1. Introduction
The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a lightweight and portable water filtration device designed to provide safe drinking water in various outdoor and emergency situations. It effectively removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics from contaminated water sources, making it an essential tool for hikers, campers, travelers, and for emergency preparedness kits.
Image: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, a blue cylindrical device with a blue lanyard.
2. Key Features
- Removes Bacteria & Parasites: Filters 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria (including E. Coli and Salmonella) and 99.999% of waterborne parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium).
- Removes Microplastics: Filters the smallest microplastics down to 1 micron and reduces turbidity down to 0.2 microns.
- Long Lifetime: Provides up to 4,000 liters (1,000 gallons) of clean and safe drinking water.
- Lightweight & Portable: Weighs approximately 0.06 kilograms (2.1 ounces) and measures 8.66"L x 0.98"W x 0.98"H.
- Durable Construction: Made with BPA-free materials.
- No Shelf Life: Can be stored indefinitely for emergency preparedness.
Image: Diagram highlighting key features of the LifeStraw, including leak-resistant caps, durable BPA-free materials, and an included lanyard.
Image: A diagram illustrating how the LifeStraw's hollow fiber membrane filters dirty water, showing removal of bacteria, parasites, microplastics, sand, silt, and cloudiness.
3. Setup and First Use
Before using your LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for the first time, it is recommended to prime the filter to ensure optimal performance.
- Remove Caps: Remove both the top and bottom caps from the LifeStraw.
- Submerge: Place the bottom end of the LifeStraw into the water source, ensuring the filter is fully submerged.
- Prime the Filter: Allow the filter to soak in the water for 20-30 seconds to saturate the membrane.
- Sip Water: Begin to sip water through the top mouthpiece. The first few sips may be difficult as the filter draws water through the membrane. Continue sipping until water flows freely.
- Discard First Sips: It is advisable to spit out the first few sips of water during initial priming.
4. Operating Instructions
The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is designed for direct use from a water source.
- Locate Water Source: Find a natural water source such as a stream, lake, or puddle.
- Submerge Filter: Remove the bottom cap and place the filter end directly into the water.
- Drink Directly: Place the mouthpiece into your mouth and sip water through the straw. The filter will remove harmful contaminants as you drink.
- Alternative Use: The LifeStraw can also be used to filter water into a clean container by allowing gravity to pull water through the filter, though direct sipping is the primary method.
Image: A person drinking directly from a stream using the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter.
Instructional Videos
Video: The Original Water Filter Straw. Demonstrates the basic function and portability of the LifeStraw.
Video: What sets apart this LifeStraw Water Filter? An overview of the filter's unique features and benefits.
Video: How my husband thought you used a Lifestraw. Humorous demonstration of correct and incorrect usage.
Video: Lifestraw - the real tea! A detailed look at the filter's performance and effectiveness.
5. Maintenance and Storage
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and effectiveness of your LifeStraw filter.
Cleaning (Backflushing)
After each use, especially if flow rate decreases, backflush the filter:
- Remove from Water: Take the LifeStraw out of the water source.
- Blow Air: Blow a strong puff of air through the mouthpiece (the end you drink from) to clear out any trapped particles from the filter membrane. This forces water back through the filter, dislodging contaminants.
- Repeat: Repeat this process several times until the water flowing out of the bottom appears clear.
Storage
For long-term storage:
- Clean Thoroughly: Ensure the filter is thoroughly backflushed and clean.
- Allow to Dry: Shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry completely with both caps removed. This prevents mold and mildew growth.
- Store Safely: Once dry, replace the caps and store the LifeStraw in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty drawing water / Reduced flow rate | Filter membrane is clogged with sediment or debris. | Perform a thorough backflush by blowing air through the mouthpiece. Repeat several times. |
| No water flow | Air lock in the filter or completely clogged. | Ensure the filter is fully submerged and try a strong, continuous sip. If still no flow, backflush vigorously. |
| Water tastes unusual | Residual plastic taste from new filter or water source characteristics. | For new filters, flush with clean water several times. The taste should dissipate with use. The filter removes contaminants, but may not alter natural mineral tastes. |
7. Specifications
- Model Name: Personal Water Filter
- Model Number: LSPHF017
- Color: Blue
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 8.66" x 0.98" x 0.98" (22 cm x 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm)
- Item Weight: 0.06 Kilograms (2.1 ounces)
- Filter Lifespan: 4,000 Liters (1,000 Gallons)
- Pore Size: 0.2 Microns
- Removes: 99.999999% of bacteria, 99.999% of parasites, 99.999% of microplastics, dirt, sand, and cloudiness.
- Material: BPA-free plastic
- Temperature Rating: 1°C to 60°C (34°F to 140°F)
- UPC: 764014282943
8. Warranty and Support
LifeStraw products are rigorously tested to meet US EPA, NSF, and ASTM standards for water purifiers. For specific warranty details, product registration, or customer support, please visit the official LifeStraw website or contact their customer service directly.
Make an Impact: For every LifeStraw product purchased, a school child in need receives safe drinking water for an entire school year. This initiative reflects LifeStraw's commitment to ensuring equitable access to safe water for all.
Image: A child holding two glasses of water, one clear and one murky, symbolizing the impact of providing safe drinking water.
