Over the past 20 years, researchers have attempted to develop a general correlation for predicting filtration activity within a deep bed filter, with limited success. The zeta potential had been used previously in filtration work to explain the observed macroscopic behavior through complex, theoretical analyses. This work demonstrates a possible novel use of the zeta potential as a predictive tool, broadening the application by using it as a qualitative macroscopic device. Through examination of the zeta potential difference between the media and the particles, this method provides a preliminary indicator of the filter performance without requiring complicated models and excessive experimentation. Results of zeta potential measurements for Berea sandstone, kaolinite clay, halloysite clay and illite clay are presented. These measurements are then used to plan and conduct proof-of-concept filtration experiments on the sandstone media with indigenous kaolinite clay and injected illite clay.