How to Make Vacuum Cleaner Filters
A vacuum cleaner filter is designed to allow air to pass, while preventing loose dirt and other airborne contaminants from doing the same. To improve the suction ability of a canister-type vacuum cleaner to suck in air, replace the nominal air filter with a homemade one that can be replaced after every use.
A vacuum cleaner filter is designed to allow air to pass, while preventing loose dirt and other airborne contaminants from doing the same. To improve the suction ability of a canister-type vacuum cleaner to suck in air, replace the nominal air filter with a homemade one that can be replaced after every use. A few household tools and supplies from a linen store are all that you will need.
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Unplug the canister vacuum cleaner’s power cord from the wall outlet. Rotate the vacuum cleaner so that the back is facing you.
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Remove the two screws from the grill on the back end of the vacuum cleaner using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the grill off the vacuum cleaner.
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Pull the vacuum filter compartment out of the back of the vacuum cleaner.
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Place a sheet of newspaper on a table. Upend the vacuum filter compartment over the newspaper. Shake the compartment to dislodge the filter inside. Grip an edge of the filter and pull it out of the compartment.
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Place the filter on the newspaper. Measure the length and width of the filter and record these measurements.
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Place a sheet of cheesecloth on the newspaper. Place the filter on the cheesecloth. Draw an outline around the filter, on the cheesecloth, with a grease pencil. Dispose of the filter in the trash.
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Cut out the outline on the cheesecloth with a scissors or blade of a utility blade -- use a straight edge to cut the lines straight if using the utility knife.
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Wipe out the vacuum filter compartment with a water-moistened paper towel. Dry the compartment with a dry paper towel. Wipe the outside of the compartment with the dry paper towel.
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Place the filter you have made into the compartment. Affix a strip of cellophane tape to each corner of the filter so it adheres to the inside of the compartment.
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Place the compartment back into the vacuum cleaner. Place the grill on and reattach the screws.
Things You Will Need
- Phillips screwdriver
- Newspaper
- Tape measure
- Grease pencil
- Cheesecloth, 8-inches by 10-inches
- Scissors/utility knife
- Straight edge
- Paper towels
- Cellophane tape