How to Get Maximum Performance from Your PureTips Filters
Pro tips and techniques to optimize your PureTips experience, extend filter life, and ensure optimal filtration every session.
Getting Started: The Foundation
While PureTips work effectively right out of the container, understanding a few key principles can help you maximize their filtration power and longevity. The activated coconut charcoal in PureTips is incredibly effective, but like any precision tool, proper technique makes all the difference.
Quick Performance Checklist:
✅ Do This:
- • Shake before first use
- • Store in original container
- • Replace when airflow restricts
- • Use with king-size papers
- • Blow through once before use
❌ Avoid This:
- • Don't try to clean filters
- • Don't store in humid areas
- • Don't force airflow when restricted
- • Don't use with tiny papers
- • Don't ignore storage instructions
Step 1: Proper Preparation
The first 30 seconds with a new PureTips filter can determine its entire performance lifespan. Here's how to prep your filter for maximum effectiveness:
The Shake Test
Before using any PureTips filter, gently shake it near your ear. You should hear the activated charcoal moving freely inside. If you hear clumping or no movement at all, give it a few more gentle shakes to break up any settled particles.
Pro Tip: The charcoal should sound like fine sand moving in a container. If it sounds hollow or overly muffled, the filter may have been damaged during shipping.
The Clearing Blow
Blow through the filter once from the tip end (where your mouth will be). This clears any loose charcoal particles and ensures optimal airflow from your first draw. You should feel smooth, unrestricted airflow.
What to Expect: A tiny amount of very fine charcoal dust may come out—this is normal and harmless. If large particles come out, the filter may be defective.
Optimal Positioning
Place the filter at the very tip of your rolling paper, ensuring it sits flush with the edge. The filter should be fully enclosed by the paper with no gaps. This creates the perfect seal for maximum filtration efficiency.
Perfect Fit: PureTips are sized to work with standard rolling papers. If you're using extra-wide or non-standard papers, you may need to adjust your rolling technique slightly.
Step 2: Rolling for Optimal Performance
Your rolling technique can significantly impact filtration effectiveness. Here's how to roll for maximum PureTips performance:
Best Practices
- King-Size Papers: Provide optimal surface area for filtration
- Medium Tightness: Not too tight (restricts flow), not too loose (reduces filtration)
- Even Distribution: Consistent material density throughout
- Filter Security: Ensure filter doesn't move during rolling
Common Mistakes
- Too Tight: Restricts airflow and reduces filtration efficiency
- Tiny Papers: Don't provide enough filtration surface area
- Uneven Packing: Creates hot spots that bypass filtration
- Loose Filter: Allows unfiltered smoke to pass around edges
The "Goldilocks Zone" for Rolling
The perfect roll allows smooth airflow while maximizing contact between smoke and activated charcoal. Here's how to find it:
- Test Draw:Before lighting, take a test draw. You should feel slight resistance but not strain.
- Visual Check:The filter should be centered and fully enclosed with no visible gaps.
- Gentle Squeeze:The roll should have slight give but spring back to shape.
Step 3: Maximizing Filter Lifespan
Each PureTips filter is designed for 2-3 sessions, but proper technique can help you get maximum value from each one:
Session 1: Peak Performance
Your first session will provide maximum filtration efficiency. The activated charcoal is completely fresh and ready to adsorb harmful compounds. You'll notice the smoothest hits and cleanest taste during this session.
Filtration capacity
Taste preservation
Smoothness
Session 2: Continued Excellence
The second session still provides excellent filtration. The charcoal has adsorbed some compounds but retains most of its capacity. You may notice a slight reduction in smoothness, but filtration remains highly effective.
Filtration capacity
Taste preservation
Smoothness
Session 3: Final Use
By the third session, the charcoal is approaching saturation. You'll still get filtration benefits, but airflow may become slightly restricted. This is your signal that the filter has done its job and is ready for replacement.
