The homes we live in, our offices and other enclosed spaces may trap contaminated air due to mold, aging asbestos, cigarette smoke, cooking by-products, newly-installed carpets, upholstery, etc.
In fact, indoor air is five times more polluted than outdoor air, and since 90% of our time is spent indoors, continued exposure can lead to significant health issues – from allergies to asthma and more.
Learn how to test the air quality in your home and then make sure you get a reliable air purifier to ensure clean air day after day.
We recommend buying an air purifier with permanent washable filter — a one-time investment so you won’t continue to bleed out money on replacement filters.
The Benefits Of Reusable Filters
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- They capture and filter everything that disposable filters do — dust, pollen, allergens, mold spores, smoke from tobacco and cooking, pet dander, etc.
- You will never have to spend on replaceable filters.
- Maintenance is straight forward — dust off, rinse, and reuse and repeat as and when necessary.
- You can even buy different air purifiers for smoke, allergies, mold, and pet dander.
Quick Guide – Our Top Picks
Smart Air Cleaner
Honeywell HFD320
Comparison Between Air Filters
Washable Vs. Disposable Filters
Washable filters are meant to be cleaned with soap and water.
Simply pull them out, clean them, rinse them, and leave them out to dry. The drying process may take up to an hour, but once you are sure they are dry, insert them back in.
On the other hand, disposable filters have a life span of up to a year with reasonable use. Once they reach their end of life — replace them.
These filters have a high MERV rating up to 16 and are known to eliminate small particles such as smoke, pet, dander, allergens, etc. Washable filters have a MERV rating of one to four, and they can remove bigger particles such as soot and dust.
Washable Vs. Permanent Filters
Washable and permanent filters, require very little care to remain good as new for years on end.
But, the type of care required by both differs – washable filters need to be cleaned with soap and water – permanent filters need to be vacuumed.
Remember, never put a permanent filter underwater, it will get ruined, and you would have to buy a new one. Instead, just use a vacuum all the residual particles and dirt out of it.
Overall, permanent filters get cleaned within minutes wear as washable filters take a little longer to dry down. However, washable filters are much cleaner.
Air Purifiers With Washable Filters Compared
Choosing Air Purifiers with Permanent Washable Filters
Filtration System
An air purifier with washable filter can have different filter types; each comes with varying levels of strength and capabilities.
- HEPA or High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filter removes particles as minute as 0.3 microns such as dust, pollen, pet dander, etc., and remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles.
- Activated carbon filters remove allergens smaller than 0.3 microns. They are best to remove odors emitted and left behind by pets, fireplaces, cooking, paint fumes, or cigarettes.
- Pre-filters are meant to catch larger particulates to reduce pressure on HEPA and activated carbon filters.
Particle Removal Capacity
CADR or the Clean Air Delivery Rate is an essential indicator of good quality in tabletop air purifiers with washable filters.
It defines the amount of air that can be filtered by the device within an hour, and it’s essential to pick an air purifier with a CADR that’s appropriate for the square footage of your room.
| Pollutants | CADR Range |
|---|---|
| Pollen | 25 – 450 |
| Smoke | 10 – 450 |
| Dust | 10 – 100 |
Model Size Vs. Coverage Area
First, measure the given space and then buy an air purifier. Some are used to purify small rooms that are 80 square feet or less, whereas others can perform in bigger areas up to 500 square feet or more.
Simply put, don’t buy an air purifier with permanent filter that is too big or too little for its intended space.
Modes Of Operation
The intended purpose of an air purifier is to improve air quality, but for better results and convenient usage, some additional features can make a considerable difference.
Here are some other factors to consider when narrowing down to the best air purifier with washable filter for your needs:
- Programmable timer
- Dirt sensor
- Servicing indicator
- Auto-shutoff
- CADR — should be at least 350 or above
- Wheels and handles
- An ionizer — an electric current that can capture particulates from the air
- Remote control
Noise Level
Some air purifiers can be quite noisy when operational. Though it won’t matter in crowded areas, it raises a concern within homes and offices, where a continuous humming sound can be quite disturbing.
An air purifier that produces less than 30 to 40 decibels, even at the highest setting, is a worthy investment. If you’re not familiar with decibel ratings, this chart can give you an idea of what to expect.
Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs
A standard air purifier with washable HEPA filter requires 50 to 200 watts of energy. In contrast, a heater or ozone generator needs 1,500 watts of power. So it’s a safe assumption that your device won’t break the bank when it comes to the power bill.
Hopefully, the one you buy will also have a timer, auto-shutoff, dust sensor, and other similar capabilities that lead to energy savings. Top that off with washable filters, and you are looking at savings of up to $200 with the right air purifier.
Also, consider buying a device with an Energy Star Rating, as units with this certification are 60% more efficient than standard options.
Build Quality & Aesthetics
Since you are putting in your hard-earned money to buy a device that ensures clean air for the family or your coworkers, make sure that you invest in an air purifier with a permanent filter built from quality materials.
Also, consider the warranty period available with the unit – better coverage usually indicated higher quality.
Moreover, the selected air purifier should seamlessly fit any environment. However, this won’t make a difference in its operations, but it will raise the room’s aesthetic appeal.
Price Vs. Usage
You can pick the most expensive unit on the market or buy the best affordable air purifiers with a washable filter – the choice is all yours.
But the main goal is to choose a device based on its features and dependability. So, for example, if you have a 200 square feet room, don’t buy a large unit that is good for 400 to 500 square feet of space.
Not only will it cost more, but it won’t be of much help.
6 Best Air Purifiers with Washable Filters Reviewed
Read our list below of the top air purifiers that come with washable filter options. Alternatively, watch our Youtube video to learn more.
1. Winix 5500-2
Our Top Pick
| Coverage Area | Up to 360 Sq. Ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | AOC carbon filter |
| Filtration Stages | 4 |
| Noise Level | 27.8 dB |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99.7 % |
After thorough research, we conclude that the Winix 5500-2 is the best air purifier with a washable filter you can buy!
It can impressively remove all kinds of contaminants and impurities from the air, including pet dander, germs, smoke, odors, and a lot more. It features state-of-the-art plasma technology, a 99.97% true HEPA filter, and a carbon filter, so you can be sure that you and your loved ones are breathing the cleanest air possible.
It can easily clean up an area up to 360 square feet and remove any odors with a 4-stage filter/purification cycle. However, for longevity and exceptional results, the carbon filter on the Winix 5500-2 needs to be washed and cleaned every three months, and the permanent pre-filter needs to be vacuumed every two weeks.
For convenience, a filter replacement indicator can alert users when the filters on this air purifier with washable filter reach their end of life — the company recommends replacement after each year.
Furthermore, there are smart sensors that can detect odor, VOCs, and lighting levels, self-adjusting the fan speed, and LED brightness accordingly.
Also, the Winix 5500-2 produces very little noise of up to 27.8 decibels only and also features a sleep mode.
Above all, you can amend the settings right from your couch with remote control.
Pros
- 360 sq. Ft. coverage
- Plasma Technology
- Starts and stops on its own accord thanks to the smart sensors
- Sleep mode
- Filter replacement indicator
Cons
- Bulky
- Short warranty period
2. Blueair Blue Pure 211+
Best for Medium Sized Rooms
| Coverage Area | Up to 540 sq. Ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | 2 pre-filters |
| Filtration Stages | 3 |
| Noise Level | Low – 31 dB High – 56 dB |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99 % |
If you need to purify a small apartment or medium-sized room at best, look no further than the impressive Blueair Blue Pure 211+, which is the best air purifier with washable filter for medium-sized rooms. The device is capable of cleaning up to 540 square feet, and does a bang-up job of cleaning your space from pollen and can remove up to 99% of other allergens such as smoke, smog, dust, pet dander, and much more!
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ breaks down larger particles and puts them through the filters within to purify air thoroughly – carbon filter removes bad smells and VOCs while particle filter eliminates them minuscule pollutants.
It only takes a press of a button to activate the powerful performance of this air purifier. The CADR rating for pollen, dust, and smoke is 350 CFM, which is beyond impressive, and this unit hardly makes any noise at all.
