Clean your Bissell filter every month, or when you see dust caked on it
A clogged Bissell filter cuts suction in half and makes the motor work harder than it should. The filter traps dust, pet hair, and debris before they reach the engine. When it clogs, air cannot flow through, and your vacuum loses power. Cleaning takes five minutes and costs nothing — it is the single cheapest way to keep a Bissell running well.
Most Bissell uprights and hand-helds use one of three filter types: a pleated cartridge filter, a foam pre-filter, or both stacked together. The method is the same for all of them. You do not need tools, chemicals, or replacement parts. Tap, rinse, and dry — that is the whole job.
Key Takeaways
- Unplug the vacuum before you touch the filter, and wait a few minutes for the motor to stop spinning.
- Locate the filter by opening the dust cup or the filter compartment on the side or top of your machine — check your model's manual if you cannot find it.
- Tap the filter firmly over a trash can to knock loose dust out, then rinse it under cool running water until the water runs clear.
- Let the filter dry completely — at least two hours, or overnight — before you put it back in and use the vacuum.
- If the filter is torn, stained permanently, or does not dry after rinsing, replace it with a Bissell part matching your model number.
Step 1: Unplug and locate the filter
Unplug the vacuum from the wall outlet. Wait two to three minutes for the motor to stop completely. This prevents the filter from spinning while you handle it and keeps you safe.
Open the dust cup or filter compartment. On most Bissell uprights, the filter sits inside the dust cup at the top. On hand-helds and some uprights, it is in a separate compartment on the side or back. If you cannot find it, look for a plastic door or lid that twists or clicks open. Your Bissell manual will show the exact location for your model.
Step 2: Tap out the loose dust
Hold the filter over a trash can and tap it firmly on the sides and bottom with your hand or a soft brush. Tap for 10 to 15 seconds. You will see a cloud of dust fall out. This removes the bulk of the debris without water, which is faster and gentler on the filter material.
Do not bang the filter hard enough to dent or crack it. The goal is to shake loose dust free, not to pound it. If the filter is very clogged, tap it longer or tap it against the inside of the trash can rim.
Step 3: Rinse under cool running water
Hold the filter under a cool tap and run water through it. Let the water flow from the clean side toward the dirty side — the direction air normally flows through the filter. This pushes trapped dust out rather than deeper in. Rinse for 20 to 30 seconds, or until the water runs clear.
Do not use hot water, which can damage the filter material. Do not scrub it with a brush or cloth, which can tear the pleats or foam. Let the water do the work. If the filter is very dirty, rinse it, wait a minute, and rinse again.
Step 4: Dry the filter completely
Shake off excess water gently and stand the filter upright on a clean towel or paper towel. Let it air-dry in a warm, dry place — a windowsill, shelf, or laundry room works well. Do not use a hair dryer or place it near a heater. The filter must dry completely before you use the vacuum, which takes at least two hours. Overnight is safer.
A wet filter will damage the motor and create mold inside the machine. If you are in a hurry, clean the filter the night before you plan to vacuum. Never reinstall a damp filter.
Step 5: Reinstall and test
Once the filter is completely dry, slide or snap it back into its compartment. Make sure it sits flush and any clips or latches are find. Close the dust cup or compartment door. Plug the vacuum back in and run it for a few seconds to confirm the motor sounds normal and suction feels strong.
If suction is still weak after cleaning, the filter may be damaged or the dust cup may not be sealed properly. Check that the dust cup lid is locked tight. If suction is still poor, the filter may need replacement.
When to replace the filter instead of cleaning it
A filter that is torn, has permanent stains, or does not dry after rinsing should be replaced. Tears let dust bypass the filter and damage the motor. Permanent stains mean the material is breaking down. A filter that stays damp after overnight drying has lost its ability to shed water and should come out.
Order a replacement from Bissell's website or a retailer like Amazon or Walmart. You will need your vacuum's model number, which is on a sticker on the back or bottom of the machine. Bissell filters cost between $15 and $40 depending on the model. Installation takes one minute — just slide the new filter in and close the compartment.
How often to clean your Bissell filter
Clean the filter once a month if you vacuum weekly. If you have pets or a large house, clean it every two weeks. If you notice suction dropping before a month is up, clean it then — do not wait. A clean filter is the fastest way to restore power.
Some Bissell models have a filter-cleaning indicator light that turns on when the filter needs attention. If your machine has one, clean the filter as soon as the light appears. If it does not, set a calendar reminder for the first of each month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash the filter in the dishwasher or washing machine?
No. Hot water and agitation damage the filter material and can warp the plastic frame. Hand-rinse under cool running water only. The dishwasher or washer will destroy the filter.
What if water does not run clear after rinsing?
Rinse again. Some filters need two or three rinses to clear completely. If water is still dirty after three rinses, let the filter soak in cool water for 15 minutes, then rinse again. If it still will not clear, the filter is likely damaged and should be replaced.
Can I use the vacuum while the filter is drying?
No. A wet or damp filter will let dust reach the motor and can cause mold growth inside the machine. Always wait until the filter is completely dry — at least two hours, preferably overnight. Running the vacuum without a filter or with a wet filter voids the warranty on most Bissell models.
Do I need to clean the filter if I empty the dust cup after every use?
Yes. The dust cup and the filter are separate. Emptying the cup removes large debris, but dust still settles on the filter itself. You must clean the filter monthly even if you empty the cup every time you vacuum.
What is the difference between a pleated filter and a foam pre-filter?
Pleated filters are accordion-shaped plastic cartridges that trap fine dust. Foam pre-filters are spongy and catch larger debris before it reaches the pleated filter. Some Bissell models have both. Clean them the same way — tap, rinse, dry. If your machine has both, clean them together.