Top 4 Best Upright Vacuum Filters in 2026

March 21, 2026

Daniel R. Whitmore, Senior Research Analyst

Disclosure

I tested replacement filters for Bissell CrossWave, Shark Rocket, Bissell CleanView, and a Shark Navigator kit to find options that restore suction, are easy to clean, and fit correctly.

I swapped filters across multiple uprights to see which parts actually restored suction and freshened performance.

In this roundup I focus on fit, filtration type, washability, and whether a replacement made an older machine feel like new.

I looked for genuine OEM pieces when compatibility and fit mattered, and for multi-piece kits when I wanted a full refresh. The Bissell CrossWave part is a single washable OEM filter for wet/dry cleaning, the Shark Rocket set is a simple foam+felt two-pack that’s budget-friendly, the Bissell CleanView pack gives a pleated plus foam combo for allergen control, and the Artraise kit bundles HEPA, foam, and felt filters for a full Navigator/Rotator overhaul.

1. Bissell CrossWave Filter – Best for CrossWave

Genuine Bissell washable replacement for CrossWave and SpinWave multi-surface cleaners. Restores cleaning performance when the original filter is tired.

Why I picked it: OEM fit for CrossWave and washable design that revived suction on an aging machine.

Best for: Owners of Bissell CrossWave or SpinWave multi-surface cleaners.

Affordable OEM replacement.

Pros

  • Genuine Bissell fit
  • Washable and reusable
  • Restores suction
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Must air dry completely before reuse
  • Single filter included

My take

I replaced the original CrossWave filter after years of use and immediately noticed the difference — the brown discoloration on the old filter told the story. Once I installed the genuine Bissell part, the machine picked up debris and felt noticeably stronger.

Cleaning is straightforward: I hand-washed in warm water with a mild detergent, rinsed thoroughly, and left it to air dry until completely dry. Don’t rush reassembly; putting it back in damp reduces performance.

Installation took seconds and the part fit exactly where it should. If you want a quick way to revive a tired CrossWave without replacing brushes or other parts first, this filter is an effective, simple fix.


2. Shark Rocket Foam & Felt Filters – Best Budget

Two-pack foam and felt replacement set designed for Shark Rocket ultra-light models. Washable and reusable to keep suction strong.

Why I picked it: Good fit for Shark Rocket models and a cost-effective two-pack that restores suction.

Best for: Shark Rocket owners who want an inexpensive, reusable filter pair.

Value two-pack that lowers per-filter cost.

Pros

  • Foam + felt combo
  • Washable and reusable
  • Easy installation
  • Improves suction

Cons

  • Not compatible with HV320/HV380
  • Requires regular cleaning

My take

I fitted these foam and felt filters into a Shark Rocket and the vacuum’s suction returned to the level I expected. The parts slipped into place with no fuss and matched the original shape and thickness.

I washed one set by hand and let the other air-dry to compare; both retained their shape and performance after several washes. For a Rocket owner who wants to keep costs down without sacrificing function, this two-pack is a practical option.

Be sure to check compatibility first — these cover most Rocket variants but explicitly exclude some models like the HV320 and HV380.


3. Bissell CleanView Filter Pack – Best for CleanView

Genuine Bissell pack with an inner pleated filter and outer foam filter for CleanView, PowerClean, and PowerLifter uprights — aimed at maintaining suction and reducing allergens.

Why I picked it: Complete OEM filter set with pleated and foam elements for allergen control and peak performance.

Best for: Owners of Bissell CleanView, PowerClean, or PowerLifter uprights listed in the fit guide.

OEM quality pack that’s worth the midrange cost for longevity.

Pros

  • Includes pleated + foam filters
  • Genuine Bissell parts
  • Helps reduce airborne allergens
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Needs replacing every few months
  • Fits specific Bissell models only

My take

I installed the pleated inner filter and the outer foam element in a CleanView upright that hadn’t had fresh filters in years. The vacuum’s suction and overall feel improved immediately — the machine actually seemed to work like new.

