While owning an air purifier will bring about huge improvements to your air quality, one drawback can put people off or begin to annoy some purifier owners over time. Namely, replacing the filters.
Not only is changing the filters an ongoing cost you will have to pay, but it can also be a pain to remove and dispose of the old, dusty filters. Not to mention remembering to order replacements in the first place.
If this sounds familiar, consider an air purifier with washable filters. These units utilize permanent filters that can be cleaned and reinstalled whenever required. Of course, this will sound appealing, as it gives the user more control when it comes to maintenance and you may even see cost savings in the long run.
However, it’s worth noting that here at HouseFresh, we believe opting for a traditional purifier with mechanical filters is still the best option, as they provide a more comprehensive level of protection without experiencing a drop in performance as time goes by.
We suggest two main types if your heart is set on a purifier with washable filters. The first uses HEPA-type filters, which you will similarly find on many common purifiers. When the time comes to clean these units, you simply vacuum between the pleats to remove the particle build-up. The other option utilizes more innovative filters you can remove and wash using a mild detergent and warm water, cleansing the unit of all residue.
To help you decide if this type of air purifier is the right option for you, we’ve curated five of the best units on the market today, highlighting their merits and limitations along the way.
The Top 3 Air Purifiers With Washable Filters
We made sure to include a range of options with varying filtration methods to give you a rounded picture of air purifiers with washable filters, with different options across budgets too. We also included one unit we suggest you steer clear of if you’re keen to see real results. So be sure to check out the complete list below.
1. Loytio A5B
Coming across the Loytio A5B, I was surprised to see how well it stacked up on paper. Unboxing this unit, you’ll find three layers of protection, including a pre-filter, activated carbon and even an H13 HEPA, all of which are tried and tested to capture microscopic particles effectively. These high-spec filters also marry up with an impressive Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 206 CFM, making it an excellent option for medium to large-sized spaces.
As well as quality filters and ample room coverage, the Loytio A5B also comes with some handy features that will make life easier, such as a 2-8 hour timer, sleep mode and, of course, washable filters. To clean the A5B’s filters, you simply have to remove any particle build-up using a vacuum and allow the carbon to deodorize in the sun. There’s even a convenient warning light that lets you know when the filters need to be cleaned.
So far, so good, right? Well, yes and no. There have long been arguments about whether you can clean HEPA filters at home, with wide-ranging opinions on either side. Smart Air, a trusted purifier manufacturer that knows a thing or two about filter efficiency, put this theory to the test and found that you’ll see little benefit after vacuuming your filter. This leads me to believe that you will have to replace these ‘washable’ filters in the long run, as you would a normal HEPA if you wish to continue reaping the rewards.
SPECS & FEATURES
| Purifier technology: | Honeycomb Activated Carbon Filter, Cold Catalyst Pre-Filter, H13 True HEPA Filter |
| CADR (CFM / m³/h): | 206 CFM / 350 m³/h |
| Recommended room size: | 431 ft² |
| Noise level (low – high): | As low as 25 dB |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 17H x 13.38W x 6.89D x inches / 43.1H x 34W x 17.5D cm |
| t (in pounds / in kg): | 13.4 lbs / 6 kg |
| Energy consumption: | $130.35 per year |
What We Really Like:
👍 Great to see mechanical filters in use
👍 Powerful fan motors allow this unit to work well in larger rooms
👍 Timer lets you use the purifier when you’re not at home
👍 Sleep mode provides excellent energy efficiency and much lower volumes
What We Think Could Be Better:
👎 Although this unit is quiet on its lowest speed, it makes a racket when in regular use
👎 The LED light doesn’t turn off when in Sleep mode
2. Hamilton Beach TrueAir
The Hamilton Beach TrueAir is a nifty air purifier that won’t break the bank. It costs less than $60 and comes with a HEPA-type filter that can capture as small as 0.3 microns of polluting particles. It can be cleaned in-between uses by simply vacuuming across the pleats to maintain optimum performance.
