If you are in a location advising a boil alert, Sawyer filters will make that water safe for consumption.
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All Sawyer water filters are .1 microns absolute and will remove harmful bacteria, parasites, cysts, and any other particulate or biological pathogen larger in size.

Floodwater

If you are in a flood affected area, surface water can absolutely be contaminated with sewage or other contaminants, so exercise caution where you are sourcing your water.

Bacteria and Sewage
The primary contaminant in floodwater is bacteria from sewage and other decaying organic matter. Our filters remove 99.99999% of bacteria, including those common in floodwater, like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Leptospira.
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Gasoline and Fuels

Contaminants like gasoline or other fuels are lighter than water and will rise to the surface so if this is your only water source, draw your water 12" below the surface.  If you still have concerns about taste, smell, or discoloration, go lower or seek alternative water options.

Viruses‍

Viruses are not typically found in water in these situations. Viruses are typically airborne or need warm water and/or a host to survive.

Saltwater

Sawyer filters are not for use with salt water, proceed to fresh water sources like lakes, streams, etc.

Our Systems

Our Gravity Systems and Bucket Systems are ideal for groups or families.

Tap Filters are ideal for locations where plumbing is still active.

Squeeze, MINI, and Micro filters can also easily be used for individuals or converted to gravity systems.

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How to Clean

The key to a successful backwash is to be forceful. A good backwash after every use can restore up to 98% of the original flow rate of your filter.

‍Step 1
‍Remove the cap from the drinking side of the filter.

Step 2
‍Fill the cleaning plunger with clean water.

Step 3
‍Press it against the drinking side of the filter, opposite the direction of flow.

Step 4
‍Forcefully push the water through the filter fibers using the plunger.


Repeat Steps 2 - 4 until the water comes through clear and easily.
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How to Store

If you’ve stored a dirty filter... it can usually be salvaged. Soak it in hot water, let it sit for a few days, then forcefully backwash the filter.

Step 1
‍Backwash your filter before storing it.

Step 2
‍Sanitize the filter element to kill any microorganisms that may remain inside your filter. To do this, backwash your filter with a diluted bleach solution made using one capful of fragrance- free bleach per liter of water.

Step 3
‍Allow the filter to dry and store in a temperature-controlled environment, because no one wants a frozen filter.

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The Sawyer Standard

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Responding to a disaster situation?

Please email customer@sawyer.com to learn more about using Sawyer Filters in emergency situations.

Additional Resources

Please visit sawyer.com/help.

The Sawyer Foundation

We partner with over 140 organizations in 80+ countries to bring solutions to those lacking access to clean water. Learn more and donate by visiting the Sawyer Foundation.