Miele Vacuum FAQs

Miele Vacuum FAQsMiele vacuum cleaners offer every feature and convenience that an allergy sufferer could want. When you vacuum with a Miele vacuum cleaner, you’ll breathe easier knowing that your home is getting clean and the allergens that are lurking in your home are disappearing for good. Miele has developed four specific vacuum cleaner lines that offer a range of options for users to choose from based on their needs, wants and budgets. With several models within each line, there can be a lot of questions regarding which one is the best option for you. Read on to see the most common Miele Vacuum FAQs and learn helpful Miele vacuum information.

The Miele Complete C3 canister vacuum cleaners are the top-of-the-line Miele canister vacuums with all of the great features that Miele is known for. The Complete C3 line replaces the luxury S8 line. For those who prefer to use an upright vacuum cleaner, Miele Dynamic U1 upright vacuums are recommended for larger-sized homes and for those where carpet is common throughout the home or office. The Miele Compact C2 vacuum cleaners (replacing the mid-level S6 models) are the perfect mid-range canister vacuums. Compact C2 vacuum cleaners are suitable for most homes and feature the latest in Miele’s design and sound-reducing technology. As a replacement for the Miele S2 series, the Classic C1 vacuum cleaners are Miele’s introductory canister vacuums with fewer features, but solid cleaning ability at a more attractive price point.

In all, there are over two dozen models available, including some that are only offered in-store at your local dealer. Without further delay, on to the Miele Vacuum FAQs!

What is an AirClean HEPA filter?

Miele AirClean FilterIn recent years, the European Union standards for HEPA filtration have changed, and with this change, Miele redesigned their Active HEPA filter into the newer H13 AirClean HEPA filter. So what’s the difference? You’ll know the difference by the plastic housing of the filter. AirClean HEPA filters are white while the older Active HEPA filters are blue, and while the AirClean HEPA filters have lost the thin layer of activated charcoal for odor adsorption, their filtration has actually improved. The old HEPA standard in the EU was 99.97% of particle 0.3 microns or larger, but that has been updated to 99.95% of particles 0.1 microns and larger.

A HEPA filter is the core of fine particle filtration that removes allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander from the air. These HEPA filters are independently tested and certified to meet or exceed HEPA filtration standards, and when combined with the Miele Sealed System, 9-ply filter bag, pre-motor filter and post filter, Miele vacuum cleaners typically filter 99.99% of particles in that size range. These new filters also feature a Timestrip indicator that lets you know when it is time to replace the filter, taking any guesswork out of whether or not the filter needs to be replaced. The high-end luxury Miele canisters have a filter change indicator light on the body, but for all filters, you can now simply glance down at the filter when you’re replacing the bag to see when it needs to be changed. Typically users get about 50-60 hours of use from the filter before they need to replace it. Every new Miele filter and vacuum cleaner now comes with this Timestrip. To activate the Timestrip, simply push/crush the small green button, and when the bar is full red, it’s time to replace.

What is an Active AirClean filter?

Miele Vacuum FAQs - Active AirClean FiltersThis filter, with the black case, is ideal for homes with pets and for removing odors. Packed with activated charcoal, this odor-absorbing filter comes standard with Cat & Dog models and is optional for all Miele vacuums. This filter features the AirClean filter media (described below) to trap ultra fine particles and allergens.

What about a standard AirClean filter?

An AirClean filter (formerly the “Super AirClean filter”) is an electrostatically-charged filter that traps 99.95% of particles down to 0.5 microns in size and 94% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size. If you’re trying to balance cleaning and cost with filtration, the AirClean filter is a solid choice. The best part about the AirClean filter is that you get one free with each box of filterbags you purchase.

What does “Sealed System” mean?

What is the Miele AirClean Sealed SystemThrough creative engineering and quality craftsmanship, Miele combines the best raw materials with the best filterbags and HEPA filters to create the Miele AirClean system. A key component to this system, and something that sets it apart from other vacuum cleaners is the “sealed system.” This means that the filtration system of these vacuums is sealed, stopping dirt from leaking or escaping the machine as you clean. Rubber seals or gaskets line the inner compartments, the filters, and the collar of the filter bags, in sealed system units. All Miele vacuums, except the Classic C1 models, feature a Sealed System. So unlike other vacuums that may have a HEPA filter only, Miele ensures that ALL of the air leaving your vacuum cleaner is clean and free of allergens.

Each current Miele vacuum has been awarded the “excellent air quality” certification by the independent institute DMT Air Quality Testing. This award signifies the maximum protection for indoor air quality. The combination of a sealed system, HEPA filter and AirClean dust bag create the Miele AirClean system, which has been independently certified to exceed U.S. and European HEPA filtration standards. Simply put, Miele vacuums are the most hygienic vacuum cleaners available on the market today.

What is air flow?

Measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute), air flow is a measurement of the force exerted by the moving air from a vacuum cleaner. The air flow is what does the cleaning, and better vacuum cleaners have higher CFM ratings. We should also note that a vacuum cleaner with a powerful motor will not necessarily have a high CFM rating. A poorly-engineered and constructed vacuum cleaner will not have much air flow, no matter how powerful the motor is. In general, a higher CFM means better suction and greater cleaning capability. While this is an important factor to consider when cleaning for appearances, if you are cleaning for a healthier home, you need to keep in mind the vacuum’s filtration capabilities.

What is so special about Miele’s 3D AirClean filterbags?

