UnhappyHipsters is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more.
Air filters are essential in maintaining good air quality in your home. They filter out dust, pollen, and pet dander to keep the air clean and fresh.
While many types of air filters are available, washable air filters stand out as an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for keeping your home’s air clean.
As the name suggests, washable air filters can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
These filters are economically advantageous and contribute positively to the environment as you won’t be disposing of old filters regularly.
They come in various sizes and materials, ensuring you can find the right fit for your needs.
When selecting a washable air filter, it’s crucial to consider factors such as size, material, and filtration efficiency.
Size matters because you want the filter to fit snugly within your air system to operate at its maximum potential.
Material, on the other hand, has a direct impact on the filter’s durability and how effectively it captures pollutants.
Filtration efficiency – often measured by the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating – indicates how well the filter can clean the air, with higher values signifying better performance.
Best Washable Air Filters
To help you breathe easier and keep your home fresh, we’ve compiled a list of the best washable air filters available on Amazon. Check them out below!
K&N 20x20x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter
Upgrade your home’s air quality with the K&N 20x20x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter, providing you with long-lasting, washable and cost-effective filtration solutions.
Pros
- Long-lasting and washable, eliminating the need for disposable filters
- Effective air filtration for a healthy home environment
- Eco-friendly and cost-saving with reusable design
Cons
- May require additional spray for optimal performance
- Some users report issues with fitment and sizing
- Needs time to dry after cleaning
The K&N 20x20x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter is an excellent choice if you want to invest in a lasting solution to improve the air quality of your living space.
Its washable and reusable design stands out, allowing you to save money and reduce waste from disposable filters.
This air filter performs well with its pleated synthetic filter media, ensuring clean and safe air for your home, office, or business.
The filter not only reduces contaminants in the air you breathe, but it’s also capable of maintaining the efficiency of your HVAC system with excellent airflow.
One downside is that you may need to purchase the official spray for added performance.
Additionally, some users have reported issues with the sizing and fitment of the filter, so check the compatibility with your HVAC system before purchasing.
After cleaning, the filter needs ample time to dry, which could pose a slight inconvenience.
However, overall, the K&N 20x20x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter offers outstanding quality and long-term value, making it a smart investment for a healthier indoor environment.
Trophy Air Washable Electrostatic HVAC Furnace Air Filter
Upgrade your home’s air quality and HVAC efficiency with Trophy Air’s electrostatic air filter.
Pros
- Enhances HVAC effectiveness
- Supports healthier air quality
- Premium, long-lasting craftsmanship
Cons
- May not fit all filter setups perfectly
- Requires regular cleaning maintenance
- Could initially feel tight fitting
This Trophy Air Washable Electrostatic HVAC Furnace Air Filter aims to improve your HVAC system’s overall air quality and efficiency.
Its low-resistant design and dual electrostatic media enable better airflow and capture more allergens than traditional filters, making your home a more comfortable and healthier environment.
The robust aluminum frame contains four layers of high-grade material, ensuring superior durability and longevity.
This American-made filter will save you money in the long run and provide you with a more eco-friendly alternative to disposable filters, reducing waste and contributing to a greener home.
Keeping the air filter working efficiently requires regular maintenance – simply slide it out, hose it off, let it dry, and reinstall.
Although its dimensions may not fit some setups perfectly, this filter is adjustable to accommodate most systems.
Remember, investing in a washable electrostatic air filter can help reduce your heating and cooling costs, improve the lifespan of your HVAC system, and promote a more breathable space in your home.
Venti Tech 16x20x1 Washable Electrostatic Air Filter
Choose the Venti Tech Washable Air Filter for a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to maintaining clean air in your home.
Pros
- High particle capture efficiency due to electrostatic properties
- Lower air flow resistance, reducing stress on your HVAC system
- Washable and reusable, offering long-term savings and sustainability
Cons
- Requires regular maintenance for optimal performance
- Slightly larger dimensions than disposable filters
- Some users reported difficulty fitting the filter into their HVAC slot
The Venti Tech 16x20x1 Washable Air Filter provides higher quality air for your home through woven polypropylene media, giving it impressive electrostatic properties.
As your indoor air cycles through your heating and cooling system, the air becomes cleaner and fresher with each pass.
The wrong filter in your HVAC system can cause unnecessary stress to the unit, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
The Venti Tech washable air filters are specifically designed to minimize airflow resistance, extending the life of your HVAC system and delaying the need for replacements.
One significant advantage of the Venti Tech air filter is its washable nature, making it an eco-friendly choice for your home.
By switching to washable filters, you’re actively reducing the number of disposable filters that ultimately fill up landfills. You’ll save money by not constantly purchasing replacement filters as a bonus.
To maintain top performance, the filter should be cleaned every 2-3 months by flushing water in the opposite direction of airflow and rinsing thoroughly.
Be sure to let it air dry before reinstalling it in your system. It’s important to note that this air filter may run slightly bigger than disposable filters, so verify your system’s size requirements before purchasing.
LEVOIT Vital 100 Air Purifier
Consider the LEVOIT Vital 100 Air Purifier for a powerful and efficient solution to improve the air quality in your home.
