Why has my LifeStraw Membrane Microfilter/purifier become clogged before the end of the filtration cycle?

Clogging can occur due to improper backwashing, cleaning, storage, trapped air bubbles, etc. Follow the steps below if you are experiencing clogging before the end of your product's filtration cycle.

One of the best ways to prevent clogging is to follow our long-term storage instructions. This prevents the membranes of our filters from drying out and/or becoming blocked over long periods of non-use. Check out the instructions here for more detail.

If your filters are stored for long periods and appear to be blocked when trying to resume use, what you likely need to do is re-activate the hydrophilic properties of the membrane again or essentially lubricate the membrane so it quickly pulls water through. The best way to do this? Mouthwash! See the instructions below for unclogging using mouthwash. Our lab has found that rehydrating the filter with mouthwash (no alcohol versions) can be an effective solution to address slow membrane filters. Please follow the steps below:

Rehydration Instructions

1. Remove the membrane microfilter (MF filter) from your LifeStraw pitcher or bottle.
2. Immerse the MF filter in enough mouthwash to completely submerge it, for about 1 minute.
3. Rinse the MF filter under clean tap water for 1 minute.

Once rehydrated, proceed with the standard first-time setup as follows:

1. Follow the First-Time Setup instructions in the user manual.
   • Discard the first filtration batch without the activated carbon filter (ACF).
   • Discard the second filtration batch with the ACF.
2. Evaluate the taste and smell of the water starting with the third filtration batch, which should be clear and fresh.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@lifestraw.com and don't forget to check out our storage and maintenance instructions under our Key Documents page. 

Thank you!