It’s that time of year again when allergies are in full swing and everyone is sneezing their heads off. Unfortunately, your vacuum cleaner isn’t immune to allergens and dust mites. In fact, over time these little critters can really build up in your vacuum cleaner’s filters, which will impact its performance. That’s why it’s important to clean your vacuum filters on a regular basis. In this blog post, we will show you how to clean a vacuum filter properly!
Can You Clean and Reuse a Vacuum Filter?
Yes, you can clean and reuse most types of vacuum filters. You can use a magnet to agitate the filter for a long time and keep seeing debris enter the garbage. After it appears clean, replace it in the vacuum. Make it your goal to “like-new” the product each time you clean it, much like a reusable bag would.
3 Main Types of Vacuum Filters
The most common types of vacuum filters are:
- Foam
- Pleated paper or synthetic
- HEPA
Let’s take a look at each one and how to clean them.
Foam Filters
To clean a foam filter, start by rinsing it with warm water. If there is still dirt and debris remaining on the filter, you can try washing it with a mild soap. Once you have finished cleaning the foam filter, be sure to allow it to dry completely before putting it back in your vacuum.
Pleated Paper or Synthetic Cartridges
Pleated paper or synthetic cartridge filters can usually be cleaned by tapping them lightly on the side of a garbage can. If there is still dirt and debris remaining on the filter, you can try washing it with a mild soap.
Once you have finished cleaning the pleated paper or synthetic cartridge filter, be sure to allow it to dry completely before putting it back in your vacuum.
HEPA Filters
HEPA filters are made of very dense material and cannot be washed without damaging them. You can, however, vacuum them with the hose attachment to remove any surface dirt and debris.
To clean a HEPA filter, start by removing it from your vacuum. Then, tap the filter lightly on the side of a garbage can to remove any loose dirt and debris. You can, however, vacuum them with the hose attachment to remove any surface dirt and debris. Once you have finished cleaning the HEPA filter, be sure to allow it to dry completely before putting it back in your vacuum.
Is it OK to Wash Vacuum Filter?
If it’s washable, place the filter under lukewarm water and dry it for at least 24 hours before reintroducing it to your machine. Because additional filters in your machine may not be washable, double-check the instruction manual.
Foam Filters and Washable Pleated Paper or Synthetic Cartridges
Fill a sink with cold water and add a mild detergent like Woolite or Dawn Dish Soap. Swish the filter around in the soapy water for several minutes then rinse well with cold water until all of the soap is gone. Rinse the filter with warm water. Use your fingers to lightly massage any dirt and debris from the pores of the foam. Rinse the filter again with warm water until it runs clear. Gently squeeze excess water from the filter and let it air dry completely before putting it back in your vacuum.
Washing a HEPA Filter
Tap the filter on a hard surface to loosen any large pieces of dirt and debris. Hold the filter under running water and rinse away any loose dirt and debris. Gently shake the filter to remove excess water then let it air dry completely before putting it back in your vacuum.
How often should I Clean A Vacuum Filter?
You should clean your vacuum filter every three months or as needed depending on how often you use your vacuum. Cleaning your vacuum filter is an important part of maintaining yourarge pieces of dirt and debris.
Can I wash Carbon Filters?
It’s not possible to wash a carbon filter. Carbon is chemically linked to a variety of airborne pollutants in an irregular manner. These chemically bonded chemicals will not be removed with water.
That’s it!
Cleaning your vacuum filter is a quick and easy way to keep your vacuum running properly. Be sure to check your vacuum’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to clean your particular model of vacuum. Thanks for reading! We hope this was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
