Types of Coffee Filters
Coffee brewing requires a filter of some kind in order to strain coffee grounds and allow for the pure liquid coffee to make it into your mug or carafe. There are a few different types of coffee filters that can be used when making coffee.
Paper Filter
The most commonly used coffee filter is the paper filter. These are helpful in trapping sediment and small particles from making it into your coffee and also add an extra layer of taste as the paper can absorb some of the coffee oils.
- Pros: Inexpensive, traps sediment and small particles, can be thrown away for easy cleanup
- Cons: Not reusable, absorbs some coffee oils, can affect the taste of coffee
Metal Mesh Filter
Metal mesh filters are also common in many home coffee brewers. These filters are typically made out of a metal mesh that the coffee grounds are strained through.
- Pros: Reusable, doesn’t affect the taste of coffee, easy to clean and maintain
- Cons:More expensive than paper filters, can still let some small particles through
Reusable Fabric Filter
Reusable fabric filters are becoming more popular in home coffee brewers, particularly pour-over brewers. These filters are typically made out of a fine mesh fabric and can be washed and reused.
- Pros: Reusable, cheaper than metal filters, doesn’t affect the taste of coffee
- Cons: Can still let some small particles through, more difficult to clean
Whether you choose a paper, metal mesh, or reusable fabric filter depends on what kind of coffee brewing method you are using, your budget, and your preference of taste. Your best bet is to try out a few types to find the one that gives you the best result.
