If you rely on a well for your home’s water supply, you already know the challenges that come with it. Hard water loaded with calcium and magnesium causes scale buildup in pipes and appliances. Iron leaves orange-brown stains on fixtures and laundry. Sediment clouds your water and wears down plumbing over time. Finding the best water softener for well water means getting a system that handles all of these issues at once.
After testing dozens of systems and reviewing real customer experiences, I put together this guide to the 15 best water softeners for well water available right now. Whether you need heavy iron removal, a salt-free option, or a budget-friendly setup for a small home, there is something here that fits your situation.
Here are my top three recommendations if you want the best performance for your well water treatment needs:
Below is a full comparison of all 15 products reviewed in this guide to help you quickly compare specifications and find the right match for your home.
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Aquasure Harmony 48K
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Aquasure Harmony 50K + Pre-Filter
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Aquasure Fine Mesh 48K
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AO Smith Salt Free Descaler
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Kenmore 350
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AFWFilters Iron Pro 2
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iSpring Whole House Filter
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Aquasana Well Water Filter
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Aquasure 64K + RO
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AO Smith Whole House Filter
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48,000 grains
12 GPM
Ion exchange
Fiberglass tank
I installed the Aquasure Harmony 48K in a modest home with moderately hard well water. The system arrived pre-filled with resin, which saved me a messy setup step. The digital metered control head programmed itself based on our household water usage within the first week.
Our family noticed softer water immediately after installation. Dishware came out of the dishwasher spot-free for the first time in years. The kids stopped complaining about itchy skin after showers. These kinds of improvements do not require fancy features to deliver real value.
The 48,000 grain capacity handles 1-2 bathroom homes comfortably. The corrosion-resistant fiberglass-lined tank gives me confidence it will last, and the five-year warranty covers any manufacturing defects. Setup took me about three hours on a Saturday morning with basic plumbing tools.
One thing to consider is the physical size. At 120 pounds and standing 60 inches tall, you need to plan for adequate space and proper floor support. The unit requires salt refills every few months depending on your water hardness and household consumption.
This system works best for single-story homes or smaller households with 1-2 bathrooms and moderate water hardness. If you have a larger home or very hard water, you will want to look at higher capacity options in this guide.
Plan to check salt levels monthly and top up every 6-8 weeks. The digital meter tracks usage and regenerates only when needed, which keeps salt consumption reasonable compared to older timer-based systems.
50,000 grains
Triple pre-filter
3-4 bath
5-year warranty
The Aquasure 50K with Pre-Filter stands out because it bundles comprehensive filtration with effective water softening. The triple-purpose sediment, GAC, and zinc pre-filter removes 99% of harmful contaminants before the water even reaches the softening resin.
For well water users, this matters enormously. Sediment and iron that reach the resin bed cause fouling and reduce effectiveness. The pre-filter extends the life of your softener and improves overall water quality from every tap in your home.
I tested this system in a home with 3.5 bathrooms and four family members. The 50,000 grain capacity kept up with morning showers, laundry, and Dishwasher loads without needing frequent regenerations. Water pressure remained strong throughout the house.
The stainless steel bypass valve gives you peace of mind during maintenance. When you need to service the unit, you can isolate it from your plumbing without shutting off water to the entire house. That seems like a small feature until you actually need it.
If you have a medium-to-large household with 3-4 bathrooms, or if your well water contains significant sediment or iron, this system delivers the right combination of capacity and pre-filtration protection.
The 11 by 11 inch footprint fits in tighter spaces than many competing systems. Installation follows standard whole-house softener procedures, and the digital control head guides you through programming with clear prompts.
48,000 grains
10 ppm iron
18 GPM
Fine mesh resin
Well water with iron problems needs specialized treatment. The Aquasure Fine Mesh system uses resin with smaller-than-standard mesh size that traps iron particles more effectively. This matters when your water carries iron at levels that standard softeners struggle to handle.
The pleated sediment pre-filter catches rust and larger particles before they reach the resin. This two-stage approach keeps the softening resin working efficiently and extends time between regenerations. The 18 GPM flow rate means you will not notice pressure drops even when multiple outlets run simultaneously.
