How to Remove Ethylene

Commercial Filters

• 1

  Obtain ethylene filters containing zeolite that has been impregnated with potassium permanganate. Wear gloves at all times when handling the product, as potassium permanganate is a very strong oxidizer and will burn you if it comes into contact with your skin.

• 2

  Set up the filters according to the product's instructions and place them throughout the refrigerator or storage area where fruits or flowers are kept. Place them in locations that are unlikely to be bumped, shaken, or accessible to small children and animals.

• 3

  Replace the filters every several months or when the potassium permanganate crystals change from purple to brown.

Making Your Own Filter

• 4

  Obtain potassium permanganate, available at hardware stores -- and often sold as a water softener. Wear rubber gloves when opening and handling this chemical.

• 5

  Take an empty plastic egg carton and fill the egg cups with water to ensure that it is waterproof; if it is not, discard it and try others until you find one that is. Dry the tested egg carton completely before proceeding.

• 6

  Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut small holes approximately half an inch wide in the top of the egg carton; include several on both sides -- not where the egg cups are -- and half a dozen evenly-spaced holes on the top.

• 7

  Pour the potassium permanganate into alternating egg cups; each cup should be half-filled, as completely filling a cup increases the chance of spillage. Place the egg carton in a central location relative to the stored fruit or flowers.

• 8

  Replace the potassium permanganate every three months or when the crystals change color from purple to brown.