If your Dyson vacuum seems to have lost its suction power, the first thing you should check is the filter. Knowing how to clean filter on a dyson vacuum is a simple but essential skill for any Dyson owner. A clogged or dirty filter is the most common cause of poor performance, and regular cleaning will keep your machine running strong for years. This guide will walk you through every step, for every model, safely and effectively.
We’ll cover how to find your filter, the right way to wash and dry it, and how often you should be doing this maintenance. We’ll also clear up some common mistakes people make that can actually damage there vacuum. Let’s get started.
How To Clean Filter On A Dyson Vacuum
This is the core process for most modern Dyson vacuums, including cordless stick models and many uprights. The key is to use only cold water and allow for a full, natural dry—never use heat or detergents.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions
- Turn Off and Unplug: Always ensure your vacuum is completely powered down and disconnected from any charger or outlet before you begin.
- Locate and Remove the Filter: The filter’s location varies by model. Common places include:
- Behind the clear bin on stick models (like the V series).
- On top of the cyclone assembly, under a cap, on upright models (like the Ball series).
- Check your user manual if your unsure. The filter is usually a purple or blue cylinder made of pleated fabric.
- Tap Out Loose Dirt: Gently tap the filter against the inside of your trash can to dislodge any dry, surface-level dust and debris. Do this outside if possible to avoid a mess.
- Rinse Under Cold Water: Hold your filter under a gentle stream of cold tap water. Rinse the outside of the pleats first, then the inside. Continue until the water runs completely clear. This is the most important step for a thorough clean.
- Do NOT Use Soap or Detergents: Never add any cleaning chemicals, solvents, or washing up liquid. These can damage the filter material and leave a residue that affects performance and could cause odors.
- Squeeze Out Excess Water: Gently press the water out of the filter with your hands. Avoid twisting or wringing it, as this can misshape the delicate material.
- Let It Dry Completely: This is non-negotiable. Place the filter in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heaters, or radiators. It must air dry for at least 24 hours. Drying it completely usually takes a full day, sometimes more.
- Check for Dampness: Before reinstalling, ensure the filter is 100% dry to the touch, inside and out. A damp filter will restrict airflow and can cause mold or mildew inside your machine.
- Reinstall Correctly: Once bone-dry, place the filter back into its housing, ensuring it’s seated properly and any seals are aligned. A filter that isn’t clicked in right can cause air leaks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Hot Water: Hot water can warp the filter’s plastic frame and damage the pleated material.
- Speeding Up Drying: Never put the filter in a dishwasher, microwave, tumble dryer, or oven. Do not use a hairdryer or place it on a heater. The intense heat will ruin it permanently.
- Putting It Back Wet: This is the biggest error. A wet filter drastically reduces suction and can lead to motor damage over time due to increased strain.
- Cleaning Too Infrequently: Waiting until the vacuum is weak means the motor has been working harder than it needs to. Stick to a schedule.
How Often Should You Clean the Filter?
Dyson recommends washing the filter at least once every month under normal use. If you vacuum frequently, have pets, or deal with fine dust like sawdust or plaster, you may need to clean it every two to three weeks. A good rule of thumb is to check it monthly and clean it whenever it looks visibly dirty or gray.
Signs Your Dyson Filter Needs Cleaning
- Noticeable loss of suction power.
- The vacuum feels hotter than usual during operation.
- You see dust escaping from the machine.
- The filter appears caked with gray or colored dust.
Identifying Your Dyson Filter Type
Not all Dyson filters are cleaned the same way. The main washable filter is the “post-motor” or “main” filter, which protects the motor from fine dust. Some models have a second, pre-motor filter.
Washable Filters (Most Common)
These are the purple or blue cylindrical filters found in most Dyson cord-free (V7, V8, V10, V11, V15), upright (Ball Animal, Cinetic), and canister models. They are always cleaned with cold water as described above.
HEPA Filters
Some models, especially those marketed for allergies, include a sealed HEPA filter. These are often also washable using the cold-water method, but you must verify in your manual. Never wash a HEPA filter that is not explicitly labeled as washable.
Pre-Motor Filters (Older Models)
Some older upright Dyson models have a rectangular, foam pre-motor filter located near the bin. This can usually be rinsed under cold water, squeezed out gently, and left to dry. Again, check your specific manual.
Deep Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Beyond the monthly filter wash, a few extra steps will keep your Dyson in top shape.
Cleaning the Cyclone and Bin
- Empty the bin after every use or when it reaches the “MAX” line.
