the disclosure provides a filter for mounting in a vacuum cleaner , such as a wet and dry vacuum cleaner , having a seal at generally each end , and a corresponding mounting structure that focuses compressive sealing forces on specific seal components rather than the filter body as a whole . the sealing is directed primarily to portions of the seals on the filter ends that are compressed or “ pinched ” between adjacent surfaces . the concentrated compressive stress provides a well - defined region to consistently provide a sealing engagement . the compressive force can thereby remain relatively constant through multiple uses of the filter .