How to Store Your LifeStraw Peak Gravity 8L and Safe Storage 8LUpdated 2 hours ago
See our YouTube videos for all Peak Series information.
This guide applies to:
- LifeStraw Peak Series Gravity 8L
- LifeStraw Peak Series Gravity with Safe Water Storage 8L + 8L
To help maintain filter performance during storage, avoid letting the membrane dry out completely. Store the filter with a saline solution made by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt with 2 cups of water. This helps maintain the hydrophilic properties of the membrane and may also help prevent mold or algae growth during long term storage. If the membrane becomes completely dry, it can be difficult to get water to flow through again.
Regular Cleaning and Storage
For storage less than 1 month
If you have already used your Peak Series gravity system and plan to store it for less than 1 month:
1. Backwash the filter
Follow the backwashing steps above to help keep the membrane microfilter clean and reduce clogging.
2. Rinse the parts
Rinse the inside of the top cap, mouthpiece, and bag before storage. For gravity systems, clean all mouthpieces, caps, and parts.
3. Optional disinfection
For deeper cleaning:
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of household bleach with 1 to 2 cups of water.
- Submerge the filter tip in the solution.
- Use the backwash accessory to push and pull the solution through the filter several times.
- Rinse thoroughly with tap water.
4. Store the system
For storage of less than 1 month, place the cleaned filter and system in a cool, dry place until next use.
Long Term Storage
For storage greater than 1 month
1. Prepare the saline solution
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 2 cups of water.
2. Fill the filter with saline solution
- Place the filter into the saline solution.
- Use the backwash syringe to pull the solution fully into the filter.
- Place the filter into a reusable container that is still filled with the saline solution and seal it tightly.
3. Store the filter and bags properly
- Store the sealed container with the saline solution in a cool, dry place.
- Check the container periodically to make sure the solution has not evaporated and the filter has not dried out. This step is based on the storage guidance you provided.
- Once the filter is removed from the system, the bag can be cleaned with household soap and water before drying.
- Store the bag unfolded in a cool, dry place and make sure all liquid has been removed to help reduce mold or algae growth. This step is based on the information you provided.
4. Product specific storage differences
Peak Series Gravity 8L
- If storing the gravity bag, make sure the caps are open before storage.
Peak Series Gravity with Safe Water Storage 8L + 8L
- If storing the dirty water bag and or safe water storage bag, make sure the caps are open before storage.
5. Carbon filter attachment storage
If applicable, store the Peak Series Carbon Filter Attachment System separately in a sealed container and keep it in a cool, dry place. Do not store it in saline solution.
Before Using Again
When you are ready to use the filter again:
- Discard the saline solution.
- Fill a cup or container with regular source water.
- Use the backwash syringe to remove any remaining salt water from the filter by pulling in new water and pushing it back through the filter.
Helpful Reminder
If storing for more than 3 months, the instructions recommend cleaning with a diluted bleach solution before storage for increased disinfection.