Abstract: A vacuum cleaner including a bypass-type blower motor in association with a water filter is provided. Motor and working air noise is muffled by the inclusion of a baffle ring extending between upper and lower motor support assemblies and about the fan chamber for generating working air. The baffle ring includes an exhaust port spaced 180.degree. from the working air exhaust port of the cleaner to provide a tortuous working air exhaust air flow pattern which reduces noise from the cleaner. A water separator element is provided in association with the water filter pan to separate and condense water and dirt particles intermixed with working air sucked by the cleaner. The water separator element includes an air-porous portion and a generally water non-porous portion for separating water from the working air. The air-porous portion faces generally away from an inlet port to the water pan.