Miele’s 3D AirClean filterbag features a 9-ply construction with a spring-loaded, self-sealing collar built into the bag. Not only does the bag seal itself when you change it, but it also seals around the neck of the canister lid while in use. Each layer of these filtersbags is designed differently to filter successively smaller and smaller particles. These bags actually act as the first nine stages of Miele’s eleven stage filtration, hence the name, “filterbag.” Aptly named, the 3D filterbags trap 99.9% of all particles. Other vacuum cleaner dust bags are lucky to have three layers. Each style is color coded to prevent confusion and offer many advantages:

  • Miele 3D AirClean FilterbagsNew 3D Construction for greater utilization of bag capacity
  • Better filtration at lower suction settings
  • 9 Ply Filtration (AirClean Bags Only)
  • Puncture Resistant
  • 33% longer suction performance than Intensive Clean bags
  • 15% improved filtration
  • Self-sealing collar for hygienic removal and disposal

The AirClean dust bags blend maximum air flow with superior filtration, and these take the mess out changing your dust bags.

Miele Vacuum FAQs – Filterbag? Dust Bag? Which is it?

The answer is both. Dust bag is a term that refers to some of the very first vacuums where debris collected in bags that were later emptied and reused. As years have passed, dust bags become predominantly made from paper. This made them inexpensive and easily disposed of. Filterbags are the most recent iteration of the dust bag. Filterbags often contain several layers of filter media that work to trap more particles, dirt and debris. So the filterbag actually does filter the air while trapping large debris at the same time and it can be constructed of a variety of materials.

What is the ergonomic deluxe handle assembly?

Some premium Miele vacuum cleaner models offer a deluxe handle assembly to ease strain on the wrist. This design is available in nearly almost all canisters and in every Miele Dynamic U1 upright. Each handle is durable with a molded hand grip that fits easily in your hand, giving you better control while cleaning. For those models that do not come standard with this style handle, a deluxe handle is always available for you to buy after your initial purchase.

What is the difference between a turbobrush and a powerbrush?

What's the Difference Between the Miele Tubrobrush and Powerbrush?Quite simply, a turbobrush is air-driven, whereas a powerbrush (or electrobrush) is electrically driven. Miele turbobrushes work well for low- to medium-pile carpet, but if you have a high-pile carpet, wall-to-wall carpet, or pets, a brush powered by air flow alone might not clean well enough for you. In these cases, a powerbrush, with an independent motor, provides the extra power to deep clean thick or high-pile carpet. Additionally, the premium powerbrushes have height adjustments to better clean on thicker carpet while turbobrushes do not. Another feature that only powerbrushes offer is the ability to control the brushroll. If you’re vacuuming carpet and have a small area of smooth flooring to clean, simply turn the brushroll off and use suction only to clean the smooth flooring (in the same way you would with a regular smooth floor tool).

Both types of carpet brushes feature rows of durable nylon polymer bristles to remove extra ground-in dirt and entangled pet hair. Regardless of which type you have, you easily disassemble and clean both, and unlike other vacuum cleaners, the belt on these Miele floor tools tools will likely never have to be replaced.

Why are Miele vacuum cleaners recommended for those with allergies or asthma?

Miele’s engineers have been researching, developing, and testing vacuum cleaners for allergen elimination for over 75 years, and they have produced the most effective and hygienic method of removing particulate, dirt, and allergens from the home. Through state-of-the-art engineering and continual product testing, all Miele vacuums can provide 11 stages of filtration and nearly all of them feature a sealed system that is unmatched in the world of vacuum cleaners.

Miele vacuum cleaners will not only clean your floors, but they will also clean the air you breathe, and that is a critical first step in controlling/removing allergens and irritants from your home.

Do Miele vacuums really last 20 years?

Yes! Try one for yourself and find out! Throughout the year, Miele vacuum owners will stop by our store to pick up bags, filters or attachments for Miele models they have owned for longer than we have been offering them. These vacuums are rigorously tested for just about everything that you would normally encounter while cleaning. They are tested for things like simply using the vacuum’s on/off switch thousands of times, to bumps, bangs, pulls on the powercord and all those other common types of abuse that a typical homeowner may put their vacuum through while cleaning their home.

Why haven’t I heard of Miele vacuums before?

Many vacuum cleaner manufacturers spend millions on dollars annually on massive marketing and advertising budgets (think Dyson, Hoover and Electrolux). Miele does not. Some vacuum manufacturers still rely on door-to-door sales (think Kirby). Miele does not. Most of the brands we’ve already listed can be found anywhere, like big box, home renovation, outlet, discount, warehouse, and even clothing stores! We think we’ve even seen Dysons sold in gas stations! Miele, on the other hand, relies on independent dealers, like AchooAllergy and select national retailers to represent their product. It is this vast network of independent, locally-owned dealers that not only sell, but also service Miele vacuums. Even with this network, Miele simply doesn’t have the exposure, or overexposure, that other brands do, and despite a company history nearly as old as the vacuum cleaner itself, Miele is a newer brand to the U.S. market, compared to legacy brands you likely grew up with. Ultimately, the brand is not for everyone. Cheap vacuums abound, as do marketing gimmicks and advertising, but as a company, Miele has traditionally spent more time perfecting their products and less time engaging in self-promotion amongst end consumers.

What is your return policy?

Unlike most of our competitors, we offer a full 60-Day Return Policy on Miele vacuum cleaners. Additionally, we service Miele vacuums. If you’re local, stop by to check out the latest models, accessories, in-store exclusives, or to have your Miele serviced. If you’re not, give us a call! Unlike some dealers, we’re here to help, regardless of where you purchased your Miele. For all of the details on Miele Free Express Delivery and Returns.


If these Miele Vacuum FAQs answered all of your questions and you’re ready to shop, check out all Miele Vacuum Cleaners. Or, if you’d like to do a little more research, visit one of these helpful Miele pages.