A portable drinking water filter system, such as a pitcher, having a floatable body including a filter opening configured to receive a water filter, the floatable body having a seal extending outward from an outer surface of the floatable body. The floatable body is disposed in a container cavity such that a body seal engages the sidewall and restricts water from passing between the floatable body and the sidewall. The seal is configured to create friction with the sidewall, wherein the friction created when the floatable body rises in the container is different than when the floatable body lowers in the container. The friction created when the floatable body rises in the container is greater than when the floatable body lowers in the container, allowing the floatable body to auto-retract toward a cavity base without burping.