The life of a GeoPress® cartridge is ~350 cycles ( 250 liters / 65 gallons); the life of an UltraPress® cartridge is approximately 300 cycles ( 150 liters / 40 gallons).

The actual life of a cartridge varies depending on the quality of the water sources a cartridge is exposed to: the clearer the better. High levels of silt or sediment will reduce the life of a cartridge.

To maximize the effective life of the cartridge, always choose the clearest water available. If necessary, pre-filter the water using a handkerchief or t-shirt while filling the external refill.

As you use your GeoPress® or UltraPress®, the “press time” will slowly increase with use. When the “press time” reaches ~25 seconds ( or three years after first use ), it is time to replace the cartridge.

Note: Extremely cold water may take longer to press and does not indicate that the cartridge needs to be replaced.

Stored under proper conditions, an unused (and airtight) cartridge has a shelf life of 10 years.

Once a cartridge has been opened, it can be used for up to 3 years or until the press time reaches ~ 25 seconds , indicating it is time to replace the cartridge.

Grayl cartridges can filter and purify virtually any fresh water source.

Grayl filtration and purification technologies cannot desalinate water, so avoid salt or brackish water.

When treating fresh water, always start with the cleanest (least silty, least contaminated) water available.

For example, streams and rivers are generally better than lakes and swamps, which often have higher levels of sediment or tannins.

Grayl cartridges are designed to remove low levels of chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, etc., but are NOT designed to protect against industrial disasters , coal ash spills, very high levels of lead, mercury, nuclear disasters, high concentrations of tannins, or water containing toxic blue-green algae (cyanobacteria).

Under these conditions it is very important to find another source of water.

Inside the purifier cartridge, non-woven ceramic fibers lock and trap microorganisms and particles with a very high electropositive charge, removing sub-micron contaminants through electroadsorption.

Ultra-pulverized activated carbon absorbs chemicals, heavy metals, bad tastes and odors.

Thanks to the Spout Cap, it is easy to avoid cross-contamination from the environment or untreated water.

However, if dirty water comes into contact with the internal press, disassemble and wash the Grayl (not the cartridge) with soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

Alternatively, completely dilute potential contaminants by pressing and agitating water through a GeoPress® or UltraPress® purifier bottle 5-7 times.

Before storing your Grayl GeoPress® or UltraPress® after your adventure, thoroughly dry the cartridge to prevent mold and odor growth.

Dry the cartridge by performing a “dry press” by pressing the wet purifier into an empty (waterless) external refill and draining the excess water.

Allow the cartridge to air dry completely (depending on the humidity it will take 2-4 days to dry completely).

Hand wash all other parts with warm, soapy water.

For long-term storage, reassemble the unit to create an airtight seal for storage.

Cartridges can last up to three years after opening if stored properly between uses.

Adding flavorings or electrolytes directly to the Grayl GeoPress® or UltraPress® is not recommended as it may reduce the life and effectiveness of the cartridge.

Instead, we recommend pouring the drinking water from your Grayl into another container of water containing the electrolyte or flavorings.

Both UltraPress® and GeoPress® offer the highest level of protection against waterborne pathogens, removing viruses, bacteria and protozoa, as well as many heavy metals, chemicals and microplastics.

The GeoPress® filters and purifies 24 ounces of water with each press and is the best option for groups and individuals looking for a larger capacity option.
The UltraPress® filters and purifies 500ml with each press.

The compact design is ideal for maximizing space as the bottle fits into any backpack pocket (or cup holder) and many bicycle bottle cages.

Grayl products are made of: BPA-FREE #5 polypropylene, food-grade silicone, TPE and ABS food-grade plastic.

Grayl bottles and cartridges are designed in Seattle, Washington, and manufactured by our partners in China.

Grayl filtration and purification cartridges are made in the USA.