The right coffee filter is one of the most important tools for brewing a delicious clean cup of coffee. Its job is to keep bitter coffee grounds out of your pot while allowing hot water to flow through at the ideal speed for a balanced extraction. Using the wrong shape or size can lead to a messy overflow or a weak brew. At Ace Hardware, we can help you find the perfect filter for your daily routine from brands like Mr. Coffee, BUNN, Medelco.
Choosing Your Coffee Filter Type
The first step is to match the filter shape to your coffee maker’s brew basket.
Basket Coffee Filters
These are the most common type of filter. They have a flat bottom and tall fluted sides resembling a cupcake liner. Basket filters are the standard for most automatic drip coffee makers in the 8 to 12-cup range. Their wide bottom allows the coffee grounds to spread out in a flat bed. Look for both reusable and paper basket coffee filters at Ace.
Cone Coffee Filters
As the name suggests, these filters are shaped like a cone. This design is common in both automatic drip machines and manual pour-over coffee brewers. The cone shape concentrates the coffee grounds so water flows through a more focused area, which can result in a different flavor profile than a basket filter.
Understanding Coffee Filter Sizes
Using the right size filter prevents it from collapsing during brewing which can cause grounds to spill into your coffee.
- Cone filters: Cone filters are most often sold by number. The #4 cone filter is standard for a typical 8-12 cup coffee maker. Look for #2 cone filter for smaller brewers in the 4 to 6-cup range.
- Basket filters: Most basket filters are a standard size designed to fit 8 to 12-cup coffee makers. It’s always a good idea to check your coffee maker’s manual if you are unsure what it needs.
Reusable vs. Paper Coffee Filters
You also have a choice when it comes to the filter material, with reusable and paper coffee filters readily available.
Paper Coffee Filters
Paper filters offer simple, no-fuss brewing. White bleached filters go through an oxygen-based whitening process that leaves your coffee’s flavor unchanged. Brown unbleached filters are less processed, and some users choose to rinse them with hot water beforehand to eliminate any lingering papery notes.
Reusable Coffee Filters
A reusable or permanent filter is a sustainable and cost-effective choice. Made from fine metal or nylon mesh, these filters are easy to clean by rinsing out the grounds. They cut down on paper waste, and because they’re designed to last, you won’t need to replace them frequently.
Shop Coffee Filters Near You at Ace Hardware
Your neighborhood Ace has the coffee filters you need to keep your coffee tasting great. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the exact shape and size for your machine. While you’re in the store, grab a bag of our delicious ground or whole bean coffee. And if you need a new machine or other coffee maker accessories we have you covered.
