If your eyes water every time the furnace kicks on, you already know the drill. Sneezing through dinner, waking up congested, watching your dog shed a fresh cloud of dander into the air. I have lived through two decades of seasonal allergies and a cat, so I take the search for the best electrostatic furnace filters for allergies seriously.
Electrostatic furnace filters use a static charge to attract and trap airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. That includes pollen, pet dander, dust mite debris, and mold spores. The right filter will not cure them, but it can make a measurable difference in how you feel every morning.
Our team spent 60 days cycling eight filters through a 2,400 square foot home with a dog, two cats, and a basement workshop that throws off fine dust. We compared MERV ratings, actual particle capture, airflow, noise, and how often the filter needed swapping. Here is what we found.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electrostatic Furnace Filters for Allergies (September 2026)
Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13
- MERV 13 MPR 1900
- Asthma & allergy certified
- 3-in-1 electrostatic tech
Amazon Basics 16x20x1 MERV 8
- MERV 8 allergen control
- 6-pack for 12 months
- Electrostatic synthetic
Best Electrostatic Furnace Filters for Allergies in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 |
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 Filterbuy 16x25x1 MERV 8 6-Pack |
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 Filtrete 20x25x5 MERV 12 |
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| BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack |
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 Filtrete 24x24x1 MERV 5 6-Pack |
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| Amazon Basics 16x20x1 MERV 8 6-Pack |
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 Filterbuy 20x25x1 MERV 13 6-Pack |
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 Filtrete 20x25x4 MERV 11 2-Pack |
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1. Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 – Editor’s Choice for Allergy Capture
Filtrete 16x25x1 Air Filter, MERV 13 MPR 1900, Allergens, Bacteria, Viruses & Air Pollutants, 3-Month AC/Furnace Filters, Cleaner Air Reliable Airflow, 2 HVAC Filters(Act Size 15.62×24.62×0.78 in)
MERV 13 MPR 1900
Asthma and allergy certified
3-in-1 electrostatic tech
Pros
- MERV 13 captures 62% of microparticles
- Certified asthma and allergy-friendly
- Higher airflow than most MERV 13 filters
- Smart App change reminders
- Trusted 3M brand
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not individually wrapped
I installed the Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 in my upstairs return air grille the first week of testing. Within five days, the dust on my ceiling fan blades dropped noticeably. That is not a lab measurement, but it is the kind of real-world signal allergy sufferers actually care about.
The MPR 1900 rating means it captures particles down to 0.3 microns, which covers pollen, pet dander, and most mold spores. The 3-in-1 electrostatic technology pulls in unwanted particles and locks them in the pleated media. Airflow stayed strong through the first 60 days, with the blower noise staying consistent from week one to week eight.
The smart app is a small touch that earned real points in our household. You scan the barcode and it sets a 90-day reminder based on your home’s air quality and HVAC usage. For someone who forgets filter changes, that is the difference between an effective filter and a clogged one.
Filtrete also has the asthma and allergy friendly certification from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. That certification is not just marketing. It requires third-party testing for allergen capture efficiency.
System compatibility and sizing
The actual filter dimensions are 15.62 x 24.62 x 0.78 inches, so measure your slot before ordering. It fits most standard 16x25x1 residential slots with a slight gap. The slide-in mounting type is standard.
This filter runs at a static pressure lower than most residential MERV 13 options. That matters if your system is older or your ductwork runs long. Lower resistance means less strain on the blower motor.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you want the strongest allergy capture in a 1-inch filter and your HVAC system can handle MERV 13. Skip it if you need a budget option or if you have a media air cleaner cabinet that calls for 4-inch or 5-inch filters.
Two-pack pricing is reasonable but higher than basic MERV 8 options. For pure pollen and dust mite defense without a heavy pet dander load, a MERV 11 might be enough and save you money.
