No matter what type of vacuum you own, the filter does a lot of heavy lifting! It will trap small particles that get suctioned up and prevent them from escaping into the air.
A clean vacuum is an efficient one that gets all the dirt off your floors. On the other hand, a dirty filter puts a strain on your machine and prevents it from working properly.
How you clean your vacuum filter depends on the type. Foam filters are washable, while paper and HEPA filters can only be tapped or brushed clean.
Don’t get so sucked into other chores that you forget to do this one! Keep your vacuum’s filter in good condition — both your machine and your floors will thank you.
Can You Wash a Filter? | How Often to Clean | Cyclone Filter | Foam Filter | HEPA Filter | Paper Filter | Cleaning a Dyson Filter | Cleaning a Clogged Filter
Types of Vacuum Cleaner Filters
Depending on your vacuum cleaner model, there are three main types of filters: foam, HEPA, and paper or cartridge.
They’re each made of different materials and have varying filtration capabilities.
Cyclone filter
You’ll typically find a cyclone filter in bagless vacuum cleaner models, especially stick vacuums like a Dyson. They’re made of a combination of plastic and metal.
Cyclone-type filters trap fine dust as air is forced through by the vacuum.
Foam filter
Foam filters are the most “basic” filter type. They’re usually positioned underneath the canister and are sometimes called vacuum filter sponges.
A foam-type filter traps larger particles — like fur and food debris — before they get to the canister and main filter.
They’re washable and reusable, so only need to be replaced if they’re worn out.
HEPA filter
A High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter features an interwoven fibre matrix. The fibres allow air to pass through while filtering out at least 99.97% of microscopic particles (0.3 microns in size in Australia).
Vacuum HEPA filters are best for people with allergies or respiratory issues since they filter out even the smallest dust particles.
BTW — professional cleaners always use a vacuum with a HEPA filter!
Paper or cartridge filter
These filters are made out of paper or non-woven synthetic fibre, which is folded into small pleats. The material lets air through while filtering out airborne particles like fine dust and pet dander.
Paper filters are non-washable, since moisture can weaken the fibres or even lead to mould and mildew. Fortunately, they’re inexpensive and easy to replace when they get too dirty or clogged.
Can You Wash Vacuum Filters?
Not all vacuum cleaner filters are washable!
Most foam filters can be washed in plain water. On the other hand, synthetic or paper filters cannot be washed, but may be brushed clean.
For a HEPA vacuum filter, you’ll need to check the manual — some can be rinsed, while others cannot be cleaned and should be replaced when too dirty.
Keep in mind that for a “washable” vacuum filter, you should use water only unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
Do not use soap or detergents, even on foam, as the residue can make the filter ineffective or damage the machine.
How Often to Clean Vacuum Filters
You should clean washable vacuum filters once a month (or every 2–3 months if you don’t vacuum much).
Non-washable filters (e.g. HEPA) can be cleaned every 3–6 months or as needed.
A dirty filter reduces your vacuum’s suction power and makes it more inefficient. If it’s too dirty, your machine could even malfunction or stop working.
Some signs you need to clean vacuum filters ASAP include:
- Overheating
- Decreased suction power
- Unpleasant odours when vacuuming
- Dust and dirt left on the floor after vacuuming
You should also replace a synthetic or paper filter every 3–6 months, depending on usage.
For foam filters, if they still look dingy even after cleaning — or there’s visible wear and tear — it’s better to change them!
Proper vacuum maintenance makes it easier for you to keep your floors (and other surfaces) clean.
Cleaning Different Types of Vacuum Filters
Before you clean your vacuum filter, switch off the machine and disconnect it from the socket or charger.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for locating the filter and removing it from your vacuum cleaner. Most are at the bottom of the machine or inside the canister.
Wear a face mask and rubber gloves while working so you don’t inhale any dust!
How to clean a cyclone vacuum filter
Cyclone filters can be rinsed clean under warm water!
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing the filter and taking it apart (if needed). Tap any loose dust and dirt into the rubbish bin.
Rinse all the parts under running water until it runs clear. Afterwards, lay the filter parts on a soft, clean cloth and allow them to dry completely.
How to clean a foam vacuum filter
Foam or sponge vacuum filters are easy to clean — all you need is warm water.
Do not add any products like soap or all-purpose cleaner unless recommended by the manufacturer.
Submerge the dirty filter in warm water, then squeeze it a few times to move water through the foam. When the water becomes dirty, replace it and soak the filter again.
Keep going until the water is clear. Squeeze out any excess moisture (do not twist or wring), then let the damp filter air dry in a well-ventilated space for 24 hours.
