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.
asked Sep 24 '15 at 8:21
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.
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.
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.
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.