This unit isn’t the most powerful on our list. Still, it will offer an ideal solution for smaller rooms of up to 160 ft², thanks to its versatile design, allowing it to stand vertically or lay horizontally. While its small stature and lightweight design mean, it won’t take up valuable floor space and can be easily carried from room to room.
As with the Loyito purifier, vacuuming HEPA filters may not provide the permanent filter status they are sold with, as efficiency is bound to decrease over time. There’s also no pre-filter on this unit, so you may find yourself reaching for the vacuum cleaner reasonably often to maintain your primary HEPA-type filter and keep air circulating efficiently.
SPECS & FEATURES
| Purifier technology: | 99% HEPA-Grade Filter |
| CADR (CFM / m³/h): | 35 CFM / 59 m³/h |
| Recommended room size: | 160 ft² |
| Noise level (low – high): | 40 – 60 dB |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 13.54H x 6W x 8.5D inches / 34.4H x 15.24W x 21.6D cm |
| Weight (in pounds / in kg): | 6.3 lbs / 2.9 kg |
| Energy consumption: | $238.97 per year |
What We Really Like:
👍 Wallet-friendly price tag
👍 Versatile design
👍 Lightweight so easy to maneuver
👍 Modern aesthetic will suit many homes
What We Think Could Be Better:
👎 Doesn’t come with any additional filtration for larger particles nor VOCs or odors
👎 Uses a lot of energy on its highest fan speeds
3. Honeywell HFD320 Air Genius 5
Honeywell is a well-known and reputable brand that makes some superb air purifiers, such as the HPA 300. With such pedigree and air cleaning know-how, you can rest assured that you’ll be safe with their permanent filter purifier, the Air Genius 5. This purifier utilizes Honeywell’s patented ifD filtration technology, which can be removed and washed before re-installed, all while capturing 99.9% of airborne allergens.
This air purifier has a lot of aspects to love, with a sleek and modern design, a 2-12 hour timer and an energy star rating. It is also powerful enough to circulate the air 4.8 times an hour in a space of up to 250 ft² with an impressive CADR score of 161 CFM.
With new and innovative technology, however, there can always be question marks over its efficiency and application. It’s hard not to draw comparisons to some of Honeywell’s tried and tested mechanical filter purifiers, such as the HPA 300, which costs less than the Air Genius 5 while offering a lot more, with almost twice as high CADR score and double the room coverage.
SPECS & FEATURES
| Purifier technology: | Permanent ifD Filter, Odor Absorbing Pre-filter |
| CADR (CFM / m³/h): | 161 CFM / 274 m³/h |
| Recommended room size: | 250 ft² |
| Noise level (low – high): | 40 – 60 dB |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 28.9H x 11.5W x x 9.9D inch / 73.4H x 29.2W x 25.1D cm |
| Weight (in pounds / in kg): | 9.1 lbs / 4.1 kg |
| Energy consumption: | $70.82 per year |
What We Really Like:
👍 Permanent filter technology looks to be effective
👍 Super energy efficient, drawing just 32.6 watts at its highest speed
👍 Classy aesthetic with quality touch-screen controls
👍 Comes with a generous 5-year warranty
What We Think Could Be Better:
👎 Pre-filter needs to be replaced every three (3) months
👎 Not as powerful as older, more traditional, Honeywell models
4. XPOWER X-3380 Pro Clean Air Scrubber
As this unit’s name suggests this air scrubber is stacked with power, making it an excellent option for large, open-plan spaces or even commercial or office-type buildings as 1500 ft². Thanks to its huge motor and fans, this purifier can circulate more air than any other unit on this list, with a colossal CADR score of 600 CFM.
The XPOWER X-3380 also boasts four stages of filtration, with two nylon pre-filters that can capture 90% of all larger particles such as hair, dander and dust. While the two inner pleated filters then get to work on all other contaminants, such as allergens, mold and bacteria. Each level of the filter can then be removed, washed and reinstalled to keep on providing fresh, clean air.
