It is spring cleaning season and though your vacuum may get used year-round, now is the time to think about whether it is doing its job effectively. Vacuuming can be a great tool to help eliminate dust, allergens and pet dander that has settled on carpets and upholstery. But it can also stir up those allergens and worsen indoor air quality. Vacuums without sufficient filtration can become an indoor source of particulate matter (PM), a major health hazard for children, older adults and anyone with chronic lung disease. Here is what you need to know to pick the vacuum that is right for you.
The Importance of Regular Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming removes dust, dander, pollen and other particulate matter from your floors. Without vacuuming, these particles build up and get redistributed into the air every time someone disturbs their resting place, like carpets, furniture or drapes. For instance, dust is a common problem for many people that can cause chronic coughing and irritation of the eye, nose and throat. For people with allergies or asthma, reducing these indoor irritants can help reduce symptoms.
If moisture somehow gets onto fabric in your home, mold can grow and release spores into the air. Frequent vacuuming, especially with a HEPA filter, can clean up these areas and prevent a more severe problem.
Vacuum Features for Cleaner Air
Vacuum cleaners are designed to capture dust particles and other allergens, but having a proper filtration system is essential to doing this effectively without redistribution. When a vacuum sucks up microscopic particles, they first go into a bag or cyclonic separator. This first line of defense can be the first place where dust reenters the air.
After the particles and air pass through the motor, a second filter is used to try and catch anything that might have made its way through the first filter. For many vacuums, this is where the High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters (HEPA filters) are located. HEPA filters, not to be confused with “HEPA-type” filters that do not need to meet the same filtration standards, are thought to be better for indoor air quality because they trap 99.97% of particles.
Some newer vacuums also use activated carbon filters that help absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—gases released by products like paints, air fresheners or cleaning supplies. Additionally, some newer vacuums undergo extensive testing to ensure they meet rigorous standards for allergen removal, filtration and performance. The vacuums that pass these tests are then certified by organizations like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and are considered extra safe for air quality.
In addition to the HEPA filter, other characteristics of vacuums to support good indoor air quality include bagged upright vacuums. Most canister-type and bagless vacuums do not have a HEPA filter. Ensure your vacuum has a beater bar. This is the round brush under the vacuum head that circulates when the vacuum is running. As this beater bar circulates, the carpet fibers are agitated allowing more of the particulate matter to be removed. Finally, some vacuums come with a dirt sensor which indicates when particles are identified and when the carpet is completely clean.
No matter what filter you are using, your vacuum should always have a sealed system to prevent dust and allergens from escaping back into the air. A sealed system ensures all air passes through the filter before being exhausted. Bagged vacuums tend to be a better option for those concerned about air quality because dust is contained in the bag. Bagless vacuums commonly release dust clouds when emptied.
Tips to Improve Air Quality While Vacuuming
- Ventilate: Open windows or use exhaust fans to ensure proper air circulation during and after vacuuming.
- Perform Regular Maintenance and Clean Filters Regularly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning or replacing filters to maintain optimal performance. Over time, filters can become clogged with dirt and debris, reducing their efficiency so regular maintenance is needed to make sure the filtration is working effectively.
- Use an Air Cleaner: People with severe allergies, asthma, COPD or other lung disease should consider using an air cleaner with a HEPA filter to further filter the air and protect indoor air quality.
- Vacuum Efficiently: Purchase a vacuum with strong suction and an easy-to-use design that allows quick work. Vacuum slowly moving forward and backwards. Then, vacuum the carpet at a right angle. This two-direction vacuum takes longer but ensures the best cleaning.
Regular, thoughtful vacuuming is one of the easiest, most affordable steps you can take toward better indoor air and a healthier home. This is especially if someone in your home suffers from allergies, asthma, COPD or other respiratory illnesses. Learn more about keeping your indoor air clean.
Blog last updated: April 21, 2025
