Types of Coffee Filters

Coffee filters separate coffee grounds from hot water to help create a smooth and delicious cup of joe. They also filter out micro-fines, sediments, and natural oils that can leave a gritty, unpleasant taste in your cup of joe. However, the type of filter you use can impact the overall flavor and mouthfeel of your brew. With so many options available, the choices can be overwhelming.

Paper filters are the most commonly used type of filter for drip brewing and pour over brewing methods. They are also inexpensive and can be purchased in both bleached and unbleached varieties. Bleached paper filters are white and absorb less oil from the brewed coffee than unbleached varieties. Unbleached filters have a natural brown color and are more environmentally friendly than bleached filters. However, both types can leave a paper taste on the coffee unless they are pre-rinsed before brewing.

Filters come in two basic shapes: cone or basket (flat-bottom) style. The cone shape allows the filter to sit on top of a larger surface area of coffee grounds, which ensures balanced extraction when the hot water is poured over the grounds. Basket-style filters have a narrower surface area, which means the coffee grounds are in closer contact with the water and can result in a strong, bitter, or earthy flavor.