Take the new filter out of the package. It will be wrapped in plastic, probably with a little sticker that says “Rinse before use.” Please, please rinse it. I once skipped this step out of laziness, and my first glass of water tasted like cardboard and regret. Run cold tap water through the filter’s open end for about 15 seconds. Shake it gently. You’ll see some black carbon dust come out. That’s normal—it’s the filter’s soul leaving.
Now, here’s the trick: prime the filter. Yes, it’s a real thing. Fill the top reservoir with cold water, let it sit for 30 seconds, then pour that water out. Why? Because the filter has dry pores, and if you rush it, water will trickle through like a leaky faucet. Priming helps it get its flow on. Your patience here will save you tears later.