If you haven’t had the best of experiences when it comes to using an air purifier with a permanent washable filter, this unit is what you need. It will run smoothly in the background and impeccably clean your place from all odors, pollutants, allergens, and other particulates.
Pros
- Conserves energy
- Air quality is improved at the soonest
- Noise-free operation
- Up to 540 sq. Ft. cleanup
- 350 CFM
Cons
- Regular cleanup required
- Short warranty period
3. Honeywell HFD-120-Q QuietClean
Best Quiet Air Purifier with Washable Filter
| Coverage Area | Up to 170 sq. Ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | Permanent pre-filter |
| Filtration Stages | 3 |
| Noise Level | 51.5 dB (max) |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99 % |
If you want an air purifier with washable filter that makes little to no noise, and is perfect for personal spaces like your apartment or workspace, the Honeywell HFD-120-Q QuietClean might be just what you need. We believe this is the best quiet air purifier with a washable filter you can buy.
All included filters are washable and permanent — so no need to bleed extra money on filter replacements. It features iFD technology and an ionizer that works together to remove up to 99% of all pollutants such as pet dander, dust, pollen, cigarette smoke, etc. The iFD technology functions in the same manner as a HEPA filter, so the purification process is quite thorough.
Rinse and dry the filter every month— and if you forget to, a filter check light will illuminate to remind you to do it. Also, vacuum the filters as often as possible, so that they stay clean for longer without rinsing them.
The Honeywell HFD-120-Q QuietClean is designed to efficiently clean a room that measures up to 170 square feet. It also has a low CADR rating — Dust: 100, Smoke: 100, and Pollen: 132.
However, what makes this a worthy investment is that it requires very little upkeep, and is backed by a generous 5-year warranty.
Pros
- iFD filter
- 5-year warranty
- All filters are washable and permanent
- Noise-free operation
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Low CADR ratings
- No timer
- No carbon filter
4. Blueair Blue Pure 411
Best Affordable Air Purifier with Washable Filter
| Coverage Area | 100 to 175 sq. Ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | Pre-filter |
| Filtration Stages | 3 |
| Noise Level | Low – 17 dB High – 46 dB |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99% |
If you want to clean up the air without breaking the bank, the Blueair Blue Pure 411 will be right up your alley. This is primarily a good buy for students looking to purify their dorm rooms or anyone with budget constraints and a small space. Therefore it is ranked in our review as the best affordable air purifier with washable filter.
The main pre-filter on the housing comes in grey or blue, but BluePure offers fifteen more colors on their website, so the compact device can seamlessly match any environment. Cleaning it is also child’s play, just pull it apart and throw it in the washing machine.
The Blueair Blue Pure 411 can purify a space measuring 100 to 175 square feet, and it’s lightweight and small footprint makes it quite easy to carry around. It is also one of the best tabletop air purifiers with a washable filter.
The purification mechanism is quite simple — the built-in four fans suck in air, driving it through the pre-filter where large particles get broken, and then it is sent to the carbon and HEPA filter. Once purified, the filtered air is then dispersed in the room through the top outlets.
The carbon filter on this device needs to be replaced every six months, and a LED light turns red to alert you when replacement is imminent.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Little to no noise
- Straightforward user manual
- Carbon + HEPA filter
Cons
- LED lights are very bright, so light up the room during the night
5. Honeywell HFD-010
Best Tabletop Air Purifier with Washable Filter
| Coverage Area | Up to 62 sq. Ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | Pre-filter & iFD filter |
| Filtration Stages | 2 |
| Noise Level | Low – 35 dB High – 55 dB |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99 % |
If you want a small, yet sturdy air purifier that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg and can easily be placed on a counter or anywhere in a room, look no further than the Honeywell HFD-010. This is undoubtedly the best tabletop air purifier with washable filter. It’s good with spaces that measure up to 62 square feet, requires very little power, and is just a foot tall and no wider than a soccer ball.
Operating this unit is quite simple — you get a dial with three fan speeds, just twist the knob to any speed, and the purifying begins.
To release the filters for cleaning, press the button above the wheel and then pull the filter out by holding it from the now-exposed grooves and releasing the latches.
