How to Build a Cheap DIY Air Scrubber for Your Workshop

This simple project can help filter out dangerous dust particles and improve air quality.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Building your own air scrubber from a few inexpensive components is a straightforward way to improve air quality in your workshop. This DIY project, which became popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, can capture fine dust particles that slip past other dust collection methods. A recent study showed these homemade scrubbers can reduce fine particle concentrations by 56 to 91 percent.

Why it matters

Exposure to fine dust particles in a workshop setting can be hazardous to your health, leading to lung and respiratory issues over time. This low-cost air scrubber provides an extra layer of protection beyond standard dust collection systems, helping workshop workers breathe easier and safer.

The details

To build the air scrubber, you'll need four MERV 13 furnace filters, a box fan, cardboard, duct tape, a nail, and string. Assemble the filters into a cube, tape the cardboard base and fan in place, and add a circular cardboard guide to direct the airflow. Place the scrubber near your work area, plug it in, and run it at the desired fan speed to continuously filter the air.

  • In 2022, a University of Connecticut study found these DIY air scrubbers can reduce fine particle concentrations by 56 to 91 percent.
  • The air scrubber concept became popular during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 as people sought ways to improve indoor air quality.

The players

Paul Smith

A former NYC ironworker turned screenwriter and home renovation specialist who lives in a farmhouse in Stockton, New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“This is not a silver bullet for dust collection and mitigation. I can't stress that enough. But as a low-cost add-on, it can meaningfully improve the atmosphere in your shop or jobsite, especially when you're generating (and breathing in) dangerous dust all day long.”

— Paul Smith, Test Editor (PopularMechanics.com)

What’s next

The article does not mention any specific next steps or future newsworthy events related to this DIY air scrubber project.

The takeaway

This simple and inexpensive DIY air scrubber project can be an effective way for workshop workers to improve the air quality in their workspace and protect themselves from the health risks of fine dust particles, providing an extra layer of protection beyond standard dust collection methods.