Permanent Coffee Filters: No more soggy paper
February 20, 2008 by Peggy
When I mentioned in my page Tree Hugging Family Co-blogger Peggy that I stopped using paper coffee filters, one reader asked me what I use instead.
I chose a Mr. Coffee permanent filter last year and have never used paper coffee filters again.
What are the advantages?
•No paper filter waste.
•Saves resources since you reuse the same filter each time.
•They last a very long time. (Mine has a 10-year warranty.)
•No more buying coffee filters!
•You won’t have to skip coffee because you forgot to buy filters.
•More coffee taste. The coffee will be more oily, but try it. I like it.
•You save money.
•Most filters are dishwasher safe. Mine has made it fine in the dishwasher.
So, what if you use cone-shaped filters? 
Yip, they make those in permanent too.
Did I tell you that the coffee will taste better? In fact, some coffee roasters recommend using a permanent coffee filter to get the full taste of the coffee.
The reason I’m bragging on Mr. Coffee is because my coffee maker, which just turned 10 years old, is a Mr. Coffee. So, in my experience, their stuff doesn’t break easily.
But, is there a greener option than Mr. Coffee permanent filters?
Yes, I’m not perfect. But you must admit that these filters are better than the unbleached paper ones I used until last year.
Check back later and we’ll explore other options for coffee filters.
Unbleached paper filters are easy to reuse, just rinse out the grinds, place it on a flat surface and it will be dry in a few hours. They can last for weeks.
The permanent filters let cholesterol (that “oily” stuff) pass through. Paper filters trap the cholesterol and keep it out of … you! I switched back to paper. My cholesterol count went down. I, too, wash the paper filters and reuse them until they konk out.
Also, It’s much easier to compost coffee grounds by simply throwing the paper filter into your bin. Try rinsing the plastic one into a bin, It’s not that easy. Also, washing the plastic one uses resources not used when you use a paper filter.
Not trying to get down on you, I uses a plastic filter as well, It is definitely more tasty.
So much water used to wash that permanent filter.
Bottom line, go with the better taste. You can save the world doing other things.