When our customers need Miele vacuum bags, they always ask two questions: What's the correct bag for my vacuum cleaner? Do I need to use the Miele brand, or can I consider alternatives?
Since this is an infrequent purchase, it can be challenging to remember which Miele bags fit your machine. You want to keep plenty of extras on hand, so we put together this guide to help you avoid costly mistakes.
A Miele vacuum with a dust bag is great for people who have allergies because they don't release dirt, dust, and other irritating particles back into the air while they're running or when you change the bag out. Families with infants also opt for bagged vacuum cleaners for this reason.
It's best to change the bags out regularly for your vacuum to keep doing its job well. This guide lays out which Miele vacuum bags fit which vacuum and the differences between them. We'll show you how to buy the right bags and explain when and how to replace them.
What's The Correct Miele Vacuum Bag For Me?
Over the years, Miele's products have changed, which means that you need to be mindful before purchasing a new supply of vacuum bags and filters.
The Miele vacuum cleaner bag that you need depends on your model. Some canister vacuums have bigger bodies and require larger GN bags. However, the entry-level canisters are typically smaller and take FJM bags. The stick and upright vacuums require more slender bags.
You can also mix and match filters and bags to create a custom vacuum system. For example, if you don't have allergies, you don't necessarily need to buy replacement HEPA filters.
Current Miele Vacuum Bag Lineup
There are four Miele vacuum bag sizes on the market: GN, FJM, U, and KK. To help you remember which type your vacuum uses, Miele color-coded them. Miele canisters can take two types of dustbags: FJM or GN. Miele upright vacuums take U, and Miele upright/stick vacuums use KK.
| BAG TYPE | COLOR | VACUUM TYPE | CAPACITY |
|---|---|---|---|
| GN | Blue | Miele canister vacuums | 4.76 Quart |
| FJM | Red | Miele canister vacuums | 3.7 Quart |
| U | Green | Miele upright vacuums | 5.45 Quart |
| KK | Yellow | Miele upright/stick vacuums | 2.6 Quart |
Pro Tip: Please see the comprehensive chart below for all Miele vacuums and their respective bags and filters.
When searching for Miele canister vacuum bags, it's easy to get confused by the similar GN and FJM bags. The only difference between them is their size.
Miele GN vacuum bags, which have a 4.76 quart capacity, are made for larger canister vacuums such as the Classic C1 and Complete C2 & C3 Series.
Miele FJM vacuum bags are smaller and have a 3.7 quart capacity. These bags fit smaller canister vacuums including the Complete C1, Compact C1, and C2 Series.
However, all the bags have the same fitting, so if you happen to buy the wrong ones, the only difference will be how much dust and debris each bag can hold.
Pro Tip: Each box of Miele vacuum bags comes with 2 filters (a motor filter and an exhaust filter). Change the motor and exhaust filters every 4 bags.
Miele Vacuum Bags Are Also A Filter
Have you ever felt like your vacuum was releasing a smell as you cleaned? Not with a Miele. Miele vacuum cleaner bags have a thick, multilayer, cloth-like texture that doubles as an initial filter. They help make sure that the dust and debris you vacuum up doesn't escape back out.
As dirt and debris get sucked into a Miele vacuum, they go directly into the bag, where they get sealed up tightly. Miele dust bags are so powerful that they capture over 99.9 percent of all dust particles. Next, the air moves into the motor, which is protected by a motor cleaner filter. (P.S.: This filter should be changed every four bags. It is included in all Miele vacuum bag packages.) Finally, the air moves through a HEPA, charcoal, or standard clean air filter.
High-quality filtration is what makes Miele vacuums stand out from the competition. If you suffer from allergies or have an infant in the house, you will appreciate the fact that the air Miele canister vacuums emit is cleaner than the air they pull in.
You'll also appreciate that there's no reusable dust bin to empty and wash out. The vacuum bag keeps the interior of your vacuum clean.
Is It Okay to Purchase an Aftermarket Vacuum Bag?
