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Maifan Stone in Shower Filters: What It Does and Why It’s There

July 18, 2021 2 min read

If you’ve looked inside a shower filter cartridge, you’ve probably seen small beads or granules — one of those stages is often maifan stone. Here’s what it does and why it’s included.

Browse our shower filter range or see our Shower Filters Guide. For more on maifan stone, see: Maifan Stone Properties.

What Is Maifan Stone?

Maifan stone is a naturally occurring mineral rock composed primarily of silicate minerals, with a high content of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is valued for its ability to both adsorb contaminants and release beneficial minerals into water.

What Maifan Stone Does in a Shower Filter

Releases Beneficial Minerals

As shower water passes through the maifan stone stage, the stone slowly releases calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium into the water. These minerals are beneficial for skin and hair health — magnesium in particular is known to support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation.

Adsorbs Heavy Metals

Maifan stone’s porous surface adsorbs soluble heavy metal ions (including lead, mercury, and arsenic) from the water. This is particularly relevant in older homes with copper or lead plumbing where trace metals can leach into the water supply.

pH Buffering

The mineral composition of maifan stone helps buffer water towards a near-neutral pH. Slightly alkaline shower water is gentler on skin and hair than acidic water, which can strip natural oils and disrupt the skin’s acid mantle.

Bacteriostatic Effect

Maifan stone inhibits bacterial growth within the filter media, helping to keep the cartridge hygienic between replacements.

Maifan Stone vs KDF in Shower Filters

Most quality shower filters use both KDF media and maifan stone as complementary stages. KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) is the primary stage for chlorine and heavy metal removal through a redox reaction. Maifan stone adds mineral content and pH buffering. Together they provide broader water quality improvement than either stage alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does maifan stone remove chlorine from shower water?

Maifan stone has limited chlorine removal capability on its own. In shower filters, chlorine removal is primarily handled by KDF media or vitamin C (ascorbic acid) stages. Maifan stone contributes mineral addition and pH buffering rather than chlorine removal.

How often should I replace a shower filter cartridge with maifan stone?

Every 6–12 months depending on water quality and usage. The maifan stone stage gradually depletes as minerals dissolve into the water. Browse our shower filter range for replacement options.

Is a shower filter worth it in Australia?

Yes — particularly for removing chlorine and chloramines from town water, which can dry out skin and hair. See our full guide: Are Shower Filters Necessary?

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