Pros
- Powerful performance for large rooms
- 3-stage filtration system with washable pre-filter
- Quiet operation and customizable timer
Cons
- Slightly bulkier design
- Filter replacements every 6-8 months
- No remote control for settings
The LEVOIT Vital 100 Air Purifier, equipped with a powerful motor, is perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens.
Its CADR of 130 CFM / 221 m3/h can cover 300 ft² / 28 m² in 18 minutes, ensuring quick air purification to keep your home fresh and clean.
One of the key features of this air purifier is its 3-stage filtration. The washable pre-filter catches large particles like lint and fur, while the High-Efficiency Activated Carbon Filter tackles toxic fumes and unpleasant odors.
The HEPA Filter captures at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, and other airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.
With noise levels as low as 23 decibels, the Vital 100 won’t disrupt your daily activities or sleep. You can set a timer for 2, 4, or 8 hours and even turn off the display lights for bedtime.
This energy-efficient purifier costs only $1.66 a week to run 24/7, making it an affordable choice for times of high pollution or during allergy season.
Though slightly bulkier than some competitors, the compact design and top-facing air vents allow you to place the Vital 100 near walls or in room corners without sacrificing performance.
Remember that filter replacements are required every 6-8 months, depending on usage. Note that this model does not come with a remote control for settings.
K&N 24x24x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter
Invest in the K&N 24x24x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter for a reusable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective solution to home air filtration.
Pros
- Long-lasting, washable and reusable
- Saves money over time compared to disposable filters
- MERV 11 rating for superior filtration
Cons
- Slightly loose fit in some filter registers
- Metal frame may create noise when air kicks on and off
- May require additional foam tape to prevent whistling
The K&N 24x24x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter shines as a high-quality, washable air filter for your home.
Its excellent MERV 11 rating ensures fantastic air filtration, capturing dust, pollen, and other contaminants to improve indoor air quality.
Not only does this filter provide exceptional filtration, but it also saves you money in the long run. With its washable and reusable design, you’ll no longer need to purchase disposable filters.
Clean the K&N filter when dirty and reinstall it to keep your HVAC system running efficiently.
However, the K&N filter may have a slightly loose fit in some filter registers, so be aware before purchasing.
Additionally, the metal frame may make noise when the air kicks on and off, which could be a minor annoyance. You should add foam tape to the flange to prevent any whistling.
Overall, the K&N 24x24x1 HVAC Furnace Air Filter is a wise investment for those seeking an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution to home air filtration.
The minor cons should encourage you to consider this high-quality, reusable filter.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best washable air filter can be overwhelming with all the options available. However, you can make an informed decision with some key features in mind.
Here’s a friendly guide to help you along the way.
First and foremost, consider the size of the air filter. Ensuring that the filter fits your HVAC system or air purifier properly is crucial.
Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct dimensions. Getting the right size directly affects the filter’s efficiency and your indoor air quality.
Next, consider the filter’s MERV or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value rating. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating better filtration capabilities.
A MERV rating between 8 and 13 is adequate for most residential homes. Remember that higher MERV ratings can cause more strain on your HVAC system, so balance your filtration needs with your system’s capabilities.
Here are a few other essential features to consider when selecting a washable air filter:
- Washability: Ensure the filter is easy to wash and maintain. Some filters require a simple rinse with water, while others might need a mild detergent. Removable and easily accessible components make the process more convenient.
- Material: Look for filters made of high-quality materials, such as electrostatically charged fibers or polyester. These materials effectively trap particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
- Durability: Since washable air filters are meant for long-term use, it’s essential to invest in a durable product. Ideally, the filter should maintain its shape and effectiveness after multiple washes.
- Warranty: A good warranty can offer peace of mind and reassurance about the filter’s durability and performance.
When shopping for a washable air filter, keep these features in mind and try to find the best balance between price and quality.
By doing so, you’ll ensure a cleaner and healthier indoor environment for you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my washable air filter?
It’s recommended to clean your washable air filter every 30-60 days, based on your usage and environment. You may need to clean it more frequently if you live in a particularly dusty area or have pets.
What are the benefits of using washable air filters?
Washable air filters can save money over time due to their reusable nature. They are also an eco-friendly option, as they reduce the waste of disposable filters. Additionally, they often provide higher efficiency, catching smaller particles than disposable versions.
How do washable air filters compare to disposable ones?
Washable air filters are generally more durable and have a longer lifespan than disposable filters. Although they may have a higher upfront cost, they are more cost-effective in the long run. However, cleaning and maintaining them regularly is essential to ensure optimal performance.
What is the maintenance process for a washable air filter?
First, remove the filter from your HVAC unit. Rinse it using warm water and a mild soap solution to remove dirt and debris. Allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling it. Remember to clean the exterior surface of your HVAC unit to remove any built-up dust or grime.
Do washable air filters improve air quality?
Yes, washable air filters can improve air quality by trapping particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. However, maintaining optimal performance is important, so clean and inspect your filter regularly to ensure it’s effectively filtering the air.
Are there different types of washable air filters available?
Yes, there are several types of washable air filters on the market. These include electrostatic filters, which use static electricity to capture particles, and mechanical filters made from materials like foam and metal mesh. Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting the best type for your home.
