How Do You Clean Dyson Vacuum

Keeping your Dyson vacuum clean is essential for its performance and lifespan. If you’re wondering how do you clean dyson vacuum, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through every part, from the bin to the filter, in simple steps.

A clean vacuum works better and lasts longer. It maintains strong suction and keeps your home truly clean. Let’s get started with the basics you’ll need.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Gathering your supplies first makes the job easier. You won’t need special tools, just a few household items.

A soft, dry cloth or microfiber towel
Lukewarm water (never hot)
A small brush, like an old toothbrush or paintbrush
A pair of scissors for cutting tangled hair
A clean, dry surface to work on
A sink or bowl for washing parts

This main section covers the complete cleaning process. We’ll break it down by each major component of your machine.

Step 1: Safety First – Unplug Everything

Always, always disconnect your vacuum from the charger or wall outlet before cleaning. This is the most important step to avoid any risk of electric shock. Make sure it’s completely powered off.

Step 2: Emptying the Bin

You should do this after every use, or when the debris reaches the “MAX” fill line. Don’t let it overfill.

Hold your vacuum over a trash can.
Press the red bin release button or lever to detach the bin from the main body.
Carry the bin to the trash and press the bottom hatch release. The door will swing open and empty the contents.
Give it a gentle shake to dislodge any stuck dust or pet hair.

Step 3: Deep Cleaning the Clear Bin and Cyclone

Over time, fine dust clings to the inside of the clear bin and the cyclone shroud. This can reduce suction.

Remove the bin from the main body as in Step 2.
On most models, you can seperate the clear bin from the cyclone unit by pressing a seperate release catch. Check your manual if unsure.
Take the clear bin to a sink and rinse it with lukewarm water. Use your soft brush to scrub away stubborn dust. Never use detergent or soap, as residues can cause problems later.
Shake out excess water and let it air dry completely for at least 24 hours. It must be 100% dry before reassembly.
While the bin dries, use your dry brush to carefully dust the cyclone assembly. Remove any visible debris from the small holes and channels.

Step 4: Cleaning the Filter (The Most Important Step)

A clogged filter is the number one cause of lost suction in a Dyson. Most models have two filters: a pre-motor and a post-motor (HEPA) filter. You need to clean them regularly.

Check your manual: First, locate your filters. They are usually behind easy-access covers on the main body or near the bin.
Frequency: Dyson recommends washing filters every month under normal use.

Remove the filter(s) by twisting or pulling them out gently.
Hold the filter under a cold tap with the open side facing down. Run water through the filter until the water runs clear.
Gently squeeze the filter with your hands to remove dirty water. Do not twist or wring it, as this can damage the material.
Let the filter dry completely. This takes at least 24 hours, sometimes more. Never put a damp filter back in the vacuum or use a heater to dry it.

Remember, you must never use soap or detergent on the filters. And they must be completely dry before reinserting them. Putting in a wet filter can damage your machine.

Step 5: Clearing Brush Bar and Hair Wrap

Hair, string, and carpet fibers wrap around the brush bar, making it hard to spin. This happens alot with pet owners and long hair.

Lay the vacuum down so you can access the cleaner head.
Most Dyson cleaner heads have a removable plate. Flip it over and look for screws (sometimes coin-turn). Undo them to lift the cover.
Use your scissors to carefully cut through the hair and threads wrapped around the ends of the brush bar. Pull the debris away.
Manually spin the brush bar to check it moves freely. Remove any remaining dirt from inside the housing.
Replace the cover and secure it.

Step 6: Checking Hoses and Wand for Blockages

If suction still seems weak after cleaning the bin and filter, you might have a blockage.

Detach the hose from both the main body and the wand or cleaner head.
Look through it toward a light source to see if anything is stuck inside.
For the wand, detach it into its two halves if possible. Shake it gently or use a long, flexible object (like a broom handle) to push out any blockage. Be careful not to push it in deeper or scratch the interior.
You can also use the hose on your household vacuum to suck out debris from the Dyson hose.

Step 7: Wiping Down the Main Body and Attachments

Finish by giving the whole vacuum a good wipe. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the main body, handle, and all attachments. This removes fingerprints, dust, and keeps it looking new. Pay special attention to the crevices where dust collects.

Step 8: Full Reassembly and Test

Once every single part is bone dry, put your Dyson back together.