- Periodically, detach the bin and cyclone assembly. Use a soft, dry brush (an old paintbrush works great) to gently dislodge dust from the cyclone shroud and inner grooves.
- You can rinse the clear bin with cold water, but make sure it and the cyclone are completely dry before reassembling.
Checking for Blockages
If suction is still poor after cleaning the filter, you likely have a blockage. Check these areas in order:
- The wand: Detach it and look through.
- The hose: Detach and flex it, or use a long, flexible object to clear it.
- The cleaner head: Remove any hair or string wrapped around the brush bar.
- The openings where the bin attaches.
Always disconnect power before checking for blockages.
When to Replace Your Dyson Filter
Even with perfect care, filters don’t last forever. The pleated material will eventually degrade. Replace your main filter every 12-18 months with regular cleaning, or sooner if you notice:
- It has an odd smell that won’t go away after washing and drying.
- The pleats are damaged, torn, or crumbling.
- Performance doesn’t improve after a proper clean and you’ve ruled out blockages.
Always use genuine Dyson replacement filters for the best fit and performance. Third-party filters may not capture fine dust as effectively.
Special Considerations for Different Models
Dyson Cordless Stick Vacuums
The process is very straightforward. The filter is typically right behind the clear bin. A common issue is not letting it dry long enough—give it a full 24 hours. Also, remember to remove the battery before starting any maintenance on cordless models, just to be safe.
Dyson Upright Vacuums (Ball Series, etc.)
On many uprights, the filter is under a purple or red cap on top of the cyclone. Twist the cap to unlock it. Some older models may have two filters (pre-motor and post-motor). Consult your manual to be sure you clean all of them.
Dyson Animal Models
These models often have the same filter system but may come with additional turbine tool for pet hair. The filter maintenance routine is identical, but you may need to clean it more frequently due to pet dander and hair.
Dyson Outsize and Detect Models
These newer cordless models have powerful suction and larger bins, but the filter care remains the same: cold water rinse and a full 24+ hour dry. The filter location is generally consistent with other V-series stick vacuums.
Troubleshooting After Cleaning
- No Suction After Cleaning: Did you let the filter dry completely? Is it seated correctly? Is there another blockage in the hose or wand?
- Vacuum Shuts Off During Use: A damp filter or a full bin can cause the motor to overheat and trigger a thermal cut-off. Let the machine cool for an hour, ensure the bin is empty and the filter is bone-dry.
- Strange Noise: Double-check that the filter and all other parts are clicked securely into place. A loose part can cause rattling.
- Dust Blowing Out: This almost always means the filter is not installed properly, is damaged, or is missing. Turn off the vacuum and check the filter housing immediatly.
FAQ Section
Can I wash my Dyson filter?
Yes, absolutely. The main filter in most Dyson vacuums is designed to be washed with cold water only. Just avoid soap and ensure it dries for at least 24 hours before using your vacuum again.
How do you clean a Dyson vacuum filter?
You clean it by removing it, tapping out loose dirt, rinsing it thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, gently squeezing out excess water, and then letting it air dry completely for a minimum of 24 hours before reinstalling.
What happens if you don’t clean your Dyson filter?
If you don’t clean it, airflow becomes restricted. This causes a significant loss of suction, makes your vacuum work much harder (which can lead to motor overheating and premature failure), and may allow fine dust to bypass the filter and be blown back into your home’s air.
Can I use warm water to clean my Dyson filter?
No, you should not. Dyson explicitly instructs to use cold water only. Warm or hot water can damage the delicate filter material and warp its plastic housing, ruining the filter.
How long does a Dyson filter take to dry?
A Dyson filter needs a full 24 hours to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. In humid environments, it may take longer. Never try to speed up the process with heat from a dryer, heater, or hairdryer.
Why does my Dyson smell after cleaning the filter?
A smell is usually caused by putting the filter back in while it was still damp. Moisture inside the machine can lead to mold or mildew growth. It can also happen if detergent was used. Always ensure 100% dryness and use only water.
Where is the filter on a Dyson?
The location varies. On cordless stick models, it’s usually behind the clear dust bin. On uprights, it’s often under a cap on top of the cyclone. Check your user manual for the exact location for your specific model number.
Keeping your Dyson’s filter clean is the simplest and most effective way to maintain its power and longevity. By following these steps—using only cold water, avoiding heat, and allowing for that crucial full dry—you’ll ensure your vacuum performs like new for every clean. Regular filter maintenance is a small task that makes a huge difference. Set a monthly reminder on your phone, and it will quickly become a easy habit.