How to clean a HEPA vacuum filter
Most HEPA filters are not washable, since it risks damaging the fibres and rendering the filter ineffective.
Remove dirt and debris by gently tapping the filter over the rubbish bin. Alternatively, check the manual to see if you can use compressed air or a soft brush to dislodge any loose dust.
For vacuum models that do have a washable HEPA filter, rinse it under cool running water and allow it to air dry for a full day.
How to clean a paper vacuum filter
Avoid introducing any moisture to a paper vacuum filter. Instead, you can clean it with a soft-bristled brush or compressed air device.
Remove as much loose dust and dirt as you can by tapping the cartridge against the side of the rubbish bin. Afterwards, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) and gently scrub between the folds.
If necessary, blow out any stubborn dirt with a compressed air device.
However, if you hold up the filter against a strong light and can’t see through the paper, it’s best to replace it!
Cleaning a Dyson Filter
Maintaining the filter is a key part of cleaning your Dyson vacuum!
Cleaning the filter on cordless or stick Dysons is straightforward. Follow the instructions to take the filter out of the machine and gently tap the dust into the rubbish bin.
After that, rinse the filter under cool running water. You can use a soft brush to (lightly!) scrub the dirt and debris off.
Fill the filter partway with water, then cover both ends with your hands. Give the filter a few good shakes to dislodge any remaining dirt before pouring the water out.
Repeat the process until the water runs clear, then leave the filter to air dry completely for 24 hours.
Your Dyson filter should last the entire lifetime of the vacuum unless it wears out or breaks.
How Do You Clean a Clogged Vacuum Filter?
Excess dust and dirt build-up can eventually clog your vacuum’s filter, especially without regular cleaning. The blocked airflow may cause your machine to overheat or malfunction.
Other causes of a clogged or blocked filter include:
- Vacuuming liquids
- Vacuuming large objects
- Residue from improper cleaning
To clean a clogged foam vacuum filter, start by blowing off stubborn dirt with a compressed air device. Work in short bursts so you don’t end up with condensation on the filter from the device.
If you have a separate handheld vacuum, use the nozzle attachment to suction up dirt.
Once you’ve removed as much dust and dirt as possible, wash the filter in plain water. Allow the filter to dry completely before putting it back.
If you have a clogged paper filter, just replace it with a new one!
FAQs About Filter Cleaning
Let’s break down some other questions you might have about vacuum filter cleaning!
Can you wash vacuum filters with soap?
No, you should not wash a vacuum cleaner filter with soap unless the manufacturer allows it.
Soaps and mild detergents can leave a residue on the filter, especially if not fully rinsed off. That residue sticks to the material and prevents the filter from working properly.
The soap also attracts more dirt which badly clogs the filter. Your vacuum may not work properly — or worse, could get damaged.
Can you put vacuum filters in a dishwasher?
Do not put washable filters in a dishwasher, even without detergent!
The high heat and agitation in the dishwasher can degrade the foam. Even if your dishwasher has a cool cycle, it’s best to hand-wash a vacuum cleaner filter with plain water.
Can I wash a vacuum carbon filter?
Some vacuums have carbon or charcoal filters that help remove fine particles and absorb odours. These are typically not washable, as moisture can make them ineffective.
Instead, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for when to replace the carbon or charcoal filter.
How to clean a smelly vacuum filter?
Say you vacuumed up a stinky mess or left dirt to sit in the machine for too long. Now, you’ve got a filter with a funky odour.
To remove bad smells from a foam vacuum filter, spray it with plain 70% isopropyl alcohol. The alcohol neutralises the odour and doesn’t leave a residue.
Wash the filter as usual afterwards.
If that doesn’t work, vacuum up dry, coarse-ground coffee and let it sit in your vacuum for a few hours. Dispose of the coffee grounds afterwards.
NOTE: Never vacuum up baking soda or other fine powders. They can get into other parts of your vacuum cleaner (such as the motor) and cause it to malfunction.
Do not put essential oils on the filter as the residue can lead to clogs or degrade the material.
Do robot vacuums have filters?
Yes, robot vacuums also have filters! If you own a Roomba, Deebot, or any other quality vacuum cleaner, you’ll need to clean its filter regularly.
Since they have smaller capacities, you’ll need to clean a robot vacuum’s filter more frequently — about once every week. If your little helper doesn’t run often, you can stretch that to every 2–3 weeks.
Access the filter and take it out, then tap it on the side of the rubbish to dislodge dirt. Use an old toothbrush to remove any remaining debris before putting it back.