I reviewed customer feedback from homeowners dealing with iron levels between 5-10 ppm. The consensus is clear: this system handles what standard softeners cannot. Orange stains on fixtures disappeared within weeks. Water that previously left rust-colored ring in the toilet stopped doing so entirely.
Note that the capacity is listed as 1000 gallons rather than grain capacity. For typical household usage, this still represents several months of service, but you will want to monitor performance and schedule regeneration cycles appropriately for your specific water conditions.
At up to 10 ppm iron, this system handles moderately severe iron problems. If your well water tests higher than that, you may need a dedicated iron filter or chlorination pretreatment in addition to this system.
Best suited for wells with visible rust, iron bacteria, or documented iron levels between 3-10 ppm. The fine mesh technology makes a real difference in these conditions where standard resin would foul quickly.
600K gallons
7 GPM
Salt-free
6-year lifespan
The AO Smith Salt Free Descaler takes a fundamentally different approach to water treatment. Instead of ion exchange that removes hardness minerals, it uses template assisted crystallization technology to transform dissolved minerals into microscopic crystals that cannot attach to pipes and surfaces.
For homeowners who want to avoid salt-based systems entirely, this delivers genuine scale prevention without ongoing maintenance. The 600,000 gallon capacity means you will not think about replacement filters for six years. Installation requires no electrical connection and no drain line.
I spoke with several well water users who chose this system. Their experience validates what the technology can and cannot do. If your primary issue is scale buildup in pipes and appliances, the descaler addresses that effectively. Skin feels softer, and scale marks on glassware diminish noticeably.
The critical limitation is that this system does not remove hardness minerals. Water still contains calcium and magnesium, just in crystal form rather than dissolved ions. For very hard water above 15 grains per gallon, you may still experience some scale issues despite the descaler.
This works best when your well water has moderate hardness under 15 gpg and your main concern is protecting plumbing and appliances from scale damage. If you also need iron removal or very soft water for skin sensitivity, look at salt-based systems instead.
While the upfront cost is mid-range, the lack of salt purchases and zero electricity usage makes this economical over its 6-year service life. The math works out favorably compared to ongoing salt expenses with traditional softeners.
32,000 grains
7.2 GPM
IntelliSoft AI
Eco mode
The Kenmore 350 brings intelligent water treatment to smaller homes and tight installation spaces. Its compact footprint measures just 20.5 by 15 inches, standing 48 inches tall. That means it fits in closets and mechanical rooms where larger commercial-grade units simply will not work.
The IntelliSoft technology genuinely learns your household patterns. After about two weeks, the system anticipates when you need more soft water and regenerates preemptively rather than waiting for the resin to exhaust. This reduces salt consumption measurably compared to basic timer systems.
I appreciated the quiet operation during regeneration cycles. Some softeners sound like a small airplane taking off when they backwash. The Kenmore 350 runs quietly enough that you forget it is there even when regeneration happens at night.
The salt-saving eco mode lets you prioritize efficiency when water demand is lower. Families of two or three can stretch salt refills significantly by using this mode during off-peak seasons.
At 32,000 grains, this works for households of 1-4 people with average water usage. Larger families or homes with very hard water may find themselves regenerating more often than ideal. Consider the 40,000 grain Kenmore 420 for more demanding applications.
The high-flow 3/4 inch valve maintains strong water pressure throughout the home. Installation requires basic plumbing skills and tools. The included bypass valve and installation kit cover most common scenarios, though you may need additional adapters for non-standard pipe configurations.
64,000 grains
Iron 6 ppm
Fleck 5600SXT
All-in-one
The AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 earns its reputation as a workhorse for well water with iron problems. This all-in-one system combines standard water softening with dedicated iron filtration. The result handles hardness minerals, dissolved iron, manganese, sediment, and rust in a single unit.
The Fleck 5600SXT digital metered valve represents industry-standard reliability. Plumbers recognize this valve, parts are readily available, and the programming interface has been refined over years of real-world use. When something does go wrong, you can find support easily.
Customer reviews describe impressive real-world results. One homeowner with iron levels testing at 5 ppm saw their water clear completely after installation. Another mentioned eliminating the sulfur smell that had plagued their well water for years. These are the outcomes that matter for well water users.
The 64,000 grain capacity provides comfortable margin for larger households or water that tests on the harder end of the scale. Regeneration cycles run efficiently, and the metered system only triggers cleaning when the resin actually needs it.
At 6 ppm iron and 6 ppm manganese, this handles moderate contamination effectively. Combined with the pre-filtration for sediment, the system protects your resin bed from fouling and extends useful service life significantly.
At nearly 120 pounds, this unit requires two people to position safely. The documentation could be clearer for DIY installers. Budget extra time for setup and consider hiring a plumber if you lack experience with whole-house water treatment systems.
100K gallons
15 GPM
3-stage
1-year warranty
The iSpring WGB32BM focuses on comprehensive filtration rather than ion exchange softening. Its three-stage process uses a 5-micron sediment filter, carbon block filter, and iron/manganese reducing filter to address the most common well water contaminants. If you want filtered water without salt, this delivers.
The 100,000 gallon filter capacity means typical families change filters once per year rather than every few months. That convenience adds up when you calculate lifetime ownership costs. The 15 GPM flow rate ensures no noticeable pressure loss even with multiple simultaneous uses.
iSpring has built its reputation on customer support, and that comes through in how customers describe their experiences. Multiple reviewers mention the technical support team walking them through installation over the phone or video chat. That level of service matters when you are working with unfamiliar equipment.
For iron, the system handles up to 3 ppm. If your well water tests higher, you will need a dedicated iron filter or the Aquasure Fine Mesh system discussed earlier. For sediment, chlorine, and general contamination, this filtration approach works excellently.
Stage one traps sediment down to 5 microns. Stage two uses activated carbon to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and improve taste. Stage three specifically targets iron and manganese with a specialized filter media. Each stage addresses different contaminant classes for comprehensive treatment.
Best for households on municipal or well water where the main concerns are sediment, taste, odor, and moderate iron. Families wanting to avoid salt-based softeners while still getting excellent filtration will find this delivers exactly that.
500K gallons
14.7 GPM
UV + KDF
5-year warranty
The Aquasana EQ-WELL-UV-PRO-AST represents premium protection for well water. This system combines carbon and KDF filtration with ultraviolet sterilization. The UV stage is what sets it apart, eliminating bacteria and viruses that carbon filtration alone cannot handle.
For wells with confirmed bacterial contamination or those near agricultural runoff, this comprehensive approach addresses threats that standard softeners ignore entirely. The 500,000 gallon capacity translates to about five years of service before needing filter replacement.
Multiple customers switched from professional water treatment companies quoting $7,000-$12,000 for installed systems. The Aquasana delivers comparable multi-stage treatment at a fraction of that cost. That value proposition resonates clearly in customer feedback.
The tradeoff is installation. Aquasana voids the warranty if you install it yourself. Professional installation adds cost but protects your coverage and ensures proper setup of the UV component, which requires precise positioning to be effective.
Ultraviolet light at the proper wavelength destroys bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms by damaging their DNA. The UV stage operates continuously on water passing through, providing ongoing protection without chemical additives.
If your well water tests positive for bacteria, or if you have a shallow well near potential contamination sources, the UV stage provides protection that no standard softener can match. This is not overkill for high-risk situations.
64K grains + 75 GPD RO
4-6+ bath
5-year warranty
The Aquasure bundle combining a 64,000 grain softener with a 75 GPD reverse osmosis drinking water system addresses both whole-house softening and point-of-use drinking water quality. This matters because even softened well water may still contain dissolved solids that affect taste and health.
The RO system connects to your kitchen sink to provide purified drinking and cooking water. The softener handles everything else in the house. For larger homes with 4-6 bathrooms, this dual approach ensures every use case is covered appropriately.
Customer reviews from rusty well water users tell the story effectively. Water that came out orange-brown from the tap became clear within days of installation. The combination of sediment pre-treatment, softener, and RO drinking water covers every contaminant class common to problem wells.
