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Ceramic Coffee Filter Drippers: Are They Really Worth Buying?

Oct 14, 2024 • Petie Schill

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Have you ever heard of switching out your paper coffee filters for a more environmentally-friendly alternative? Or maybe you’ve heard of ceramic coffee filters and you’d like to learn more. Either way, this article will teach you everything you need to know about ceramic filters so that you can decide if it’s something for you.

What is a ceramic coffee filter?

The ceramic coffee filter is a modern, eco-friendly means to brew coffee. The porous ceramic dish, which has countless micro-perforations invisible to the naked eye, lets users craft their coffee without a typical paper coffee filter.

Ceramic coffee filter
Cera Filter 002

About ceramic coffee filters

How do I use it?

There are a few different types of ceramic coffee filters, so exact directions will vary by brand. The general idea, though, is to put the ceramic filter on top of your coffee mug before adding your preferred coffee grounds. Then, simply pour hot water over the grounds and let your coffee drip through the ceramic’s fine pores.

Pouring hot water over coffee in a ceramic coffee filter

What kind of coffee should I use?

It’s recommended that you use extra coarse coffee with a ceramic coffee filter. That way, fine grounds don’t get stuck and clog the tiny pores. According to twentytwentyone, a popular brand of the product, coarse grounds also produce the best tasting coffee. 

How to clean a ceramic coffee filter

First, you’ll need to dispose of your used coffee ground. It’s important to do this as soon as possible, since it becomes harder to remove them once they’re dry. Next, wash the filter with water until the water becomes clean. Ceramic coffee filters are NOT dishwasher safe, and many brands recommend against using dishwashing soap. Allow the filter to dry naturally.

Pro's for using a ceramic filter:

  • Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the ceramic filter’s low impact on the environment compared to traditional paper filters.
  • Ceramic ones are also said to make finer-tasting coffee with an earthy and less-acidic flavor. 

Cons for using a ceramic filter:

  • Filters can clog easily.
  • The unique flavor of coffee prepared this way just might not be for everybody.
  • Some users have reported that ceramic coffee filters are difficult to keep clean.

Where to buy online:

There are a number of companies that sell this product, but which ones are the best? Here’s a list of some of the most most-popular brands and filters (you can also order directly from stores in Japan):

Kurasu Cera Filter 002 (Japan)

Kurasu Cera Filter 002
  • Perfect for brewing a delicious cup of coffee without the need for disposable filters.
  • The same level of filtration as that found in a water purifiers.
  • Made in Japan.

Japanese Ceramic Pour-Over Filter (US)

Ippinka Ceramic Pour-Over Filter
  • Enhances the taste and aroma of coffee without the use of paper filters.
  • Crafted in Japan.
  • Reusable and eco-friendly.

Kubota Kyuemon Ceramic Filter (UK)

Kubota Kyuemon Ceramic Filter
  • Product is available in the UK
  • Filter prevents bitterness while allowing the oils to pass through, resulting in a crystal clear coffee.

Conclusion: Should you buy one?

Yes, we if you're looking to try this unique filter for your daily coffee making routine - it's worth buying. The low cost entry and environmental friendliness is a big plus in our eyes. No french press to scrape grind out of, no filters to throw in the garbage.

Author

Petie has a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and is currently a graduate student in Italy. With a passion for travel and cross-cultural learning, she has tried coffee all over the world. Previously a barista and coffeehouse manager, Petie is most knowledgeable about coffee bean flavor profiles, safe coffee practices, equipment, and fair trade coffee.

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