Paper coffee filters have been used to brew coffee for decades, but they can only be used once and often end up in landfills. If you're trying to reduce your waste, switch to a reusable coffee filter! Reusable products are made of either metal or cloth and work as well, if not better, than paper ones. Plus, these materials won't absorb or impart a flavor to your coffee, bringing you a rich, clean-tasting coffee.
After combing through online shopping sites, we've found 10 reusable coffee filters with excellent features and functionality. Our favorite is E-Prance's Pour Over Coffee Dripper With Stand since it can be used over a mug or in a carafe. There are many other products on our list of favorites to pique your interest, so check them out! And for some useful tips on how to choose the right product, scroll down to our buying guide.
Quick List - Top Reusable Coffee Filters
Following a decade-long career as a designer/art director in the fashion and beauty industry, I found my new calling in a coffee shop in Japan, where I met my husband who is a barista. We now run a coffee shop together in the countryside. My knowledge and passion for specialty coffee continues to grow, and I enjoy trying new beans and methods every day!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
When shopping for your reusable coffee filter, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration, including the material, capacity, and machine compatibility if required. Continue reading for the specifics!
Make sure that both the filter's size and design work for your coffee maker. Some options, like cone-shaped filters, can be used on their own for pour-over brewing.
If you're a fan of drip coffee, look for a cone-shaped filter. The narrow bottom helps concentrate the coffee grounds under the flow of water and allows for better flavor extraction. This means you'll end up with a rich cup of coffee.
They come in four standard sizes, designated as #1, #2, #4, and #6, which correlate to the type of coffee maker you use. These are consistent across brands, and they work with both electric and non-electric coffee makers.
Some cone filters also come with a supporting stand that fits on top of most coffee cups. They allow you to make drip coffee without a coffee maker.
When selecting filter size for a pour-over, try to match the size of the dripper. Since the amount of coffee will vary between individuals and brew times, the proportion of powder versus water that enters the dripper changes. It’s important to control the amount and flow of hot water during extraction.
You can experiment and adjust the size and amount of powder, height from which to pour, temperature, and so on to discover your favorite flavor that your filter produces!
Basket filters have a wide, flat base that makes the coffee grounds more spread out. So, some grounds will be less extracted and others might be overly extracted. Therefore, you might end up with a milder cup of coffee.
However, if you're using a large coffeemaker model that makes over eight cups of coffee, you will need to look for a bucket-shaped filter.
Basket-type filters are of course used in coffee machines, but we also recommend trying them for pour-overs for a more mellow flavor. You can further control the balance between sharpness and body (or richness) of the flavor by adjusting the coffee grind size. Basket filters are relatively easy to use, so they’re great for beginners to pour-over coffee.
The two most common materials for reusable coffee filters are stainless steel and cloth. Each type has its own pros and cons.
Finely-woven cloth traps all of the coffee grounds to give you a clean-tasting, smooth cup of coffee without any sediment. To confirm the tightness of the weave, skim the customer reviews to see if grounds often get through the filter.
Cloth filters are often made from hemp, cotton, or a mixture of both. Hemp is a sustainable material that requires much less water than cotton and doesn't need fertilizers or pesticides to grow.
Cotton imparts zero flavors to your coffee. However, cotton is usually grown using fertilizers and pesticides for faster growth and better yields. If you want to avoid most pesticides, go for organic cotton.
However, cloth filters are a bit more challenging to clean. You need to rinse out all of the coffee grounds stuck to the cloth, rinse it in hot water, and let it air-dry. Cloth may also absorb some of the oils in coffee, resulting in a less flavorful cup.
The cloth Nel Dripper is a common extraction method in kissaten (old-fashioned coffee shops) in Japan. It’s certainly a visually appealing, nostalgic way to brew and drink coffee. It's also easy to appreciate the character of coffee, so it's good for those who are looking for unique flavor profiles. However, it is necessary to constantly check the condition of the cloth as they require diligent care and cleaning.
Stainless steel is durable and corrosion-resistant, so it will last you a long time. Stainless steel products are less likely to absorb or impart a weird taste to your coffee. Aluminum models also exist, but they aren't as durable.
The mesh of metal filters has larger pores, so it doesn't filter out all the natural oils of the coffee grounds like paper filters. This will make your coffee taste much richer. But, you are likely to end up with some grounds at the bottom of your cup.
Some metal options are coated with 24-karat gold. Gold adds durability and doesn't alter or absorb the flavor of the coffee. This means that it won't leave a metallic taste, unlike other metal filters. However, some filters are gold-toned, but not actually gold-plated! Be sure to confirm the materials rather than relying on the color.
