How do you clean the filter of your vacuum?

Written by Levi

Edited on

8 July 2024

·

13:35

How do you clean the filter of your vacuum?

A clean filter is important for the lifespan, suction power, and the energy consumption of your vacuum. That why you have to clean it at least once a month, and replace the filter in time. It's easy to clean your vacuum filters, and it doesn't take much time. On this page, you can read how you can do so.

Dyson HEPA exhaust filter

Get started with your vacuum filter

After going through these steps, you know how and how often you have to clean and replace your vacuum filter.

Step 1: check which filter you have

Step 2: clean the filter

Step 3: replace the filter at least once a year

Do you have a bagged vacuum? The vacuum cleaner bag serves as extra filter. Replace it once every three months to maintain a good filter result and suction power.

View all vacuum cleaner bags
Dyson V15 HEPA filter

Step 1: check which filter you have

Your vacuum has multiple filters. Bagged vacuums have an exhaust and motor filter, and bagless vacuums might have an extra exhaust filter in the dust cup for example. They are different filters, but you clean them the same way. We distinguish between washable and non-washable filters. Check the manual of your vacuum to be sure if you can wash your filter.

Knock out vacuum filter

Step 2: clean non-washable filters

It's actually quite simple to clean your filters. You knock off the dust outside or above the trash can. This way, you remove large and small dust particles, so the filter can 'breathe' again.. It's better to clean all filters too often than too little. That's why you should clean them at least once per month.

    Wash a vacuum filter

    Step 2: clean washable filters

    You can clean washable filters by knocking the dust off first, and then by rinsing them under the faucet. Let the filter dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. Check if the filter is completely dry before you place it back, otherwise your vacuum might break. To prevent your filter from frying out, you shouldn't dry it in the sun or on the heating.

      Replace Miele vacuum filter

      Step 3: replace it 1 or 2 times per year

      Do you maintain your filters well? In that case, you don't have to replace them often. Regularly knock the dust off. How often you have to replace your filter also depends on how often you vacuum. Keep the following in mind as a rule of thumb:

      • Exhaust filters: 2 times per year.
      • Motor filter: 1 time per year.

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      Article by Levi

      Vacuum Expert.

      Levi