Although this unit will provide undeniable results, you may question whether it suits the home environment. Primarily as it is such a large and powerful machine, you’ll expect high energy usage and loud operating volumes. Usually, you’ll find air scrubbers in more industrial settings or to help rectify major air contaminants, such as a mold infestation that occurs from flood damage, so it may not be the most user-friendly option for everyday use.
SPECS & FEATURES
| Purifier technology: | 4-stage filtration with two Nylon Pre-Filters and two Inner Pleated Filters |
| CADR (CFM / m³/h): | 600 CFM |
| Recommended room size: | 1500 ft² |
| Noise level (low – high): | Unknown |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 21.6H x 19.6W x 12.3D inches / 54.9H x 49.8 x 31.24D cm |
| Weight (in pounds / in kg): | 30.5 lbs / 13.8 kg |
| Energy consumption: | $571.36per year |
What We Really Like:
👍 Powerful performance with a sky-high CADR score
👍 Great option for larger rooms
👍 Four levels of filtration, each of which can be washed and reused
👍 Filter warning light lets you know when its time to clean
What We Think Could Be Better:
👎 Energy-intensive, costing a considerable amount to run
👎 Doesn’t come with castor wheels, making it harder to move around the home
5. Airdog X5
Our last recommendation is the Airdog X5. This air purifier has embraced technological advancements to differentiate itself from the competition. In particular, with their permanent TPA filters, which are fully washable and reusable, they utilize electrostatic filtration to eliminate pollutants as small as 0.0146µm in size.
Beyond filters, the X5 can be considered a machine to be reckoned with, thanks to its powerful motors that allow for two complete air changes an hour in a room as large as 900 square feet, which is backed up by a CADR score of 220 CFM.
You’ll also find this air purifier to be highly user-friendly, with an Auto mode, which monitors the air quality in your space and adjusts the purifier’s four fan speeds to combat pollutants. A handy sleep mode also kills the lights and runs at a meager 22 dB so that you can get a great night’s rest.
All in all, it’s hard to find fault in the X5. While older air purifiers that utilized Ionizer or Electrostatic technology were found to emit harmful Ozone, Airdog has rigorously tested the unit and it fully complies with the EPA’s strict regulations. The only downfall is that you might notice a slight drop in CADR or room coverage when comparing this unit to others in its price range. However, it still makes for a great air purifier that enjoys the benefits of permanent filters.
SPECS & FEATURES
| Purifier technology: | TPA technology: Active Filtration |
| CADR (CFM / m³/h): | 220 CFM / 374 m³/h |
| Recommended room size: | 900 ft² |
| Noise level (low – high): | 22 – 57 dB |
| Dimensions (in inches / in cm): | 25.6H x 12.4W x 12D inches / 65H x 31.5W x 30.5D cm |
| Weight (in pounds / in kg): | 23.6 lbs / 10.7 kg |
| Energy consumption: | $119.49 per year |
What We Really Like:
👍 Advanced filters eliminate a greater range of particle sizes
👍 Easy to wash and reinstall filters
👍 Comes with a handy air quality indicator
👍 Runs whisper quiet at its lowest speeds
What We Think Could Be Better:
👎 On the expensive side
👎 Quite large so will need adequate space
The Air Purifier We Don’t Recommend
1. KODAK Infinio AP550
On the surface, there is plenty to catch the eye when reading through the KODAK Infinio AP550’s specification list. With a high CADR score, smartphone app compatibility and that all-important washable filter that can even be placed in the dishwasher. However, when digging a little deeper, we soon discovered that Kodak’s first foray into air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
We found that the unit operates using less than usual filters. We are familiar with the electrostatic filtration used in other devices; however, Kodak’s approach of using several trays to collect particles before neutralizing them doesn’t quite measure up, with little scientific evidence to reassure us about their technology.
