Left my water filter soaking in baking soda for a month…is it toast?

Seeking Advice
1

I kinda forgot my Platypus filter in a baking soda solution for like, uh, 4 weeks. Did I just totally kill it, or is it still okay to use? I don’t really want to mess around with unsafe water if it’s shot.

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2

Yikes, 4 weeks is kinda a long time though. Baking soda isn’t as harsh as some stuff, so it might be okay. I’d run a few liters of clean water through it and taste-test it. If you notice any weird aftertaste or reduced flow, might be time for a new filter.

2 Likes
3

Yeah, I’m gonna try flushing it out first. Do you think I should run some vinegar through it, or is that overkill?

4

I wouldn’t do the vinegar right after the baking soda. That sounds like a middle school volcano experiment waiting to happen :joy: :joy: Just rinse it with plain water first. If it still tastes weird or clogs up, then maybe consider replacing it.

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5

You might’ve compromised the filter material. I wouldn’t risk it personally. Filters are like $30-40, way cheaper than getting sick in the middle of nowhere, y’know?

6

I left mine in my car in freezing temps once. It survived, but the flow was never the same. I feel like these filters can handle a lot, but maybe not months of baking soda. Worst case, you replace it. Best case, you’re good after flushing. Test it in a sink and see if the pressure’s still there.

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7

Thanks… gonna run some water through it today. If the flow is still solid, I’ll try it out. Otherwise, I guess I’ll just be extra paranoid on my next trip. :sweat_smile:

8

Sawyer makes those little filter test kits. I used one after my filter went through hell during a rainy hike. It’s like 10 bucks I think.

9

Funny story— I forgot mine in a hydration bladder with fruit punch powder for a weekend. It turned pink, but still worked after rinsing it a few times. Filters are tougher than you think.

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Haha, fruit punch. That’s hilarious. I’d probably panic seeing pink water. Thanks for the encouragement—I’m feeling better about just flushing it out and testing at home now.

11

If you’re gonna replace it, consider upgrading to a BeFree filter. I switched from Sawyer, and the flow rate is way faster. No more slow drip drip.