your space, your lifestyle, and (perhaps most importantly) what filtration system you can properly clean and maintain so it’s as effective as possible.

Faucet Filtration vs. Pitcher Filtration

Here’s a rundown on the benefits of these popular water filtration methods:

Faucet Filtration Benefits

• Effective in filtering out unwanted chemical and physical contaminants
• Convenient, no-fill design
• Easy to install
• Doesn’t take up refrigerator space
• No wasted water
• Some faucet filters can go up to 3 months before needing to be replaced

Try: PUR Plus Faucet Filtration System

Pitcher Filtration Benefits

• Effective in filtering out unwanted chemical and physical contaminants
• Easy to clean
• Can be refrigerated for cold water
• Easy to use
• Some pitcher filters can go up to 2 months before needing changing

Try: PUR 11 Cup Pitcher

How do I clean my water filter?

Keeping your water filtration system clean with a functioning filter is the best way to ensure it is performing its best. For pitcher filters, the best way to do this is to wash and clean the pitcher at least every other week. Many pitchers are dishwasher safe, but you can also wash your pitcher by soaking it in warm, soapy water for about 15 minutes before rinsing clean. Replace the filter about every 2 months or according to the pitcher’s instructions.

Faucet filters should be cleaned and examined monthly. Detach the filtration system from the faucet and empty any filter debris from the cartridge by tapping it over a wastebasket. Soak the filter canister in mild dish soap mixed with water for about an hour before rinsing and leaving to air dry. Reconnect to your faucet and turn the water on for about 5 minutes to flush out any remaining debris. Faucet filters should be replaced about every 3 months or according to the filter’s instructions.
Whether you’re concerned about cleaner drinking water or just want better-tasting H20, there’s no question that filtered water checks the boxes. But that doesn’t mean you have to up your spending on store-bought bottled water or expensive, professionally installed filtrations systems. With simple, at-home water filtration, you can easily convert everyday tap water into delicious, thirst-quenching refreshment you can enjoy.


Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/purified-vs-distilled-vs-regular-water#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
https://www.allrecipes.com/article/what-is-filtered-water/
https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2018/07/27/632393234/which-water-is-best-for-health-hint-dont-discount-the-tap
https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/public/water_treatment.html#:~:text=During%20filtration%2C%20the%20clear%20water,parasites%2C%20bacteria%2C%20and%20viruses 
https://www.popsci.com/how-pur-water-filtration-works/#:~:text=PUR%20uses%20activated%20carbon%20that's,fill%20up%20the%20surface%20area 
https://www.earthday.org/fact-sheet-single-use-plastics/ 
https://waterfilterguru.com/how-to-clean-pur-water-filter-faucet-mount/