How To Clean Reusable Coffee Filter

If you’ve ever run out of paper coffee filters, you understand the importance of keeping reusable filters on hand. You can also avoid papery flavors, reduce waste, and enjoy the full-bodied flavor of coffee with its natural oils. 

However, there is one disadvantage to reusable coffee filters: cleaning them. Because they are reusable, you cannot simply discard them and move on with your day. Here’s how to make cleaning your coffee filter as simple as possible! 

What is a coffee filter? 

A coffee filter traps the coffee grounds so that water can flow through the beans and produce the delicious liquid coffee we all enjoy. 

In French press and drip coffee, coffee filters are typically made of paper or mesh; however, reusable metal coffee filters are available for espresso machines and coffee machines. 

Are coffee filters washable and reusable? 

You may be surprised to learn that coffee filters can be reused and cleaned, but this depends on the type used. 

For instance, paper coffee filters may not be able to withstand extreme moisture; however, other brands of coffee filters are designed to be reused multiple times or even washed and reused repeatedly. 

This is the optimal solution for minimizing waste and ensuring that your coffee has the optimal flavor! 

Why is it essential to clean coffee filters? 

Permanent filters are economical and environmentally friendly. But if you don’t clean them regularly, your taste buds will not be appreciative – nobody wants to drink dark, bitter coffee! 

Why is this cleaning so necessary? Minerals in your water, coffee oils, and even acceptable coffee grounds can become trapped in your filter’s fine mesh over time. You may even end up growing mold or bacteria in your filter! 

If you have a permanent coffee filter, you will need to clean it regularly. This is true regardless of the filter you use, from the filter basket included with your coffee machine to the metal filter you purchased for your favorite pour-over method. 

How do you use reusable coffee filters 

There are many ways to use reusable coffee filters, and the best way depends on your personal preferences. Some people prefer to rinse their filter with hot water before each use, while others simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.  

You can also soak your filter in a solution of vinegar and water to clean it more thoroughly. No matter which method you choose, be sure to dry your filter completely before using it again. 

How to Clean a Reusable Coffee Filter 

Equipment 

• Large bowl 
• Soft kitchen sponge 

• Kitchen towel 

Materials 

• White vinegar 
• Cold water 

Instructions 

Regular cleaning 

Every time you use your reusable coffee filter, you must rinse it out and let it dry. Don’t let old coffee grounds or water sit in the filter if you don’t want mold to grow! Remove the grounds from the filter and rinse it from the inside out. If your faucet is equipped with a spray nozzle, spray the outside of the filter to remove any leftover coffee grounds. 

Then, apply dish soap to a sponge and scrub the filter gently. As with dishes, warm soapy water will keep your filter clean. Ensure that the filter is thoroughly rinsed to avoid leaving soapy flavors. Before storing the filter, allow it to dry on a dish rack or pat it dry with a towel. 

Another choice? Place the filter on the upper rack of the dishwasher. Check the user manual for your specific brand of a filter before attempting this, as not all brands recommend this. 

Thorough washing 

When it’s time to clean your filter thoroughly, you’ll need a few additional tools. First, thoroughly rinse the filter. Then, combine one-part white vinegar and two parts cold water in a large bowl. Soak your coffee filter in the solution for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, before rinsing it. This should descale and thoroughly clean your filter, allowing you to brew a clean cup of coffee. 

In a hurry? You can expedite the deep cleaning process by substituting vinegar with baking soda. Pour baking soda into the filter and scrub with a sponge. The accumulation on your reusable coffee filter should be easy to remove! 

How often should my reusable coffee filter be cleaned? 

If you consume coffee daily, you should clean your coffee filter or machine after each use to ensure that your coffee grounds produce the best flavor. 

However, if you perform a more profound, descaling clean of your coffee filter, you should aim to do so at least once per month for the best results and the most delicious coffee. 

What not to do: 

Although learning how to clean a reusable coffee filter is simple, there are a few things you should avoid doing. 

• To scrub the filter, utilize nothing abrasive, such as a metal sponge. You may be able to remove stains, but you’ll likely damage the filter in the process! 
• If you have a filter with a gold tone, you should probably avoid using vinegar. The acidity of the mixture can corrode your filter’s metal. 
• Carefully dispose of coffee grounds down the sink drain! Even if you have a garbage disposal, coffee grounds can clog your pipes and result in a costly plumbing bill. We advise dumping coffee grounds directly into your compost or garbage bin or collecting them for use in your garden.