Vacuum cleaner filters are usually positioned so that the incoming air passes through it before it reaches the motor. There are different kinds of vacuum cleaner filters that are sometimes combined together in a single vacuum. Some of them are:

Vacuum cleaner bag: This is the first form of vacuum cleaner filter the dirt encounters in a bagged vacuum model. This vacuum cleaner filter captures the debris that is vacuumed up. This bag is usually made of paper or fabric that allows air to pass through but also attempts to trap all of the dust and debris in the bag.

Cyclonic separation: This is the first form of vacuum cleaner filter the dirt encounters in a bagless vacuum model. The dirty air that is taken in is cycled or spun so fast that the dust is forced out of the air and falls into a storage bin.

Water filtration: Some models of vacuums use water as a vacuum cleaner filter. The intake air passes through water before it is exhausted. The idea behind this form of vacuum cleaner filter is that wet dust cannot be airborne. The water vacuum cleaner filter separates out the debris that is water soluble and is effective. The water in these units must be dumped and the machine rinsed out after every use.

Ultra fine air filter: This vacuum cleaner filter is used as a secondary filter after the air has passed through the rest of the vacuum. This vacuum cleaner filter is meant to remove any remaining dust that could harm the operator. One very popular type of ultra fine air filter is the HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter.

Having a vacuum cleaner filter is critical to the efficient suction and dirt handling ability of the vacuum. The vacuum cleaner filter keeps the dirt and grit from entering the critical mechanical parts of the vacuum. If dirt and grit did get into those parts, it would cause abrasion and premature part failure.

Keep in mind that many vacuum cleaner filters need to be replaced regularly. This cost of vacuum cleaner filters should be factored into the price of a vacuum cleaner. Some vacuums use washable vacuum cleaner filters that do not need to be replaces, which could save you a little money.

But, can you really put a price on your health and well-being?