How to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner sounds simple, right? But if you’ve ever owned one, you know it’s not always as straightforward as it seems.
I remember the first time my Shark vacuum started losing suction. I assumed it was broken, but turns out, I just hadn’t touched the filter in months. That little part makes a big difference.
Shark best vacuum cleaner brands vacuums do a great job keeping your home clean, especially if you’ve got pets or allergies. But here’s the thing—if the filter is clogged or hasn’t been cleaned in a while, your vacuum ends up working twice as hard and doing half the job.
And let’s be honest, most of us don’t even think about the filter until the vacuum starts acting up.
Changing or cleaning the filter isn’t hard at all, but every Shark model is a little different. Some have washable filters, some don’t.
Some filters are tucked under the dust cup, others are behind a little panel you might not even notice. Once you figure out how your vacuum is built, swapping out the filter becomes quick and easy—and honestly, it feels good to know you’re taking care of your stuff the right way.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned, step by step. No tech jargon. Just clear, simple tips that actually help. So if your Shark vacuum has lost its kick, let’s get into it and fix that filter.
When the Vacuum Starts Losing Suction, Don’t Blame the Machine Right Away
If you feel like your vacuum isn’t working like it used to—maybe it’s not picking up crumbs well, or the suction feels weak it might not be the vacuum’s fault at all. In most cases, it’s just the filter doing its job… until it’s too clogged to work anymore.
The filter is what traps all the fine dust and allergens, so they don’t fly back into your room. But after a few weeks or months of regular cleaning, that filter gets loaded with junk.
The airflow gets blocked, and your vacuum can’t pull in dirt properly. That’s when people start wondering how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner—usually when things stop working right.
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It’s Easy to Forget, But It Makes a Huge Difference
Let’s be real—when you’re done vacuuming, the last thing on your mind is checking the filter. Most of us just empty the dust cup and move on.
But that filter sits there, collecting all the stuff you can’t see: pollen, pet dander, fine dust. If you don’t clean or change it regularly, it builds up and slows everything down.
Ever notice a weird smell while vacuuming? Yeah, that’s probably the filter. I’ve been there.
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Replacing the Filter Saves Your Vacuum (and Money)
Running a vacuum with a clogged filter is like trying to breathe through a scarf—it struggles. That puts pressure on the electric motor, and over time, it can wear it out.
I had to replace a vacuum once because I didn’t pay attention to the filter, and believe me, it’s not something you want to repeat.
Once I figured out how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner, things got better. It started working like new again, and it didn’t sound like it was struggling anymore.
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Take 5 Minutes, Avoid Bigger Problems
It really doesn’t take long. Once you know where your filter is and how often it needs changing, it becomes part of your routine.
A few minutes every month or two, and your vacuum stays powerful, your house stays clean, and you don’t end up buying a new one sooner than you should.
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What Kind of Filter Is in Your Shark Vacuum? (It’s Not Always Obvious)
I remember the first time I had to change the filter in my Shark vacuum—I honestly thought it’d be one standard type for all models.
But no. Depending on what Shark vacuum you’ve got, the filter setup can be completely different. I had to learn that the hard way after trying to order replacements that didn’t even fit.
Don’t Guess—Check Your Vacuum Model First
This might sound like a no-brainer, but trust me, many of us skip it. Your Shark vacuum probably has a small label somewhere on the bottom or the back with a model number. Write it down or snap a photo. That one step saves you time and money.
When I was trying to figure out how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner, I wasted hours watching the wrong tutorials—just because I assumed all Shark vacuums had the same filter layout. Lesson learned.
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Here’s What You Might Find Inside (And What They Do)
Let me break down the filters in plain language — not technical jargon.
Foam and Felt Filters
These are the most common, especially in upright vacuums like the Navigator or Rotator series. They usually sit right under the dust bin.
One’s squishy (the foam), and one’s more flat and soft (the felt). Together, they trap the usual stuff: dust, crumbs, hair, etc.
If your vacuum seems a little weak in suction or sounds like it’s working too hard, start here. These filters are washable, but after a few months, they start looking rough. That’s your cue to swap them out.
