The delicious taste of a cup of coffee is influenced by how the coffee filter is used in the brewing process. Although small, this component affects the flavor, texture, and a cleaner finish.
Generally, coffee filters come in various shapes and sizes. What size do coffee filters come in? Starting from 1 to 6, the selection of coffee filter sizes also varies. You can customize it to suit your needs and even different brewing devices.
Let’s explore this article to learn how to choose the right shape and size of coffee filters for a more enjoyable coffee experience.
Table of Contents
Definition of Coffee Filter
What is a coffee filter? A coffee filter is a device that filters coffee grounds from the liquid produced during the coffee brewing process.
Is it essential to choose the right size of coffee filter? In short, yes. Some coffee filters are designed to be proportional to each coffee machine you have.
When you use an unsuitable coffee filter, your coffee drink will be mixed with the pre-filtered grounds. This can affect the quality of the brew stream.
Do coffee filters expire? Even if the manufacturer doesn’t specify a lifespan, the quality of the coffee filter will degrade according to the humidity level and odor of the surrounding environment.
To maintain its quality, it’s best to store the filter in a dry, covered area to preserve its quality. If you use a metal or fabric filter, clean it regularly to keep it free from oil residue and dirt.
Why Do We Need to Filter Our Coffee?
Is coffee healthier when using a paper filter? Technically, yes. When filtering coffee, some of its fine particles and oils will be automatically scraped off. This makes the cup of coffee consumed taste cleaner and better!
Filtered coffee will have reduced levels of diterpenes – a substance that raises cholesterol levels. In conclusion, using a coffee filter proves to be a healthier solution.
Also read: Green Coffee Vs Black Coffee, Different and Which One is Better?
Filtered vs Unfiltered Coffee
What’s the difference between filtered and unfiltered coffee brewing? You’ll get the following benefits if you brew it with the right coffee filter.
- Taste Quality: Filtered coffee tends to be lighter in color and cleaner in taste. This is due to the reduced amount of fine particles and excess oils.
- Health: According to relevant research, consuming filtered coffee will prevent you from having elevated cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.
- Cleanliness: Using coffee filters will keep your coffee machine clean. With this, grounds will only accumulate in some places. You can clean it immediately after brewing coffee.
Coffee Filter Shapes
Coffee filters come in various shapes, including conical, flat (bucket), and disc. Each shape has its advantages depending on the brewing method used.
Which coffee filter is the healthiest? Whether made from paper or metal, both have their advantages. Paper filters are generally more effective at removing oils and fine particles.
However, coffee brewed with metal filters tends to have a richer flavor as it contains some oils and small particles.
1. Conical Filters
The first coffee filter size is cone-like. As the most popular type of filter, you can slowly pour hot water over the coffee beans, but only slowly.
- Coffee filter sizes 1: For one cup.
- Coffee filter sizes 2: For 2-6 cups.
- Coffee filter sizes 4: For 8-10 cups.
- Coffee filter sizes 6: For 10 cups or more.
By using the coffee filter sizes chart, you don’t have to struggle to choose a coffee filter size. Then, what is the best number for coffee filters? It also depends on the size of your coffee machine.
Most coffee lovers use a two or 4-sized coffee filter as their best choice. However, you still need to adjust the machine specifications so that the filter you purchased suits your coffee brewing needs and preferences.
2. Bucket Filters (Bucket, Basket, or Flat-Bottom Filters)
The terms are diverse, ranging from bucket baskets to flat-bottom filters. However, this filter is usually utilized for more traditional coffee machines. The outer appearance is similar to a cupcake liner with a flat bottom. That way, it can produce a more even flow of brewed water.
Usually, these filters are available in two categories: small and large. Please choose the right filter size to optimize its brewing capabilities.
3. Disc Filters
According to its shape, there is also a coffee filter called a disc filter. This flat, circular filter is ideal for Aeropress or Moka Pot brewing. It allows you to adjust the pressure during the coffee brewing process, giving you greater control over your brew’s flavor and strength.
