Coffee filters in organic waste? What you should know

Coffee filters are disposed of in organic waste. However, only as long as the filter is unbleached, which is the case with most of them.

Coffee filters go in organic waste – almost always

Coffee filters are biodegradable. That is why they are also put in the organic waste bin. The Federal Ministry for the Environment has laid down legal regulations for this.

• As long as it is an unbleached coffee filter, it can be disposed of in organic waste after use. To prevent it from going moldy, let some of it dry first.

• However, if the coffee filter used has been bleached with chlorine or oxygen, it belongs in the residual waste bin.

• An unbleached coffee filter can also be composted. It provides the resulting compost with antioxidants and minerals such as potassium and phosphorus.

• Tip: Simply discard the filter and use the coffee grounds as fertilizer in the garden.

• Important notice: Even though coffee pods may appear to be made of coffee filters, you would be mistaken in assuming this. Since they may contain plastic and in some cases aluminum, they are to be disposed of in the residual waste.