The short answer: No. You won't get the same performance from an aftermarket bag, with its inferior filtration capabilities.
For one, you might get more of an odor. Less effective vacuum bags release fine dust particles and dirt back into the air, along with their stinky aroma.
You should also know that aftermarket bags are not regulated, and can expose you to fiberglass and other hazardous materials.
Finally, using an aftermarket bag can void your Miele warranty.
We recommend going with Miele's high-quality bags.
Where to Buy Miele Vacuum Bags?
If you don't have an extra bag when it comes time to change yours, you may find yourself wondering where to buy Miele vacuum cleaner bags. Thankfully, locating additional bags can be easy.
Miele started making packs of products so you have plenty on hand. It has also begun bundling HEPA filters into these packs to give you extra savings.
Visit our appliance store if you are in New York or New Jersey. Otherwise, here are some trustworthy links to shop online nationwide:
How to Replace a Miele Vacuum Bag?
When it's time to change your Miele vacuum cleaner bag, you'll need to know how to to take your vacuum apart and install a new one.
1. Access and remove the full vacuum bag. Lift the release button on the dust compartment lid until it clicks. That lets you open up the compartment where the bag is. Firmly grasp the plastic collar of the filter bag and pull gently to remove it. No worries if you have allergies: Miele designed its vacuum bags with a unique flap that closes over the top to prevent dust or debris from spilling out.
2. Install the new vacuum bag. Press the new bag into the blue holder as far as it will go. Make sure you don't unfold the vacuum bag when removing it from its original box. Only unfold it after the bag is situated in the blue holder.
3. Secure the new vacuum bag. Close the dust compartment lid and press down until it snaps into place.
Pro Tip: The dust compartment lid is designed to close only when there's a bag in place, so if you're only removing an old bag, don't use force trying to close the lid. Otherwise, you could break the lid. You'll be able to safely and securely close it again once you insert a new bag.
How Long Does a Miele Bag Last?
With average use, a Miele vacuum cleaner bag should last for around three months. However, this can vary depending on your home and how often you vacuum. If you have a large home or wall-to-wall carpets, budget to replace your bag every month.
Pro Tip: Change your Miele vacuum cleaner bag before it's full. You'll notice significantly better suction and extend your vacuum's life.
How Do I Know When My Miele Vacuum Bag Is Full?
Thankfully, Miele takes the guesswork out of knowing if your vacuum bag is full. On top of your vacuum's bag door, there should be a small window with an indicator light. When the Miele vacuum bag full indicator turns red, you'll know it's time to change the bag.
The Fit Chart for Miele Vacuum Bags
Swing H1/Universal Uprights
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S163 | K/K | (SF) AC10, AA10, & H10 |
| S168 | K/K | (SF) AC10, AA10, & H10 |
| S194 Quickstep | K/K | (SF) AC10, AA10, & H10 |
| Swing H1 Tactical/Quickstep | K/K | (SF) AC10, AA10, & H10 |
Powerhouse
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S183 & S184 | Z | HEPA - S02Z6000 |
| Miele Z vacuum bags have been discontinued. |
S200 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S246 Naturell | FJM | SF - AC20/30 |
| S251 Miele Plus | FJM | SF - AC20/30 |
S300 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S312/314 White Star | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S312/314 Red Star | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S316 Cat & Dog | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S318 Bahama Blue | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S318 Polar Ice | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
Complete C2/S5000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S5210/S5211 Ariel | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5280/S5281 Pisces | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5281 Libra | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5280/S5281 Callisto | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5280 Jubilee | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5380/S5381 Gemini | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5380/S5381 Leo | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5380 Venus | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5381 Park Ave | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5481 Earth | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5481 Terrane | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5580 Aquarius | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S5980/S5981 Capricorn | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C2 Limited Edition | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C2 Hard Floor | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
S500 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S514 Electro-Direct | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S516 Cat & Dog | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S524 Crystal | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S524 Mercury | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S538 Monte Verde | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S548 Aluminium | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S548 Champagne | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S558 Silver Moon | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S558 Red Velvet | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
Compact C2/S6000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| Compact C2/S6270 Quartz | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S6270 Red Velvet | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C2/S6270 Onyx | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S6270 Manhattan2 | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C2/S6270 Topaz | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C2/S6290 Jasper | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C2/S6290 Homecare | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C2 Electro+ | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
