Typical materials include 304 stainless steel, borosilicate glass, and various plastics (including BPA-free options). Manufacturers choose these for durability, heat resistance, and food-safe contact.
Capacities vary by product type: pitchers commonly hold about 7 cups; small countertop distillers list capacities around 135.26 ounces (≈1.05 gallons); gravity-fed systems can hold up to about 2.25 gallons (288 ounces).
Methods include distillation (for distilled-water makers), activated carbon combined with ultrafiltration membranes in gravity-fed systems, and multi-stage cartridge filtration (including TDS-reducing cartridges) in pitchers.
Packages commonly include the distiller unit plus accessories such as citric acid powder for descale, activated carbon packs for after-filtration, and a silicone tube for discharge or collection.
Gravity-fed stainless systems are described as portable: many have compact, nestable designs that reduce storage volume and operate without electricity, making them suitable for kitchens, RVs, cabins, and camping trips.