If you want to improve the air quality in your home, a HEPA filter can help. You can find them in appliances like vacuum cleaners and air purifiers.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, have pets, or just want to reduce airborne pollutants in your home, using a product with a HEPA filter in it can make a big difference. According to a recent study in the Atmospheric Environment journal, air purifiers with HEPA filters can cut indoor air pollution by over 60%.
In this article, we’ll explain what a HEPA filter is, how it works, and why it's a smart choice for cleaner, healthier air at home.
What does HEPA mean?
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. HEPA filters are made up of a mat of randomly arranged fibres, and their main job is to capture all those tiny particles floating around your home - dust, pollen, mould spores, and even pet dander - so you can breathe easier.
What do HEPA filters trap?
HEPA filters are great at trapping all kinds of unwanted particles in the air, including:
Dust and pollen. These are major allergens that can make you sneeze or feel stuffy. HEPA filters trap them before they cause problems.
Mould spores. If you’ve ever had mould in your home, you’ll know how harmful those spores can potentially be. HEPA filters can help get rid of them.
Bacteria and viruses: HEPA filters help reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses in your home by trapping them before they can get airborne.
Pet dander. This is a common allergen, but HEPA filters work wonders at reducing it.
HEPA filters in household appliances
You’ll find HEPA filters in household appliances that work to keep your air clean, such as vacuum cleaners and air purifiers:
In vacuum cleaners: HEPA filters in vacuums trap dust and allergens so they don’t get released back into the air as you clean. This is especially important for anyone with allergies or asthma.
Go for something like the… Dyson V11 extra cordless vacuum cleaner
This Dyson vacuum cleaner has been designed to keep homes clean and healthy. Its advanced HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including allergens and dust mites – so you can breathe easier. Plus, with its powerful suction and versatile attachments, it’s perfect for tackling every corner of your house.
In air purifiers: Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters constantly clean the air in your home, making sure you’re breathing air that’s as clean and fresh as possible.
Go for something like the… MeacoClean CA-HEPA portable air purifier
Here’s a great choice for allergy sufferers and anyone who wants to keep their home’s air fresh and clean. With its HEPA filter, the MeacoClean CA-HEPA portable air purifier traps 99.97% of tiny particles like pollen, dust, and pet dander. And with 3 fan settings (low, middle and high speeds), you can purify air in different-sized rooms.
How to clean and maintain your HEPA filter
A clean filter helps your appliance work better and last longer. Follow these simple steps to keep things in great shape:
Turn off and unplug. Before doing anything else, switch off your appliance and unplug it from the wall. It’s always best to work on something electrical when it’s powered down.
Remove the filter and check if it’s washable. Gently take the HEPA filter out of your device and check for labels or instructions. Some filters can be rinsed, others are strictly non-washable.
Dust the filter gently. Use a soft brush or your vacuum’s brush attachment to remove any surface dust. Be careful not to damage the filter’s fine mesh.
Wash if applicable. If it’s safe to wash, rinse it under cool running water only (skip the soap) and allow it to dry fully before placing it back in the unit.
Replace if necessary. Even with good care, filters don’t last forever. If it’s no longer filtering well or looks worn out, it’s probably time for a new one
HEPA filters FAQs
Can HEPA filters remove odours?
HEPA filters are amazing at trapping tiny particles like dust, pollen, and even some bacteria – but they’re not made for removing smells. If you’re trying to get rid of that lingering pet smell or last night’s cooking fumes, look for an air purifier that has both a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter. The carbon filter is specially designed to absorb odours and gases, which should give your air a much fresher feel.
Do HEPA filters capture microplastics?
Yep. HEPA filters are built to trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, and microplastics fall right into that size range. These tiny plastic bits often come from things like synthetic fabrics or plastic packaging, and once airborne, they can be a sneaky source of pollution. A good HEPA filter will catch them easily.
Can HEPA filters remove pollen?
Absolutely. If sunnier days have you sneezing nonstop, a HEPA filter might make a difference. They’re great at trapping pollen grains, which are often the culprits behind seasonal allergies. By pulling pollen out of the air, a HEPA filter can help you breathe easier and enjoy your space a lot better.
Do HEPA filters remove carbon monoxide?
Unfortunately not. HEPA filters aren’t designed to deal with gases like carbon monoxide, which is a colourless, odourless, and very dangerous gas. The best way to stay safe is to install a carbon monoxide detector and make sure your home is properly ventilated - especially if you’re using fuel-burning appliances.
Need more help?
We hope this guide has helped clear up the world of HEPA filters for you. If you need more advice on buying a new appliance for your home, feel free to pop in-store and chat to one of our expert colleagues. They’re always happy to help.