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HEPA Filters
If you’ve got pets or allergies, you probably picked a Shark model with a HEPA filter. These filters are serious—they trap the tiniest particles like pollen or dander.
But here’s the thing: most HEPA filters aren’t washable. So once they look discolored or start smelling funny, it’s time to change them.
HEPA filters are usually tucked behind a panel near the electric motor. It took me a few minutes to even figure out where mine was. Don’t force anything—look around gently and you’ll find it.
Pre-Motor vs. Post-Motor Filters
You don’t need to be a vacuum expert to understand this.
Pre-motor filters clean air before it hits the motor.
Post-motor filters (usually the HEPA ones) clean the air that blows back out into your room.
If you only clean one and ignore the other, you’re not getting the full benefit. Think of it like a two-step shield: both need to be in decent shape to keep your air clean and your vacuum strong.
Still Not Sure What You’ve Got? Do This
If you’re standing in your kitchen right now holding a vacuum and wondering, “What filter is even in this thing?” — you’re not alone. I’ve been there. Here’s what I suggest:
Look under the dust cup — most filters are hidden there.
Pop open any obvious panels and check inside.
If you’re stuck, just Google your vacuum model + “filter type” — or look it up in the manual (yeah, I know, no one likes reading them).
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll know how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner without needing to second guess yourself every time.
Bottom Line
Don’t just dive in blindly. Take a couple of minutes to understand what kind of filter your Shark uses. It’ll save you time, money, and the frustration of buying the wrong parts or damaging your machine.
How Often Should You Actually Change or Clean the Filters?
To be honest, when I first got my Shark vacuum, I didn’t even think about the filters. I figured I’d just use it and empty the bin when it filled up.
Simple, right? Turns out, the filters are a huge deal when it comes to how well the vacuum works — and when you ignore them, it shows.
Foam and Felt Filters – Keep Them in Check Monthly
Let me just say it straight: these filters collect a lot more dust and hair than you think. Mine gets gross surprisingly fast, especially with a dog in the house.
- From what I’ve learned over time:
- I rise the foam filter once a month. Just cold water. No fancy cleaner.
- The felt one I clean a little more gently. It doesn’t handle squeezing too well.
- After 3–4 months, both usually look tired — at that point, I just replace them.
It’s easy once you know how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner, but it’s even easier to forget if you’re not paying attention. I’ve done both.
HEPA Filters – Don’t Wash These, Just Replace When Needed
The HEPA filter is a different story. It’s not like the others. You can’t rinse it. Mine is tucked behind a panel in the back of the vacuum I had to dig into the manual the first time just to find it.
If it starts looking really dusty or dark grey, or if the vacuum smells off, I take that as a sign it’s time to swap it out. I usually do this every 10 to 12 months, but if the air in the house feels stale or dusty, I don’t wait.
Watch for the Signs — Don’t Rely on a Calendar
Honestly, forget the calendar for a second. You’ll know it’s time when:
- The vacuum doesn’t suck like it used to.
- You start sneezing more when you clean.
- The vacuum makes a louder, struggling sound.
This is exactly when I stop and go, “Alright, time to clean or change something.”
By now, I know how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner pretty well. It’s not complicated — it’s just about paying attention to your machine and noticing when it acts differently.
A Tip That’s Helped Me: Always Keep Backup Filters
Here’s something that made my life easier: I ordered a spare filter set and keep it in the cabinet. That way, if I’m cleaning and the old filter’s soaked and needs to dry, I don’t have to wait 24 hours. I just pop in the spare and keep going.
It’s a small thing, but it really helps — especially on busy days when I don’t want to deal with drying or delays.
To Sum It Up
Look, it’s not hard. You don’t need to set a timer or mark your calendar every month. Just check in on your vacuum now and then. Give the foam filter a rinse.
Swap the HEPA filter when it starts looking worn. Pay attention to the way your vacuum sounds and works. That’s it.
How I Clean My Shark Vacuum Filters Without Messing Things Up
When I first bought my Shark vacuum, I didn’t really think about the filters. I just used it and emptied the bin when it got full. That’s it.
