FAQ
How many people is the BeFree Gravity 10.0L suitable for?
Capacity is 10.0 liters. The manufacturer's fact sheet calls it suitable for larger groups (10 liters in about 5 minutes), and the product page group-size field reads '1, >10, 2-5' for the 6L and 10L together, with no single recommended number, at up to 2 L per minute, and it suits group activities and family camping.
Can the BeFree Gravity 10.0L connect directly to a hydration bladder?
Yes. The product description lists an included adapter kit that lets you put filtered water straight into a hydration bladder. It also comes with a soft hose, flow control valve, shoulder strap and storage bag.
Can the BeFree Gravity 10.0L filter viruses?
The product description does not list viruses. The listed targets are bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment and microplastics, with a 0.1 micron filtration pore size. It should not be relied on for virus protection; if virus contamination is a concern, the water needs separate treatment.
What does the BeFree Gravity 10.0L filter out?
The cartridge is a 0.1 micron hollow fiber membrane. The product description lists removal of bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment and microplastics, at up to 2 L per minute.
How long does the BeFree Gravity 10.0L cartridge last?
The specification lists a cartridge life of about 1,000 liters, depending on source water quality. When the flow rate drops noticeably, first clean the cartridge: fill the pouch with water, reattach the cartridge and shake it vigorously, or hold the cartridge and swish it in water to clean it; untreated source water can be used. However, the outlet (mouthpiece) must not touch untreated water; keep it clean after cleaning. Hold the pouch end lightly while swishing — do not squeeze the filter itself.
How do I clean the BeFree Gravity 10.0L cartridge when the flow slows down?
Fill the pouch with water, reattach the cartridge and shake it vigorously, or hold the cartridge and swish it in water to clean it; untreated source water can be used. However, the outlet (mouthpiece) must not touch untreated water; keep it clean after cleaning. Hold the pouch end lightly while swishing — do not squeeze the filter itself. Do not rinse it horizontally under tap water, squeeze it by hand, or touch the hollow fiber membrane with tools or fingers.
How do the BeFree Gravity 3L, 6L and 10L differ?
Capacities are 3, 6 and 10 liters, weighing about 192, 263 and 284 g, and the 10L is the heaviest at about 284 g. The cartridge is the same 0.1 micron, with a life of about 1,000 liters. The product descriptions for the 6L and 10L also list an adapter kit.
How does the BeFree Gravity 10L differ from the Base Camp Pro 10L?
Both are 10 liters at about 2 L per minute. The Gravity uses a 0.1 micron hollow fiber membrane, with a life of about 1,000 liters; the Base Camp Pro uses 0.2 micron glass fiber, with a life of about 1,500 liters, and weighs 350 g.
Can the BeFree Gravity 10.0L be used in freezing conditions?
No. The manufacturer's manual warns against using it in freezing conditions, because a frozen membrane could let microorganisms bypass the filter and cause illness. If the cartridge has frozen, been dropped hard or may be damaged, stop using it and run the manual's integrity test: with the membrane wet, try to blow air through the output hose; if you cannot blow through, the fibers are intact, and if you can, the fibers are broken, so stop using it and replace the cartridge.
How should the BeFree Gravity 10.0L be prepared for long-term storage?
Before long-term storage, follow the long-term storage procedure in the manufacturer's manual: clean and disinfect the filter, hoses and bag, then disassemble all parts, rinse them with filtered or treated water, air dry them completely, reassemble and store them in the carry bag; the manual has the detailed steps. When taking it out of long-term storage, flush it with 2 liters of filtered or treated water to remove stale taste. Do not put the membrane or filter cap in a dishwasher or microwave.
What does the manual say about viruses and chemically contaminated water for the BeFree Gravity 10.0L?
The manufacturer's manual states that the BeFree does not remove viruses, nor chemicals, radioactive materials or particles smaller than 0.1 microns, and that it must never be used on seawater, brackish water or chemically contaminated water (for example water from mine tailing ponds or near large agricultural operations). If the water raises these concerns, use a reliable drinking water source instead, or treat it separately.
Can the BeFree Gravity 10.0L filter cloudy water?
The manufacturer's two documents differ: the fact sheet says 'Also for cloudy water', while the product page lists the water source type as Clear Water. The manual's advice is to always use the best fresh water source available and to avoid still water or water in areas of heavy human or animal use, to extend membrane life; when the flow slows, clean it by shaking or swishing, and replace the cartridge if that does not restore the flow.











