You must be wondering how to clean Holmes air purifier if you’re a proud owner of this brand.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensure optimal performance.
Think of it like giving your car a routine check-up. You want to make sure it’s running smoothly and efficiently.
Not to mention, it can also save you money over time by avoiding expensive repairs.
Today, we will dive into the world of Holmes air purifiers and give you all the tips and tricks you need to keep your unit in tip-top shape.
Let’s get started, shall we?
How to Clean Holmes Air Purifier – Cleaning the Exterior Unit

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of cleaning your Holmes air purifier, you must prepare.
First things first, unplug your unit! You don’t want any accidental turn-ons or shocks.
Next, remove the filter. This will let you clean it properly and separately from the rest of the unit.
Now, gather all the necessary cleaning supplies:
- damp cloth or sponge
- toothbrush
- brush
- vacuum
- mild detergent
If you’re all set, let’s get cleaning!
STEP #1: Wipe to Clean
Begin by wiping the unit’s exterior with a damp cloth or sponge, paying special attention to buttons, handles, and other areas where dirt and grime may have accumulated.
If you need to use a mild detergent to remove any stubborn stains or grime, rinse the unit thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
STEP #2: Wipe to Dry
Dry off the unit with a clean cloth or towel, making sure to buff it to a shiny finish
Add some personality. Give it a name, or make it fun by adding some music.
Take a step back and admire your handiwork. You’re off to a great start!
Now let’s talk about how to clean Holmes air purifier filters.
How to Clean Holmes Air Purifier – Cleaning the Filters
Depending on your model, your air purifier may run a True HEPA filter or a HEPA-Type filter.
If it uses a True HEPA filter, it can trap almost all particles 0.3 microns or larger.
On the other hand, HEPA-type can capture particles up to 2 microns in size, with an efficiency of 99%.
Clean Holmes Air Purifier HEPA filters
Okay, so you’re ready to give your Holmes purifier a little TLC and give that HEPA filter a good cleaning.
No worries, it’s a simple process.
STEP#1: Remove the HEPA filter
Most Holmes models have a removable panel on the front of the unit.
This panel is where dirty air comes in, and clean air comes out. All you have to do is take out the grille to retrieve the HEPA filter.
STEP #2: Fill a sink with warm water
It’s time to give your Holmes air purifier’s HEPA/HEPA-type filter a good cleanse.
First, head over to the sink and turn on the warm water.
Next, add soap to the water.
Take the filter and give it a nice soak for 10-15 minutes.
The warm soapy water will help loosen up any built-up dirt or grime.
But watch out. Before submerging the filter, turn off the water to prevent it from hitting it directly with too much force.
Give the filter a few gentle movements in and out of the water to let the water flow through it.
STEP #3: Rinse with warm water
Time to give your filter a rinse!
First, take it out of the soapy water.
Next, turn on the warm water and let it run in the sink.
Now, put the filter back in the water and give it a few gentle movements in and out of the water, allowing the water to flow through it.
You may need to do this step twice to ensure it’s extra clean.
And that’s it! Your filter is now clean and ready to go.
STEP #4: Sterilize (Optional)
If you want to give your filter an extra TLC, sterilize it before drying.
Grab a half sinkful of warm water and add bleach.
Dip the filter in and give it a gentle swish.
However, some manufacturers don’t recommend it, as bleach can damage the filter.
Instead, use a natural sterilizing option like hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar.
Simply mix a small amount with warm water and dip the filter in the solution for a few minutes.
But keep in mind that this step is optional. You can skip it if you want.
STEP #5: Dry the clean filter
Now that your Holmes HEPA-Type filter is clean and sparkly, it’s time to dry it off!
Find a dry, fluffy towel and lay your filter on top. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can pop it back in the purifier and let the unit’s air circulation do the work for you.
Either way, your filter will be good as new and ready to tackle those pollutants!