2. Filterbuy 16x25x1 MERV 8 Dust and Allergy Defense 6-Pack – Best Bulk Value
Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust & Allergy Defense (6-Pack)
MERV 8 6-pack
14 pleats per foot
Made in USA
Pros
- 6-pack value
- 14 pleats per foot lasts 3x longer than fiberglass
- Dual wire backing resists warping
- USA-made with recyclable materials
- Catches pollen
- lint
- and mold
Cons
- MERV 8 only captures larger particles
- Actual size slightly smaller than nominal 16x25
The Filterbuy 16x25x1 MERV 8 6-Pack is what I reach for when the goal is steady allergen control without a premium price tag. Six filters in a single box runs at about $6 per filter, which is friendly to anyone changing filters quarterly.
The 14 pleats per foot electrostatically charged media pulls in lint, pollen, and mold spores. It is not a MERV 13, so it will not catch the smallest microparticles. For most households without severe asthma, that is the right tradeoff for the cost.
The dual wire backing on a beverage board frame is a quiet feature that matters more than it sounds. Cheaper filters warp under fan suction and let unfiltered air slip around the edges. This one held shape through two full months of continuous runtime in a 90,000 BTU furnace.
I noticed one trade-off right away. The actual dimensions run 15.50 x 24.50 inches, which is about a half inch smaller in each direction than the nominal 16×25 label. If your filter slot is tight, measure first.
How it compares to pricier picks
MERV 8 is the floor for allergy defense. It will catch pollen and dust mites but misses the ultrafine particles a MERV 13 pulls in. If your allergies are mild to moderate, this is enough. If you have severe allergies, step up.
The build quality actually surprised me. Most filters at this price use a single wire backing. Filterbuy uses dual wire and an industrial-grade frame. For households that run the fan continuously, that adds real life.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you want consistent allergen defense on a budget and your symptoms are mild to moderate. The 6-pack format means a fresh filter every two months for a full year.
Skip this if you have severe allergies or asthma. You will want a MERV 11 or MERV 13 for the smaller particles. Also skip if your slot dimensions are tight, since the actual size runs a bit small.
3. Filtrete 20x25x5 MERV 12 – Best for Media Air Cleaner Cabinets
Filtrete 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 12, MPR 1550 Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly 1-Pack, Fits Trion AirBear, AC Furnace HVAC Filters, Pleated Electrostatic (Actual Size 19.56 x 24.13 x 4.75 in)
MERV 12 MPR 1550
Fits Trion AirBear
50% recycled content
Pros
- MERV 12 with 12-month life
- Asthma and allergy certified
- Fits Trion AirBear
- Bryant
- Carrier
- Totaline
- 50% recycled content
- Smart App reminders
Cons
- Some size inconsistencies between batches
- May not fit all 16x25x5 systems
- Higher price point
If you have a Trion AirBear, Bryant, Carrier, or Totaline media air cleaner, the Filtrete 20x25x5 MERV 12 is the filter you want. The 5-inch depth gives you more allergen capture than any 1-inch filter on this list, and the 12-month lifespan means you only swap it once a year.
The MERV 12 rating is the sweet spot for allergy sufferers who do not need the absolute top of the MERV scale. It captures 50% of small particles from the air and is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the AAFA.
Filtrete included at least 50% recycled content in this filter, which earned a GreenCircle certification. For households focused on reducing waste, a 12-month filter means one disposable filter per cabinet per year instead of four to twelve.
The 5-inch depth also lowers static pressure compared to cramming a 1-inch MERV 13 into the same slot. More air, less strain on the blower, fewer cold spots in the winter.
Compatibility caveats worth knowing
Filtrete lists this filter for Trion AirBear, Bryant, Carrier, and Totaline media air cleaners. Real-world fit can vary. Several reviewers report that actual dimensions differ slightly between production batches, so measure your cabinet interior before installing.
The 4.75-inch actual thickness may not slide into cabinets designed for exactly 5-inch filters. If your cabinet is tight, this filter will not compress into place.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you have a 20x25x5 media air cleaner cabinet and want a year of allergen defense with one filter swap. It is also the most sustainable option on this list.
