How To Clean Dyson Vacuum Head

Keeping your Dyson vacuum performing at its best means knowing how to clean Dyson vacuum head attachments. A dirty cleaner head can lose suction, scatter debris, and even damage your floors. This guide will walk you through the simple process for all common Dyson head types, from the Motorbar to the latest Laser Slim models. You’ll get your vacuum’s power back in no time.

Regular cleaning of the vacuum head is not just about hygiene; it’s essential maintenance. Hair, threads, and dust can wrap around the brush bar, strain the motor, and block airflow. A clean head glides smoothly and picks up more dirt on the first pass. Let’s start by identifying which head you have.

Identifying Your Dyson Cleaner Head Type

Dyson has several cleaner head designs. The cleaning method varies slightly for each. Check your vacuum’s manual or look at the head itself.

Motorized Heads (Motorbar, Direct Drive, Torque Drive): These have a powerful brush bar driven by the vacuum’s suction. They are common on upright and canister models.
Non-Motorized Heads (Soft Roller, Anti-Static): These rely on suction and a soft roller or bristles. They’re often for hard floors.
Specialized Heads (Laser Slim, Fluffy): These have unique features, like a green laser to show dust. They require careful handling of the optical component.

Tools You’ll Need for the Job

You don’t need fancy tools. Most items are probably in your home already.

A coin or flat-head screwdriver (for latch types)
Scissors or a seam ripper (for cutting wrapped fibers)
A lint roller or tweezers
A soft, dry cloth
A damp cloth (not wet)
Optional: A small brush, like a clean paintbrush

Safety First: Unplug Your Vacuum

Always, always disconnect the vacuum from the electrical outlet before you start. This prevents any risk of the motor turning on accidentally. It’s a crucial step for your safety.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning a Motorized Dyson Head (Motorbar/Direct Drive)

This is the most common deep clean. Follow these numbered steps carefully.

Remove the Cleaner Head: Detach the head from the wand or hose. Lay it on a flat surface with the brush bar facing up.
Open the Cover: Find the latch on the side or top of the head. Use your coin or screwdriver to turn it to the unlock position. The clear plastic cover should hinge open easily.
Remove the Brush Bar: Lift the brush bar straight out of its housing. You might need to wiggle it gently if hair is tightly wound.
Cut and Remove Wound Debris: Use your scissors to carefully cut through the hair and threads wrapped around the ends of the brush bar. Pull all the material away. Be thorough here.
Clear the Housing: Look inside the head where the brush bar sat. Use your fingers or tweezers to pull out any clumps of dust or debris stuck in the channel or around the bearings.
Wipe the Inside: Take your dry cloth and wipe the inside of the head and the underside of the clear cover. If there’s sticky residue, use a slightly damp cloth, but avoid getting water near the red bearing housing.
Check the Belt (if applicable): Some older models have a drive belt. If yours does, inspect it for cracks or stretching. If it looks worn, it’s time for a replacement.
Reassemble: Place the clean brush bar back into its housing. Ensure the ends are seated correctly in the bearings. Close the cover and lock the latch securely with your coin.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning a Non-Motorized or Soft Roller Head

These are simpler but still need attention. The main enemy here is hair wrapped around the roller ends.

Remove the Head: Detach it from the vacuum.
Access the Roller: Most soft roller heads have a simple release. Press the tabs on the sides to pop the roller casing open. The soft roller can then be lifted out.
Clean the Roller: Peel off any large debris. Use scissors to cut through hair wrapped around the axles at each end. Roll a lint roller over the soft surface to pick up fine dust and hair.
Clean the Housing: Wipe out the inside of the head with a dry cloth. Pay special attention to the suction inlet to ensure it’s clear.
Reassemble: Slot the clean roller back in, making sure it spins freely. Snap the casing closed until you hear a click.

Special Care for Dyson Laser Slim Heads

The Laser Slim head has a delicate green laser lens at the front. This requires extra gentleness.

Never submerge the head or get the laser lens wet.
When cleaning the inside, avoid touching the laser diode assembly.
To clean the laser lens, use only a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Gently wipe the lens to remove dust. Do not use liquids or cleaners.
Follow the standard motorized head steps for the brush bar, but be extra cautious around the front area.

