Most ordinary vacuum cleaners utilize a porous bag as the only means of capturing dust. Since most allergy and respiratory discomfort rests with dust particles between 0.3 and 2 microns in size (one human hair is 80-100 microns in diameter), the "dangerous dust' is actually escaping back into the air through the vacuum's exhaust.

Vacuum cleaners that contain a true HEPA filter aren't necessarily designed to be leak-proof. Micron-sized allergens can, and do, escape through the imperfect seals in the container and around the filters. However, the Nilfisk Family Vac combines HEPA filtration and air tight seals guaranteeing virtually dust-free exhaust and no leakage.

In study after study, water filtration vacuum cleaners have been proven to dissolve allergens, then emit them, through a mist, back into the air during and immediately after vacuuming. This release of allergens can aggravate your allergies or asthma.

Users of "bagless" vacuums are exposed to irritating dust particles while emptying the collection container The paper bag in the Nihisk Family Vac provides sale and easy disposal of the collected debris, ensuring that the user has minimal exposure to the dust.

Research has demonstrated that common house dust is a major cause of allergy problems. One of the most offending is the house dust mite. Scientific studies of dust allergic patients have shown that taking steps to minimize dust mite exposure in the bedroom leads to a decrease in allergic symptoms and a decrease in medication requirements.