Stainless steel filters have single-layer or double-layer mesh. Single-layer mesh is usually easier to clean, but it may let more grounds through. Double-layer mesh offers better filtering, but it may trap grounds and get clogged.
Regardless of the type of metal filter you buy, it's important to clean it regularly. Rinse it with hot water after each use. If it's especially dirty, use gentle dish soap, baking soda, or vinegar. Scrub the mesh gently to avoid damaging or bending it, and don't use hard materials like steel wool.
A metal filter can be dishwasher-safe, but you will likely have to handwash it occasionally to remove stuck grounds or built-up oil.
One possible downfall of stainless steel filters is that fine coffee powder and coffee oils inevitably end up in the cup. For those who like a more rich and textural coffee experience, this is a plus; but if the idea of a bit of sediment is a turn-off, it’s best to stick with paper filters.
To make it easy to remove the filter from your coffee maker, look for a product with a handle. However, take into consideration the size. If the handle is too big, it might not fit in your coffee maker. Check to see the models a filter is compatible with and read the review section to see what buyers experienced.
You should also keep in mind the material of your handle. Usually, a handle made of plastic or silicone is heat-resistant and comfortable to hold. A metal one might get quite hot and burn your hand, but it's durable and won't break off easily.
Some manufacturers include handy accessories for easier use. A cleaning brush is the most useful since it helps you get into hard-to-clean areas and remove coffee grounds. Some products also come with a measuring scoop to help you get the right amount of coffee grounds.
Regardless of what kind of filter you choose, the kettle is an important accessory. A good goose-necked kettle is essential when doing manual pour-over. The flavor of your coffee will change depending on the speed and amount of water poured, so you’ll want to use a narrow-mouthed pot that you can easily control. The classic Kalita pot is a barista staple!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | E-Prance Pour Over Coffee Dripper With Stand | ![]() | Best Versatile Filter for Both Mugs and Carafes | |
2 | Yeosen Coffee Filter | ![]() | Best Basket Filter for Large Coffee Makers | |
3 | CoffeeSock | ![]() | Best Cotton Filters for Carafes Like Chemex | |
4 | Di Oro Living MaxBrew Filter | ![]() | Best Gold Filter for Keurig Coffee Makers | |
5 | LHS Pour Over Coffee Dripper | ![]() | Best Traditional Pour-Over Filter for Single Cups | |
6 | ThreadBentLLC | ![]() | Best Cloth Filters for a Variety of Coffee Makers | |
7 | Goldtone | ![]() | Best Basket Filter With a Plastic Handle | |
8 | Apace Living Pour Over Coffee Filter | ![]() | Best Carafe Filter With a Wide Edge | |
9 | Barista Warrior | ![]() | Best Metal Filter for Durability | |
10 | Frieling | ![]() | Best Gold-Plated Drip Filter for Full Flavor |
Pros:
Cons:
If you like to use multiple brewing methods, consider this filter! It comes with a detachable stand, allowing you to use it on a mug or in a carafe. It also has a plastic removable handle for safer use, and the bottom lip is curved to prevent slips.
There are some reports that you have to use a coarser grind to prevent clogs. Overall, however many reviewers confirm that it makes smooth, flavorful coffee and isn't a pain to clean. They also like that it's easy to use, even for cold brew.
Pros:
Cons:
This stainless steel basket fits most eight to 12-cup coffee makers, making it perfect if you prefer to make a lot of coffee at once. Plus, it has a metal handle for easier use. It comes with a spoon with a small brush for cleaning on the other end, too.
There are some reports that it drains rather slowly. However, most
reviewers are impressed with the clean, strong coffee it produces. They also confirm that it fits perfectly into their 12-cup Mr. Coffee and Black & Decker makers.
Pros:
Cons:
This cloth coffee filter is made of organic cotton. It fits most pour-over carafes, including six- to 13-cup Chemex models. We like that it comes in a two-pack, allowing you to have a fresh one while the other dries.
Some reviewers note that cloth filters do take more work to clean. However, many still love it, saying it's durable and produces flavorful, full-bodied coffee. They also confirm that it fits Chemex makers and like that it doesn't get clogged, unlike metal options.
Pros:
Cons:
Want to enjoy the convenience of K-Cups without the waste? This reusable K-Cup filter is plated with 24-karat gold that won't impart any off-putting flavors into your coffee. It has a rubber O-ring as well, preventing leaks. Plus, it fits most 1.0 and 2.0 Keurig models!
