Health Update: What Homeowners Are Prioritizing in 2026: A Look at Indoor Wellness Trends – What Experts Say

Indoor wellness has taken on new urgency as Americans confront aging infrastructure, air quality concerns, and the evolving definition of a “healthy home.” In 2026, it’s not just about aesthetics or energy efficiency — it’s about understanding what’s in your water, what’s in your air, and how to make smart, lasting upgrades that matter.

According to Shu Saito, founder and CEO of All Filters, homeowners are becoming more sophisticated about the role filtration plays in everyday wellness. “People are looking for clarity — not just cleaner water, but confidence in what they’re drinking and breathing,” he says.

From rising PFAS awareness to smarter, more sustainable water systems, here are the four filtration trends Saito says are set to define indoor wellness in 2026.

Water Testing Becomes a Household Habit

Thanks to tightening PFAS regulations and growing transparency around municipal water issues, more families are kicking off their wellness upgrades with a baseline test. “Testing gives homeowners clarity,” says Saito. “But people want to understand what’s in their water before choosing a solution.” Expect more DIY kits, easier lab access, and bundled test-and-treat product offerings this year.

Point-of-Use Filtration Becomes the Go-To Entry Point

Affordability and convenience are driving a boom in under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) units, fridge filters, and tap-specific solutions. These point-of-use options offer noticeable improvements without the commitment of whole-house systems — ideal for first-time buyers or renters seeking control over their water quality.

Tankless RO Systems Are the Next Big Upgrade

For homeowners ready to go further, tankless RO systems are quickly becoming the gold standard. These compact units deliver purified water on demand, reduce wastewater, and eliminate the need for bulky storage tanks. “It’s one of the most significant residential water treatment shifts we’ve seen in years,” Saito says — combining efficiency, performance, and design.

Smart Filtration Is in, but Practicality Wins

While smart features like app monitoring and auto-reorder are gaining traction, Saito notes a clear consumer shift toward reliability over bells and whistles. “Tech should simplify maintenance,” he says. “Not become a point of failure during a power outage.” In 2026, expect demand for intuitive systems that work seamlessly — and independently — when they’re needed most.

As homeowners reassess their indoor environments, air and water filtration are no longer niche concerns — they’re central to how we define wellness at home. And with better tools, smarter systems, and a growing awareness of long-term health impacts, 2026 could be the year these upgrades go mainstream.