First developed in 2005, the Lifestraw was originally designed to filter out micro organisms from water in sub saharan Africa. Â It was created as part of an initiative to help the world’s poor get access to clean water. Â Today Lifestraw-brand products are being used in water projects in over 64 countries. Â Okay, that’s enough on the company gloating. Â What can this water filter actually do for you when you’re out camping or trekking?
WHAT IS THE LIFESTRAW:
The Lifestraw is a water filter in the shape of a large straw that will filter out bacteria, protozoa and other sediment. Â Like other filters, it will NOT remove viruses. Â The Lifestraw will let you filter up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water directly from lakes, streams and other sources. Â It is light and easy to carry with you.
HOW TO USE THE LIFESTRAW WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM:
To use the Lifestraw simply insert the end of the straw into your water source…and suck! Â The water will filter as it moves up the straw. Â Once you’ve finished drinking, blow through the straw to expel any extra water. Â Easy peezy!
PROS:
- Light and easy to transport
- Simple to use with no batteries or moving parts
- Effective for any backcountry trekking in the USA
- Inexpensive
CONS:
- Must drink directly from the source, so its not useful for transporting clean water
- Does not remove viruses and is not recommended for some less developed countries
REVIEW:
Overall the Lifestraw is a great way to filter water within the United States. Â However because it does NOT filter out viruses, its not recommended for travel in foreign countries…despite being developed for subsaharan Africa. Â The biggest issue that I’ve found with this filter is that you have to pull water directly from the source or keep a separate cup with you since the Lifestraw does not fit into any standard plastic bottle. Â This can be cumbersome when trekking. Â Otherwise its great. Â Personally I keep it as a backup because it is so light to carry.