How to Replace & Clean Shark Vacuum Filters (Navigator, Rotator & Rocket)
Most Shark upright vacuums use a two-part filtration system: foam and felt filters that sit near the dust cup, plus, on many models, a separate HEPA filter. Which filters your vacuum has, where they sit, and whether the HEPA filter can be rinsed all depend on the model, so check your owner's manual or the filter diagram for your model number before you start. The model number is printed on the rating label on the vacuum.
Which Shark filter kit fits my vacuum?
Match your model number to a kit below. Every listing names the models it fits.
| Shark model | Replacement filter kit |
|---|---|
| Navigator Lift-Away NV350 | Replacement Filter Kit for Shark NV350, 2-Pack |
| NV500 Series | Filter Kit for Shark NV500 Series (2 HEPA + 4 foam and felt) |
| Navigator DLX NV60, NV70, NV71, NV80, NV90 | Vacuum Filter Replacement for Shark Navigator DLX |
| Rotator Powered Lift-Away NV650, NV750, NV752, AZ1002 | Replacement Filter Kit, 10 Pack |
| Navigator and Rotator models that use XFFK560 / XHEPA560 | Shark XFFK560 & XHEPA560 Vacuum Filter Kit |
| Rocket HV292, HV300, HV301, HV302, HV305, HV310, UV450 | Rocket HV300 Filter Replacement Kit, 9 Pack |
| Rocket HV319, HV320, HV321, HV322, HV345, ZS350, ZS351, ZS352 | Rocket HV320 Filter Replacement Kit, 8 Pack |
How often to clean and replace Shark filters
Intervals vary by model and by how much you vacuum, so your manual comes first. As a general rule of thumb, rinse the foam and felt filters every one to three months, or sooner when suction feels weaker. Replace a HEPA filter, if your model has one, every six to twelve months. Homes with pets or heavy carpet traffic should use the shorter end of each range.
Where is the HEPA filter on a Shark vacuum?
The location depends on the model. On many Shark uprights the foam and felt filters sit under or beside the dust cup, while the HEPA filter sits in a separate housing in the body of the vacuum behind a cover or grille. The filter diagram in your manual shows the exact spot for your model number.
What you'll need
Your replacement filter kit that matches your model number, and your owner's manual for the filter diagram.
How to replace and clean Shark vacuum filters
- Switch the vacuum off, unplug it, and empty the dust cup. Remove the dust cup from the vacuum body.
- Locate the foam and felt filters, usually housed at the base or side of the dust cup. They typically twist or pull out by hand, with no tools needed.
- Rinse the foam and felt filters under cold running water only. Do not use soap or detergent, which can clog the material.
- Squeeze out excess water and lay the filters flat to air-dry for a full 24 hours before reinstalling. Reinserting a damp filter is a common cause of musty odors and reduced suction.
- If your model has a separate HEPA filter, locate it using your manual. Only rinse a HEPA filter if your manual says it is washable. If it does not say so, replace it with a new one instead.
- Install the new or fully dry filters, then reassemble the dust cup. Make sure everything clicks fully into place before use, because a loosely seated filter lets dust bypass it.
Shark filter questions
How do I know my Shark filter needs replacing?
Weaker suction, dust or odor coming from the exhaust, and a filter that stays discolored after rinsing are common signs that it is time for a new one.
Can I wash a Shark HEPA filter?
It depends on the model. Follow your manual. If it does not state that the HEPA filter is washable, treat it as a replacement part.
Where do I find my Shark model number?
It is printed on the rating label on the vacuum. Use that number to match the filter kit in the table above.
Shop all Shark replacement filters or browse our full range of vacuum filters.
Fine Filters is an independent retailer and is not affiliated with, authorized by, or endorsed by Shark or SharkNinja.
