Coffee Filters Compost Tip! Opt for unbleached filters if you have the choice. It leads to less chemicals in the soil that is made from the comopost. Filters that contain coffee grounds can be composted together. Ways to Reduce Try Another Brewing Method Other methods of making coffee, such as French presses or espresso makers, don’t require any single-use materials. Use a Permanent Filter Try using a metal or cotton permanent filter instead of disposable paper filters. Ways to Reuse Reuse Paper Filters Most coffee filters can be reused multiple times before they stop being effective. Dump out or compost the grounds, then rinse and dry the filter.