h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I use a filter machine which has a reusable plastic gauze instead of using filter paper. I find that this helps to retain the flavour of the coffee, although the gauze can be quite hard to clean thoroughly.

One of the most important points for making a good cup of coffee is to ensure that the coffee making implement and cups are thoroughly cleaned before each brewing. Coffee leaves an oily residue which quickly turns rancid and seriously impairs the flavour of the coffee.