Some mention that you may need to experiment with the correct coffee grind size, with most recommending a smaller grind. Otherwise, many confirm that this filter preserves the flavor of their coffee, resulting in a rich brew. They also like that it's convenient to use and easy to clean!
This reusable coffee filter sits on top of a mug or small carafe, making one or two cups of coffee at a time. It's made of durable stainless steel mesh and has a silicone ring that prevents it from slipping off your mug! We also like that it comes with a cleaning brush and handle.
Some buyers mention that some coffee grounds get through the filter. Nonetheless, many others love its sturdy construction. They confirm that it makes bold and complex cups of coffee. They also like that they can toss it in the dishwasher or clean it with the included brush.
Pros:
Cons:
It can be tricky to find reusable filters for making smaller amounts of coffee. This option comes in #2 and #4 filter sizes, making it an excellent option for small or medium coffee makers. We also appreciate the handy loop for easier drying and handling. If you like having extras on hand, these filers are also available in packs of two or four.
The vast majority of reviewers love these simple filters. They say that they are well-made and fit many coffee makers, including Chemex and automatic models. Reviewers confirm that they make great-tasting coffee, and some appreciate that they don't come with additional wasteful packaging.
Pros:
Cons:
This stainless steel basket filter fits eight- and 12-cup Mr. Coffee makers, but there are reports that it fits other brands with a similar capacity. We appreciate that this filter has a plastic handle to prevent burnt hands, unlike metal handles.
A few users note that the plastic used for this filter isn't very durable. However, most reviewers like that it fits very well in their coffee makers, including other brands aside from Mr. Coffee. They also appreciate that it doesn't affect the flavor of their coffee and is easy to clean.
Pros:
Cons:
The wide rim of the filter allows it to fit most pour-over coffee makers such as Chemex, Hario, and Bodum. The rim also has a rubber edge for easier, safer handling. Plus, it comes with a brush for easier cleaning.
There are some reports that this filter gets clogged unless you use coarsely-ground coffee. However, many confirm that it makes flavorful coffee and fits many coffee makers. They also like the unique pattern of the filter, saying it looks nice on their countertops.
Pros:
Cons:
This filter is made of stainless steel coated in titanium, a strong, durable metal that holds up well over time. Not only is it built to last, but it also comes with a lifetime warranty. It has a removable rubber rim as well, making it safer and easier to grip.
Some reviewers note that it may get clogged, and they recommend using a coarser grind to prevent this. Otherwise, many users confirm that it's durable and well-made. They love that it makes smooth, flavorful coffee!
Pros:
Cons:
Unlike other gold-toned models, this drip filter is actually plated with 24-karat gold. Gold won't affect the flavor of your coffee, and many coffee aficionados say it brings out the best taste. This filter also has a plastic handle for easier use.
A few reviewers report that this filter lets too many coffee grounds through, and others note that it doesn't fit their coffee maker. However, most appreciate that it's made with genuine gold, confirming that it produces rich, clean, and flavorful coffee. They also like the construction, saying it feels durable.
Nicole says, "Just as with using paper filters, it’s important to pre-rinse a reusable filter and your container of choice with hot water before you brew. This not only removes debris and unwanted odors from the filter but also pre-heats your dripper and vessel, leading to the cleanest and purest flavor for your cup of coffee!
Reusable cloth filters are tempting to avoid waste, but they are actually very difficult to clean. The amount of water used to maintain them ends up being not so eco-friendly!"
Interested in learning more about reusable coffee filter maintenance? Check out our frequently asked questions!
A cloth filter requires a little extra care to avoid staining, mold, or oil buildup. First, be sure to rinse it with hot water after each use, removing all coffee grounds. Dish soap isn't necessary for daily maintenance.
Boilng a cloth filter for 10 minutes will both sanitize it and remove oil buildup. It's best to boil it at least every six to eight weeks. If you need extra cleaning power, you can add baking soda or vinegar to the water.
After rinsing or boiling, hang it up so that it can air dry. It's important that air can circulate around the filter to prevent hidden damp areas, which may lead to mold.
Want to make some barista-worthy coffee at home? With the right tools, you can surely do so! Check out our articles to browse some gadgets that can improve your coffee-making experience.
No. 1: E-Prance|Pour Over Coffee Dripper With Stand
No. 2: Yeosen|Coffee Filter
No. 3: CoffeeSock|
No. 4: Di Oro Living|MaxBrew Filter
No. 5: LHS|Pour Over Coffee Dripper
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices