Paper filter (bleached vs natural)

Paper filter discs, cones, or wedges that separate coffee grounds from the brew. Bleached (white) papers are oxygen- or chlorine-bleached and have minimal paper flavour. Natural (brown, unbleached) papers can carry a mild woody or papery note.

Why it matters — Filter choice subtly changes the cup. Bleached filters need almost no rinsing; natural filters benefit from a thorough hot-water rinse before brewing to wash out the paper character.

Good to know

• For Chemex and Kalita, always rinse hot — paper note is most noticeable with thicker papers.
• Sibarist and Cafec produce specialty filters with different flow rates — useful when you want to fine-tune brew dynamics.

Related: Coffee Filters