How To Clean Vacuum Filter? Step-by-step Guide on How to Clean Vacuum Filter

A filter in your vacuum is designed to capture microscopic particles during each cleaning routine. Over time, the filter can clog up. Leading to a reduction in performance. That is why you need to regularly clean your vacuum’s filter.

How often should you clean the vacuum filter? The golden rule is to clean vacuum filters at least once every month. However, that depends on how often you use it and the work. Fortunately, some advanced vacuum cleaners have sensors to inform you when filter cleaning is due.

Do you know how to clean a vacuum filter? Cleaning a vacuum filter generally remains the same, regardless of the brand and model. The only difference may be how to get it out of the machine, but it should be detailed in the user manual.

Step-by-step Guide on How to Clean Vacuum Filter

These are the detailed steps of how to clean vacuum filters. They should apply to almost every vacuum brand and model you have.

Step 1: Remove the Filter

This first step varies from one model or vacuum brand to the other, depending on the design. You can refer to your machine’s manual for detailed information. Luckily, it is not an overly complicated process. You can do it even without technical know-how.

Caution: Unplug the vacuum from the wall socket if it is a corded machine. Similarly, unplug a cordless vacuum from the charger and remove the battery before you start the disassembling process.

Step 2: Remove Dust

The first particles to remove from your filter are loose dust. Slightly tapping the filter on the sink or bin. Be careful when doing this to avoid damaging the filter. Also, some particles in the dust can be allergens. A face mask may help, but ensure the particles do not fly into the air if you are allergic.

Step 3: Clean the Filter in Running Water

This step is not for paper filters that should never get wet. Instead, use an air blower to get rid of the dust, and you are good to go.

Go to the sink with your filter and turn on the tap. Allow the water to flow through it while gently rubbing with your hand. Continue this process until the water that comes from the filter is clear. Do not use any detergent, however tempting it may be. Just clean tap water is enough.

Step 4: Fill the Filter with Water

Some dirt particles can be sticky, and running water over your filter cannot remove them. Fill the filter with water and give it a firm shake before emptying it. Repeat this procedure until the water from the filter is clear.

Step 5: Shake off Excess Water and Let the Filter Dry

Shake the filter to remove excess water trapped between its compartments. Place it in a place with enough airflow and allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. Besides, a fan or an open window can be ideal.

Ensure the filter is completely dry before returning it back to the vacuum. Any moisture left can damage the motor and cause clogging even faster. Check more filter cleaning details from this video!

Also, do not put the filter in a tumble dryer, microwave, or close to a naked flame to quicken the drying process. That will damage the filters.