Best Air Filter Cleaners of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Air filter cleaners are an essential product for maintaining the air quality in homes and workplaces. They are designed to remove harmful particles and pollutants from the air, such as dust, pet dander, and allergens. Air filter cleaners come in various sizes and types, including HEPA filters, electrostatic filters, and UV filters. They are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them an efficient and cost-effective solution for improving air quality. With regular use, air filter cleaners can help reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses and improve overall health and wellbeing.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit Cover #TOP 1
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
K&N Air Filter Oil: Aerosol Cover #TOP 2
K&N Air Filter Oil: Aerosol
ftb score rating icon 9.8
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit Cover #TOP 3
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Air Filter Cleaners

#TOP 1

K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit

K&N
99-5000
Multi
1 Count (Pack of 1)
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit Cover
K&N Aerosol Oil Recharger Service Kit

The K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit is a powerful, highly effective degreaser that quickly dissolves filter build-up and old oil, allowing filter grime to be rinsed away with water. It includes K&N Red Filter Oil, which remains suspended in the pleats of the cotton filter material of High-Flow Air Filters, allowing for exceptional contaminant capture. This kit helps restore your filter to exceptional performance by removing filter-clogging build-up and restoring air flow efficiency.

What We Like
Cleans all oiled K&N air filters
Powerful, highly effective degreaser
Includes K&N Red Filter Oil
#TOP 2

K&N Air Filter Oil: Aerosol

K&N
99-0516
Black
12.25 Ounce
K&N Air Filter Oil: Aerosol Cover
K&N Air Filter Oil: Aerosol; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance and Efficiency, 99-0516, 347g(12.25 Oz)

K&N Air Filter Oil is designed specifically for K&N air filters and formulated to improve air filter performance. It quickly penetrates and saturates filter pleats, trapping contaminants that reduce air flow efficiency and disrupt engine performance. K&N red filter oil remains suspended in the pleats of the cotton filter material of High-Flow Air Filters, allowing for exceptional contaminant capture and restoring air flow efficiency. Customers have praised the product for its ease of use, wide coverage, and ability to control air flow and water.

What We Like
Designed specifically for K&N air filters
Quickly penetrates and saturates filter pleats
Red filter oil remains suspended in the pleats of the cotton filter material
Easy-to-use
Wide coverage
#TOP 3

K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit

K&N
99-5050
1 Count (Pack of 1)
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit Cover
K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit: Squeeze Bottle Filter Cleaner and Red Oil Kit; Restores Engine Air Filter Performance; Service Kit-99-5050

The K&N Air Filter Cleaning Kit is a powerful, highly effective degreaser that quickly dissolves filter build-up and old oil, allowing filter grime to be rinsed away with water. It includes K&N Red Filter Oil, which remains suspended in the pleats of the cotton filter material of High-Flow Air Filters, allowing for exceptional contaminant capture. The kit helps restore your filter to exceptional performance by removing filter-clogging build-up, and restores air flow efficiency so your K&N air filter performs like new.

What We Like
Cleans all oiled K&N air filters
Powerful, highly effective degreaser
Includes K&N Red Filter Oil
#TOP 4

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen

K&N
99-0621
BLACK
1 Count (Pack of 1)
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen Cover
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen; 32 Oz Trigger Spray; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance, 99-0621

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen is a powerful, highly effective degreaser that quickly dissolves filter build-up and old oil, allowing filter grime to be rinsed away with water. It helps restore your filter to exceptional performance by removing filter-clogging build-up and restores air flow efficiency so your K&N air filter performs like new. It comes well packaged and the cleaner works well, allowing for multiple uses.

What We Like
Cleans all oiled K&N air filters
Restores performance
Powerful degreaser
Renews efficiency
Well packaged
#TOP 5

AEM 1-1000 Air Filter Cleaner

AEM
1-1000
AEM 1-1000 Air Filter Cleaner Cover
AEM 1-1000 Air Filter Cleaner with Trigger Sprayer - 32 oz.

The AEM Air Filter Cleaner is an essential product for maintaining your AEM Dryflow air filters. By rinsing your filter with water after use, you can easily keep it clean and functioning optimally. This cleaner is designed to effectively break down and remove dirt and grime, ensuring that your air filter remains in top condition. Plus, being made in the United States, you can trust its quality and performance. Using this cleaner not only enhances the lifespan of your air filter but also helps improve your vehicle's overall performance.

What We Like
Easy dirt removal
Enhances filter lifespan
Made in the USA
Optimizes vehicle performance
#TOP 6

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen

K&N
99-0635
BLACK
1 Gallon
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen Cover
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen; 1 Gallon; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance, 99-0635

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen is a powerful, highly effective degreaser that quickly dissolves filter build-up and old oil, allowing filter grime to be rinsed away with water. It helps restore your filter to exceptional performance by removing filter-clogging build-up, restoring air flow efficiency so your K&N air filter performs like new. It comes with a spray nozzle with a long tube that inserts into the cap, so there is no need to transfer the liquid into a smaller spray bottle.

