The vacuum cleaner is one of the most convenient appliances that you can invest in. After all, who likes cleaning an entire house with just a broom and dustpan when you can have a better and more efficient alternative? In fact, who likes cleaning the house to begin with? Indeed, cleaning the house is a chore that everyone tries to avoid as much as possible.
There is, however, another chore that is even more troublesome than cleaning the house and using the vacuum cleaner. If there is anything that beats vacuuming when it comes to annoying chores, it is the actual task of cleaning the vacuum filter.
Just like any other chore, however, cleaning the filter of your vacuum is something that cannot be avoided since this is probably the most important part of your vacuum cleaner.
Why should you clean your vacuum cleaner’s filter?
The filter of your vacuum has a very special function. It is the part of your vacuum which helps separate allergens and other microscopic elements which may be hazardous to your health, as well as the health of those whom you love.
Leaving the filter dirty also affects the performance of the vacuum filter. Think of it as part of the vacuum’s maintenance. If you want your vacuum to function just like new, and if you want it to last for years, then it would be best to keep that filter clean.
Things to check before you start cleaning the vacuum filter
Like any other chore, there are certain things that you have to put in order before you can actually get down to work.
Organize the tools and other stuff that you will be needing in order to clean your filter. The most essential ones are the screwdriver and a bin bag. You’ll be needing a screwdriver in order to open the vacuum cleaner to gain access to the filter. A bin bag is needed so you can have a place to throw in all the dirt and debris coming from the filter that you’ll need to get rid of.
Look for a space outdoors with a lot of lighting, if possible. A flat area will even be better! You’ll need as much lighting as possible in order for you to find the compartment where the filter is placed. You’ll also want to do it outdoors just in case dirt from the filter spills out.
Read your vacuum cleaner’s manual. This will give you information as to what type of filter you may have and where it is located. Take note of the kind of filter your vacuum uses, whether it is washable or not.
How do you clean your vacuum filter?
Now that you have read your manual and prepared everything that you need, you can now start the task of cleaning your vacuum cleaner’s filter.
Using a screwdriver, slowly open your vacuum cleaner. Make sure that you put the screws in one area so that you don’t lose any of it. Once you have located the filter, remove it using the screwdriver as well. Take extra care when doing this so none of the dirt and debris scatter all over the place where the vacuum is placed. Dispose of the filter’s contents into the bin and gently tap the filter against any hard surface to remove any remaining debris that is still stuck on the filter. You can further clean the filter using an old toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush.
Depending on the type of filter your vacuum may have, you may need to wash this as well. Filters made of foam, plastic or any other similar kind of material need to be washed under a sink. Do not wash the filter if it is made of paper since this will destroy the filter.
If the filter has been washed, leave it out to
Precautions to take when cleaning vacuum filters
Always take care when dismantling vacuum parts. Never force them apart since this may cause permanent damage to your vacuum.
If you make use of your vacuum on a daily basis, then make sure to clean your filter at least once a week. If you use the vacuum on a weekly basis, then make sure you clean the filter at least once a month., This is the best way to make sure that your vacuum does its job at peak performance.
Always wash your filter using plain cold water. Never use soap on your filter as this may destroy the filter itself.
Never leave the filter on any hot surface as this may also damage the filter.
Some vacuums come with HEPA filters. These are special filters that can get rid of impurities such as allergens and microscopic contaminants. If the filter is a HEPA filter, washing this may actually destroy the filter. HEPA filters are made of special fibers arranges in a meshlike pattern. Washing a HEPA filter may actually disrupt the arrangement of these fibers and ruin the filter’s ability to properly function. When it comes to HEPA filters, it is recommended that replacements be directly purchased from the manufacturers themselves.
A vacuum cleaner is one of the most useful appliances that you can have in your home. However, you still have to do your part in making sure that the vacuum cleaner is well maintained in order to function properly. An important step in maintenance is to keep the vacuum cleaner’s filter clean on a regular basis. Whether it’s a washable or non-washable filter, the important thing is that it is always kept clean. It may seem to be such a tedious task, but knowing what to do and how to do the process will make the task a lot easier to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wash vacuum filters?
This really depends on the type of filter your vacuum has. Some are washable and some are not. Make sure to check the instruction manual in order to know what kind of filter your vacuum uses.
How can a HEPA filter be washed?
Check the instruction manual that comes with your vacuum since this should give clear instructions as to how your HEPA filter should be washed. Normally though, these are washed under running water until these are thoroughly cleaned.
How long does a vacuum filter last?
It really depends on the brand of the vacuum filter. At an average, most vacuum filters last for around 12 to 18 months. This can be prolonged though depending on how you maintain the filter.
Do Dyson vacuum filters use any special cleaning process?
Dyson filters are cleaned pretty much the same way as the filters of Shark vacuums. These are cleaned in cold water until they are rid of all dirt and debris. They are left to airdry after washing.