Foam: This type of filter is usually open-celled and made from a variety of synthetic materials. Because of its open structure, it has an extremely low capture efficiency at small particle sizes. For this reason, it is most commonly used to protect the motor from rocks and other damaging debris.

Paper: Paper filters are often used in disposable vacuum cleaner bags. The ability of this media to stop microscopic particles is poor. In order to improve its filtration efficiency, it is often combined with other higher filtration efficiency layers in a sandwich construction. Water easily damages paper filters, so they must be used for dry pick up only. Because paper media filters dust by trapping it within the structure, this dust cannot be removed during cleaning. Paper media will clog over time.

Water: Water is used in several high-end vacuums as the primary filter. Water traps about 80% of dirt and dust. However, the fine particles tend to be trapped in air bubbles created by the dirt being blown into the water bath. These particles then escape through the exhaust into the air.

Microfiberglass: Microfiberglass comes in many different varieties, some of which are rated HEPA. The media consists of very small fiberglass fibers that are held together with a binding agent. Because the strength and durablility is low, microfiberglass is mainly used as a post filter to capture the dust that bypasses the primary filter. They are very good a stopping fine particles, but like paper media, will clog over time.

Spunbond or Non-Woven: Non-woven textiles are inexpensive alternatives to traditional woven fabrics. They feature various polymers randomly arranged and fused together to form a continuous web. Most common are polyester and polyethylene. They are strong and durable but are not very good at stopping fine particles.

CleanStream™ Media: From the makers of the waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® fabric comes a specially processed polymer. Featuring a unique and tightly controlled array of pore sizes. CleanStream media allows air to pass through while stopping microscopic particles at its slippery surface. It makes an ideal filter media due to its cleanability, durability and filtration efficiency.

Electrostatic Media: This type of filter is commonly found in low dust load situations, such as furnace filters or post filters in vacuum cleaners. They typically use combinations of synthetic fibers that hold an electric charge. The electric charge causes oppositely charged dust particles to stick. They initially have good filtration efficiency, but this drops over time as the fibers get coated with dust preventing new particles from sticking to the surface.

Where can I find my Filter?