Also read: How to Roast Decaf Coffee Beans: Everything You Need to Know
Types of Coffee Filters
Coffee filters can be categorized into two types: permanent and paper. Both advantages can be adjusted according to your brewing needs and coffee flavor preferences.
1. Permanent Filters
Permanent filters are environmentally friendly because they can be used repeatedly without being discarded after each use.
This will help reduce the plastic waste generated by disposable filters! There are two types of permanent filters: metal and reusable.
- Metal: These filters are made of stainless steel or other metal mesh. This gives it increased durability and the ability to filter out all fine particles.
- Reusable: This coffee filter can be washed and reused many times without affecting the quality of the brewed coffee served.
2. Paper Filters.
The most common type of coffee filter is the paper filter. This type presents two variants: bleached and unbleached.
- Bleached: This filter is chemically processed to be white in color. However, some coffee lovers are concerned about the possibility of their coffee being contaminated, although it is still unclear whether the material is safe for consumption.
- Unbleached: These filters are made from natural paper without bleach. It’s an excellent choice for coffee lovers who care about the environment.
How to Choose The Right Filter
Want to get the best-tasting coffee? You need to use the right coffee filter, both in terms of shape and size. Consider the following factors!
- Coffee Maker Size: Know the filter size for your machine to produce optimally brewed coffee. How do I know what size coffee filter I need? Adjust it according to the coffee maker in your home.
- Filter Material: Do you prefer paper or metal filters? Match your taste preferences and consider the environmental impact of sustainability, too!
- Brewing Method: Match the filter type to your brewing method (e.g. Pour-over or French press). With this, coffee extraction techniques can be more easily adjusted.
- Water Quality: Consider using filtered water. Why is that? Quality water can result in a more enjoyable final brew flavor.
- Personal Preferences: The last step is to adjust your preferences again. Do some experiments to find out which brew suits your taste.
How to Use Coffee Filters Correctly
Apart from knowing how to choose coffee filter sizes, it would be best to use it optimally. Follow these steps to maximize the function of the coffee filter:
1. Wet the Filter Before Use
Should you wet the coffee filter? It’s best to do this before brewing coffee. That way, the distinctive taste and aroma of the paper filter will not be mixed with the final taste of the brewed coffee.
Also, wet the filter before heating the brewing equipment. The goal is to keep the water temperature stable during brewing, primarily if you use a thick paper filter like the Chemex.
2. Use the Right Size
Make sure the filter size you choose is appropriate for your brewing device. A filter size that is too small can cause hot water to spill easily, even causing clogs.
Meanwhile, a too large filter can make the coffee less concentrated because the brewing water does not flow well. For example, we recommend using a size one filter for a small V60 portion and a size 4 for a more significant amount.
3. Even Distribution of Coffee Grounds
Make sure to pour the coffee grounds evenly into the filter. This makes the brewing process more consistent. The final brew also has a balanced flavor. It will not be balanced if the coffee grounds are too concentrated on one side.
4. Avoid Overfilling
It’s best to fill the coffee filter with enough coffee grounds. This can result in obstruction of the flowing water, even causing uneven brewing.
For this reason, this filter should be filled with ¾ of the coffee so that there is still room left for the flow of brewing water.
5. Store the Filter in a Dry Place
The last method is to store coffee filters in a dry place, especially paper filters, which are prone to moisture. That way, the shelf life will be longer and less mold-prone.
If you are using a permanent filter, make sure to dry it properly after washing. This will prevent corrosion or unpleasant odors.
Also read: How to Roast Coffee Beans at Home: A Complete Guide
Choose the Right Coffee Filter for the Perfect Taste!
By now, you should be familiar with the different coffee filter sizes available. Ensure you use a filter that matches your coffee brewer to achieve a consistently delicious taste in every cup.
Do you want quality coffee beans with authentic flavor? Discover a wide selection of premium whole beans from Indonesia at FnB Coffee.
We are dedicated to bringing you the finest Arabica and Robusta beans, known for their robust and unique flavors. Visit our website to explore our best-selling coffee beans and enjoy an unforgettable coffee experience at home!
