Abstract: A filter for purifying drinkable and non-drinkable water is described, which comprises a body (1) for association with a water inlet and defining an inlet end (2) in communication with a purifying filter including sequentially a bacteria hold-back membrane (23) and an active carbon zone (31), and deflector means (40-74) which may be positioned in a first position, where the inlet end (2) is in communication with a direct water dispensing conduit (41-71) by bypassing the purifying filter, and in a second position, where the communication between the inlet end (2) and the direct water dispensing conduit is cut off and where the dispensing through a purified water conduit (42-71) is allowed.