Learning how to clean the filter of your Bissell pet vacuum is essential maintenance to keep it running at its best and able to pick up fur from your floors and upholstery with its usual ease.
As Homes & Gardens' home tech editor, I've spent more than 200 hours testing the best vacuums for pet hair, including taking apart and cleaning Bissell vacuums and carpet cleaners.
The good news is, it's pretty straightforward, and I consulted a professional cleaner to make sure these simple three steps will protect your precious vacuum filter whilst restoring suction.
How to clean a Bissell pet vacuum filter
1. Unplug and remove filter
A replacement filter is an inexpensive investment that keeps your vacuum running smoothly.
Before doing anything else, remember to power off and unplug your vacuum. You don't want any surprising shocks.
'The filter should come out of either the dirt tank or the side compartment, depending on the model,' explains professional cleaning expert Scott Schrader from CottageCare.
This is a great chance to inspect your Bissell filter for any wear or damage. Look out for dents or missing parts as a damaged filter will cause your vacuum to lose suction power. An extra filter is also a handy way to make sure you can regularly clean your filters and still use your vacuum while one is drying.
Luckily, replacement filters are affordable at Bissell for all available models.
CleanView
Bissell's CleanView vacuums use pre-motor and post-motor filters to trap dust, dirt and hair. This replacement pack of both costs $12.99.
3-in-1 Stick
This is the only filter you'll need if your Bissell vacuum is the 3-in-1 Stick.
Select
If you use any Bissell Select vacuums, some of their best carpet cleaners for pets, this foam filter is the one you need.
2. Tap away hair and dust
A gentle brush can remove stubborn hair and dust from vacuum filters.
'Once removed, tap out the loose hair and dust over the trash can,' Scott continues. This shouldn't take long, but if it's been a while since you've cleaned your vacuum filter for your Bissell pet vacuum, there might be some hair lodged in the filter. Pluck out what you can, or use a gentle brush like this handheld vacuum cleaner brush at Amazon to clear the holes of any blockages.
This is great for cleaning stubborn hair from your Bissell vacuum filters, but also for any hair trapped around brushrolls after vacuuming.
3. Rinse and dry
Make sure the filter is completely dry before putting it back into your vacuum.
Then, rinse the Bissell pet vacuum filter thoroughly. Use warm water – not too hot, not cold, and with absolutely no soap or detergent. Soap and hot water can damage the delicate fibers of your filter.
After all the hair, dust and dirt has been rinsed away, let it dry completely. This might take up to 48 hours, but don't get impatient. Returning the filter to the vacuum while it's still wet can cause damage.
Once it's fully dry, pop your Bissell filter back into your pet vacuum, and it will be ready for action.
FAQs
Why is it important to clean your Bissell pet vacuum filter?
Forgetting to clean your Bissell's filter can cause your pet vacuum to lose suction power as insufficient air is passing through it. This then forces the vacuum's motor to work harder, which can cause overheating, motor damage or mean you have to get rid of your vacuum cleaner earlier than you otherwise would.
Vacuuming pet hair the right way involves this small vacuum maintenance step to maintain adequate suction.
Do I need to dry the filter?
Moisture is one of the things you should never vacuum. Moisture can get into the inner workings of your vacuum, damage the motor and all electrical parts, and contribute to the growth of mold and bacteria within the appliance, causing your vacuum to smell over time.
Take some chores off your hands with one of the best robot vacuums for pet hair.
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