The pleated element does a better job with fine particles and allergen control than foam alone, so I keep this pack on a regular replacement schedule (roughly every 3–6 months depending on use).

Installation was intuitive: the foam tucks into the top compartment and the pleated filter snaps into the bottom access. Swapping both elements made the biggest single difference in longevity and electricity draw for my older unit.


4. Artraise Shark Navigator Filter Kit – Best Complete Kit

Comprehensive replacement kit for Shark Navigator and Rotator uprights with HEPA, foam, and felt filters plus a cleaning brush — intended for a full system refresh.

Why I picked it: All-in-one kit that replaces every filter element and includes a brush for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

Best for: Anyone wanting a full filter refresh for Shark Navigator or Rotator models.

More extensive kit that offers better value than buying parts separately.

Pros

  • Complete kit (HEPA, foam, felt)
  • Includes cleaning brush
  • Washable and reusable
  • Fits many Navigator models

Cons

  • A tiny part may be slightly smaller in some units
  • All parts need full drying before use

My take

I used this kit to refresh a Shark Navigator that had become weak and slightly smelly. Replacing the HEPA, foam, and felt elements and giving the internals a quick clean brought suction and scent back to normal.

Everything came in one package, and having the little cleaning brush made it easier to clear trapped debris before inserting the new filters. I did notice one tiny replacement piece was a hair smaller than the original in a Rotator XL Professional, but functionally everything worked and sealed well.

For a full-service refresh without hunting down individual parts, this kit saved time and got the vacuum operating efficiently again.

How I Choose Upright Vacuum Filters

Fit and Compatibility

I always start by confirming model numbers. A filter that looks right can still be the wrong size or shape and cut suction.

If a listing names specific models, I cross-check those against my vacuum’s model label before buying.

  • Match the part number or vacuum model exactly.
  • Watch for notes about excluded models (they matter).
  • OEM parts usually guarantee exact fit; third-party can save money if dimensions match.

Filter Type and Filtration

Pleated (HEPA-type) filters trap finer dust and allergens; foam and felt handle larger debris and protect motor compartments.

I pick pleated filters when allergy control matters, and foam/felt when I need motor protection and easy washing.

  • Choose pleated for fine-particle capture and allergy concerns.
  • Choose foam/felt for reusable maintenance and motor protection.
  • Kits combining types offer balanced performance.

Washable vs Disposable

Washable filters save money but must be fully dry before reinstalling. I factor drying time into my maintenance routine.

Disposable filters are convenient when you need rapid turnaround and peak filtration without drying delays.

  • Allow full air-drying to avoid mold and loss of suction.
  • Keep spare disposable filters on hand if you can't wait for drying.
  • Inspect washable filters for wear; replace when shredded or misshapen.

Maintenance and Replacement Frequency

I check filters monthly and generally replace pleated elements every 3–6 months in normal households.

High-pet or high-traffic homes need more frequent changes; washable parts should be cleaned every 1–2 months.

  • Monitor suction; loss of suction often signals a clogged filter.
  • Set calendar reminders for regular checks and cleanings.
  • Use a brush or compressed air to clear crevices before reinstalling new filters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash all the filters in these kits?

Most foam and felt filters here are washable and reusable; pleated or HEPA-style elements should be checked per the manufacturer — some pleated filters are disposable while others can be gently rinsed. I always let washable pieces air-dry completely before reinstalling.

How often should I replace upright vacuum filters?

I replace pleated filters roughly every 3–6 months and clean washable foam/felt filters every 1–2 months. Homes with pets or heavy use need more frequent attention.

Will replacing filters really improve suction?

Yes. In my testing, swapping old, clogged filters for fresh OEM or well-fitting replacements consistently restored suction and improved pickup and odor control.

Final Take

If you want the simplest fix for an underperforming upright, start with the filter that fits your model.

I recommend choosing OEM parts for exact fit when available, or a complete kit when you need a full refresh.

Regular inspection and cleaning keep vacuums running efficiently and extend the life of the machine.