News

There are five main types of vacuum cleaner filters. 

1. Bag Filters

Vacuum Cleaner Bag Filter

Some bagged vacuum cleaners use the bag as the primary filtration system. These bags tend to be made from paper, cloth or other synthetic materials. Bag filters work by having very small holes which allow air to escape whilst keeping dirt or dust contained. However, since some smaller particles can still escape, some bagged vacuum cleaners also have additional filters.

To keep your vacuum cleaner running properly with a bag filter, you simply need to keep an eye on the bag and change it when it gets full.

2. Foam Filters

Vacuum Cleaner Foam Filter

Foam filters are generally the most basic type of filter, and so they are often used as a secondary filter. They collect smaller particles of dust and are usually placed after the primary filter to catch any debris that might have been missed. However, they can sometimes serve as primary filters too, so it’s always worth checking before buying a new one.

Most foam filters can be washed instead of replaced, but you should always check with your manufacturer first to be on the safe side.

3. Cyclone Filters

Vacuum Cleaner Cyclone Filter

Many bagless vacuum cleaners, including Dyson models, use cyclone filters as their primary filter. In vacuum cleaners with a cyclone, the air is spun around and dirt particles are forced outwards to collect in the bottom of the dust bin. Meanwhile, the air is forced upwards and passes through a filter that catches any dust particles left in the air.

Cyclone filters should be cleaned around once every three months in cold water and left to air dry.

4. Cartridge Filters

Vacuum Cleaner Cartridge Filter

These are one of the most common types of filter and can be used as either primary or secondary filters depending on your vacuum. They have a circular design and are usually made of foam, folded paper or other synthetic materials.

Cartridge filters can be either replaceable or washable, so again, it’s always important to check your specific vacuum model before replacing or washing. Nobody wants to throw away a perfectly good filter if it just needs a rinse or ruin a filter by washing it!

5. Cloth Filters

Vacuum Cleaner Cloth Filter

Cloth filters can generally be found in larger vacuum cleaners. These filters are built to clear larger particles and heavier debris from industrial settings such as workshops and construction sites.

Due to their sturdy nature, they are both washable and more long-lasting than other filters. However, as these filters are made for heavy-duty tasks, they don’t handle smaller debris and dust so well. Because of this, they are often used along with a secondary filter too.