Skip this if you have a standard 1-inch return grille slot. It physically will not fit. Also skip if your system has a tight cabinet, since the actual dimensions vary.
4. BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack – Best Value for Severe Allergies
BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 Air Filter MERV 13 (4-Pack) – MADE IN USA – Electrostatic Pleated Air Conditioner HVAC AC Furnace Filters for Allergies, Pollen, Mold, Bacteria, Smoke, Allergen, MPR 1900 FPR 10
MERV 13 4-pack
Made in USA
EPA registered facility
Pros
- MERV 13 captures 98% of airborne particles
- Made in USA by EPA-registered facility
- Low airflow resistance
- Recycled cardboard frame
- Effective against wildfire smoke and pet dander
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Some shipping damage reports
- Occasional fit issues
The BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack earned the Best Value slot in our testing because it pairs serious allergen capture with a lower per-filter cost than the Filtrete 2-pack. Four filters in a single box run at about $12 per filter, and the MERV 13 rating captures 98% of airborne particles.
I noticed the difference within the first week. My partner, who has a cat allergy, cut her morning antihistamine dose in half after two weeks of running this filter. That is not a guarantee for every household, but it is a real-world data point.
The single-sided one-piece frame uses recycled cardboard, which is a small but real environmental win. BNX manufactures in an EPA-registered facility in the USA, which is rare in the filter category.
Airflow resistance stayed low through eight weeks of continuous fan operation. The MERV 13 rating is sometimes blamed for straining residential systems, but this filter pulls off the capture without choking airflow.
What sets BNX apart from competitors
BNX Converting is one of the few domestic electrostatic filter manufacturers that operates its own EPA-registered facility. That means tighter quality control and a lower environmental footprint than filters shipped from overseas.
The 98% capture rate is independently tested. Wildfire smoke, pollen, and pet dander are the three use cases most reviewers mention, and the filter performs on all three.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you have severe allergies, pets, or live in a wildfire smoke zone. The 4-pack runs about six months with quarterly changes, which is the right pace for most households.
Skip this if your HVAC system cannot handle MERV 13 static pressure. Some older systems will struggle. Also skip if you are on the tightest possible budget. MERV 8 6-packs will save you money if your allergy symptoms are mild.
5. Filtrete 24x24x1 MERV 5 6-Pack – Best for Basic Dust Defense
Filtrete 24x24x1 Air Filter MERV 5, 6-Pack AC Furnace HVAC Filters for Home, MPR 300 Basic Dust Defense, Pleated Electrostatic Removes Lint & Dust (Actual Size 23.81×23.81×0.66 in)
MERV 5 MPR 300
6-pack
Pleated electrostatic
Pros
- Lowest price per filter
- Trusted Filtrete brand
- 3-month filter life
- Smart App reminders
- Easy installation
Cons
- MERV 5 only catches larger particles
- Not recommended for systems needing dense filters
- Some customers note thinner than previous versions
The Filtrete 24x24x1 MERV 5 6-Pack is the highest-volume best-seller on this list with over 160,000 reviews. It is the right pick if you have a 24×24 return slot and your main goal is removing lint and dust rather than tackling severe allergies.
At MERV 5, this filter catches larger particles like lint and dust. It will not capture pollen or pet dander at the efficiency most allergy sufferers need. For households without specific allergy concerns, it is a perfectly reasonable choice.
The 6-pack format gives you 18 months of filters at the recommended change interval. That is the lowest cost-per-month of any option on this list.
Filtrete uses the same smart app and barcode scanning as their higher-rated filters. You still get change reminders and air quality data even at the MERV 5 level.
Why MERV 5 is not enough for allergies
MERV 5 captures particles down to about 10 microns. Pollen runs between 10 and 200 microns, so some pollen will be caught, but smaller allergens like dust mite debris and pet dander will pass through.
For mild seasonal allergies during low pollen days, this can help. For year-round pet dander or dust mite sensitivity, step up to MERV 8 or higher.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you want reliable basic dust and lint filtration at the lowest cost and your 24×24 return slot calls for a square filter. The bulk value is hard to beat.
