Things to know about hollow fiber water filters

 
All the filters in my range filter bacteria and protozoa from the water, e.g. Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Salmonella, and Cholera.

In areas without industry, intensive agriculture, or settlements without sewage systems, you won't have any problems with these filters.

In developing countries without functioning sewage systems and with highly contaminated water, you will need the heavier models from Katadyn or Platypus. I don't stock them, but I can order them for you.

 

Are you traveling alone?

 

Then the Sawyer Squeeze or the Katadyn Befree 1.0L is the right choice. The Befree is a bit cheaper to purchase, but with frequent use and a multi-month long-distance hike, a new filter cartridge will certainly be due (filter capacity approx. 1000L). However, in Western countries, this is usually easy to organize. The included Hydrapak Softflask is of higher quality than the Sawyer bags and can also be used with larger Hydrapak bags. The filter can (and must) be shaken to clean it when the filter performance decreases. Super light and a really very small pack size!

 

The Sawyer Squeeze is the reference model for long-distance hikers! Since its market introduction in 2011, countless long-distance hikers have used the Squeeze. The filter element cannot be replaced, but the Squeeze has an incredible capacity of up to 370,000 liters. When performance decreases, the Squeeze must be backflushed with the included syringe. The included bags are OK, but there are better options (Platypus, or just screw it onto a PET bottle), and it's inexpensive to purchase. The Micro Squeeze works on the same principle, is even lighter and more compact. For continuous use on a longer thru-hike, I recommend the normal Squeeze; for occasional use and as a backup, the Micro Squeeze is sufficient.

 

New in 2021 is the Platypus Quickdraw: Same principle and very similar to the Sawyer Micro Squeeze, with a better softflask.

 

If there are two of you traveling:

 

Katadyn Befree 3.0L or Platypus Gravity Works.

Both filters are designed as gravity filters, meaning simply hang them up and wait. Both come with high-quality bags.

The Platy filter includes a bottle adapter that fits almost all bottles.

 

Cleaning:

The Befree by shaking, the Platy by "backflush".

 

Lifespan:

Both approx. 1000 liters (depending on the degree of contamination)

Replacement cartridges are available for both.

 

Hollow fiber filters should be disinfected if not used for a longer period (e.g. with household bleach).

Hollow fiber filters must be protected from frost!

For very sediment-laden water, it helps to pre-filter the water, e.g. with a cloth / t-shirt.