Skip to Content

Can You Put Shark Vacuum Filters in the Dryer?

Can You Put Shark Vacuum Filters in the Dryer?

Having a vacuum cleaner at home can be a huge help when it comes to everyday cleaning routines. After all, most modern vacuums have exceptional cleaning power and can be highly efficient. One of the best brands out there is the Shark vacuum cleaner. But a Shark vacuum needs cleaning too, so how do you clear out its filters?

Cleaning out a vacuum’s filters is a delicate process. However, you cannot clean your filters in the dryer as they may get damaged. However, you can clean filters and restore the suction power to your Shark vacuum with the correct mechanism in mind. 

In this article, we will discuss when you need to clean out the filters from your Shark vacuum. Plus, we will help you understand how to keep the filters clean and upgrade performance on your Shark vacuum. 

When Do I Need To Clean My Vacuum?

In order to keep your vacuum functioning normally, you need to focus on cleaning it at a regular time frame. The more you use your vacuum cleaner, the more critical it is to clean the vacuum. The different parts of your vacuum need cleaning too. For example, you will need to empty out the dust canister every time you use the vacuum. 

This daily upkeep will keep your vacuum healthy for a decent amount of time, but there is no doubt this routine is hard to stick to. You may neglect the maintenance of your vacuum now and then and only notice when things seem off. While this can reduce your vacuum’s longevity, there are ways to catch issues still before they get too bad. 

More often than not, a vacuum isn’t working like it is supposed to because it is dirty. However, there are specific signs you can keep an eye on to let you know if it is time to clean out your vacuum:

  • The vacuum cleaner’s suction is far weaker than it was before.
  • There is a smell coming out from the Shark vacuum.
  • The sounds from the vacuum are louder than usual.
  • The vacuum is shutting down unexpectedly and is very hot.

Related: Troubleshooting Your Shark Vacuum

Can I Wash The Filters In A Dryer?

If your vacuum shows any of the signs above, it’s time to clean it, particularly its filters. But how do you wash them? Unfortunately, you cannot just stick the filters in a dryer. Not only can the rough method of the dryer damage the filters, but the filters could also even end up damaging your dryer machine. Therefore, it’s best to use the correct method. 

Photo: The Spruce

It would help if you cleaned out the filters on your Shark vacuum regularly, which will prevent stubborn clogs and lasting damage. The method you use can also depend on the model you are using, so always refer to the instruction manual first to see what the correct method is.  

Cleaning A Shark Vacuum’s Filters

To clean your Shark filters, you need to have the following things around you. Also, clean the vacuums out in an airy, open space so you don’t feel like the dust is catching up to you. 

  • A small, soft brush.
  • A sink with running water.
  • A bucket or container.
  • Water at room temperature.
  • A small amount of disinfectant.
  • A soft cleaning cloth. 

Now, in order to clean your vacuum, you need to switch it off and either take it outside or clean it in a large, aired-out space. 

  1. Open up the vacuum, and remove the filters. They are under the dust canister in your Shark vacuum.
  2. In a basin, fill up water, and add a few drops of disinfectant.
  3. If you have foam filters, place them in the basin and wash them gently using your hands. 
  4. After washing, rinse off soap from the filters with a new bucket of clean water.
  5. In the case that you have felt filers, please do not use any water on them directly. The water can damage the filters.
  6. Instead, for felt filters, tap them onto the side of something to dislodge any trapped dust, and then wipe them off with a damp cloth. 
  7. Let your filters air-dry for the next day, or at least overnight.
  8. Once dry, the filters can be placed back within the vacuum. 

Now, your filters are all clean, and you should notice a marked difference in how your vacuum is cleaning. You should also hear less noise, and there should be no smells coming from the vacuum.

Changing HEPA Filters

Some vacuums by Shark come with HEPA filters. These are specialized to filter out the air even more efficiently. However, HEPA filters need to be replaced every three months. The process of replacing a HEPA filter is pretty straightforward. Here’s how you do it:  

  1. Open up your vacuum and press the lock tabs.
  2. You also need to pull the filter cover towards yourself.
  3. Pull the HEPA filter and take it out of the vacuum.
  4. Please insert the new HEPA filter in its place.
  5. Place the HEPA filter with the seal directed towards the vacuum.
  6. Cover the vacuum again. 

Now you have a new HEPA filter! It’s also a good idea to have some extra filters around if one gets damaged earlier than you would expect. 

Why Do We Need Filters?

Filters in your Shark vacuum cleaner help ensure dust is trapped inside, and the air that the vacuum pushes out is clean. This way, you don’t have to worry about the dust being displaced across the room when you are vacuuming. 

This is why you should never use your vacuum without your filters, as it can be dangerous. At the same time, if your filters are wet, the water can drip into your vacuum’s motor and damage the machine. 

Conclusion

If you want your Shark vacuum cleaner to operate at optimum functionality, you will have to set up a routine where you clean it regularly. This routine will help keep your vacuum functional and improve its ability to clean in the long term as well.