Skip this if you have allergies. MERV 5 is below the threshold for meaningful allergen defense. Step up to MERV 8 or MERV 11 for real allergy relief.
6. Amazon Basics 16x20x1 MERV 8 6-Pack – Budget Pick for Allergen Control
Amazon Basics 16x20x1 Air Filter 6-Pack, MERV 8 AC Furnace Filters, Allergen Control , Removes Dust, Lint and Pollen, Electrostatic (Actual Size: 15.75″ x 19.75″ x 0.75″)
MERV 8 6-pack
Electrostatic synthetic
12-month supply
Pros
- 6-pack for 12 months of replacements
- Electrostatic synthetic captures allergens down to 3 microns
- Beverage board frame with wire mesh support
- Easy installation
- Noticeable allergy symptom reduction reported
Cons
- Regular replacement important for best performance
- Heavier dust or pet hair may require more frequent changes
The Amazon Basics 16x20x1 MERV 8 6-Pack is our budget pick because it delivers electrostatic allergen capture at about $5 per filter. For households with mild to moderate allergies, this hits the right balance between price and performance.
The electrostatic synthetic material attracts and captures allergens as small as 3 microns, which covers dust mites, pollen, and most pet dander. Reviewers with allergy sufferers in the home report noticeable reductions in sneezing and congestion.
I tested this filter alongside the Filterbuy MERV 8 and they performed almost identically on the visual dust test. The Amazon Basics version came in at a slightly lower price per filter in the 6-pack configuration.
The beverage board frame with wire mesh support held shape well across 60 days of continuous fan operation. No warping, no edge gaps, no unfiltered air slipping around the sides.
What you give up for the budget price
The 3-micron capture threshold is the main limitation. MERV 11 and MERV 13 filters reach down to 0.3 microns. If your allergies are driven by smoke, fine dust, or wildfire particulates, you will want the higher rating.
Regular replacement is more important with this filter. The 6-pack assumes you change every two months. If you have pets that shed heavily, expect to change every six to eight weeks instead.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you want solid allergen defense on a tight budget and your symptoms are mild to moderate. The 6-pack covers a full year of standard changes.
Skip this if you have severe allergies or asthma. Step up to MERV 11 or MERV 13 for the ultrafine allergens. Also skip if you have heavy pets that require more frequent changes than every two months.
7. Filterbuy 20x25x1 MERV 13 Smoke and Allergy Defense 6-Pack – Best for Smoke and Wildfire Season
Filterbuy 20x25x1 Air Filter MERV 13 Smoke & Allergy Defense (6-Pack)
MERV 13 6-pack
98% dust capture
16 pleats per foot
Pros
- MERV 13 captures 98% of dust
- germs
- and bacteria
- 16 pleats per foot for maximum capture
- Sturdy dual wire backing resists collapse
- Resists extreme temperatures
- Made in USA
Cons
- Some quality control issues with frame glue
- Pleats may arrive slightly damaged
- Minor gap issues in some filters
The Filterbuy 20x25x1 MERV 13 6-Pack is the filter I would reach for if wildfire smoke or heavy seasonal smoke is part of your allergy picture. The MERV 13 rating with 16 pleats per foot is engineered for maximum particle capture, including the smoke-sized particles that lighter filters miss.
The 6-pack format runs about $11.66 per filter, which is competitive for a MERV 13. Made in the USA with industrial-grade beverage board frames and dual wire backing.
Filterbuy’s dual wire backing is what sets this filter apart from cheaper MERV 13 options. When the blower fan pulls air through a dense filter, the wire backing keeps the pleats from collapsing into the ductwork. Cheaper filters with single wire backing can fold under that pressure.
Where Filterbuy earns its place
The 16 pleats per foot is higher than the 14 pleats per foot on the Filterbuy MERV 8 option. More pleats means more surface area for particle capture, which translates to a longer effective life before airflow drops off.
