Pleated Filters Market Size, Share Industry Trends by 2031

Pleated Filters Market Size - Analysis

The pleated filters market is estimated to be valued at USD 14.11 Billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 19.20 Billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% from 2025 to 2032. The key trend in the pleated filters market has been the shift towards higher efficiency filters that can capture smaller particulates like PM2.5 emissions.

Market Size in USD Bn

CAGR4.5%

Study Period	2025-2032
Base Year of Estimation	2024
CAGR	4.5%
Market Concentration	High
Major Players	Donaldson Company, Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation, 3M Company, Camfil AB, Freudenberg Filtration Technologies SE & Co. KG and Among Others

*Disclaimer: Major players are listed in no particular order.

*Source: Coherent Market Insights

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Pleated Filters Market Trends

Market Driver - Increasing Pollution and Related Health Concerns Drive Demand for Air Filtration

Rising vehicular and industrial emissions have degraded outdoor air quality in many urban locations. Additionally, indoor activities like smoking, use of chemical cleaners, furnishings, building materials etc. also contribute to the poor indoor environment. Growing public awareness about short- and long-term health impacts have made people seriously consider ways to protect themselves and their families from polluted indoor air.

Manufacturers of air purifiers and air filters have recognized this consumer need and are offering a wide variety of products targeting both residential and commercial HVAC applications. Among them, pleated filters have become immensely popular as they offer the dual benefits of high filtration ability and long usable lifespan. Their accordion-like structure provides a large surface area to effectively catch most airborne pollutants before they escape back into the occupied space.

Additionally, their longer lifespan means less frequent replacement and lower operating costs for users. These advantages have driven strong growth for pleated filters market across the globe.

Market Driver - Awareness of Environmental Concerns

In the past decade, environmental sustainability has emerged as an important issue raising consciousness among people worldwide. The indoor air quality segment has also witnessed a parallel shift towards green solutions.

Pleated filters producing less landfill waste by virtue of their extended use compared to disposable filters, have gained traction among environmentally conscious buyers. Some manufacturers have introduced pleated filter models made of recycled plastics, reducing reliance on raw materials, and emissions from their production. The growing inclination towards sustainable consumption has empowered discerning customers to adopt such eco-friendly options available in the pleated filters market.

At the same time, companies too are aligning their business strategies and marketing communication to showcase environmental commitments. They promote green attributes of their products as a unique selling point attracting socially responsible target segments. Overall, the rising tide of ecological awareness amongst public as well as industry players has encouraged expansion of sustainable yet highly effective pleated filter offerings, thus powering pleated filters market growth.

Pleated Filters Market Key Factors

Market Challenge - High Costs of Pleated Filters May Restrict Adoption in Moderately Polluted Regions

One of the major challenges the pleated filters market faces is the high costs associated with these filters, which may restrict their adoption in moderately polluted regions. Pleated filters are generally more expensive than basic flat panel filters. This helps pleated filters filter smaller particles from the air compared to basic filters.

However, for applications in areas or regions where the air pollution level is moderate as opposed to severely polluted cities, the return on investment from using expensive pleated filters may not seem worthwhile. Buildings and facilities located in such locations might hesitate in investing in a higher upfront cost for pleated filters. This could deter the overall sales numbers for pleated filters, particularly in moderately polluted parts of the world.

Manufacturers in the pleated filters market will need to focus on value engineering. Cost optimization strategies can also make pleated filters more affordable without compromising on their filtration performance, which can help boost their adoption.

Market Opportunity - Advancements in eco-friendly filtration materials and biodegradable options for market

One key opportunity area for the continued growth of the pleated filters market is the advancement in eco-friendly and sustainable filtration materials. With growing environmental awareness, companies are increasingly focused on producing pleated filters with materials that have lower carbon footprint.

