Benzene and VOC's

Does LifeStraw filter benzene from water?

Yes, LifeStraw filters, particularly those in the Home Series and Max products, are highly effective at reducing benzene and some other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as Atrazine and Lindane in water. These filters use activated carbon, which adsorbs and captures carbon-based chemicals like benzene, improving water safety and taste.

What is Benzene?

Benzene is a volatile chemical found in various consumer products, such as paints, dyes, insecticides, and gasoline additives. It can enter drinking water through industrial discharge, gas storage tank leaks, and landfill runoff. Benzene is a concern because of its toxic and carcinogenic properties.

How LifeStraw Filters Address Benzene

• Activated Carbon Technology: The carbon filter component of LifeStraw products is designed to adsorb chemicals like benzene and chloroform, which are part of the VOC family.
• Tested Reduction: LifeStraw products have been independently tested to meet NSF/ANSI 53 standards for chemical reduction, including benzene.
• Proven Performance: According to our lab testing:

o   LifeStraw Max can remove Benzene and meet NSF 53 standard for its carbon filter claimed lifetime of 15K L.*

• LifeStraw Home can remove Benzene and meet NSF 53 standard for its carbon filter claimed lifetime of 150L.*

*Depending on concentration of Benzene in influent water, replacement of Membrane filters (Ultrafilter with Max and Microfilter with Home) might happen earlier than normal because benzene tends to cause early clogging of membrane.

If you're using a LifeStraw Home Pitcher or Dispenser or Max, you can be confident that the filtration system provides effective protection against benzene and some other VOCs such as Atrazine and Lindane, helping ensure safer drinking water for your household.