When we investigated this further, we found many customer reviews stating they thought the filters were ineffective and even dangerous to handle when removing the filter from the unit to clean. Other users have also questioned the purifier’s features and functions that are designed to make its use simpler. With app reliability, the unit’s power and customer support are all under fire.
| Why We Suggest You Avoid This Unit: 👎 No activated carbon filter to tackle VOCs or odors 👎 Runs loud with its lowest fan speed still clocking up 39 dB 👎 Potentially dangerous filter removal with harmful wires and components exposed 👎 Overpriced for performance level |
3 Common Questions About Air Purifiers with Washable Filters
🤔 How do I clean my filter?
How you clean your washable filter will depend on your purchased air purifier. The first thing to do is check the product manual and follow the instructions provided. Be sure to abide by these maintenance requirements, as this will keep your filters performing at their peak for longer and ensure you don’t void your warranty.
Generally speaking; however, there are usually two ways to clean your permanent filter.
First, remove it from your purifier to rinse and wash it with a mild detergent. Allowing it to dry completely before reinstalling the filter.
Alternatively, some purifiers will enable you to clean the filter using a vacuum cleaner, gently applying suction between the filter’s pleats to clear any debris.
🤔 How often should I wash my filter?
When we consider regular mechanical filters, these will need replacing on average every six months. This is because the filter has become saturated with polluting particles, limiting its ability to circulate air and capture particles effectively.
With a permanent filter, you have the power to clean and maintain your filter as often as required. Avoiding drops in airflow or reduced performance when your filter becomes clogged up. To do this, however, you should keep on top of a regular cleaning schedule, aiming to clean the filter every one or two months.
How often you use your purifier and the environment it is in will determine how often you need to clean the filter, so be sure to check regularly for any noticeable build-up.
🤔 What are the benefits of a permanent filter over a replaceable one?
Regular air purifier filters that are not permanent need to be replaced to perform at optimal levels. Many of them require replacement on average every six to 12 months. This can accumulate costs in no time and you may wind up spending more than you originally planned. Permanent filters also allow you to clean them as often as you like, keeping the unit’s operational efficiency at its peak.
That being said, purifiers with traditional filters are tried and tested to continue delivering results, which is a key consideration when purchasing a purifier. It’s also known that the recommended filter life advertised by the manufacturer is lower than what many people experience. So if you use your unit in an average indoor environment, a 6-month filter may last far longer. Simply knowing when to change your filters proves to be an excellent cost-saving exercise.
How We Picked Our Top Choices
We don’t recommend units without being 100% confident in our real-life performance testing process. That’s why we test all the models we recommend in the same room (sized 705 cubic ft) performing the same job (removing incense smoke).
This allows us to compare units side by side and create “best” lists like this one. The most important features we considered when making this selection were:
- Performance – Many air purifiers with washable filters lack peer-reviewed technology that will bring about real change to your air quality. That’s why we only selected units, such as the Loytio A5B, with quality design that will offer real results.
- Washability – Although it may seem obvious, we only wanted to highlight simple and safe filters to clean and reuse. With perhaps none simpler than the Hamilton Beach TrueAir.
- Power – Having an air purifier that lacks power will simply render it useless. By carefully considering all options’ Clean Air Delivery Rate, we were able to include a range of purifiers and scrubbers, such as the XPOWER X-3380 Pro Clean, that offer a real bang for their buck.
- User-Friendliness – No air purifier should require extensive know-how or hours to study the manual. That’s why we looked for units such as the Honeywell HFD320 Air Genius 5, which boasts intuitive controls and a range of features that will make cleaning your air easier.
SOURCES
Monthly energy consumption costs have been calculated using our air purifier electricity usage calculator, which allows us to calculate daily and yearly costs associated with running an air purifier for 24hs a day.
You can customize the result by air purifier wattage and by state. In the case of the calculations we shared on this page, we used California as our base state for energy prices.
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
