Most vacuum cleaners available today have vacuum filters, whether single-use, washable, or disposable ones.Â
The most popular kind of filter is the High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. It is able to remove up to 99% of the smallest particles in the air.
This filter, including micron and allergen filters, can be thoroughly cleaned by simply following manufacturer’s instructions.
The following steps will show you exactly how you can clean your vacuum filter.
We did the research for you and have come up with these six simple steps to help you clean your filter:
Steps:
1. Locate the filter. Refer to the cleaning your vacuum manual and also take note of the recommended cleaning procedures.
2. Clean your filter outdoors. Dust particles may spread around when you remove the filter from the vacuum.
3. Remove excessive dirt inside the filter by gently tap it on the side of the garbage can. This will make most of the trapped dust fall inside.
4. Carefully wash the filter with cool to lukewarm water and swill thoroughly. Do not brush the filter as this may damage it. Do not use soap or any abrasive material to clean your filter.
5. Leave the filter to air dry for 24–48 hours.
6. Put the filter back in the vacuum once it is completely dry.
The filter has to be clean because this will affect the suctioning capability of your vacuum cleaner over time.
When you filter is dirty, your vacuum cleaner will have to work harder to absorb and eliminate dirt and allergens from you home. Dirt can clog the motor and other parts of your vacuum, which can lead it to malfunction and leave you with no other option but to replace it.
Additional Tips:
- Know when to wash your filter. It is recommended that a filter be washed and cleaned after 3–4 uses, but on the average, a filter is changed once a week if it is used daily or once a month if it is used weekly.
- Know whether your vacuum filter is washable or not. Only wash filters that are washable!
- Do the cleaning outside your home to avoid dust from transferring on surfaces.
- Most vacuum filters have a specific lifespan, even with regular cleaning. A vacuum filter may take 3 to 6 months before it needs to be replaced. Refer to you vacuum’s manual for the specifications required for filter replacement. Older, more traditional vacuums may have disposable filters that can last from 6 to 12 months depending on the how often the vacuum is being used.
- Know what vacuum model will best suit the cleaning you need. You can maximize the value of your vacuum when you are using the right one for the right use.
Don'ts:
- Do not wash a single-use filter. This will affect its vacuuming process and might even damage your vacuum.
- Do not brush your filter with any abrasive material or scrub your filter between pleats.
- Do not use soap in washing your vacuum filter.
- Do not put the filter directly on hot surface to dry.
- Do not put the filter back on the vacuum unless it is fully dry. Electricity and water never mix!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can air purifiers prevent coronavirus?
No, air purifiers cannot prevent coronavirus. While coronavirus particles do fall within the micro size range for a HEPA filter, this won’t stop you from potentially contracting the virus.
It can help to reduce the risk of transmission, but should be used alongside government guidelines.Â
Some air purifiers are able to kill viruses, using the combination of a HEPA filter and a UV lamp that eliminates them.
This tends to be 99.99% effective and is a great way to keep your air cleaner. However, coronavirus is a newly discovered strain that has continued to evolve.Â
You should absolutely consider an air purifier in your home to add to your precautions against the virus as they really can help.
It is just important to remember that an air purifier cannot prevent the virus or fully protect you from contracting it.Â
Do air purifiers help you sleep better?
Yes, air purifiers do help you to sleep better. This is especially true if you suffer from asthma or allergies.
The HEPA filter in your air purifier works to trap allergens and pollutants found in the air. This includes things like pet dander, dust, mould, and bacteria.Â
As a result, the air is left much cleaner and helps to prevent nasal congestion while you sleep. Breathing in cleaner air leads to a less disturbed slumber and a rested self when you wake up.Â
Do air purifiers increase oxygen?
No, air purifiers do not increase the amount of oxygen in the room. There are some models that will take up oxygen during the purification process, but this doesn’t reduce or increase the amount that is left for you to breathe.Â
Due to the fact the air purifier is cleaning the air and leaving you with air that is crisper and easier to breathe, it is a common misconception that you are being provided with more oxygen.
In reality, it is just that the oxygen you would have been breathing is much cleaner.Â
Can air purifiers help COPD?
No, air purifiers have not been proven to help conditions like COPD. However, there are some who feel as though their breathing has been improved as a result and there is proof that it eases the symptoms of conditions such as asthma.Â
So, you might find that an air purifier is able to help your COPD, but it is important to remember that there is no scientific evidence it will actually work. It’s down to personal experience.Â
ConclusionÂ
If you notice that you are cleaning your vacuum filters too often, it might be that you are using the inappropriate model for your cleaning demand.
 It is also very important that you choose the correct model for a specific cleaning job. There are many vacuum cleaner models today that you can choose from.
For instance, a car vacuum might not be advisable if you need to vacuum even as confined a space as a closet. If you have pets, get a pet friendly vacuum.
So, regularly clean your filter to extend the life of your vacuum cleaners. There are many helpful tips online that can guide you in maintaining your vacuum cleaner.
Last Updated on March 3, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