Clean Holmes Air Purifier Pre-filters
Cleaning your Holmes air purifier’s pre-filters is a breeze!
These washable foam filters are a lifesaver, trapping pet hair, dust, and other big debris before they reach the main filter.
The manufacturer suggests giving these filters a good clean once a month.
But first, you must check the pre-filter every three weeks to see if it needs cleaning.
If it looks worse for wear, it’s probably time to swap it out for a new one.
But if it’s just a bit dusty, give it a quick shake to freshen it up.
And if it’s covered in pet fur, lint, and other debris, it’s time for a good cleaning session.
Now, how can you clean it? Follow these steps to learn how to clean Holmes air purifier filters.
STEP #1: Remove the Pre-filter
Start by opening the unit’s front cover and removing the pre-filter. Pretty straightforward.
STEP #2: Wash the Pre-filter
Gently wash the pre-filter in a sink or bucket of warm water with a bit of mild soap.
Give the soiled pre-filter a good scrub with your hands. You can also use a soft-bristled brush or cloth.
STEP #3: Rinse and Dry
Rinse off all the soap with warm water and place the pre-filter on a terry cloth towel to dry.
Dry off the pre-filter by placing it on a towel or leaving it in the sun for 15 minutes if the weather is nice. If not, use a fan to speed up the drying process.
Once it’s dry, pop the pre-filter back into the unit. Voila! A fresh, clean pre-filter for your Holmes air purifier.
Clean Holmes Air Purifier Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters, also called charcoal filters, are a powerful addition to any air purification system.
Think of them as a secret weapon, if you will.
They help capture particles that HEPA can’t handle efficiently.
This includes exhaust fumes, VOCs, and wildfire smoke.
But like any secret weapon, they need maintenance to keep working properly.
Holmes suggests changing the filters every three months and warns against washing.
The good news is; you don’t have to wash these filters. Instead, you use a vacuum to light-clean.
Not only is it easy, but it’ll also help extend the life of your filter.
Follow these steps to keep your Holmes carbon filter in top condition.
STEP #1: Unplug your Device
First things first, switch off your unit and unplug the air purifier.
STEP #2: Use your Vacuum
Now it’s time for a bit of cleaning. Use a vacuum and attach a crevice tool.
Work gently in long, smooth strokes. You can do two passes over the filter to clean it effectively.
or STEP #3: Replace the Filter
If it still looks dirty, replace the carbon filter, and that’s it!

Which Filter Types Are Cleanable and Reusable?
Not all air filters are cut from the same cloth.
You can give some filters a good clean and reuse them while others need replacement.
For example, if you live in an area with lots of VOCs, replace True HEPA filters every six months or yearly.
But don’t despair! Electrostatic and activated carbon filters are generally good to go after a good cleaning.
You can also clean and reuse some HEPA-style filters.
On the other hand, air ionizers and ozone air purifiers don’t require filters.
So you don’t have to worry about cleaning or replacing them.
But if your air filter is labeled permanent or washable, feel free to clean and wash it for continued use.
And you’re in luck! This article has outlined helpful instructions describing how to clean Holmes air purifier filters.
Why Is Cleaning Air Purifier Filters Important?
Cleaning your air purifier filter is a no-brainer.
Well, it’s not just a money saver but also keeps your air purifier running at peak performance.
Let’s face it, air filters get dirty and clogged over time, and if you don’t clean them, your air purifier is just a fancy fan.
So, instead of constantly buying new filters, why not clean your current one well? It’s just the logical thing to do.
Maintaining Your Holmes Air Purifier
Now that you know how to clean Holmes air purifier and filter, let’s talk maintenance.
Keeping your Holmes air purifier running at its best is easy.
One easy tip is to check the filters every few weeks.
Remember, the lifespan of your filters can vary, depending on the air quality and how often you use it.
Generally, true HEPA filters last for about 12 to 18 months under normal conditions. But you must replace carbon filters every 60 to 90 days.
For those who don’t know when to replace filters, your Holmes air purifier will give you a clear sign.
Typically, the filter reset button will turn red, telling you it’s time to get new filters.
And replacing them is as simple as 1, 2, 3! Here’s how:
- Switch off the air purifier and unplug it from the wall outlet.
- Press the Door Release Button and open the front air inlet grill door to get to the filter compartment.
- Gently pull out the filters from the unit.
- Inspect the filters; if they appear dirty or clogged, it’s time to replace them.
- Replacing the carbon filters is simple. Just take out the old ones and put in the new ones. Remove the plastic bag first and use the plastic tab as a guide.
- To replace the HEPA filters, pull the old one and put the new one in its place.
- Once you’ve replaced the filters, close the front air inlet grill door and connect the air purifier back to the wall outlet.
- Press and hold the Filter Reset Button for three seconds to reset it. If a green indicator light appears, you’ve successfully reset the Filter Life Monitor. Easy peasy!
How to Clean Holmes Air Purifier? – FAQs
Can I wash HEPA filters with water?
HEPA filters should never be washed with water, as they can cause damage to the internal fibers.
If you have a HEPA-style filter, always check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning guidelines.
Are washable filters worth it?
Washable filters may be less effective than HEPA filters, but they still remove 90 to 95% of pollutants.
Plus, many top-rated air purifier models, like those from Holmes, come equipped with washable filters.
How can I clean a non-washable HEPA filter?
Use a vacuum cleaner. Remove the filter from the device and hold it over a garbage can.
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or dirt on the filter. Then, reinstall the filter.
How often should I clean my Holmes filter?
Check it every few weeks, and the built-in indicator will remind you to give it a good clean every three months to ensure optimal performance.

How to Clean Holmes Air Purifier – Conclusion
Congrats! You now know how to clean Holmes air purifier.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your air purifier running at its best, from cleaning the exterior to replacing the filter.
Remember, a clean air purifier means cleaner air for you to breathe, and who doesn’t want that?
Don’t let the task of cleaning your air purifier overwhelm you.
Break it down and schedule regular cleaning sessions.
It may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference in the air quality of your home or office.
So, grab your cleaning supplies, put on some music, and make it a fun and satisfying task. Happy cleaning!