When it comes to maintaining equipment performance, few topics cause more debate than air filter cleaning. Watch any video showing a filter being cleaned and you’ll quickly find armchair mechanics declaring, “You should never clean an air filter!” But is that actually true?

According to official OEM manuals from brands like John Deere, CAT, and Case IH—and thousands of real-world equipment operators—it’s not just safe when done correctly, it’s recommended.

What the John Deere Manual Really Says

We reviewed the official John Deere 3025D/3035D/3043D Operator’s Manual and found a section titled “Clean Air Cleaner Element” with very clear guidance on servicing the "Primary Filter Element":

• The manual says to clean the air filter periodically

• It provides a diagram showing low-pressure compressed air being applied from the inside out

• It specifically cautions not to exceed 210 kPa (30 psi)

• It specifically cautions: do not remove or clean the secondary (inner) safety filter unless you’re actively replacing it

John Deere also publishes other steps in their manuals (like for the 3035D model) that are worth noting:

• Never strike the filter to remove dust

• Inspect for holes, tears, or worn seals — replace if damaged

• Use a damp cloth to wipe out the air cleaner housing

• Check the air restriction indicator if equipped

These are simple precautions that can save your engine—and your wallet.

This isn't unique to John Deere. Similar instructions appear in manuals from other major equipment brands. If cleaning truly endangered equipment, why would these companies provide step-by-step cleaning instructions?

A Common Misconception: The Inner Filter

Your engine has two filters:

• The outer (primary) filter – designed to be periodically cleaned and inspected

• The inner (secondary/safety) filter – designed as a last line of defense and never to be cleaned

The inner filter:

• Should never be removed unless it’s being replaced

• Should never be cleaned with compressed air

• Should only be exposed when a new one is ready — otherwise, the intake should be sealed with a clean cloth

Many operators don’t realize the critical role this inner filter plays. If you see dust or debris on it during inspection, it’s a red flag that your outer filter may be compromised.

How to Know When to Replace Instead of Clean

Cleaning is only worthwhile if the filter is still structurally sound. You should replace your filter if:

• You spot holes, tears, or damaged pleats

• The rubber seals are worn or cracked

• The filter appears oil-soaked or water-damaged

• You see dust on the inner safety filter

• You’ve cleaned it multiple times and it's no longer maintaining air restriction levels

Never clean a damaged filter—you’re better off replacing it and protecting your engine.

The Real Risk: Improper Cleaning

Most filter damage occurs not from cleaning—but from how people clean them:

• Hitting filters against hard surfaces (like a tire)

• Blasting high-pressure air from the outside inward

• Ignoring internal inspections of the secondary safety filter

This kind of misuse can rupture filter media, destroy seals, or force debris into the engine. That’s why many manufacturers include detailed warnings—not to discourage cleaning, but to discourage careless technique.

A Better Way: Air Filter Cleaner Tools

The Air Filter Cleaner tool and Air Filter Blaster tool were created for one reason: to make proper filter cleaning safe, fast, and repeatable.

Operators have used these tools for over 14 years on farms, job sites, and heavy equipment around the world. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Precision Engineered nozzle design keeps PSI below 30 (Air Filter Cleaner) and below 48 psi (Air Filter Blaster), even when fed by larger compressors

• Rotational cleaning action distributes air evenly through the pleats

• Restricted orifices and thick-walled tubing prevent over-pressurization

• "No reports of engine or filter damage in 12+ years of global sales" (quoted directly from the Air Filter Cleaner people)

Some operators clean a filter 10 to 15 times and replace it. Others, especially with high-quality filters, have reported over 100 successful cleanings without any sign of dust on the inner safety filter.

So Who's Saying "Never Clean a Filter"?

Usually, it's one of three sources:

1. Filter manufacturers, who naturally want to sell more filters

2. Equipment manufacturers, trying to avoid liability from improper cleaning

3. Misinformed commenters who haven’t looked into what OEM manuals actually say

Meanwhile, experienced operators, mechanics, and OEM engineers continue to clean filters regularly—just with the right tools and techniques.

Not for Everyone, But Perfect for Many

If you’re the kind of operator who:

• Already cleans filters to save money and reduce re-fueling

•  Understands the importance of proper inspection

• Understands how engine performance is affected by clogged filters

• Wants a safe, effective tool engineered specifically for the job

…then the Air Filter Cleaner is built for you.

If you'd rather replace your filter every time, that's fine too. But for the rest of us—those who want to do it right without risking damage—this tool is a no-brainer.

Conclusion

Don’t believe everything you hear in the comment section. Believe the OEMs. Believe the results from thousands of operators in the field. And believe in a tool designed to do one job exceptionally well: clean air filters safely and effectively.