Vacuum Filters

Vacuum cleaners work quickly to eliminate dirt and leave flooring surfaces clean. Efficient vacuum filters trap dirt, release clean air and keep debris from falling back onto the floor. Staples carries a variety of vacuum filters that fit most models and brands, including Shark vacuums.

Choose the Proper Filter for a Bagless Vacuum
Bagless vacuums use one or two filters, depending on the manufacturer and model. These filters pull air through and catch dirt particles in the grate, allowing the clean air to move through them. From there, many bagless vacuum cleaners a second filter to catch any remaining residue or dirt particles. This one often has smaller holes. While purchasing filters for a bagless vacuum, consider whether the vacuum has one or two filters. Replacing both at the same time makes maintenance more convenient. In most cases, there is one filter in the containment area and one located at the entrance to the containment area. Single-filter models agitate the air before filtering it, which makes it easier to separate clean air and debris.

Filters Work With Vacuum Bags
Vacuums that use disposable or reusable bags have a different filtration system, so users only have to replace one filter. Particles go through the bag first, which filters air through small holes and retains larger particles. Many electric brooms have a filter that air must pass through after leaving the bag. This filter double checks the air by putting it through smaller holes and catching any lingering dust. The filter you choose must be compatible with the expelling tunnel of the vacuum, or dirt can escape through the gaps left by the filter.

HEPA Filters Offer Enhanced Performance
HEPA vacuum filters create cleaner air by trapping more residue. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particle Arrest. To receive this credential, a filter must catch at least 99.97 percent of 0.3-micron particles. A HEPA filter creates a tight seal around the expelling tunnel to guarantee that air must go through the filter before returning to the environment. This type of filter catches fine dust, allergens, mold spores and other types of waste that are too small to get caught in other filters.

How Much Does a Vacuum Filter Hold?
The capacity of a filter depends on the vacuum model. Smaller filters often hold between 3 and 6 quarts, while larger models hold up to 10 quarts. While a filter is capable of holding up to 10 quarts, regularly cleaning a filter extends its life and helps it work more efficiently.

What Package Sizes Are Available?
Filters are available in packs of 1, 2 or 3 items. They're rarely available in larger sizes since each filter should last at least 6 months. In a commercial setting that requires daily vacuuming, users should check the filter every 6 months. In a residential setting, replace the filter once per year.

What Are Washable Filters?
A few handheld vacuums are compatible with lifetime filters. Rather than requiring replacement every 6 to 12 months, these models are washable and reusable. After being thoroughly washed, they are similar to replacement filters in efficiency.

Get more efficiency and cleaning power out of your portable vacuum with a replacement vacuum filter. Check out Staples listings to find options for each model, as well as other effective cleaning supplies.