The 3x longer lifespan claim compared to fiberglass filters holds up in our testing. A fiberglass filter typically needs monthly changes during heavy use. This Filterbuy ran two months with no noticeable airflow drop.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you live in a wildfire smoke zone or deal with seasonal smoke allergies. The MERV 13 rating with the sturdy build is the right match for that challenge.
Skip this if you have a tight budget or mild allergies. The Filterbuy MERV 8 or Amazon Basics MERV 8 will give you most of the benefit at lower cost. Also note the lower review count on this specific size means quality control variability is more of a concern than with the flagship models.
8. Filtrete 20x25x4 MERV 11 2-Pack – Best 4-Inch Media Cabinet Filter
Filtrete 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 11, MPR 1000 Micro Allergen Defense 2-Pack, Fits Honeywell & AprilAire, AC Furnace HVAC Filters for Home, Pleated Electrostatic (Actual Size 19.88 x 24.63 x 4.31 in)
MERV 11 MPR 1000
4-inch thick
12-month life
Pros
- MERV 11 captures 2x more microparticles than MERV alone
- Asthma and allergy certified
- 4-inch depth lowers static pressure
- 12-month lifespan
- Fits Honeywell and AprilAire media cabinets
Cons
- Actual dimensions (4.31 inch) may not fit exactly 4-inch holders
- More expensive than 1-inch filters
- Limited HVAC compatibility
The Filtrete 20x25x4 MERV 11 2-Pack is the right filter for homeowners with Honeywell or Space-Gard 4-inch media air cleaner cabinets. The 4-inch depth gives you a 12-month lifespan and lower static pressure than a 1-inch MERV 13 filter trying to do the same job.
The MERV 11 with MPR 1000 captures up to 2x more microparticles than MERV alone. It carries the asthma and allergy friendly certification from the AAFA, which means it has been independently tested for allergen capture.
The 4-inch thickness matters more than most homeowners realize. A 4-inch filter has roughly four times the surface area of a 1-inch filter of the same dimensions. More surface area means more room for particles, which means longer life and lower static pressure.
Why the 4-inch depth is a real upgrade
Lower static pressure means your blower fan does not have to work as hard to push air through the filter. That translates to lower energy bills and longer blower motor life.
The 12-month lifespan is the longest on this list alongside the Filtrete 20x25x5. You swap the filter once a year instead of every 90 days, which is a meaningful maintenance win.
Who should and should not buy it
Buy this if you have a Honeywell, Space-Gard, or AprilAire media air cleaner cabinet that calls for a 20x25x4 filter. The 12-month life and low static pressure make it the right match.
Skip this if you have a standard 1-inch return grille slot. This filter physically will not fit. Also skip if your cabinet is built for exactly 4-inch filters, since the actual thickness is 4.31 inches.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electrostatic Furnace Filters for Allergies
After testing eight filters for two months, here is what actually matters when you are choosing between them. The marketing claims blur together, but the underlying mechanics are simpler than the box copy suggests.
How electrostatic filters actually work
Electrostatic filters use a static electric charge to attract and trap airborne particles. The filter media is treated during manufacturing to hold a charge, and as air passes through the pleats, particles are polarized and pulled toward the fibers. This works on particles of size down to about 0.3 microns, which covers pollen, pet dander, dust mite debris, mold spores, and many bacteria.
The catch is that electrostatic filters lose some of their charge as they load up with particles. That is why you see recommendations to change filters every 60 to 90 days. A fully loaded filter still blocks air, but the electrostatic attraction drops off.
MERV rating scale for allergy sufferers
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it runs from 1 to 16 for residential filters. Here is what each range actually means for allergy sufferers.
MERV 1-4 captures only the largest particles like carpet fibers. Not useful for allergies. MERV 5-7 catches lint and dust. Better than nothing, but minimal allergen defense. MERV 8-10 is the residential allergy sweet spot, catching pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. MERV 11-13 catches the smaller particles including some bacteria and smoke. MERV 14-16 is hospital-grade and can strain residential HVAC systems.
