how to clean bissell pet vacuum filter

3 min read 04-02-2025

Maintaining a clean Bissell pet vacuum filter is crucial for optimal suction and allergen removal. A clogged filter reduces your vacuum's efficiency, potentially leading to poorer cleaning and even damage to the motor. This guide will walk you through cleaning different Bissell pet vacuum filter types, ensuring your vacuum stays in top shape.

Identifying Your Bissell Pet Vacuum Filter

Before cleaning, you need to identify the type of filter your Bissell pet vacuum uses. Bissell uses several filter types, including:

Foam Filters: These are typically washable and reusable.
Felt Filters: Also washable and reusable, but require more gentle handling.
HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters are often more delicate and may only be able to tolerate a few cleanings before needing replacement.
Combination Filters: Many Bissell pet vacuums use a combination of foam and felt, or foam and HEPA filters.

Check your vacuum's manual or the Bissell website to confirm the exact filter type and cleaning instructions specific to your model. The location of the filter will also vary depending on the vacuum model. Consult your manual for exact placement.

How to Clean Different Bissell Pet Vacuum Filter Types

The cleaning process varies slightly depending on the filter material:

Cleaning Foam Filters

Remove the filter: Carefully remove the foam filter from its housing.
Rinse with water: Gently rinse the filter under cool running water. Avoid using hot water, which can damage the filter.
Gently squeeze out excess water: Do not wring or twist the filter, as this could damage its structure.
Air dry completely: Allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it. This could take several hours, or even overnight. Never put it in a dryer.

Cleaning Felt Filters

Remove the filter: Carefully remove the felt filter from its housing.
Loose debris removal: Use a soft brush or your fingers to gently remove any loose debris from the filter.
Wipe with a damp cloth: Lightly dampen a cloth with cool water and gently wipe the filter to remove any remaining dirt.
Air dry completely: Allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it. Again, avoid dryers and direct sunlight.

Cleaning HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are more delicate and require gentler handling. Refer to your vacuum's manual for specific cleaning instructions. Some HEPA filters are not washable and will need to be replaced regularly. For washable HEPA filters:

Check if washable: Confirm that your HEPA filter is washable before attempting to clean it.
Gently tap and brush: Tap the filter gently to remove loose debris. Use a soft brush to carefully remove any remaining particles. Avoid forceful brushing.
Air dry completely: Allow the filter to air dry thoroughly before reinstalling.

Cleaning Combination Filters

For combination filters (foam and felt, or foam and HEPA), clean each component according to the instructions above. For example, rinse the foam filter, and gently brush and wipe the felt or HEPA filter portion.

How Often to Clean Your Bissell Pet Vacuum Filter

The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your vacuum and the type of surfaces you clean. As a general rule, you should:

Check your filter after each use: Inspect the filter for visible debris buildup.
Clean your filter every 1-3 months: For regular use, plan to clean filters monthly or every three months at a minimum.
Replace filters as needed: Even with regular cleaning, filters will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Refer to your vacuum's manual for replacement recommendations.

Maintaining Your Bissell Pet Vacuum

Regular filter cleaning is just one aspect of maintaining your Bissell pet vacuum. Remember to also:

Empty the dustbin regularly: A full dustbin reduces suction and can strain the motor.
Check and clean the brushes: Tangled hair and debris can hinder the brush's effectiveness.
Check for clogs: Periodically check the vacuum hose and attachments for blockages.

By following these steps, you can ensure your Bissell pet vacuum operates efficiently, extending its lifespan and maintaining its cleaning power for years to come. Remember to always consult your vacuum's manual for specific instructions and recommendations related to your model.