Filtration capacity
Taste preservation
Smoothness
Step 4: Storage and Maintenance
Proper storage can significantly extend the effectiveness of your PureTips filters and ensure consistent performance:
Optimal Storage Conditions
- 🏠Room Temperature: Store between 65-75°F for optimal charcoal activity
- 💧Low Humidity: Keep in original container to prevent moisture absorption
- 🌞Dark Location: Avoid direct sunlight which can degrade materials
- 📦Original Container: The included container maintains optimal conditions
Storage Mistakes to Avoid
- 🌡️Extreme Temperatures: Hot cars, freezing garages can damage charcoal
- 💨Air Exposure: Leaving filters out allows moisture and odor absorption
- 🏠Humid Areas: Bathrooms and basements can saturate charcoal prematurely
- 🧴Chemical Exposure: Strong odors can pre-saturate the activated charcoal
Pro Storage Tips
For Daily Users:
Keep 3-4 filters in a small airtight container for easy access while storing the rest in the original container.
For Occasional Users:
Consider vacuum-sealing portions of your supply if you won't use them within 6 months.
Step 5: Recognizing When to Replace
Knowing when to replace your PureTips filter ensures you always get optimal filtration. Here are the clear signs:
Definite Replacement Signals
- ⚠️Restricted Airflow: You have to work harder to draw through the filter
- ⚠️Harsh Taste Return: You notice the smooth taste beginning to deteriorate
- ⚠️Visible Saturation: The filter appears darker or clogged with residue
- ⚠️3rd Session Complete: You've reached the maximum recommended usage
Early Warning Signs
- ⚡Slight Draw Resistance: Beginning of saturation, still usable
- ⚡Reduced Smoothness: Still filtering, but approaching capacity
- ⚡2nd Session Completed: Consider replacement after next use
Advanced Tips for Power Users
For users who want to squeeze every bit of performance from their PureTips filters:
🎯 The Rotation Method
Keep 2-3 filters in rotation. Use Filter A for session 1, then let it "rest" while you use Filter B. This allows any moisture to evaporate and can extend overall lifespan.
Result: Some users report getting 4 sessions per filter using this method.
📏 The Paper Size Optimization
King-size papers provide the best filtration surface area. If you prefer smaller sessions, consider using king-size papers but packing less material rather than using smaller papers.
Why it works: More paper surface means more contact time between smoke and charcoal.
⏱️ The Pacing Technique
Take slower, more deliberate draws. This increases contact time between smoke and activated charcoal, improving filtration efficiency even as the filter begins to saturate.
Bonus benefit: Slower draws also enhance flavor appreciation and overall experience.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with perfect technique, you might occasionally encounter issues. Here's how to solve them:
🚫 Problem: Filter feels too restrictive from the start
Likely Causes: Damaged during shipping, manufacturing defect, or rolled too tightly.
Solutions:
- Try a different filter from the same batch
- Check your rolling technique—it may be too tight
- If multiple filters have the same issue, contact customer service
🌫️ Problem: Not noticing smoothness improvement
Likely Causes: Already using high-quality material, expecting too much, or technique issues.
Solutions:
- Try going back to regular filters for comparison
- Ensure proper preparation and rolling technique
- Some users are less sensitive to harshness initially
⏰ Problem: Filter stops working after one session
Likely Causes: Very harsh material, extremely hot smoking, or defective filter.
Solutions:
- Try pacing your session more slowly
- Check if you're using particularly harsh material
- Some users with very harsh smoking habits may get fewer sessions per filter
💨 Problem: Taste seems muted or different
Why This Happens: PureTips remove harsh compounds that you may have associated with "strength."
Solutions:
- Give it 2-3 sessions to adjust to the cleaner taste
- This is often a sign the filters are working correctly
- You're tasting your material's true flavor without harsh interference
The Bottom Line: Consistency is Key
The most important factor in maximizing PureTips performance is consistency. Follow the same preparation routine, maintain proper storage, and replace filters at the right time. This ensures every session delivers the smooth, clean experience PureTips are designed to provide.
Your PureTips Performance Checklist
Before Each Session:
- ✓ Shake filter gently
- ✓ Blow through once
- ✓ Check for proper positioning
- ✓ Test draw before lighting
For Long-Term Success:
- ✓ Store in original container
- ✓ Track usage per filter
- ✓ Replace when airflow restricts
- ✓ Keep spare filters handy