How does LifeStraw work?

The majority of LifeStraw products for individual use are microfilters with an absolute pore size of 0.2 microns which remove bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and dirt/silt.

LifeStraw also manufactures ultrafilters/purifiers that, in addition to the above contaminants, also remove viruses. The absolute pore size on these purifiers is 0.02 micron.

All LifeStraw products use a hollow fiber membrane technology. These membranes have microscopic pores that trap bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. Because these contaminants are bigger than the pores in the filter, safe water can pass through. In contrast, contaminants like bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and turbidity (particles in water like dirt, sand, and silt that make the water cloudy) are trapped.  

Some of our more advanced products also have additional carbon filtration and ion exchange technologies that can reduce chemicals, like chlorine herbicides and pesticides. Others can also reduce heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and other contaminants.

To see a comparison of all LifeStraw products and their performance, click here

For a more detailed technical description of each technology in use, visit our How Our Products Work page.