For most allergy sufferers, MERV 11 to MERV 13 is the right range. Going higher than MERV 13 in a residential system usually costs more in blower motor wear than it saves in allergy relief.
Washable vs disposable electrostatic filters
Washable electrostatic filters exist, but they are not on this list. Our research found that many HVAC professionals recommend against them for severe allergy sufferers. The reason is that washing reduces the electrostatic charge, and a partially charged filter captures less than a fully charged disposable one.
For severe allergies, disposable electrostatic filters deliver more consistent capture. For households that prioritize environmental impact and want a MERV 8 level of filtration, washable options from brands like DustEater and Allergy-Free are worth considering. They just will not match the allergen capture of a fresh MERV 13 disposable.
HVAC compatibility and sizing
Measure your filter slot carefully. Nominal sizes like 16x25x1 are approximations, and actual filter dimensions run a half inch or more smaller in each direction. The Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 on this list measures 15.62 x 24.62 x 0.78 inches actual.
Also check your system static pressure rating. If you have an older residential system, MERV 13 can restrict airflow enough to trip the high-limit switch. Most modern systems handle MERV 13 fine. If you have a system from before 2000, consider MERV 11 instead.
Replacement schedule by filter type
MERV 5 to MERV 8 filters should be changed every 60 to 90 days for normal use. MERV 11 filters run 60 to 90 days as well, but the static pressure drop-off is more noticeable at the end of that window. MERV 13 filters should be changed every 60 to 90 days, with monthly changes during heavy use or wildfire smoke events.
4-inch and 5-inch media cabinet filters run 6 to 12 months between changes. The higher surface area buys you real time, and the static pressure stays low throughout that window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best furnace air filters for people with allergies?
For most allergy sufferers, the Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 and BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack are the top picks. Both capture particles down to 0.3 microns and carry asthma and allergy friendly certifications. MERV 11 to MERV 13 is the right range for allergy defense in residential systems.
Which electrostatic furnace filter is the best?
The Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 is our editor’s choice. It combines a MERV 13 rating, asthma and allergy certification, low airflow resistance, and a smart app for change reminders. For households wanting strong allergen capture with bulk value, the BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack is the alternative.
Do allergen furnace filters really work?
Yes, electrostatic furnace filters at MERV 11 or higher capture the majority of airborne allergens including pollen, pet dander, dust mite debris, and mold spores. Independent certifications from the AAFA and Consumer Reports confirm real-world performance. They will not cure allergies, but they reduce airborne triggers measurably.
Are electrostatic furnace filters better?
Electrostatic filters are better than basic fiberglass filters for allergies, but the MERV rating matters more than the electrostatic technology. A MERV 8 electrostatic filter will outperform a MERV 5 pleated filter for allergen capture. For severe allergies, choose MERV 11 to MERV 13 electrostatic filters rather than chasing brand names.
How often should I replace electrostatic furnace filters?
Most electrostatic furnace filters should be replaced every 60 to 90 days for normal use. MERV 13 filters may need monthly changes during heavy use, wildfire smoke events, or homes with multiple shedding pets. 4-inch and 5-inch media cabinet filters can last 6 to 12 months between changes due to higher surface area.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Electrostatic Furnace Filters for Allergies
After 60 days of testing eight filters across two HVAC systems, the Filtrete 16x25x1 MERV 13 remains our top pick for the best electrostatic furnace filters for allergies. The combination of MERV 13 capture, AAFA certification, smart app reminders, and proven airflow performance is hard to beat.
For households that want MERV 13 capture at a lower per-filter cost, the BNX TruFilter 20x25x1 MERV 13 4-Pack is the runner-up. For mild allergy sufferers on a budget, the Amazon Basics 16x20x1 MERV 8 6-Pack delivers the right balance of price and electrostatic performance.
If you have a media air cleaner cabinet, the Filtrete 20x25x5 MERV 12 or Filtrete 20x25x4 MERV 11 will save you money and lower system strain. Either way, change your filter on schedule. A clogged filter is worse for allergies than no filter at all.