<p>A filtration medium and a filter cartridge for pools and spas having high filtration efficiency employs a filtration medium having a plurality of layers of a spunbond nonwoven fabric of continuous filaments, and optionally one or more additional layers such as a thermal or resin bonded carded nonwoven fabric, a hydroentangled nonwoven fabric, or a fabric formed from caustic cotton fibers. The filter medium is formed into a pleated configuration.</p>
