The invention relates to a method for separating a phase (A) containing at least one ionic liquid from a phase (B), phase (A) being more viscous than phase (B). Said method comprises the following steps: a) providing a stream (S1) containing a dispersion (D1) in which phase (A) is dispersed in phase (B); b) introducing stream (S1) into a phase separation unit (PT1) containing a knitted fabric, preferably a knitted glass fiber fabric; c) separating the dispersed phase (A) from phase (B) in the phase separation unit (PT1); d) discharging a stream (S2) comprising at least 70 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, of phase (A) from the phase separation unit (PT1); and e) discharging a stream (S3) comprising at least 70 wt.%, preferably at least 90 wt.%, of phase (B) from the phase separation unit (PT1).