The comprehensive instructions make DIY installation achievable for those with basic plumbing skills. Customers report saving $1,100 or more compared to professional installation quotes for similar systems. The money saved goes a long way toward the bundle price.
At 64,000 grains and 75 GPD RO production, this handles large households comfortably. The specification for 4-6+ bathrooms reflects real-world usage patterns, though actual performance depends on your specific water hardness and daily consumption.
Plan for a full afternoon if installing yourself. The softener and RO system require separate connections and proper drainage. Budget for potential additional fittings or adapters depending on your existing plumbing configuration.
600K gallons
7 GPM
Activated carbon
6-year filter
The AO Smith whole house filter focuses on chlorine, taste, and odor reduction using activated carbon filtration. The 600,000 gallon capacity means most households will set it and forget it for the full six-year filter lifespan. That convenience appeals to homeowners who want effective treatment without ongoing maintenance.
For city water users concerned about chlorine exposure, this delivers 96.9% chlorine reduction. The water feels noticeably different after filtration, and skin and hair respond positively to chlorine-free shower water.
Well water users should note this does not soften water or remove iron. It addresses chlorine and sediment but leaves hardness minerals and dissolved iron untouched. Some reviewers mention buying this expecting softener performance and being disappointed, while others use it as a pre-filter before a separate softener.
The 7 GPM flow rate handles standard household demand but can become noticeable during simultaneous high-demand activities. If you have a large home with multiple bathrooms frequently in use simultaneously, consider a higher flow option.
Best used as a dedicated chlorine and taste filter for city water, or as a pre-filter stage before a salt-based softener for well water. The carbon filtration extends softener resin life by removing chlorine that can damage the exchange media.
When you calculate cost per gallon over six years, this works out to remarkably low expense. The main costs are the upfront purchase and eventual filter replacement at year six. No salt purchases, no electricity, no drain connection required.
100K gallons
17 GPM
KDF + polyphosphate
Stainless frame
The Express Water 3-stage system tackles heavy metals, scale, and standard contaminants in one package. The KDF media reduces chlorine and heavy metals like lead and arsenic. Polyphosphate injection addresses scale buildup without salt. The stainless steel frame and pressure gauges add professional-grade features.
For households concerned about lead contamination from aging plumbing, the heavy metal reduction capability matters. Test results from customers confirm measurable improvements in water quality after installation.
The 17 GPM flow rate satisfies even large households. Multiple simultaneous showers, running laundry, and Dishwasher cycles do not produce noticeable pressure drops. The pressure gauges let you monitor filter status and know exactly when replacement is needed.
Filter replacement every 6-12 months represents ongoing maintenance, but the three filter stages each address specific contaminant classes. The investment in quality filtration pays off in protected plumbing and better tasting water throughout the home.
Unlike salt-based softening, polyphosphate dosing prevents scale formation without removing calcium and magnesium. This approach suits situations where you want scale protection but prefer to retain healthy mineral content in your drinking water.
The KDF filtration media has documented effectiveness against lead, arsenic, mercury, chromium, and cadmium. For wells near industrial sites or with aging service lines, this provides an extra layer of protection that standard carbon filters cannot match.
600K gallons
7 GPM
Salt-free
USA made
The Water Boss descaler offers salt-free scale prevention at an accessible price point. Using scale control media similar to the AO Smith system, it crystallizes hardness minerals rather than removing them. The 600,000 gallon capacity matches premium competitors at a lower price.
For well water with moderate hardness under 15 grains per gallon, this prevents the pipe and appliance scaling that causes costly plumbing repairs. The 8.75 by 8.75 by 27 inch dimensions fit under most utility sinks or in compact mechanical rooms.
Customer feedback highlights the no-maintenance appeal. There are no filters to replace, no salt to purchase, and no regeneration cycles to monitor. The system simply operates passively for its six-year service life.
The limitations show in reviews from users with very hard water above the 15 gpg threshold. Scale prevention works well within design parameters but cannot compensate for hardness levels beyond its capacity. Matching the system to your actual water hardness matters significantly.
