7 Ways to Use a Muslin Straining Bag for Brewing, Wine and Cooking

It's small, it's reusable and it's our number-one seller by units: the Muslin Straining Bag (12.7 x 40 cm | 5 x 15 in). Here are the best ways to use one, in brewing, winemaking and the kitchen.

What it is

  • Size: 12.7 x 40 cm (5 x 15 in)
  • Material: 100% natural, unbleached cotton
  • Weave: tight 60-count (60S/1) weave to catch fine particles
  • Closure: wide opening with a drawstring
  • Reusable: rinse, wash and use again
  • Packed in: Canada

7 ways to use a muslin straining bag

  1. Hops and specialty grains. Contain hops or steeping grains in your brew pot so they're easy to lift out.
  2. Fruit wines. Hold crushed fruit in the fermenter for colour and flavour, without the mess.
  3. Adding oak or spices. Keep oak chips, herbs or spices together so they're easy to remove.
  4. Cold brew coffee. Fill with coarse coffee grounds and steep overnight.
  5. Soups and stocks. Use it as a bouquet garni for herbs and bones.
  6. Jellies and jams. Strain fruit juice for clear jelly.
  7. Nut milk and tea. Strain homemade nut milks or loose-leaf tea.

How to use it

  1. Open the bag and add your ingredients.
  2. Pull the drawstring closed and place the bag in your vessel.
  3. Boil, simmer, brew or steep as your recipe calls for.
  4. Remove the bag, empty it and rinse it promptly.

Cleaning and care

Rinse right after use. For a deeper clean, hand wash with mild detergent or machine wash on a gentle cycle, then air-dry. For brewing and winemaking, sanitize before each use. B-Brite cleaner keeps it fresh.

Why buy more than one?

Most brewers keep a few on hand: one for hops, one for fruit, one for the kitchen. At this price, it's easy to have a spare. Browse all straining bags.

Frequently asked questions

What size is the bag?

12.7 x 40 cm (5 x 15 in).

What's it made of?

100% natural, unbleached cotton with a tight 60-count weave.

Can I reuse it?

Yes. Rinse it after use and wash it gently to reuse.

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