Coffee filters

Filter coffee is coffee prepared using a filter.
The difference from other preparation methods is that water passes not only through ground coffee beans but also through a filter.

Types of coffee filters

Filters are disposable, reusable and permanent.
Paper coffee filters allow you to reveal the full richness of taste and aroma, since extraction is consistently fast. The cost depends on the material from which it is made: brown, made of wood, can give the drink a cardboard taste if the filter is not pre-treated with boiling water; bleached with chlorine, oxygen or ozone, good quality filters are neutral in taste and smell, so the drink will not have an extraneous taste or aroma; bamboo, the most expensive, but the most environmentally friendly, guarantee the perfect taste and aroma of coffee.
The paper filter retains coffee oils and caffeine, so the finished drink is quite watery, has a clean taste without bitterness. The combination with milk and cream is undesirable.
Connoisseurs of a richer drink should pay attention to cotton filters. They slow down the extraction process due to smaller holes in the material.
The shape of paper filters affects extraction and oxygen saturation.
For brewing coffee in a cup, choose corrugated ones.
For brewing in a mug or drip coffee maker, cone-shaped ones are suitable.
Special filters with a flat bottom are more versatile, they can be used both in a coffee machine and for brewing directly in a container.
A reusable metal filter will last much longer.
It allows coffee oils and caffeine to pass through better, making the finished coffee much more concentrated and aromatic.
Permanent filters are made of different materials: plastic, metal, nylon. They can be removable or not. The big disadvantage of non-removable ones is that, in case of damage, you will have to throw away the entire device. In addition, it is worth considering that nylon and plastic are less environmentally friendly than paper.

Choosing filters depending on the type of coffee maker

The correct choice of a coffee maker filter is one of the key factors for making delicious coffee. Each model has its own size, so it is important to pay attention to this parameter before buying.
For drip coffee makers, paper cone-shaped filters of standard sizes are usually used.
The best ones for pouroverare fine paper coffee filters or special reusable metal filters, depending on whether you prefer a clean, light taste or a richer one. A pourover allows you to try different water temperatures, brewing speeds, control the process, and influence the result.
Metal filters are purchased for espresso coffee makers, as they allow you to get a rich taste and a thick crema.

Techniques for Proper Filter Use

The proper brewing technique depends on the coffee preparation method, type of coffee maker, and filter.
Before using, the paper filter should be rinsed with warm water to remove any possible paper odor. In addition, a wet filter will stick better to the walls of the coffee maker.
For a pour-over, it is important to pour water slowly and evenly to extract the maximum coffee flavor.
Drip coffee makers automatically feed water through the filter, but you need to adjust the temperature and time.
It is recommended to use 10-12 grams of coffee per 1 cup. The amount depends on personal preferences for the strength of the drink. The optimal doses may be different for different equipment.
A medium grind is best for filtration, as a fine grind can lead to excessive saturation and bitterness of the drink, and a large one will make the coffee too watery.

The best filter brands

When choosing a filter, pay attention to its material, size and brand.
Among the brands known for the high quality of their products, manufacturers are HARIO, Kalita, Melitta.
HARIO specializes in filters for pourover.
Melitta for drip coffee makers.
Quality paper coffee filters should not contain chemical impurities and should be strong enough not to break during brewing.
Thin paper filters are considered best for pour-over coffee, and metal filters are best for espresso. Be sure to buy a filter for your coffee maker that matches its size.

Storage and shelf life

Paper coffee filters should be stored in a dry, dark place. When stored properly, the shelf life of disposable filters is unlimited. It is advisable to use them once, but for greater economy, users brew coffee in such filters up to 4 times.
Metal filters are reusable and require thorough cleaning after each brewing to prevent the accumulation of coffee residue and microorganisms.

Beans for filter coffee

The choice of beans depends on your taste preferences. Arabica or Robusta are more often chosen. Arabica will have a milder taste. The freshness of the beans is important.
A medium or light roast level is usually used to preserve the uniqueness of the bean, acidity and aroma.
A medium grind of beans is best. For disposable filters, you can choose a grind closer to fine.

Advantages of filter coffee

Filters provide better filtration than other methods.
This coffee has a mild, clean taste without bitterness, as the filter retains oils and particles of coffee beans.
It contains less caffeine and oils, which makes it easier on the stomach and less dangerous for the cardiovascular system.

Where to buy quality filters

You can buy filters for coffee makers on manufacturers’ websites, in specialized online stores and marketplaces.
They can also be purchased in supermarkets, home appliance stores or specialized stores that sell coffee.
Prices for filters vary depending on the brand and type. Paper filters for coffee can cost from 50 to 200 hryvnias per pack, and reusable ones – from 300 to 1500 hryvnias.
When buying, pay attention to their size, material and compatibility with your equipment.