Before buying any salt-free descaler, have your well water tested for hardness. The 15 gpg maximum threshold is real, and exceeding it leads to disappointing results. Hardness test kits are inexpensive and worth the investment to ensure proper system matching.
Water Boss designs, engineers, and assembles this system in the USA. For buyers prioritizing domestic manufacturing, that distinction matters alongside the technical specifications.
48,000 grains
Fleck 5600 SXT
Pre-loaded resin
Bypass included
The DuraWater Fleck 5600 SXT delivers professional-grade water treatment using the industry-standard Fleck control valve at a consumer-friendly price point. The 48,000 grain capacity handles typical household needs while the metered regeneration saves salt and water compared to timer-based alternatives.
Fleck valves dominate the water treatment industry for good reason. They work reliably, parts are universally available, and any plumber knows how to service them. When you invest in a water softener, choosing one with standard, well-documented components protects your long-term investment.
Customer reviews consistently mention excellent value compared to retail store prices for equivalent systems. The pre-loaded resin means no messy resin handling during installation. The black mineral tank and brine tank look professional in basement installations.
Seller support receives positive mentions in multiple reviews, which matters for a product that requires some assembly and plumbing knowledge. Having someone available to answer questions during installation prevents frustration and ensures proper setup.
The 5600SXT interface presents several configuration options for water hardness, household size, and regeneration timing. The downloadable manual provides clear guidance. First-time softener owners may need an hour to program confidently, but the interface is intuitive once you understand the parameters.
At 48,000 grains with 1.5 cubic feet of resin, this handles medium households comfortably. Larger families or very hard water may prefer the 64,000 grain AFWFilters option for longer regeneration intervals.
40,000 grains
7.7 GPM
IntelliSoft AI
1-5 people
The Kenmore 420 steps up from the 350 with increased capacity and enhanced iron reduction for larger households or more challenging water conditions. The IntelliSoft technology carries over, learning your patterns and optimizing regeneration timing for salt efficiency.
This model includes enhanced iron reduction specifically targeting well water applications. The sediment pre-filter protects the resin bed from the particulates common in well water, extending system life and maintaining softening performance.
Households of up to five people with tough water challenges find this model appropriate. The 40,000 grain capacity provides comfortable margin, and the metered regeneration ensures efficient salt usage regardless of actual consumption patterns.
At 102 pounds, installation definitely requires two people. The compact footprint still fits in tighter spaces, but the weight means proper floor support and secure positioning matter for safe operation.
The AI learning algorithm typically reduces salt consumption by 20-30% compared to basic timer systems. Over the life of the softener, those savings offset much of the price difference between this and entry-level alternatives.
The 1-year full warranty plus 3-year electronics and 10-year tank coverage provides reasonable protection. Kenmore support receives mixed reviews according to customer experiences, so factor that into your purchase decision.
120 lbs total
3 x 40 lb bags
Sodium chloride
Eco-friendly
No water softener operates without salt, and Morton Salt Pellets represent the consumable essential that keeps your system running effectively. The 3-pack format with 40 pound bags and sturdy handles makes handling manageable compared to bulk alternatives.
These pellets use the Clean and Protect formula designed to minimize residue and maximize softening efficiency. The fume-free composition makes indoor storage practical without the strong salt smell some competitors produce.
For households going through significant salt volume, the 120 pound bulk purchase saves money compared to smaller bags. The easy-tear openings on each bag simplify pouring without creating a mess or requiring tools to open.
Water softener salt is a consumable you will purchase regularly, so the quality and convenience of what you buy matters for ongoing satisfaction with your water treatment system. Morton delivers consistent quality you can rely on.
Actual salt usage depends on your water hardness, household size, and regeneration frequency. The IntelliSoft systems featured earlier reduce consumption significantly compared to older timer-based designs. Expect to use 20-50 pounds monthly depending on your specific conditions.
Store salt pellets in a dry location off concrete floors if possible. Moisture causes clumping that can affect brine tank performance. Most households go through the 3-pack within 2-3 months, so rotation keeps inventory fresh.
Selecting the right water softener requires understanding your specific water conditions and household needs. Here is what to evaluate before making a purchase decision.
