Get a jumpstart on spring cleaning: 6 essential filters around your house and how to clean them

No need to wait for warmer weather to kickstart your spring cleaning! Here are six filters inside your home that need some seasonal TLC. Whether you’ve cleaned these filters before or didn’t even know they were there, this guide will walk you through the basics of how to find and clean the essential filters in your home.

Dishwasher filter

Noticing a strange odor from your dishwasher? The filter could be the culprit! Dishwasher filters should be cleaned at least quarterly to remove any stinky food debris. To access the filter, first remove the bottom rack of your dishwasher. Most dishwasher filters are cylindrical and located on the dishwasher floor. Simply twist and remove! The filter can be cleaned in the sink with a bit of dish soap and hot water. A toothbrush is an excellent small scrubber for stubborn grime. Once the filter is clean and dry, you can reinstall it. With a fresh filter in place, this is a great time to run a vinegar cleanse on your dishwasher! Fill a bowl with two cups of white vinegar and place on the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Run a cycle on the “hot” or “sanitize” setting, and your dishwasher will be fresh and sparkling in no time.

Washing machine filter

Before accessing the washing machine filter, it is recommended to unplug the machine. Once unplugged, locate the access panel, which is typically at the bottom of the machine on the front. Before removing the filter, be ready with a large towel or baking pan to catch any draining water! Twist the filter to remove it, and wash it similarly to the dishwasher filter with mild soap, hot water, and a toothbrush.

Faucet aerator

Faucet aerators filter out debris and improve water efficiency. Some facets allow you to screw off the aerator while others are a fixed part of the faucet. If the aerator can be removed, place it in a bowl or bag filled with vinegar. If the aerator cannot be removed, fill a small plastic bag with vinegar and secure it over the faucet opening with a rubber band. Leave the aerator exposed to the vinegar for at least 30 minutes (or overnight!). After cleaning, run hot water through the sink to clear out any remaining particles and to rinse off the vinegar.

HVAC filter

This one is easy, but is worth the reminder! The dry air and heat of winter can lead to an increase in dust particles in your home. Purchase a new HVAC filter and throw away the old one. Be sure to install it facing the correct direction (look for arrows on the filter indicating the direction of the air flow). Lower MERV rating filters (MERV 8) are cheaper and reduce strain on an old system, while higher MERV ratings (MERV 13) can provide superior filtration if your system can handle the higher air resistance. Lower MERV filters with a more frequent filter replacement is often the sweet spot for high air quality without putting undue strain on your HVAC system.

Vacuum filter

We all feel a little silly when we have to clean the machine that cleans, but it is essential nonetheless! Vacuum filters vary widely; some are washable and others are disposable. HEPA filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced. Canister vacuums often have a foam filter, which can be washed in the sink with only water (no soap!). Bag vacuums can have reusable or disposable bags, so check on your particular model. While you’re disassembling to remove the filter, use a small utility knife to cut off stubborn hairs that may be obstructing the rotors.

Range hood filter

Range hood filters are found above your stove and may slide out or be latched in place. Fill your sink or a large glass baking dish with boiling water, a tablespoon of dishwashing soap, and a hefty sprinkle of baking soda. Leave the range filter to soak for 10-15 minutes, but be sure to remove it before the water cools and the grease resettles onto the filter. For stubborn particles, gently scrub with a sponge or toothbrush. Once clean, rinse it well with hot water, let it dry, and return the filter to the range hood.