What filter should I use for bacterial analysis?
The short answer: a 0.45 µm or 0.22 µm membrane (MCE or PCTE, often gridded), used in a standard microbiological filtration workflow.
Quick answer
Mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membranes are widely used for general bacterial recovery; PCTE offers a flatter, cleaner surface where that matters for counting or microscopy. Gridded membranes make colony counting easier under magnification. Pore size (commonly 0.45 µm or 0.22 µm) and sterility should match your specific method.
This is method-driven
Compendial and regulatory methods for bacterial analysis typically specify exact membrane, media, and incubation requirements—confirm against your actual method rather than a generic default.
See our full microbiology filtration workflow guide and what is microbiological filtration overview.
Need a more specific recommendation?
Tell us your exact sample and instrument, and we'll confirm the right spec.