Best filter to use for cold brew?

Question

What's the best filter material to use for DIY set up for cold brew coffee?

When I used a pour over funnel with a standard paper filter it seems to get clogged up faster than when hot brewing.

Answer 1

I find the very same problem with cold brew taking a long time. Though we have a few Q/A about this in the cold-brew already, I think could stand on its own!

I use a "two-phase" method: using first a "primary" or "coarse" filter, like a French press plunger as described here and elsewhere, or a metal mesh tea or coffee filter as described here, or even a sock or cloth as suggested by this question. This strains through quickly, but only filters the larger particles that would very quickly clog a paper filter. Second, I put it through a paper filter (I find Hario-style filters drain faster than Melitta-style filters). I find this works the best of any setup I have used.

For completeness, we have a few Q/A about this already. See for example making cold-brew easier for some more ideas about "pre-filtering"; see starting out and equipment for some other tips; and even try cold brewing with AeroPress.

Answer 2

I've gotten good results cold brewing with an aeropress filter, as well as using a V60 bamboo paper filter. Make sure that you add 2 filters, one below your ground coffee and one on top, so that the drops are evenly distributed into the coffee.

Answer 3

I've found the easiest and cleanest way to make cold brew coffee is with a pitcher and a milk bag. I also use filtered water to make sure I get the best tasting cold brew I can since we drink so much of it. ChestBrew has a great how-to video on this method that's very helpful.

Answer 4

These work well for me

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Brew-Coffee-Filters/dp/B072MGP456

I don't like to have a bunch of equipment, so these get the job done for me.