Healthy Byte - Cleaning Your HEPA Filter

Healthy Child
Thursday, April 17, 2008

The HEPA filter in your vacuum traps fine particles that trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. To keep it that way, we suggest cleaning it once a month. Vacuum cleaners may vary, so please consult your owner's manual before disassembling.

To clean your filter:

1. Disassemble your vacuum and thoroughly wash all parts.
2. Dry your HEPA filter overnight to make sure it is completely dry before reassembling your vacuum.

Posted by Dr. Sandra Cottingham  on  06/13  at  12:24 AM

A closed system HEPA filter vacuum is critical for reducing lead exposure.  Other vacuums simply assist in the process of making lead particles airborne. Ironically that frequent vacuuming (with a bag system) puts a family more at risk for lead exposure - dusting with a dry cloth also contributes to airborne lead.

FYI, the amount of lead it takes to permanently brain damage an unborn child (lead goes from mother to fetus in pregnancy) is the equivalent to 3 granules of sugar. See how little that is the next time you sit down for tea.