I have just tried this on saving money on media. I use walnut media and it eventually turned dark grey and dusty. So I built a small wood frame and stapled window screen over it. I took it outdoors and pored the media on the sceen. I hooked up my garden hose and washed the crude off the media and let the sun dry it. I haven't used it yet but it looks like new. The only concern I have is that after a time, it may become worn smooth and not do the job. Well I will load it in the next few days and report what happens.
Jack