I do basically the same thing as JVolpe. Spray the filter with Simple Green before washing. I never use a brush, always been worried about poking a hole in elements, although I'm probably being anal with that. Then put enough HOT water and cup of Simple Green in five gallon bucket, placing the filter with the inlet hole facing up where there is just enough water that covers outside without overflowing into the inside of filter. I try to keep any sand and dirt from getting inside as much as possible. I even use a paper work towel and cover end holding it in place with the clamp. Leave it set for about 5 min and rotate it a few times, lift up and down to remove any loose dirt. I hose off the filter from the inside out not using a lot of water pressure, but enough to remove cleaner and dirt. I repeat this process a few times, as each time you will see the water come cleaner, until I don't see dirt/sand in bottom of bucket. Let dry once its clean. I do have two filters and a clean one is ready to go, that way I can let the washed one dry good. I also like the drip on oil bottle better than the spray, thats personal opinion though.