: Ensure the vacuum has a "completely sealed" design so air doesn't leak out before passing through the filter.

, a longtime online retailer specializing in healthy-home products like HEPA vacuums and air purifiers, permanently closed its operations on October 28, 2025 .

If you're shopping for a replacement that actually traps allergens rather than blowing them back into the air, keep these expert-backed features in mind:

: Look for the "asthma & allergy friendly®" certification from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

: For severe allergies, bagged vacuums are generally recommended because they seal dust away, preventing a "dust cloud" when you empty the machine.

For over 20 years, was the go-to expert for those of us trying to breathe a little easier at home. With their recent closure, many of us are looking for new ways to find high-quality, allergy-friendly cleaning gear.