Like everyone said, leave it. It's a filter.

I also like to add these filter washers. https://smile.amazon.com/PAGOW-Stainless-Coupling-Strainer-Connector/dp/B07TBZXGZ6/ref=sr\_1\_11?crid=2HGEMGAYTJR9Q&keywords=hose+filter&qid=1676572119&sprefix=hose+filter%2Caps%2C133&sr=8-11