Most refrigerator air filters are disposable, so you should replace them rather than wash them—unless your model’s manual specifically says the filter is washable. A six-month replacement interval is common in the cited LG and Whirlpool guidance, but the right schedule depends on your refrigerator and filter. Check the model-specific manual and filter indicator before cleaning or replacing anything.
Can you clean a refrigerator air filter?
First identify the part. “Air filter” and “fresh air filter” refer to model-specific filters inside the refrigerator compartment; they are different from water filters, which have separate replacement instructions.
For a disposable filter, follow the manufacturer’s replacement procedure instead of rinsing or washing it. Whirlpool describes its covered air filter as disposable, and LG’s Fresh Air Filter instructions say to remove and discard the old filter before fitting a new one. Neither provides a general washing method for disposable filters. Do not use water, detergent, or soaking unless your refrigerator’s own manual explicitly permits it. Whirlpool’s air-filter guidance and LG’s replacement instructions describe replacement rather than washing.
There are exceptions: LG identifies its UV Hygiene Fresh+ filter as semi-permanent, and a separate LG bottom-freezer guide gives a one-to-two-year typical lifespan for a Fresh Air filter, depending on the usage environment. These are distinct model-specific instructions, not a universal cleaning method or interval. LG’s Hygiene Fresh guidance
#1 Best Overall
- The air filter helping Reduces Common food odors and bacteria
- Carbon based
- This is A Genuine OEM Replacement Part
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions
How often should you replace it?
Use the interval and reminder for your exact refrigerator. Six months is common in the cited examples, but LG’s model-specific guidance also includes different filter types and lifespans.
| Filter or guidance | Manufacturer instruction | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool disposable air filter | Replace every six months or when the status indicator signals replacement. | Applies to the models covered by the cited guidance; follow your refrigerator’s manual and indicator. Whirlpool maintenance guidance and Whirlpool owner’s manual |
| LG LT120F fresh-air-filter instructions | Approximately every six months or when the CHANGE FILTER light comes on. | Confirm your refrigerator uses the LT120F before ordering. LG LT120F installation guidance |
| LG UV Hygiene Fresh+ | Described by LG as semi-permanent and not needing replacement. | Check that the filter cover and model match this system. LG Hygiene Fresh guidance |
| LG bottom-freezer Fresh Air filter | Typical lifespan of one to two years, depending on the usage environment; replace when its indicator comes on. | This guidance differs from the six-month examples; use it only for the applicable model family. LG model-specific support guidance |
How to replace a disposable filter
Treat these steps as a general orientation, not a substitute for your refrigerator’s manual. Locations, covers, filter orientation, and controls vary by model.
Rank #2
- Activated carbon filter is more powerful than baking soda at removing odors
- For Frigidaire refrigerators with Pure Air Ultra II filtration systems
- Includes 1 replacement air filter
- Replace within 6 months for maximum odor removal. No tools required for installation. Simply remove plastic wrap, install filter and reset the filter reminder on your refrigerator
- Identify the refrigerator and filter. Find the model number and the filter’s label or part number in the manual or on the part. Match a replacement to that refrigerator—not simply to the brand. The LG LT120F page applies to the models that use that part; Whirlpool likewise directs owners to model-specific ordering information.
- Check whether replacement is due. Follow the manual’s schedule or the refrigerator’s filter indicator. If the filter is described as semi-permanent, use that model’s care directions rather than assuming it takes a disposable replacement.
- Open the filter cover as instructed. If the manual requires disabling the filter function or another preparation, do that before removing the cover.
- Remove the old filter and fit the correct replacement. Discard the old filter if the manual identifies it as disposable. For the cited LG LT120F installation, the side marked “Front” faces outward; other models may have different orientation requirements.
- Reinstall the cover and reset the reminder. Use the exact control and reset procedure in the manual. The cited LG LT120F and Whirlpool examples use a three-second Air Filter button hold; separate LG Hygiene Fresh guidance describes a five-second hold. These timings are not interchangeable across models.
How to choose the right replacement
- Confirm the refrigerator’s complete model number and the filter part number.
- Check whether the system uses a disposable or semi-permanent filter.
- Follow the model’s replacement interval and indicator rather than treating six months as a rule for every refrigerator.
- Use the installation orientation and reminder-reset instructions for that exact model.
Manufacturer pages do not establish universal cross-brand compatibility. If you cannot confirm the part from the manual or model-specific manufacturer information, do not assume a filter will fit based on brand alone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Helps remove odors from the refrigerator
- 6 Month replacement air filter; Replace to help keep your food tasting fresh
- Change once CHANGE FILTER alert light turns on
- 6 Month Replacement Air Filter
- LG Part: ADQ73214404
Rank #4
- Genuine Frigidaire OEM refrigerator air filter, Reduces odors caused by food and contaminants, Helps maintain fresh and clean refrigerator air, Each filter measures 3.8" x 1.8" for precise fit, Includes 2 filters in one package, Replace every 6 months for optimal performance,
Rank #3
- PERFECT FIT - W10311524 air filter is specifically designed replacement for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, Amana and Jenn.Air refrigerator. W10311524 directly replaces part number W10311524, 2319308, W10335147, W10335147A, W10335147, W10315189, 1876318. Compared to Part # AIR1, FreshFlow Air Filter. Warm tips: Doesn't include the indicator pack (Contact us if you are not clear the models, and we are here to help within 24 hours)
- 3-STAGE HIGH EFFICIENCY FILTRATION - The premium W10311524 fresh flow refrigerator air filter replacement for Whirlpool contains advanced 3-in-1 Stage True HEPA Filtration System including ①Non-Woven Cloth: Remove large dust ②Activated Carbon Fiber: Remove odor and smoke ③ Activated Carbon Sponge: High capacity contaminants
- EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE - W10311524 freshflow refrigerator air filter replacement helps absorb odor, smoke, volatile organic compounds and remove impurity, 15 times more effective than baking soda to keep your refrigerator air fresh and odor-free. The right choice for you
- COST EFFECTIVE GOODS - Package includes 3 x W10311524 refrigerator air filter. Filter Dimensions: H: 3.3" x L: 1.8" x W: 0.7" (Please refer to the picture display for details). Each unit is sealed individually to prevent any moisture. 1 pack air filter keep odor away from your refrigerator for 6 month, but usually it depends upon your usage. Spare filters allow you to replace at any time, saving your time and energy
- PREMIUM QUALITY & EASY INSTALLATION - Our W10311524 air filters replacement are made of 100% safety and high quality activated carbon well-tested by the manufacturer, with higher efficiency, durability and the best quality to pamper your health and meet OEM standards. It is fairly quick and easy to install within a few minutes, no tools required. Just insert the air filter into refrigerator holder for perfect match
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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