Dealing with Stubborn Hair and Threads

Sometimes hair is wound incredibly tight. If scissors aren’t cutting it, try these tips:

A seam ripper is excellent for sliding under tight threads.
For plastic bristle brush bars, be careful not to cut the bristles themselves.
If the ends of the brush bar are clogged, a pin or needle can help dig out packed-in gunk.

How Often Should You Clean the Vacuum Head?

Frequency depends on use. Here’s a good rule of thumb:

Quick Check: Before every vacuuming session, do a visual check for large obstructions.
Basic Clean: Remove wrapped hair from the ends every 2-4 weeks for typical homes.
Full Deep Clean: Complete disassembly and cleaning every 3-6 months, or immediately if you notice a loss in suction or performance.

What to Avoid When Cleaning

Some actions can cause permanent damage. Steer clear of these common mistakes.

Do not use water or liquid cleaners on the motorized parts or inside the housing. This can damage bearings and electronics.
Avoid using sharp knives to cut hair off the brush bar, as they can slip and damage the brush or yourself.
Never yank or pull the brush bar if it seems stuck. Check that the latch is fully unlocked first.
Do not oil or lubricate the brush bar bearings. They are designed to run dry.

Maintaining the Rest of Your Dyson

A clean head works best with a clean vacuum. For optimal performance, remember to:

Empty the bin before it reaches the “Max” line, every time.
Rinse the washable filters with cold water every month, letting them dry for 24 hours completely.
Check the wand and hose for blockages if suction seems low overall.

Troubleshooting Common Cleaner Head Problems

Even after cleaning, issues can pop up. Here’s how to solve them.

The Brush Bar Isn’t Spinning

Check the latch: Is it fully locked? An unlocked head often disengages the brush bar.
Look for blockages: Is there something jamming the brush bar inside the housing?
Inspect the belt (on older models): A broken belt means the motor can’t turn the brush.

The Head Won’t Glide Smoothly

Clean the soleplate: The smooth bottom of the head can get a film of sticky residue. Wipe it with a damp cloth.
Check the wheels: Ensure hair isn’t wrapped around the wheels or axles, preventing them from turning.

Strange Noises Coming from the Head

A grinding noise often means debris in the bearing housing.
A clicking sound could be a large object, like a pebble, stuck against the brush bar.
Re-open the head and investigate the source of the noise before using it again.

FAQ Section

Can I wash my Dyson vacuum head with water?
No, you should not submerge or run water through the main housing of a motorized cleaner head. Water can ruin the bearings and electrical connections. Only use a dry or slightly damp cloth for wiping. Non-motorized rollers are sometimes washable, but always check your manual first.

How do you clean a Dyson roller brush?
Remove the brush bar from the head by opening the latch. Use scissors to carefully cut through hair and string wrapped around it, especially at the ends. Pull all the debris away. You can wipe the bristles with a dry cloth. That’s the basic process for most models.

Why is my Dyson brush bar not spinning after cleaning?
First, double-check that the head is reattached correctly to the vacuum and that the latch is fully locked. If it’s still not working, there might be a blockage you missed, or the drive mechanism in the vacuum itself could be the issue. Ensure the head clicks securely into place.

How to clean Dyson fluffy head?
The Fluffy head (a soft roller type) is cleaned by pressing the release tabs and removing the soft roller. Cut away any hair wrapped on the axles. Use a lint roller to clean the soft surface. Wipe the inside of the head with a cloth. Avoid getting the roller too wet.

Can I use soap to clean the vacuum head?
It’s not recommended. Soap can leave a residue that attracts more dirt. For sticky spots on the soleplate, a tiny bit of mild detergent on a damp cloth can be used, but rinse and dry the area thoroughly. Never use soap inside the head or near the brush bar bearings.

Learning how to clean Dyson vacuum head components is a key part of owning one of these machines. It takes just a few minutes every month, but it makes a huge difference in how well your vacuum works. You’ll protect your investment, maintain strong suction, and keep your floors looking their best. Regular maintenance like this is the secret to making any appliance last for years. Just grab a coin and some scissors, and give your Dyson the quick care it deserves.