S600 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S658 Blue Moon | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
S700 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S768 HEPA | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
S900 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S930 Hot Chocolate | L/L | (SF) SAC40, AAC40, & AH40 |
| S930 Mojito | L/L | (SF) SAC40, AAC40, & AH40 |
| S938 Red Roses | L/L | (SF) SAC40, AAC40, & AH40 |
| Miele LL vacuum bags have been discontinued. |
Classic C1/S2000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| Classic C1 Pure Suction | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1 Turbo Team | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2120/S2121 Olympus | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2181 Exclusive | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2121 Capri | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2120/2121 Delphi | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2121 Centennial | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/ S2121HomeCare | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S2180 Atlantis | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1/S2180/S2181Titan | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1 Electro+ | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1 Cat & Dog | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Classic C1 Limited Edition | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
Compact C1/S4000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S4210 Carina | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4210 Polaris | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C1 Pure Suction | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C1 Turbo Team | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Compact C1 HomeCare & Turbo Team | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4210 Antares | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S410 Capella | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4210 Sirius | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4212 Manhattan | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4212 Neptune | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4280 Zephyr | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4580 Luna | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4582 Eclipse | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| S4780 Orion | FJM | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
Dynamic U1/S7000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic U1/S7210 Twist | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1 Limited Edition | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1 Maverick | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1 HomeCare | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7260 Cat & Dog | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S7280 Calypso | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7280 Salsa | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7280 Jazz | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7280 FreshAir | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S7580 Pirouette | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S7580 Bolero | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7580 AutoEco | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| Dynamic U1/S7580 HomeCare | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S7580 Tango | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
| S7580 Swing | U | (SF) AC20/30, AA30, & HA30 |
Complete C3/S8000 Series
| VACUUM | BAG | FILTER TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| S8390 FreshAir | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3 Limited Edition | GN | (SF) AC20/30, AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/S8390 Calima | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3 SoftCarpet | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/S8390 Kona | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/8380 Cat & Dog | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/8390 HomeCare | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/8590 Alize | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3/8590 Marin | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| 8990 UniQ | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3 HomeCare + | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
| Complete C3 Brilliant | GN | (SF) AC20/30,AA50, & HA50 |
Miele Vacuum Bag FAQs
If you recently switched to Miele from a different brand, you may have additional questions. We've answered some of the most common ones below to help you better understand Miele, whether you're new to it or just looking to learn more about your vacuum and the options available to you.
1. Why does my Miele vacuum smell bad?
Miele vacuums have strong filters that help contain and trap odors. Things can happen, though, and every vacuum has at least the faintest hint of an odor when used. If you're noticing a particularly strong scent coming from your Miele vacuum, it may be a sign that it's time to replace the vacuum bag or filter, clean the vacuum hose, or have your vacuum serviced by a professional.
2. Are Miele vacuum bags HEPA?
No, Miele vacuum bags aren't HEPA—but only because vacuum bags can't be. HEPA stands for "high-efficiency particulate air" and actually refers to air filters, not vacuum bags. There is, however, a Miele vacuum HEPA filter that you can use in your vacuum to help fight allergies.
3. What's the difference between Miele HyClean and AirClean bags?
While similar, Miele's HyClean and AirClean bags aren't identical, nor are they interchangeable. The HyClean bag, which has been discontinued and isn't designed for U.S. models, has strips designed to prevent tears or rips. The AirClean bags are designed to function better within the vacuum and are designed to better store dust and debris without quick filling or accidental spills.
