Reusable Filters

If you’re looking for a way to cut costs and lessen your impact on the environment, reusable filters may be the answer. Read on to learn more.

Oil Filters

You know you’re supposed to change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles, but have you ever stopped to think about what becomes of that oily filter once you discard it? If you’re lucky you live in a community that collects and disposes of filters properly, but not everyone does. To lessen your impact on the environment, consider a reusable oil filter. Reusable filters work as well or better than disposables, and are good for the life of the car.

Made of wire cloth instead of paper, the reusable filter can be removed and cleaned each time you change your oil (in as little as 5-15 minutes). According to a 1999 EPA report, a reusable oil filter costs between $65 and $130 for a car or small truck, and pays for itself in 1-3 years.

Air Filters

Your vehicle’s air filter can also be replaced with a reusable version. Made of durable cotton gauze, reusable air filters are guaranteed to last a lifetime, just like the previously mentioned oil filters. Simply wash your car’s air filter every 50,000 miles, re-oil it and you’re good to go for another 50,000 miles.

AC Filters

Reusable filters also have their place in the home, starting with your AC/Heating system. To cut down on the cost of furnace filters and the subsequent waste that comes with quarterly replacements, consider switching to a reusable air filter. These filters work just as well as the disposable kind, and require very little additional work. Simply wash the filter every three months (or as needed), and enjoy effective filtration.

The best reusable filters feature anti-microbial coatings, and sturdy, no-rust aluminum frames. With a price tag of as much as $100, a reusable AC filter is certainly an investment; but one that promises to last for years to come.

Coffee Filters

Do you love your morning pot of coffee, but hate the expense that comes with it? A reusable coffee filter could help to lessen the cost. These gauzy filters cost little more than a box of disposable filters, and last for as much as three years (depending on your coffee brewing habits). Just rinse the filter after each use, and it’s ready for next time.

Many companies even sell reusable filters for the new single-cup, pod-style coffee makers, making it possible for you to use your own coffee with these machines; and thus save even more money!

Vacuum Filters

Tired of buying expensive replacement filters for your shop vac? Then, give reusable vacuum filters a try. Made of cloth, reusable vacuum filters can be cleaned by simply shaking out the contents or rinsing. Plus, as an added bonus they offer a higher degree of filtration than disposable filters, meaning you don’t need a special filter to clean up dry wall dust or other fine particle messes.

Reusable bags are also available for your upright vacuum. Made of cloth, these bags are very easy to clean. Just empty the contents of the bag, pop it in the wash and allow it to air dry. You’ll get years and years of reliable use, without the hassle of exploding bags or the trouble of having to track down hard-to-find replacements. Do a search on the Internet, and you’ll find a cloth bag to fit nearly any vacuum model, including many universal, one-size-fits-all bags.

Calculating Your Return

Admittedly, reusable filters are an investment; but they’re an investment that promises many happy returns for both your wallet and the environment—and there aren’t many investments that can promise that.

-Erin Huffstetler

Erin Huffstetler is a freelance writer specializing in frugal living tips and tricks. Her work has appeared in numerous print and electronic publications including Family Circle, Guideposts For Kids and Pregnancy. As the stay-at-home mom of two young kids, Erin is always looking for new ways to live better for less. For fun decorating and craft project ideas check out Erin's "Trash to Treasures" and "Bead Making Basics" courses at Suite101.com.

Photo: The Coffee Pot Poster at Allposters.com