Straining involves the pouring of water through a fine, clean cloth or sieve. Applied in practically all developing regions for the removal of dirt, sand, silt, even some of the clay and macro pathogens present in the water. Special nylon cloths are available for the removal of copepods containing larvae of guinea worm. This treatment has a limited effect for bacteria and no effect for viruses.
A clean (old) cloth suffices for straining making it a very cheap method. Limited time required for process, making operation practically free of additional costs. Metal sieve, fabric nylon or fleece clothes are possible but slightly more expensive.
Method can best be applied at household level. Usually not centrally implemented, but people start doing it themselves. No central management activities required. Central authorities might only help to make users aware that this method does not guarantee safe water.
This method has a very low ecological footprint. The disposal of waste from cleaning the contaminated cloth is minimal. If cloth is replaced, the old one might be disposed in the environment.
Simple method. Large, clean cloth needs to be folded several times and placed over clean water container before pouring water. Cloth needs to be cleaned before using again. Cloth needs to be replaced in case of holes or other wearing.
Required actions for users are minimal. But people might neglect importance of clean water and just drink it without straining or the cloth might not be cleaned after use. Users should be aware that straining does not guarantee safe water.
No relevant remarks for Straining.