How to clean your vacuum cleaner filter

It’s easy to forget that our household appliances need some care themselves. Simple maintenance and cleaning of our most used appliances, can greatly extend their lifespan. We constantly rely on our vacuum cleaner to clean everything from food crumbs and dust to pet hair and dirt. To ensure that our bagless vacuums are cleaning efficiently, the vacuum filter and canister needs to be cleaned regularly.

What you will need:

• Microfibre cloth
• Dishwashing liquid
• Small brush

Safety first! Unplug your vacuum cleaner

Note: Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if your vacuum filter is washable or needs to be replaced. You can find replacement vacuum filters here.

Step 1. Clean the canister

Unplug the vacuum cleaner and remove the canister. Wipe dust and build up with a soft microfibre cloth. Then, rinse in warm soapy water and leave to air dry completely before replacing it.

Step 2. Clean your vacuum cleaner filter

• Locate the filter – this should be easy to access. Check your manufacturer’s instructions if you are unsure where it is located
• Remove the vacuum cleaner filter and tap it against a hard surface to remove excess dust. It is a good idea to do this outdoors or over a bin! You can use a small, soft bristled brush to remove any excess dust
• Save time with our handy tip! For excessive dust removal, use a vacuum or air gun connected to a compressor
• Next give the vacuum filter a good rinse under running water. Do not use detergent – cool tap water will do the trick
• Leave the filter to air dry for 24-48 hours (or until completely dry)
• Lastly, once the filter is completely and thoroughly dry, place it back into the vacuum. Your vacuum cleaner is now ready for use

Do’s and don’ts

• Clean your canister and wash your filter regularly. We recommend a monthly clean
• Replace your vacuum filter every 3-6 months (refer manufacturer’s recommendation for filter life span)
• Use the right filter for your vacuum cleaner. Need help? The team at Statewide can help you find the right vacuum cleaner filter
• Don’t use a vacuum with a dirty canister/filter – dirty filters allow excess allergens back into the air
• Avoid washing a single use filter
• Don’t wash your filter with detergent/soap as clean water will do the job
• Don’t put your filter in a dryer. Allowing to air dry is best
• Reattach the filter on the vacuum until it is completely dry

Changing your filter regularly should be part of your regular maintenance schedule. A clean filter ensures that your vacuum has powerful suction and performs at its peak.

Find your vacuum cleaner filter, spare parts and accessories at Statewide Appliance Spares.

Need a replacement vacuum bag? We’ve got you covered! Find genuine Miele GN & Miele FJM dustbags that are perfectly designed to fit your Miele Vacuum Cleaner. Check our our handy guide to quickly and easily replace your Miele vacuum cleaner dustbag.

For all other vacuum bags, shop here. We offer a lowest price guarantee and fast, Australia wide delivery.