Before buying any water treatment system, test your well water for hardness, iron, pH, and sediment levels. Home test kits cost under $30 and provide the data needed to match your system to actual conditions. Many Extension offices offer comprehensive water testing for a small fee.
Iron levels determine whether you need a standard softener or one with iron-specific filtration. Sediment levels affect whether you need pre-filtration. pH matters because acidic water can corrode metal components. Test results guide every other decision in your selection process.
Water softener capacity measured in grains must match your household size and water hardness. As a general guideline, a family of four needs 32,000-48,000 grains for moderate hardness. Harder water or larger families may need 64,000 grains or more to avoid frequent regeneration cycles.
Undersizing leads to disappointing performance and excessive salt consumption as the system works harder than designed. When in doubt, sizing up provides margin for variations in water conditions and usage patterns.
Salt-based ion exchange softeners remove hardness minerals completely, delivering genuinely soft water. Salt-free alternatives prevent scale but leave minerals in your water. Neither is universally better. Salt-free suits those who object to ongoing salt purchases and have moderate hardness levels.
Salt-based systems require ongoing salt purchases and periodic maintenance. Salt-free systems cost more upfront but eliminate ongoing consumable expenses. Calculate total cost of ownership over five years to make a fair comparison.
Water softeners require plumbing connections, a drain line, and electrical outlet for the control valve. Most homeowners with basic DIY skills can install smaller units. Complex setups with multiple stages or larger systems may warrant professional installation.
Consider access to your installation space. Basements work well for whole-house softeners. Tight closets require compact designs. Outdoor installation requires weather-protected enclosures. Know your space before selecting a system.
All water softeners require some ongoing maintenance. Salt-based systems need monthly salt refills and periodic deep cleaning. Salt-free systems generally operate maintenance-free for their filter or media lifespan.
Factor in filter replacement costs when evaluating total ownership. Carbon filters cost $20-50 each and need annual replacement. Resin media may need replacement every 10-15 years in normal conditions. These ongoing costs affect true long-term value.
The best water softener for well water depends on your specific water conditions. For moderate hardness with iron issues, the Aquasure 50K with Pre-Filter handles both effectively. For severe iron problems, the Aquasure Fine Mesh handles up to 10 ppm. The AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 offers excellent value for iron removal with a reliable Fleck valve.
Consumer Reports focuses on reliability data and owner satisfaction surveys. The AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 and Kenmore 350 consistently score well in owner reviews for well water applications. The iSpring Whole House Filter earns high marks for customer support and filtration effectiveness.
Fleck valves dominate the reliability ratings due to their widespread use and universal parts availability. Brands using Fleck valves include AFWFilters, DuraWater, and Aquasure. Kenmore and AO Smith bring trusted brand names with established service networks. iSpring excels in customer support quality.
Plumbers typically recommend systems with Fleck or Autotrol control valves because they are industry standard and easy to service. The AFWFilters Iron Pro 2 with its Fleck 5600SXT valve frequently appears in plumber recommendations for well water applications. Systems with dual-tank designs are recommended for larger homes requiring continuous soft water supply.
Finding the best water softener for well water comes down to matching your specific water conditions to the right technology. For most well water situations, the Aquasure Harmony Series 50,000 Grains with Pre-Filter delivers the strongest combination of capacity, pre-filtration, and ease of use. The editor’s choice designation reflects its versatility across different water conditions.
If iron is your primary concern, the Aquasure Fine Mesh resin system handles up to 10 ppm, outperforming what standard softeners can manage. Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in the AFWFilters Iron Pro 2, which combines proven Fleck reliability with all-in-one treatment capability.
Salt-free alternatives like the AO Smith Descaler work well when your hardness stays under 15 grains per gallon and you prefer to avoid ongoing salt maintenance. The UV-equipped Aquasana makes sense for wells with confirmed bacterial contamination where pathogen removal matters as much as hardness reduction.
Whatever system you choose, test your water first, size appropriately for your household, and plan for ongoing maintenance. The right water softener protects your plumbing, extends appliance life, and makes daily activities like showering and laundry noticeably more pleasant.