Cleaning the filters on the Honeywell HFD-010 is also convenient — you can vacuum the pre-filter mesh, and if intensive cleaning is required, put it under clean water. To clean the iFD filter, use warm soapy water, rinse it with cold water, wipe it with a soft cloth, and then let it dry.
Pros
- Washable iFD filter
- Easy operation
- Fits on tabletops
- Five years limited warranty
Cons
- A bit noisy for its size at high settings
6. Honeywell HFD320
Best Air Cleaner Model
| Coverage Area | 250 sq. ft. |
| Washable Filtration Type | Pre-filter |
| Filtration Stages | 2 |
| Noise Level | – |
| Particle Removal Rate | 99.9 % |
Last but not least, we’ve got the Honeywell HFD320 AKA the Honeywell AirGenius 5 in our best air purifier with washable filter reviews.
This device will come in handy for a room-sized up to 250 square feet. Thanks to its tower design, you can place it anywhere within the room, and clean air will be evenly supplied end-to-end.
Plus, it has a CADR of 161, and the 250 square feet claim is backed with an AHAM certification – overall the air gets cleaned five times within an hour, so if you’ve got a habitual smoker in the room, this unit will help keep the air clean and breathable for everyone else.
The Honeywell HFD320 features a programmable timer that can be set at two to twelve-hour intervals. There are also five-speed settings on the provided fan — adjust it depending on how intense the cleanup is required. However, it makes much noise on high-settings, which can get annoying on extended use.
You also get an extra odor filter along with two primary filters — plastic honeycomb (iFD) and a foam pre-filter similar to a carbon filter.
To clean the filters — vacuum the carbon-like filter and use soapy water to clean the honeycomb. Submerge it into a bucket filled with the solution, and then wipe it clean with a soft cloth.
Remember, do not put it back until it is fully dry; otherwise, there is a high chance that mold will grow within the unit.
Pros
- Energy Star rating
- Germ and Allergen Reduction Setting
- Oscillation
- Touch screen controls
- Five years warranty
Cons
- Noisy at high settings
Tips in Cleaning Washable Air Purifiers
- Remove the power cord from the socket, and then pull out the filters.
- Check the type of filters you have – whether you need to wash – or vacuum.
- If it’s a washable filter
Use warm soapy water to clean it and then use a cloth to wipe it off. Let the filter breathe for a while until it is completely dry, then insert it back in. Never insert a wet filter, it won’t function efficiently, plus it may lead to mold spores. - If it’s a permanent filter
Use a vacuum to dispense the particulates. Your best bet would be to use the brush attachment that comes with the vacuum – tough particles will be lessened – and then hauled away by the vacuum. - Thoroughly wipe down the air purifier — air vents, outlets, grills, etc.
Here is a detailed video on how to clean washable filters.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
How long should I run Air Purifiers with Washable Filters?
It depends on the model, the offered coverage area, and CADR, etc.
Ask your vendor for this information or refer to the handbook that comes with your air purifier and remember to clean the filters after each month.
When should I replace the Washable Filter on my Air Purifier?
If it’s an air purifier with a washable HEPA filter you may need to replace it after 12 to 18 months, and in the case of other permanent filters, use them until you can – it’ll be easy to tell when the permanent filters are at the end of their lives by the state they are in.
How often do I need to clean the filters for my Air Purifier?
Cleaning filters every thirty days will ensure that they work towards their full potential.
Can I change the washable filters with disposable ones?
Again, it depends on the make and model of your air purifier with a permanent washable filter, but in most cases, you will have a choice.
How do I know which size Air Purifier to get?
Measure the area that needs to be purified, and buy an air purifier that packs enough power to clean the space, as noted on the product description.
Will buying Air Purifiers with washable filters save me money?
Filters can cost $20 to $200 a year, but with the best air purifier with a washable filter, you don’t have to spend on filter replacements.
Conclusion
Did you know that around 1.6 million people die per annum because of bad indoor air quality?
Shocking, right?
Well, ensure healthier living for yourself and your family, friends, and colleagues by investing in an air purifier with washable filter — it does a bang-up job of cleaning up the indoor air without requiring replacement filters.
If you need recommendations, for a worthy air purifier with a permanent washable filter, we suggest the Winix 5500-2 as the absolute best air purifier with washable filter.
