Abstract: A vacuum cleaner exhaust filter assembly includes a main HEPA exhaust filter, and an ion generation stage to add ions to the air. The ion generation stage preferably is a polypropylene mesh which generates ions through static electric interaction with the moving air as the result of friction. The exhaust filter assembly preferably also includes a pre-filter impregnated with carbon, preferably in the form of activated charcoal, to absorb odors from the exhaust air. The filter components, arranged in the preferred order, are the carbon pre-filter, the main HEPA exhaust filter, and the ion generation mesh.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner filter bag exposes bacteria in incoming dirty air to bactericide throughout the useful life of the bag. Fingers provided on the interior walls of the bag are impregnated with bactericide. Air flow in the bag during vacuum cleaner operation causes the fingers to stand out from the wall, intercepting particles in the dirty airstream and exposing bacteria on those particles to the bactericide. The fingers stand out from the wall, and thus kill bacteria, substantially throughout the useful life of the bag, even after a cake of dust and dirt has formed on the inner walls of the bag.

Abstract: A handle assembly having a one piece molded handle that is mounted to an extension tube and that has an integrated switch for use with a floor supported appliance is provided. The handle includes a loop-shaped grip portion, an elongated portion in which an extension tube is mounted, and a switch mounting port for mounting the switch in the handle. The handle includes a minimum number of parts and does not require fasteners for mounting it to the extension tube. A method for making the handle is also provided.