How To Clean Dyson Animal Vacuum

If you own a Dyson Animal vacuum, you know it’s a powerhouse for pet hair and dirt. But to keep it performing like new, you need to know how to clean Dyson Animal vacuum models correctly. A well-maintained vacuum not only has better suction, it also lasts much longer. This guide will walk you through every part, from the bin to the brush bar, with simple steps anyone can follow.

Cleaning your entire vacuum might seem like a big task. But if you break it down into sections, it’s quite manageable. You should do a basic bin empty after every use. A more thorough clean of the filters and brush roll is needed about once a month. Let’s get started with the tools you’ll need.

What You’ll Need for Cleaning

Gathering a few simple items before you start makes the process smoother. You likely have most of these at home already.

A soft, dry cloth or microfiber towel
Cool to lukewarm water (never hot)
A small, soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great)
A pair of scissors for cutting tangled hair
A coin or the tool provided with your Dyson for opening the cyclone
A flat surface covered with newspaper or a towel

Step 1: Safety First & Unplugging

Always, always start by unplugging the vacuum from the wall outlet. This is the most important safety step. You’ll be handling electrical components and moving parts. Making sure the power is completely off prevents any accidents. It’s a simple habit that keeps you safe.

Step 2: Emptying the Clear Bin

This is the part you’ll do most often. Dyson’s bin-emptying system is designed to be mess-free, but technique helps.

Hold the vacuum over a trash can.
Press the red bin release button or lever to detach the bin from the main body.
Push the sliding door opener on the bin itself. The bottom will swing open, and debris will fall out.
Give the bin a gentle tap to dislodge any stuck dust or hair. Avoid banging it hard, as this can damage the plastic.

Dealing with a Clogged Bin

Sometimes, clumps of hair or debris get stuck. Never use sharp objects to poke inside. Instead, use your fingers or the handle of a wooden spoon to carefully loosen the material. If it’s really stubborn, you may need to wash the bin, which we’ll cover later.

Step 3: Washing the Bin and Cyclone

About once a month, the bin itself needs a wash. Dirt and fine dust can coat the inside and the cyclone, affecting performance.

Remove the bin from the main body as in Step 2.
Use your coin or the provided tool to turn the locking dial on top of the cyclone. Lift the cyclone assembly straight up and off the bin.
Rinse both the clear bin and the cyclone unit under cool running water. You can use a mild detergent if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals.
Use your soft brush to gently clean the small metal mesh screen on the cyclone. This is a common spot for fine dust to build up.
Shake off excess water and let every part air-dry completely for at least 24 hours. Do not reassemble while damp, and never use a hair dryer or heater.

Step 4: Cleaning the Filters

Dirty filters are the number one cause of loss of suction in any vacuum. Your Dyson Animal has two filters: a pre-motor filter and a post-motor filter (sometimes called HEPA). They both need regular cleaning.

Pre-Motor Filter

This filter protects the motor from dust. Its location varies by model (check your manual), but it’s often found near the bin or behind a cover on the ball.

Remove the filter according to your model’s instructions.
Gently tap it over a trash can to remove loose dust.
Rinse it under cool running water, squeezing it gently until the water runs clear. Do not twist or wring it.
Let it dry completely for at least 24 hours, just like the bin.

Post-Motor (HEPA) Filter

This filter catches the finest particles before air exits the vacuum.

Find it, usually at the back or top of the vacuum body.
Remove it and tap out loose dirt.
Rinse it thoroughly under cool water, again avoiding any twisting motion.
Allow it to dry for a full 24 hours. This filter takes the longest to dry.

Important: Never put filters back in wet, and never use soap or detergent on them. Just cool water.

Step 5: Cleaning the Brush Bar

The brush bar is where pet hair loves to tangle. A clogged brush bar won’t spin properly and can strain the motor.

Lay the vacuum head flat on your covered surface.
Flip it over to expose the brush bar. On most Animal models, you’ll see a slider or buttons on the side of the cleaner head. Slide them to release the cover.
Lift off the cover to reveal the brush bar.
Use your scissors to carefully cut through any hair, string, or fibers wrapped around the ends of the bar. Pull the cut material away.
You can lift the brush bar out for a more thorough cleaning. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and check for any damage to the bristles.
Before replacing the cover, also clear any debris from the air channels inside the cleaner head.

