It is normal for your LifeStraw Home membrane microfilter to slow down gradually over time.

As the membrane captures particles and contaminants, water may move through it more slowly. This can happen with normal use and does not necessarily mean the filter needs to be replaced right away.

Once a new filter has completed its initial start-up period, the expected flow rate is approximately 85 to 225 mL per minute, or roughly 1/3 to 1 cup per minute.

Flow naturally varies within this range. Some filters may operate toward the faster end, while others may operate toward the slower end.

If your filter was previously flowing normally and has become noticeably slower, cleaning and maintenance may help restore flow.

Why might flow slow down?

Flow may decrease more quickly if:

• The membrane is not rinsed or cleaned regularly

• The source water contains higher levels of sediment, cloudiness, or minerals

• Air becomes trapped within the membrane

• The membrane is allowed to dry out

• Recommended storage instructions are not followed

The LifeStraw Home membrane microfilter should remain hydrated once it has been put into use.

The membrane microfilter has a rated capacity of up to 264 gallons, but actual filter life can vary depending on water quality, turbidity, use, care, maintenance, and storage conditions.

How do I know if my filter is flowing slowly?

After the initial start-up period, an expected flow rate is approximately 85 to 225 mL per minute.

For a 7-Cup LifeStraw Home Pitcher, filtering approximately 7 cups of water may take about 7 to 20 minutes when the membrane is operating within this expected range.

A filter operating toward the lower end of this range is not necessarily clogged or defective.

If filtration becomes noticeably slower than it was previously, or water has nearly stopped flowing, try the steps below.

How to Help Restore Flow

1. Rinse the membrane filter

Regular rinsing can help remove accumulated debris and release trapped air.

We recommend rinsing the membrane microfilter as part of your regular cleaning routine.

After rinsing, reinstall the filter and run water through the system to see whether flow improves.

2. Help release trapped air

Air trapped within the membrane can reduce flow.

With the membrane still installed in the filter housing:

1. Remove the filter housing from the pitcher or dispenser.

2. Gently tap or shake the housing.

3. Reinstall it and run water through the filter.

Moving water and air within the membrane can help restore flow.

3. Rehydrate the membrane if it has dried out

The membrane microfilter should remain hydrated after it has been put into use.

If it has accidentally dried out, soak the membrane in clean water for approximately 30 minutes, then reinstall it and run water through the filter.

Flow may take several passes to improve.

If the membrane has fully dried out and flow cannot be restored after rehydrating and cleaning, the filter may need to be replaced.

4. Deep clean the filter if needed

If your source water contains higher levels of sediment, turbidity, or minerals, buildup may occur more quickly.

A deeper cleaning can help remove material that may be restricting water flow.

Follow the recommended LifeStraw Home cleaning instructions before replacing the membrane.

5. Continue using the filter after cleaning

Flow may not return to its previous rate immediately.

After cleaning, run several batches of water through the system. This helps fully rehydrate the membrane, move trapped air, and allow water to redistribute throughout the filter.

Some variation in flow is normal.

6. Replace the membrane if flow cannot be restored

If you have completed the recommended cleaning, rehydration, and troubleshooting steps and the filter remains extremely slow or has stopped flowing, it may be time to replace the membrane microfilter.

Long-Term Storage Instructions

Proper storage is especially important for the membrane microfilter because it should not be allowed to dry out after use.

Follow these steps when storing your LifeStraw Home pitcher or dispenser for an extended period.

1. Empty the system

Discard any remaining water from the pitcher or dispenser.

2. Remove the carbon filter

Remove the carbon filter and allow it to air dry for approximately 30 minutes.

• For shorter-term storage, place the dry carbon filter in a sealed reusable container and store it in a cool, dry place.

• If storing the system for longer than two months, discard the used carbon filter and install a new one when you begin using the system again.

3. Remove and rinse the membrane filter

Remove the membrane microfilter and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.

4. Clean the pitcher or dispenser

Wash the pitcher or dispenser body and filter housing with soap and water.

Allow these components to dry completely before storing them.

5. Disinfect the membrane filter

Mix:

1/4 teaspoon (1.25 mL) of household bleach
with
2 cups (473 mL) of clean water

Then:

1. Place the membrane microfilter in the solution for 10 minutes.

2. Remove the membrane.

3. Rinse thoroughly under clean water for approximately 1 minute.

6. Prepare the membrane for storage

Mix:

1 teaspoon (5 mL) of salt
with
2 cups (473 mL) of clean water

Stir until the salt is fully dissolved.

Then:

1. Place the membrane microfilter in the salt solution.

2. Make sure the membrane remains fully submerged.

3. Seal the container.

4. Store it in a cool, dry place.

Keeping the membrane submerged helps prevent it from drying out during storage.

7. Store the filters separately

During storage:

• Keep the membrane microfilter submerged in the salt solution

• Keep the dry carbon filter in a separate sealed container

Do not store the carbon filter in the salt solution with the membrane.

How do I start using the filter again after storage?

When you are ready to use your LifeStraw Home again:

1. Remove the membrane microfilter from the salt solution.

2. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water.

3. Reassemble the pitcher or dispenser.

4. Run at least two batches of water through the system.

5. Discard the first batch, as you may notice a salty taste.

6. If the system was stored for longer than two months, install a new carbon filter.

The membrane may take several passes to become fully saturated and return to its typical flow rate.

When should I replace the membrane microfilter?

The membrane microfilter has a rated capacity of up to 264 gallons, but actual filter life can vary depending on water quality, turbidity, use, maintenance, and storage.

Replacement may be appropriate if:

• Flow remains extremely slow after cleaning and troubleshooting

• Water has stopped flowing through the membrane

• Flow cannot be restored after the membrane has accidentally dried out

• The membrane has reached its recommended capacity

Remember that flow rate naturally varies. After the initial start-up period, approximately 85 to 225 mL per minute is within the expected range.

If you are unsure whether your filter needs to be cleaned or replaced, please contact us at [email protected]. We’re happy to help.