Some manufacturers in the pleated filters market have already started optimizing their designs and sourcing renewable or biodegradable materials for filter construction. This includes the use of plant-based non-woven substrates, bio-plastic frames, and natural polymers for separators and sealers instead of petroleum-based alternatives.

There is also ongoing research on biodegradable nanofiber membranes and all-natural media to capture pollutants. The availability of such environment-friendly options is expected to appeal to a wider customer base. It can also enable improved marketing positioning for brands as well as help address concerns around proper filter waste management. Further advancements in this area are likely to open up new growth prospects for pleated filter market players over the long run.

Key winning strategies adopted by key players of Pleated Filters Market

- Focus on Innovation and Product Development: Leading players like 3M, Parker-Hannifin, and Donaldson Company have consistently invested in R&D to develop innovative pleated filter products. For example, in 2018 3M launched their new line of 3M Ecotherm pleated filters which have reduced energy costs by up to 40%.

- Strategic Acquisitions: Acquisitions have been a major strategy for companies to expand their portfolio and capabilities.

- Expansion in Emerging Markets: Donaldson opened a new factory in China in 2018 to cater to the growing Chinese market.

- Focus on Customer Service and Technical Support: Industry leaders provide superior customer service, employ field engineers for application support and offer on-site training.

- Strategic Partnerships: In 2014, Parker Hannifin partnered with Caterpillar to supply precision-engineered filters, gaining a strong foothold in the construction equipment market.

Segmental Analysis of Pleated Filters Market

Pleated Filters Market By Segment Type

Insights, By Product: Air Quality Demands Drive Air Filter Dominance

In terms of product, air filters contribute 51% share of the pleated filters market in 2025, owning to increased focus on indoor air quality. As buildings become more energy efficient with tighter envelopes, indoor pollutants can become trapped without proper ventilation and filtering.

The HVAC industry has responded with more sophisticated air filtration options to address the various sources of indoor air pollutants. Pleated filters are a popular choice thanks to their ability to catch ultrafine particles down to 0.3 microns while maintaining reasonable airflow resistance.

In homes, pleated air filters are commonly used in forced air furnace and central air conditioning systems. Tighter home construction practices have increased awareness that indoor air must be actively filtered. In commercial buildings, demand for pleated air filters is growing as stricter indoor air quality standards require capture of both large and fine airborne particles. This is expected to drive upcoming trends in the pleated filters market.

Insights, By Application: Filtration Needs in Food & Beverage Industry Drive Market Share

In terms of application, food & beverage applications contribute 30% share of the pleated filters market in 2025, due to strict requirements for particulate control. Food and beverage manufacturing have very low tolerance for contaminants, as they can compromise product safety, quality and shelf life.

Within food and beverage, dairy and protein industries rely heavily on pleated filters for micro-filtration capabilities. They are used for pasteurization, aseptic packaging, and filling processes where tiny contaminants could cause spoilage or health issues. Beverage manufacturers also depend on pleated filters for clarification and purification of liquids prior to packaging.

As consumer health awareness grows, so does demand for clearly-filtered products free of particulates. Pleated filter versatility across industries ensures they remain a preferred micro-filtration solution for quality assurance and compliance in food and beverage manufacturing.

Insights, By Material: Growing Emphasis on Filtration Boosts Pleated Polyester Sales

In terms of material, polyester dominates the pleated filters market owing to its ideal combination of physical properties for particulate filtration applications. As industries and consumers emphasize controls on air and liquid quality more strongly, polyester pleated filters are the preferred solution.

Polyester filter media excels at particle capture down to sub-micron levels without becoming restricted prematurely. Its interwoven fiber structure allows airflow while trapping contaminants within its depth. The structural properties of polyester mesh also make it well-suited to pleating.

Reliable filtration is required across applications like process machinery, medical devices, semiconductors and more. Pleated polyester filters meet specifications while controlling costs relative to other media. Their dominance in the marketplace reflects how polyester balance of physical traits uniquely suits the needs of precision filtration in both industrial and consumer applications.