But after a few months, the suction wasn’t the same. It was louder too. I figured something was wrong — turned out the filters were clogged and I hadn’t cleaned them even once.
And that’s when I really learned how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner — and more importantly, how to clean them without doing damage.
Which Filters You Can Clean — And Which Ones You Shouldn’t
Let me be real: not all filters in a Shark vacuum are made to be washed. The foam and felt filters? Yeah, you can rinse those. But the HEPA filter? That’s different and I found that out after nearly soaking mine by accident.
Foam filters: I rinse them gently with just cold water.
Felt filters: These are more delicate. I don’t scrub them, just lightly rinse.
HEPA filter: Most of the time, you don’t wash it. Just tap the dust out or replace it after a few months.
So if you’re learning how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner, don’t just pull everything out and throw it in the sink. Trust me — take a second to figure out which part is which.
Here’s How I Actually Clean Them — Step by Step
I’ve tried doing it a few different ways, but this is what works for me:
- Take your time pulling the filters out — they’re not fragile, but forcing them out can damage the edges.
- Rinse with cold water only — no soap, no fancy cleaners. Just water.
- Squeeze gently — don’t twist or wring the foam like a sponge, or it’ll lose its shape.
Let them air dry fully — not for a couple of hours, but a full 24 if possible. A damp filter inside your vacuum is a recipe for mold or a burnt-out motor.
Don’t Follow a Strict Calendar — Go By Feel
Some people say clean every month. Others say every 3 months. Honestly? I don’t follow a schedule. I go by how the vacuum feels. If the suction drops or it smells dusty, I check the filters.
And if I don’t want to wait for the filters to dry? I’ve got a second set. Swapping them in saves time — and keeps me from putting wet filters back in when I’m in a hurry.
Final Thoughts from Experience
Look, you don’t have to be an expert to do this. You just have to pay attention. Don’t wait until the vacuum sounds like it’s choking.
Clean the filters gently, let them dry properly, and keep extras on hand if you can. Simple stuff, but it makes a big difference.
Conclusion
To be honest, when I first got my Shark vacuum, I didn’t think much about the filters. I thought if it was running, it was fine.
But over time, I noticed a drop in power and a musty smell that just wouldn’t go away. That’s when it hit me it wasn’t just about emptying the bin, I had to give the filters some attention too.
It’s not complicated, really. Once you do it once or twice, it becomes second nature. Just like changing your car’s oil or cleaning out your coffee machine, it’s part of keeping your stuff working right.
And if you’re still hesitating, let me just say this: it takes less than ten minutes and can totally bring your vacuum back to life. No expensive repairs, no guessing — just a little regular maintenance.
Now that you’ve got the hang of it, you know exactly how to change a filter on a Shark vacuum cleaner the way it should be done.
FAQS
How often should I change the filter on my Shark vacuum cleaner?
That really depends on how much you use your vacuum. If you’re vacuuming almost every day, it’s smart to check the filters every month and replace or wash them every 3 to 6 months. For lighter use, once or twice a year might be enough.
Can I wash the Shark vacuum filter, or does it always need to be replaced?
Some Shark filters can be washed—especially the foam and felt ones. Just rinse them under cold water (no soap) and let them dry completely for at least 24 hours before putting them back. But if the filter looks damaged or smells bad even after washing, it’s time to replace it.
Where is the filter located on a Shark vacuum cleaner?
Usually, Shark vacuums have filters in two spots—under the dust cup and near the motor. Just remove the dust canister, and you’ll spot the foam and felt filters right underneath. Some models also have a HEPA filter near the back.
What happens if I don’t change the filter on time?
Over time, clogged filters slow down suction and make your vacuum work harder. That can overheat the motor, make your vacuum louder, and blow dust back into the air. Plus, it won’t pick up dirt as well.
Do all Shark vacuum models have the same filter type?
Not exactly. While most Shark models use similar foam and felt filters, some have HEPA filters too. It’s best to check your specific model number and look at the manual or the label near the filter area to know what kind you need.