4. Do Miele vacuum bags have fiberglass?
Vacuum bags, especially those with HEPA filters, containing fiberglass fibers has been a recent concern, but it's not one to worry about with Miele. Miele vacuum cleaner bags have never contained any fiberglass.
5. What filter does my Miele vacuum use?
Miele manufactures its own line of replacement filters, and each model vacuum calls for a unique filter. The best way to learn what filter you need is to check your user manual or refer to the table we created above explaining the different types of bags.
You can also choose different Miele vacuum filters for different needs, such as charcoal for odor or HEPA for allergens.
6. I have pets. Are there any special filters I need to use?
One reason Miele is such a popular vacuum brand is due to the variety of replacement filters it offers, including some extra strength ones designed with pet owners in mind. Miele's charcoal filter helps fight stubborn odors left behind by pets, while its HEPA filters help remove allergens and prevent or reduce symptoms that may have been caused by pet dander and saliva.
7. Can you clean a Miele HEPA filter?
Unless otherwise stated by your user manual, you should never submerge a HEPA filter in water. However, that doesn't mean you can't clean it.The safest way to clean a Miele HEPA filter is to remove it from the vacuum and wipe it with a dry cloth. If the debris or dust is too fine for easy removal, you can use the small attachments on your vacuum to go over it.
8. How often to replace Miele HEPA filters?
Since your HEPA filter removes dust and debris from your home that could trigger allergies, you want to make sure it is always working as efficiently as possible. As a result, it's recommended to replace your Miele HEPA filter at least once a year, though you may find that you need to do it more often depending on how often you vacuum and the state of the area you are vacuuming.
9. How to change filter in Miele vacuum cleaner?
Changing the filter in your vacuum is similar to changing Miele vacuum cleaner bags. Once you open the compartment where your vacuum bag is kept, you will instead gently remove the existing filter from its holder, which is often in the upper left quadrant of the compartment.
Installation is equally easy: Just make sure that your new filter is lined up properly and slide it in. This is the same process you can follow to clean and reinstall your existing filter.
10. How to activate Miele HEPA filters?
If you're inserting a new filter, you'll need to activate it. To do so, while you have the compartment panel open, press the green button located on the frontward side of the filter.
11. Do all Miele vacuums have HEPA filters?
Not all Miele vacuums have HEPA filters, though you can buy your own certified HEPA filter to use.
However, almost all Miele vacuums do have a sealed system, which helps prevent distributing dust into the air while vacuuming.
12. Are there any aftermarket Miele vacuum cleaner bags?
It's always recommended to use only genuine Miele bags with your Miele vacuum. Not only are certified bags better designed to fit your vacuum and provide the best benefits, but using a generic bag can also void your warranty.
13. Can I make face masks with Miele vacuum cleaner bags?
While it's possible to create face masks with vacuum cleaner bags, it's definitely not recommended.
First, Miele is against the idea and doesn't recommend using its vacuum cleaner bags as a face mask. Improper usage can be dangerous, and they're not as effective as true surgical masks designed to help prevent the spread of infection.
Furthermore, creating face masks from a Miele vacuum back isn't just trying and time-consuming, it can be expensive, especially when compared with the price of simply buying surgical masks.
Our verdict? Save your Miele vacuum cleaner bags to keep your home dust-free and clean, and purchase effective masks.
14. Do I need to change the filter in my Miele cordless vacuum?
While your Miele Triflex cordless vacuum provides additional convenience when cleaning your home, it still functions similarly to other models in terms of care. As a result, you'll need to change the filter every three months or so, as you do with a corded Miele vacuum.
15. Can I wash the filter of my Miele cordless vacuum?
In accordance with Miele guidelines, you shouldn't wash the filter. However, you can clean it. To do so, remove the cover so you can access and remove any of the dirt or debris caught inside. When you're finished, replace the cover securely.
You can use a dry and slightly damp cloth to wipe your vacuum and vacuum accessories for a more thorough clean.