Step 6: Checking Hoses and Wand for Blockages

If suction still seems weak after cleaning the filters and bin, you might have a blockage. This is a common issue, especially if you’ve vacuumed up something large.

Detach the hose from both the machine and the wand.
Look through it toward a light source to see if there’s an obstruction.
For the wand, detach it and look down both sections.
Use a long, flexible object like a broom handle to gently push out any blockage. Again, avoid sharp objects that could puncture the hose.
Reassemble everything securely, making sure all clicks and locks are engaged.

Step 7: Wiping Down the Exterior

Don’t forget the outside of your machine. A quick wipe removes dust and grime that can work its way into seams. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the main body, the wand, and the hose. For sticky spots, you can dampen the cloth slightly with water. Make sure no moisture gets into vents or openings.

Putting It All Back Together

Once every single part is bone dry, you can reassemble your Dyson.

Click the cyclone back onto the clean, dry bin. Make sure the locking dial is secure.
Attach the bin assembly back onto the main body until it clicks.
Insert the completely dry filters into their correct locations.
Reattach the cleaner head, wand, and hose.
Plug in the vacuum and do a quick test to ensure everything is working smoothly.

Maintenance Schedule Quick Reference

After every use: Empty the bin.
Every week: Check the brush bar for tangles.
Every month: Wash the bin, cyclone, and clean both filters.
Every 6 months: Do a full deep-clean, checking all hoses and seals for wear.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with regular cleaning, issues can pop up. Here’s how to fix a few common ones.

Vacuum Has Weak Suction

First, check and empty the bin.
Second, wash and dry the filters. This solves 90% of suction problems.
Third, check for blockages in the hose, wand, or cleaner head.

Brush Bar Isn’t Spinning

Turn off and unplug the vacuum immediately.
Remove the cleaner head cover and clear any severe tangles or blockages around the brush bar ends.
Check for a belt issue (on older models) or a clog in the head itself.

Strange Smells or Odors

This is almost always caused by damp filters. Remove the filters and ensure they are 100% dry before using the vacuum again. If the smell persists, check the bin for any forgotten, damp debris.

Vacuum Overheating and Shutting Off

The thermal cut-off switch activates if the motor gets too hot. This is usually because a filter is dirty or wet. Let the vacuum cool down for at least an hour. Then, remove and check the condition of both filters, ensuring they are clean and completely dry before restarting.

FAQ Section

How often should I clean my Dyson Animal filters?

You should wash the filters at least once every month under normal use. If you have multiple pets or a large home, you might need to clean them every two to three weeks. Always let them dry for a full day before reusing.

Can I use soap to clean my Dyson vacuum parts?

For the clear bin and cyclone, a drop of mild dish soap in water is okay if they are very grimy. However, you should never use soap or detergent on the filters. Just rinse them with cool water until it runs clear.

Why is it so important to dry parts for 24 hours?

Putting a damp filter or bin back into the vacuum can cause several problems. It can lead to mold growth and bad smells. More seriously, water can be drawn into the motor, which can cause permanent damage and void your warranty. Patience is key here.

Is the Dyson Animal vacuum good for pet hair?

Yes, the Dyson Animal series is specifically designed to handle pet hair. Its powerful suction, tangle-free turbine tools (on newer models), and strong brush bar make it one of the best choices for pet owners. Regular cleaning, as outlined above, keeps it effective.

What should I do if my Dyson still loses suction after cleaning?

If you’ve cleaned the bin, washed and dried the filters, and cleared the brush bar, the next step is to check for a full-system blockage. Inspect the hose, wand, and all openings in the cleaner head. Also, ensure all parts are clicked together securely; a poor seal can cause suction loss.

Can I clean the Dyson vacuum’s hose?

Absolutely. If you suspect a clog, detach the hose and use a long, flexible object like a broom handle to gently push out debris. You can also run water through it to flush out dust, but you must hang it up to dry completely inside and out for over 24 hours before reattaching it.

Keeping your Dyson Animal clean is the best way to protect your investment. It ensures peak performance every time you turn it on. By following these simple monthly steps, you’ll extend the life of your vacuum for years to come. Remember, consistency is more important than perfection—a quick filter clean is better than waiting until it’s completely clogged. Your floors—and your vacuum—will thank you.