How to Clean Your Air Purifier
To clean your air purifier, turn it off, unplug it, wipe the exterior, clean the air inlet and outlet, wash or vacuum the pre-filter if your model includes one, and replace the HEPA filter when the filter reminder indicates it is time.
A clean air purifier can move air more easily and help maintain everyday filtration performance. Regular maintenance is especially useful in homes with dust, pollen, pet hair, smoke particles, or daily household odors.
Before You Start
Always switch the air purifier off and unplug it before cleaning. Do not spray water, cleaning solution, or fragrance directly into the machine. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, and abrasive tools.
Every air purifier model is different, so check your user guide before washing any filter. In most air purifiers, the pre-filter may be washable or vacuum-cleanable, while the HEPA filter and activated carbon layer are usually replacement parts rather than washable parts.
What You Need
- A soft dry cloth
- A slightly damp cloth for the exterior
- A vacuum with a brush attachment
- Clean water for washable pre-filters
- A fully dry replacement or cleaned pre-filter before reinstalling
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Air Purifier
Before cleaning, turn the unit off and remove the plug from the outlet. This keeps the appliance safe while you clean the exterior, air inlet, air outlet, and filter area.
Step 2: Wipe the Exterior
Use a soft dry cloth to remove dust from the outside of the air purifier. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth for fingerprints or surface marks, then dry the surface before using the purifier again.
Step 3: Clean the Air Inlet and Outlet
Dust and hair can collect around the air inlet and outlet over time. Use a dry cloth or a vacuum brush attachment to gently remove buildup from the grille area. Do not push dust deeper into the unit.
Step 4: Clean the Washable Pre-Filter
If your air purifier includes a washable pre-filter, remove it according to the user guide. The pre-filter helps capture larger particles such as dust, lint, and pet hair before they reach the main filter.
- Vacuum loose dust and hair from the pre-filter.
- If the pre-filter is washable, rinse it gently with clean water.
- Do not scrub aggressively or use detergent unless your manual allows it.
- Let the pre-filter dry completely before reinstalling it.
Never reinstall a damp filter. Moisture inside an air purifier can lead to unwanted odors or damage.
Step 5: Check the HEPA Filter
The HEPA filter is designed to capture fine airborne particles. In most air purifiers, the HEPA filter should not be washed, soaked, or cleaned with compressed air. Washing a HEPA filter can damage the filter structure and reduce performance.
If the HEPA filter looks heavily loaded with dust, airflow feels weaker, or the filter replacement indicator turns on, replace the filter with a compatible replacement filter for your model.
Step 6: Reinstall the Filter Correctly
After cleaning the pre-filter or replacing the main filter, place every part back in the correct direction. Make sure the filter sits securely and the inlet grille is fully closed before plugging the purifier back in.
Step 7: Reset the Filter Reminder If Needed
Some air purifiers include a filter replacement indicator. After replacing the filter, follow your model’s reset instructions. For TER Air models, use the Filter/Reset button according to the product guide for your specific unit.
How Often Should You Clean an Air Purifier?
| Part | Suggested care |
| Exterior surface | Wipe as needed when dust appears |
| Air inlet and outlet | Check every 2-4 weeks, especially in dusty or pet-friendly homes |
| Washable pre-filter | Clean regularly if your model includes one |
| HEPA filter | Replace when the filter reminder indicates it is time or according to the user guide |
| Activated carbon layer | Replace with the main filter when required; do not wash unless the manual says it is washable |
Extra Tips for Pet Homes
Homes with dogs or cats may need more frequent pre-filter cleaning because pet hair and dander can build up quickly. If your air purifier is used near pet beds, litter boxes, or high-traffic rooms, check the inlet grille and pre-filter more often.
What Not to Do
- Do not wash a HEPA filter unless the user guide clearly says it is washable.
- Do not use bleach, alcohol, or harsh cleaners inside the purifier.
- Do not reinstall a wet filter.
- Do not run the purifier without the correct filter installed.
- Do not block the air inlet or outlet after cleaning.
TER Air Filter Care
TER Air purifiers are designed for everyday home air care, including bedrooms, living rooms, pet homes, and daily household spaces. To keep your purifier ready for regular use, clean washable pre-filters when needed and replace the main filter with the correct TER replacement filter for your model.
Need a replacement filter? Shop compatible filters for your TER Air purifier:
FAQ
Can I wash my air purifier HEPA filter?
Usually, no. Most HEPA filters are not designed to be washed. Wash only the parts your user guide identifies as washable, such as a washable pre-filter.
Can I vacuum my air purifier filter?
You can gently vacuum a washable or removable pre-filter if your model allows it. Avoid vacuuming or brushing the HEPA filter aggressively, because this may damage the filter material.
Why does my air purifier smell after cleaning?
A smell can happen if a filter was reinstalled while damp, if dust remains inside the unit, or if the filter needs replacement. Turn the purifier off, unplug it, and check that all cleaned parts are completely dry.
How do I know when to replace the filter?
Replace the filter when the filter reminder turns on, when airflow feels reduced, or when the filter looks heavily loaded with dust. Replacement timing can vary based on room conditions, pets, smoke, and daily use.
Can I run an air purifier without a filter?
No. Do not run an air purifier without the correct filter installed. The filter is part of the system that captures particles and helps protect the inside of the unit.