Older B&D vacuums have filters without slots in the bottom. These vacuum cleaners do not use a pre-filter. New vacuum cleaners come with a pre-filter. If you equip an old vacuum cleaner, you will not find filters without slots. New filters come with slots in the base for the pre-filter. The slots allow the pre-filter to snap onto the filter base. If you use slot filters without a pre-filter, dirt will enter through the slots and damage your vacuum cleaner. Pictures: 1. Slots visible in the filter2. Pre-filter not fully screwed in3. Built-in pre-filter