Additional Insights of Pleated Filters Market

Asia Pacific led the pleated filters market with a 49% share in 2023, attributed to rising incomes and improved living standards.
Pleated filters play a critical role in air conditioners and purifiers, capturing dust particles, allergens, and pollutants, essential in highly polluted regions like Northern India.
The significant use of pleated filters in HVAC systems increases operational efficiency, reducing debris accumulation that could affect device performance.
Adoption of pleated filters in automotive air intake systems to enhance engine efficiency.
Use of pleated filters in industrial settings to comply with environmental standards.

Competitive overview of Pleated Filters Market

The major players operating in the pleated filters market include Donaldson Company, Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation, 3M Company, Camfil AB, Freudenberg Filtration Technologies SE & Co. KG, Mann+Hummel Group, AAF International, Koch Filter Corporation, Filtration Group Corporation, Nordic Air Filtration, Donaldson Company, Inc., SUEZ SA, Honeywell International Inc., and Siemens Limited.

Pleated Filters Market Leaders

Donaldson Company, Inc.
Parker Hannifin Corporation
3M Company
Camfil AB
Freudenberg Filtration Technologies SE & Co. KG

*Disclaimer: Major players are listed in no particular order.

Pleated Filters Market - Competitive Rivalry

Pleated Filters Market

Market Consolidated
(Dominated by major players)

Market Fragmented
(Highly competitive with lots of players.)

*Source: Coherent Market Insights

Recent Developments in Pleated Filters Market

In November 2024, Parker Hannifin completed the sale of its North American Composites and Fuel Containment Division to SK Capital Partners.
In June 2023, Donaldson Company, Inc. launched a new line of high-efficiency pleated filters targeting the HVAC industry, aiming to improve air quality and reduce energy consumption.
In May 2023, Dyson announced the Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Formaldehyde, engineered to purify large spaces up to 100 square meters (approximately 1,076 square feet). This purifier features a 10-meter projection range, delivering powerful and wide-ranging airflow while operating quietly.

Pleated Filters Market Report - Table of Contents

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES AND ASSUMPTIONS
- Research Objectives
- Assumptions
- Abbreviations
MARKET PURVIEW
- Report Description
  - Market Definition and Scope
- Executive Summary
  - Pleated Filters Market, By Product
  - Pleated Filters Market, By Application
  - Pleated Filters Market, By Material
  - Pleated Filters Market, By End User
- Coherent Opportunity Map (COM)
MARKET DYNAMICS, REGULATIONS, AND TRENDS ANALYSIS
- Market Dynamics
- Impact Analysis
- Key Highlights
- Regulatory Scenario
- Product Launches/Approvals
- PEST Analysis
- PORTER’s Analysis
- Merger and Acquisition Scenario
Global Pleated Filters Market, By Product, 2025-2032, (USD Bn)
- Introduction
  - Market Share Analysis, 2025-2032 (%)
  - Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2021 - 2032
  - Segment Trends
- Air Filters
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Food & Beverage Filter
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Oil Filters
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Other Filters
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
Global Pleated Filters Market, By Application, 2025-2032, (USD Bn)
- Introduction
  - Market Share Analysis, 2025-2032 (%)
  - Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2021 - 2032
  - Segment Trends
- HVAC Systems
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Automotive
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Industrial Filtration
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Water Treatment
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Pharmaceuticals
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
Global Pleated Filters Market, By Material, 2025-2032, (USD Bn)
- Introduction
  - Market Share Analysis, 2025-2032 (%)
  - Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2021 - 2032
  - Segment Trends
- Polyester
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Polypropylene
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Cellulose
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Cotton
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
Global Pleated Filters Market, By End User, 2025-2032, (USD Bn)
- Introduction
  - Market Share Analysis, 2025-2032 (%)
  - Y-o-Y Growth Analysis, 2021 - 2032
  - Segment Trends
- Residential
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Commercial
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
- Industrial
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, and Y-o-Y Growth, 2020-2032, (USD Bn)
Global Pleated Filters Market, By Region, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
- Introduction
  - Market Share (%) Analysis, 2025 ,2028 & 2032 , Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Y-o-Y Growth Analysis (%), 2021 - 2032 , Value (USD Bn)
  - Regional Trends
- North America
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - U.S.
    - Canada
- Latin America
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - Brazil
    - Argentina
    - Mexico
    - Rest of Latin America
- Europe
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - Germany
    - U.K.
    - Spain
    - France
    - Italy
    - Russia
    - Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - China
    - India
    - Japan
    - Australia
    - South Korea
    - ASEAN
    - Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - GCC Countries
    - Israel
    - Rest of Middle East
- Africa
  - Introduction
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Product, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Application, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By Material, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
  - Market Size and Forecast, By End User, 2020-2032, Value (USD Bn)
    - South Africa
    - North Africa
    - Central Africa
COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- Donaldson Company, Inc.
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Parker Hannifin Corporation
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- 3M Company
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Camfil AB
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Freudenberg Filtration Technologies SE & Co. KG
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Mann+Hummel Group
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- AAF International
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Koch Filter Corporation
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Filtration Group Corporation
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Nordic Air Filtration
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Donaldson Company, Inc.
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- SUEZ SA
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Honeywell International Inc.
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
- Siemens Limited
  - Company Highlights
  - Product Portfolio
  - Key Developments
  - Financial Performance
  - Strategies
Analyst Recommendations
- Wheel of Fortune
- Analyst View
- Coherent Opportunity Map
References and Research Methodology
- References
- Research Methodology
- About us

