K&N filter oil?

I got a K&N sri filter for my 95 civic hatch. Is the oil really necessary? I mean, I can stick my shower head inside of my air filter and spray out the dirt and what not. What does the "recharger kit" actually do? and could I spray some cooking oil on it with the same effect? That stuff is kinda pricey.

First of all...don't spray the filter. You will screw it up and dirt will get inside your engine. You might as well take a pen and poke holes in it.

The dirt collects on the original oil on the filter. Water won't remove the oil and dirt accumulation but will remove the excess dust/dirt. You need to clean off the old and dirty oil.

You spray the filter with the cleaner on both sides and let it sit for a few minutes. Then you rinse it off under low water pressure because the filter is cloth and weakens under water and high pressure could rip it. Let it dry overnight. It's best cleaned in the evening when you know you're not going to be driving until the next day. Spray the oil on the filter and place it back in your car.

If you look at the costs, 3 Purolators are the cost of a single K&N filter and cleaning kit. The cleaning kit will last you about 20 cleanings. Not including your gas savings from it. It's worth taking care of it.