How should I store my LifeStraw Peak Gravity Water Filter System?
Avoid drying out the filter by storing with a saline solution made by mixing a teaspoon of salt with water as instructed below. This will keep the filter at its highest performance and maintain the hydrophilic properties of the membrane, while also preventing any mold or algae from growing during long-term storage. When the membrane becomes completely dried out, it can be difficult to get water to flow through again.
REGULAR CLEANING AND STORAGE (less than 1 month)
If you’ve already used your LifeStraw Peak Series squeeze bottle and plan to store it for less than one month:
- Backwash:
- Disconnect the membrane microfilter from the top cap by twisting counterclockwise.
- Attach the included backwash accessory to the filter.
- Draw clean water into the filter by pulling the syringe up, then push the water back through by pressing the syringe down. Repeat several times.
- Rinse:
- Rinse the inside top cap, mouthpiece, and bottle to keep them clean.
- Disinfect (Recommended):
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of household bleach with 1-2 cups of water.
- Submerge the filter tip in the solution. Use the backwash accessory (or blow through the filter for the straw version) to push and pull the solution through several times.
- Rinse thoroughly with tap water.
- Prevent Drying:
- To keep your filter in top condition, store it with a saline solution (1 teaspoon of salt mixed with 2 cups of water) in an airtight container.
- This helps maintain the membrane’s hydrophilic properties and prevents mold or algae growth.
LONG-TERM STORAGE (more than 1 month)
- Immerse in Salt Solution:
- Fill a container with 2 cups of water and dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Fully submerge the filter in the solution and use the backwash syringe to fill the filter with the solution.
- To keep your filter in top condition, store it with a saline solution in an airtight container. Be sure to check the container periodically to ensure the solution does not evaporate, drying out your filter.
- Store Properly:
- Keep the container with your filter in the saline solution in a cool, dry place.
- For any Peak Series Carbon Filter Attachment, store it separately in a sealed container or bag (not in saline).
- Store your Squeeze or Peak bag unfolded in a cool dry place, making sure that all liquid has been removed to avoid mold or algae growth.
- Resume Use:
- When you’re ready to use the filter, discard the salt solution and fill your bottle with clean source water.
- Use the backwash syringe to rinse out any residual salt by pulling and pushing fresh water through the filter.
If you have additional questions about storage and maintenance for your LifeStraw Peak Series products, please email us at info@lifestraw.com