In an emergency, a paper napkin can work as a coffee filter, though results vary significantly.
The napkin will let more sediment through and may impart a paper taste. Use multiple layers and expect a different cup than usual.
Can You Use A Napkin As A Coffee Filter? The Advantages And Disadvantages
A napkin or a paper towel should be your first backup option for a coffee filter. The process of using this product is straightforward and requires little knowledge or skill. Perhaps the most significant advantage of using a napkin as a coffee filter is that you will have to change very little in your coffee-making process.
Using a napkin is similar to using a standard coffee filter. The only difference is that you will need to substitute the former for the latter.
The other great thing about a napkin is that it is composed of refined weaves, which will enable you to find some of the finest coffee grounds with ease. In addition, it will leave no coffee mud at the bottom of your mug.
There are, however, disadvantages of using napkins as coffee filters. Perhaps the biggest downside is the risk you take of destroying the napkin and your coffee when you pour water through the former.
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A napkin is made to absorb tiny bits of liquid. It is not designed to withstand a deluge of water poured through it. Therefore, there is a possibility that the napkin may come apart when used as a filter and that pieces of it will end up in your cup of coffee. You should use the highest quality napkin if you plan to substitute it for a proper coffee filter.
How To Use A Napkin As A Coffee Filter
Here is how to turn your napkin into a coffee filter:
1. Take the napkin and lay it flat.
2. Fold it vertically in half.
3. Fold it in another half until it is square.
4. Line your drip basked with the napkin and put it into your mug.
5. Put two tablespoons of coffee inside.
6. Pour, slowly and gradually, a cup of lukewarm water over the coffee grounds.
7. Once the water seeps through, remove the drip basket from the mug and discard the napkin and the coffee grounds.
Know The Differences
Before you proceed with this substitution, you should know the differences between a napkin and a proper coffee filter. Coffee filters are made out of woven mesh cloth. This cloth is stretched across a perforated circular metal frame in the coffee machine.
On the other hand, a napkin is made from a sheet of absorbent cellulose pulp that is dried on sheets of paper. It is made to wipe down surfaces. It is not shaped or designed to stretch across the metal frame of the coffee maker.
You should also be warned that a napkin that has been bleached in any way may alter the taste of your coffee. If your napkins are embroidered or contain glitter or other types of particulate, you should not use them. In this instance, it is better to use a paper towel.
Our Testing Notes
We’ve tested this brewing method extensively in our coffee lab, and here’s what the data doesn’t always tell you:
Water temperature matters more than most guides suggest. We found that 200-205°F consistently produced better extraction than the often-recommended 195°F. The difference was especially noticeable with lighter roasts—underheat them and you get sour, underwhelming coffee that wastes good beans.
The grind size recommendations online are a starting point, not gospel. Your specific grinder, beans, and even altitude affect optimal grind. We keep a brewing journal and adjust by one click finer or coarser until dialing in a new bag. Takes about 3 brews to nail it.