Conformal filter cartridges, filtering apparatus using the conformal filter cartridges, and methods of manufacturing the conformal filter cartridges are disclosed. The conformal filter cartridges may include a bed of filter material between a pair of support plates, wherein the major surfaces of the support plates facing the bed of filter material are each curved about at least one axis. The curvature imparted by the support plates provides the conformal configuration to the filter cartridge. The bed of filter material may be loose particulate filter material that may be retained under residual compression between the support plates within the filter cartridge.