Insert the completely dry filter(s).
Click the clean bin and cyclone back onto the main body until it clicks securely.
Reattach the hose, wand, and cleaner head.
Plug it in and do a quick test on a small area of floor. Your suction should be noticeably stronger.

Maintenance Schedule Quick Reference

After every use: Empty the bin.
Every week: Check the brush bar for hair wrap and clear it.
Every month: Wash the filters (let dry 24+ hours). Deep clean the bin.
Every 6 months: Check hoses and wand for blockages. Give all attachments a detailed wipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some errors that can hurt your Dyson.

Using soap or chemicals: Water only for the bin and filters. Soap leaves a film that attracts more dirt.
Not drying parts fully: Moisture inside the machine can cause mold and motor damage.
Forgetting the filters: This is the most common maintenance slip. Set a monthly calendar reminder.
Using the vacuum without the filters: Never run the machine without its filters installed. This can let dust into the motor and ruin it.
Ignoring strange noises: A change in sound often indicates a blockage or a problem with the brush bar.

Troubleshooting Weak Suction

If your vacuum still isn’t picking up well after cleaning, run through this checklist.

Did you let the filters dry for a full 24 hours? A damp filter severely restricts airflow.
Is the bin assembled correctly and sealed? An improperly seated bin creates an air leak.
Did you check for a blockage in the hose, wand, or cleaner head? A small toy or large clump of dust can be hidden.
Is the brush bar spinning freely? If it’s jammed with hair, it won’t agitate the carpet.
Have you checked all pre-filter areas? Some models have a pre-filter mesh in the bin inlet that can get clogged.

Cleaning Specific Dyson Models

The core steps are the same for all, but locations vary slightly.

For Dyson Cordless Stick Vacuums (V7, V8, V10, V11, V15)

The process is very similar. The bin is usually smaller and empties from the bottom. The filter is often located near the top of the handle or behind the bin. The biggest tip for cordless models is to be extra careful with filter drying to protect the battery and motor.

For Dyson Upright Vacuums (Ball Animal, Cinetic)

These often have a larger bin and sometimes a “pre-motor” filter in addition to the main one. The brush bar release might be a different mechanism, like a slider on the side of the cleaner head. Refer to the manual for the specific latch.

For Dyson Canister Vacuums

The principles are identical. The bin is housed in the rolling canister unit. You’ll typically lift the top off to access the bin and filters. The hoses on canister models are longer, so they’re more prone to blockages from large objects.

When to Contact Dyson Support

Sometimes, you need professional help. Contact Dyson if:

You’ve followed all steps and suction is still very weak.
The motor makes a burning smell or a grinding noise.
The vacuum won’t turn on at all (check your outlet and charger first for cordless models).
There is visible damage to the main body, hose, or electrical parts.
You’ve lost a crucial part and need a genuine replacement.

FAQ Section

How often should I clean my Dyson vacuum filter?

You should wash the filters at least once a month. If you have pets or a dusty home, you might need to do it every two or three weeks. Let it dry for a full day before using.

Can I use washing-up liquid to clean the Dyson bin?

No, you should not use any soap or detergent. It can leave a residue that actually attracts dust and may damage plastic parts over time. Lukewarm water and a good scrub is all you need.

Why does my Dyson smell bad when I use it?

A bad smell usually comes from a dirty filter or dust in the bin that’s damp. Make sure you empty the bin regularly and wash the filters monthly. Also, ensure the bin and filters are 100% dry after washing. Running the vacuum over damp carpet can also cause odors.

Is it okay to rinse the cyclone part under water?

No, do not submerge the cyclone assembly or the main body of the vacuum. Only the clear bin and the filters are designed to be rinsed. The cyclone unit should be dusted with a dry brush.

How do I clean a Dyson vacuum brush roll?

First, remove the cleaner head from the vacuum. Then, remove the bottom plate to access the brush bar. Use scissors to carefully cut and remove any hair or strings wrapped around it. Clear out any debris in the housing before putting it back together.

Where is the filter on my Dyson?

The location varies by model. On stick vacuums, it’s often at the top near the handle. On uprights, it can be near the bin or on the back of the machine. Your quick-start guide that came with the vacuum will show you the exact spot. You can also find manuals online on Dyson’s website.

Following these steps will keep your Dyson running like new for years. Regular cleaning is a small task that prevents big problems. It ensures you always get the powerful clean you paid for. Just remember the golden rules: unplug first, use only water, and let everything dry completely.