filter element 490 and out of the final filter 60 i e through the airflow openings 460 which direct the air laterally outward the airflow openings 460 are defined along the sidewalls 410 and 420 this is desirable particularly when the vacuum cleaner 10 is in a fully reclined position such that its upper housing and handle are angled downward and near the floor 2 the laterally oriented openings 460 direct the exiting air stream away from the floor 2 the extent of reclining may be such that the handle is approximately horizontal this orientation is useful so that the vacuum cleaner 10 has a low profile to thereby enable the vacuum cleaner to be used under furniture items and beds the separate and detachable final filter 60 offers additional advantages by using an external one piece final filter assembly there is no need for a separate housing or cover to house and protect the filter element furthermore by utilizing a curved configuration for the outer cover plate 400 of the final filter 60 exiting air is directed slightly upwards from the floor 2 when the vacuum cleaner is in a fully reclined position this further minimizes debris on the carpet from being blown with the air this is illustrated in fig7 the rear cover plate 400 further acts as a shield to protect the paper filter element 490 and further deaden noise in yet another embodiment some of the various laterally disposed airflow openings 460 located along both sides of the final filter 60 can be.