What We Like
Cleans all oiled K&N air filters
Restores performance
Powerful degreaser
Renews efficiency
Comes with a spray nozzle
#TOP 7

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser

K&N
99-0606
Black
12 Ounce
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser Cover
K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen; 12 Oz Spray Bottle; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance, 99-0606

K&N Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: Power Kleen; 12 Oz Spray Bottle; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance, 99-0606 is a powerful, highly effective degreaser that quickly dissolves filter build-up and old oil, allowing filter grime to be rinsed away with water. It helps restore your filter to exceptional performance by removing filter-clogging build-up and restores air flow efficiency so your K&N air filter performs like new. Customers have found it easy to use, great for restoring performance, and a must-have for K&N air filters.

What We Like
Cleans all oiled K&N air filters
Restores performance
Highly effective degreaser
Restores air flow efficiency
Easy to use
#TOP 8

K&N Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser

K&N
99-0624
K&N Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser Cover
K&N Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser: 32 Oz Spray Bottle; Restore Engine Air Filter Performance, 99-0624

K&N Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner and Degreaser is a performance part specifically designed for K&N air filters. It helps restore air flow efficiency and performance by removing filter-clogging build-up. Customers have found it to be better than the big box stores, good for the money, and easy to use. It is also fast-acting and effective.

What We Like
Restores air flow efficiency
Better than big box stores
Good for the money
Fast-acting and effective
#TOP 9

Airaid AIR-790-550 Filter Clean and Renew Kit

AIR-790-550
Airaid AIR-790-550 Filter Clean and Renew Kit Cover
Airaid Filter Clean and Renew Kit, Cleaning solution and Red Oil, AIR-790-550

The Airaid Filter Clean Kit is designed to help you keep your premium Airaid air filter in top shape. Using this kit every 30,000 to 50,000 miles ensures your filter stays clean, which improves how well your engine breathes. The cleaning process is simple and quick, with just three easy steps, so you won't have to spend much time on maintenance. By restoring your filter's airflow, this kit helps your engine run more efficiently, giving you better performance and potentially saving fuel. Overall, it’s a handy solution to maintain your vehicle’s engine health and keep it running smoothly.

What We Like
Regular maintenance interval
Exclusive for Airaid filters
Easy three-step cleaning
Restores airflow efficiency
#TOP 10

K&N Sealing Grease: 6 Oz

K&N
99-0704
No Color
6 Ounce
K&N Sealing Grease: 6 Oz Cover
K&N Sealing Grease: 6 Oz; Prevents Air Leaks with Airtight Fit; 99-0704

K&N Sealing Grease is an auto accessory that prevents air leaks with an airtight fit. The package dimensions are 20.32 cms (L) x 6.35 cms (W) x 4.445 cms (H). This product is made in the United States and comes with a package quantity of 1. It belongs to the category of Automotive Air Filter Cleaning Products.

What We Like
Prevents air leaks with an airtight fit
Made in the United States
Compact size for easy storage and portability
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best thing to clean air filters with?

The best way to clean air filters is by washing them with a mixture of vinegar and water. Let the filter soak in this solution for about an hour, then rinse it with clean water. If the filter is too large to fit in a sink or bucket, you can use a garden hose to wash it off, making sure the water runs through the filter in the opposite direction of the airflow.

2. Does cleaning your air filter make a difference?

Yes, cleaning your air filter makes a significant difference. Not only does it improve the air quality in your home, but it also increases energy efficiency. A dirty air filter strains your HVAC system, causing it to use more energy than necessary. By regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters, you can save on energy costs and ensure optimal performance of your HVAC system.

3. How do you deep clean an air filter?

For a deep cleaning of your air filter, you can fill a sink with a mixture of water and white vinegar. Allow the HVAC filter to soak in this solution for one hour, then rinse it off with fresh water. Make sure the filter is completely dry before placing it back into your AC unit.

4. Can you clean an air filter with vinegar?

Yes, you can clean an air filter with vinegar. Soak the filter in a mixture of vinegar and water for approximately one hour. This helps kill harmful bacteria and breakdown stubborn particles. After soaking, wipe off any residue with a cloth. Ensure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling it.

5. Is it okay to wash air filter with water?

It is generally recommended to clean cloth and carbon filters with soap and water. However, you should be careful when washing with water as it can damage certain types of filters. Water should not be used to wash paper filters. Before cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, dirt, and debris from the filter.

6. Can I use brake cleaner on K&N air filter?

No, you should never use contact/brake cleaner or carb cleaner on a K&N air filter. These products can cause severe damage to the cotton gauze material of the filter.

7. How do I know if my air filter needs cleaning?

There are several signs indicating that your air filter needs cleaning: strange engine noises, decreased performance, decreased fuel economy, black smoke or flames in the exhaust, smell of petrol in the exhaust, and a visibly dirty air filter. Additionally, the check engine light may come on as a result of a dirty air filter.

Editor's Notes

During our air filter cleaner research, we found 18 air filter cleaner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 205,458 customer reviews through our big data system to write the air filter cleaners list. We found that most customers choose air filter cleaners with an average price of $18.14.

The air filter cleaners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of air filter cleaners, including K&N, AEM, Airaid. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.