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Cleaning the filter on a vacuum.

I bought a used vacuum cleaner and love it but it has a filter on it that is really dirty. I was wondering if there is a way I can clean the filter so that I don't have to go out and buy a new one right now? The vaccum is a bagless one that has the canister that catches the dirt and the filter I'm referring to fits down inside the canister. Thanks for any ideas!

Answers: Cleaning the filter on a vacuum.

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By
10/23/2010

I posted a tip a while back on cleaning the filter on a bagless vacuum cleaner. In the winter I couldn't reach a cement wall outside due to so much snow where I usually banged the dirt out of the filter. So I used another vacuum cleaner that I keep upstairs to suck the dirt out of the filter. It was much less messy. Also a dust buster might work for this.

By
03/30/2010

We have an air tank (for filling up tires and such). I regularly use the tank to blow the vacuum filter and parts. My vacuums last for years!

A dirty filter will seriously make other parts break. If you don't have an air tank (which I think it is rare to have one honestly lol) I'd use a shop vac or take it to the interstate vacuum for 50 cents. I hope you find something awesome that works for you ;-)

By Marian (Guest Post) 02/26/2005

I have a bagless vacuum cleaner (Bissell). The dust canister can be removed. After vacuuming I remove the filterand the little canister and wash them both in warm soapy wter. I make sure they`re both thoroughly dried before replacing them into the vacuum Been doing this with this vac for over 2 years & it`s fine. There is a HEPA filter as well on the side and this is for cleaning the air. I`ve replaced it just once so far as I vacuum it aftermy rooms etc. are cleaned.

By Amanda (Guest Post) 05/14/2004

Since the vacuum is used, you could try to find the manual online on the company's website. It might say it might be able to be washed. I can wash my Kenmore's in warm soapy water (yes, it's paper-I thought they were nuts, too.) Try banging it outside (it makes a mess!) good luck

By Melissa (Guest Post) 05/08/2004

Remove the filter from the vac, take an old toothbrush and brush through all the cracks. Then lightly bang it on a hard surface to remove all the dust and dirt. If you really want it cleaned, take some dishwashing soap, squirt it on the outside of the filter and with a water hose that has a sprayer attached, clean the filter from the inside out. It will look like a brand new filter.

By acraftycat (Guest Post) 05/07/2004

I do what Jenie & Linne suggeted in addition to brushing it with a dust broom the soft kind you can buy at the dollar store.
Liz

By Linne Dodds (Guest Post) 05/06/2004

If you can take the filter completely out I would try taking it & a blow dryer outside .Hook the blowdryer up to a strong outside power cord & try blowing the crud out.No or very low heat & Highest speed of blowing.
I had to use a blow dryer outside when I carelessly left the van window open & it Poured down rain,UGH.
If this ever happens to you,soak up some of the water with weighted newspapers & or towels first.

By Jenine (Guest Post) 05/06/2004

I bought a new bagless vacuum cleaner with a filter in the canister. I just unscrew the top and pull out the round filter and take it outside and bang on the grass. It saves alot of money--otherwise it cost around 22.00 for a new one. Hope this helps you.

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