Pleated Filters Market Segmentation

By Product
- Air Filters
- Food & Beverage Filter
- Oil Filters
- Other Filters
By Application
- HVAC Systems
- Automotive
- Industrial Filtration
- Water Treatment
- Pharmaceuticals
By Material
- Polyester
- Polypropylene
- Cellulose
- Cotton
By End User
- Residential
- Commercial
- Industrial

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About author

Yash Doshi is a Senior Management Consultant. He has 12+ years of experience in conducting research and handling consulting projects across verticals in APAC, EMEA, and the Americas.

He brings strong acumen in helping chemical companies navigate complex challenges and identify growth opportunities. He has deep expertise across the chemicals value chain, including commodity, specialty and fine chemicals, plastics and polymers, and petrochemicals. Yash is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences and contributes to various publications on topics related commodity, specialty and fine chemicals, plastics and polymers, and petrochemicals.

Frequently Asked Questions :

How big is the pleated filters market?

The pleated filters market is estimated to be valued at USD 14.11 Billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 19.20 Billion by 2032.

What are the key factors hampering the growth of the pleated filters market?

High costs of pleated filters may restrict adoption in moderately polluted regions. Moreover, limited durability, leading to frequent replacements in highly polluted areas, is one of the major factors hampering the growth of the pleated filters market.

What are the major factors driving the pleated filters market growth?

Increasing pollution and related health concerns drive demand for air filtration. Additionally, increasing awareness of environmental concerns spurs growth in eco-friendly pleated filter options. These are the major factors driving the pleated filters market.

Which is the leading product in the pleated filters market?

The leading product segment is air filters.

Which are the major players operating in the pleated filters market?

Donaldson Company, Inc., Parker Hannifin Corporation, 3M Company, Camfil AB, Freudenberg Filtration Technologies SE & Co. KG, Mann+Hummel Group, AAF International, Koch Filter Corporation, Filtration Group Corporation, Nordic Air Filtration, Donaldson Company, Inc., SUEZ SA, Honeywell International Inc., and Siemens Limited are the major players.

What will be the CAGR of the pleated filters market?

The CAGR of the pleated filters market is projected to be 4.5% from 2025-2032.