How to Clean a Dyson Vacuum (With Pictures)

Project Overview
  • WORKING TIME: 5 – 10 mins
  • TOTAL TIME: 5 – 10 mins
  • SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
  • ESTIMATED COST: $0

Dyson vacuums are a staple in most homes for clearing up dust and dirt. But all that loose dust has to go somewhere. So it’s time to learn how to get your Dyson looking squeaky clean and box-fresh once again.

It can be a little scary to think about taking a vac apart and knowing how to put it all back together again. But with our handy tips, you’ll have it refreshed in no time.

Here, we’ll talk you through all the steps for giving your Dyson a deep clean.

How Often To Clean a Dyson Vacuum Cleaner

This depends on how much you use it. At least once every 3 months is a good guide to go by.

But there are a few other things to look out for:

  • Tangled brush bar
  • Clogged hose
  • Less powerful suction
  • Funny smells, like burning or musty

If any of these happen, it’s time for a deep clean. Even if it’s been less than 3 months since the last one.

As well as these, cleaning the brushes and vacuum filter once a month is good for your Dyson machine. It helps to keep it running at maximum operating efficiency.

You should also empty the dirt bin every time you use it, and clean it once a week to stop clogs from forming.

What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • 1 Dyson vacuum

Materials

  • Water
  • Sissors
  • Microfiber cloth

Instructions

01
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Empty The Dust Canister

You should empty your bin as soon as it hits the MAX level by following these steps:

  • To remove the wand, press the release button and pull it off. On many models such as the Dyson V11 or the Dyson V6, the button has a red color and is located next to the base.
  • Hold your Dyson over a bin or dust proof bag first. Then, to open the clear bin, press the release button. The bin insert will move down and the bottom will open, so the debris and dirt inside can drop out.
  • Push the base back up and into place until you hear it click
Emptying-Your-Bin-Dyson-Vacuum.png
Photo: Claire
02
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Clean The Bin

To detach the bin, there’s a red button on the bin runner that you need to press first. Then slide the bin off the runner.

Use a damp cloth to wipe the bin and remove any excess dust from the bin inlet.

Slide the bin back onto the runner until you hear it click into place.

Cleaning-Your-Bin-Dyson-Vacuum.png
Photo: Claire
03
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Clear Blockages

1. Search the Main Unit

Take the bin off using the steps above. Look to see if there’s any debris causing a blockage, and remove anything you find.

The air inlet is on the right side just under where the bin connects. This area is often the issue, so check this spot.

2. Check the Tube and Floorhead

Remove the wand and look through it from both ends to see if there’s any debris.

Then, turn the cleaner head over and see if there’s any wrapped hair on the brush bar or stuck in the air inlet.

Clearing-Blockages-of-Your-Dyson-Vacuum.png
Photo: Claire
04
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Wash The Dyson Filter

Remove your Dyson filter by giving it a twist and pulling it off. You’ll find the filter at the back of the cleaner.

First, tap the filter to remove any dust and dirt. Then rinse it under tap water while gently rubbing any fine dust off with your fingers.

Then, cover one end of the vacuum filter with your hand and fill the upright filter with water. Place your other hand over the open end of the filter and shake it to remove any trapped debris. Empty the water out and firmly shake it to remove excess water.

Leave your filter in a warm place for 24 hours until it’s completely dry.

Washing-Your-Dyson-Filter.png
Photo: Claire
05
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Clean the Brushes

Check your vacuum to see what type of brush bar it has and if it’s a bristle brush or soft roller.

You should always unplug the Dyson machine before cleaning the brush bars. Don’t use a dishwasher or any harsh detergents, polishes, or air fresheners.

Brush Bars

These steps are best for the High Torque cleaner head. It can’t be washed like soft roller brush bars, so it’s important to carry out routine maintenance.

First, remove the cleaner head with the button on the end of the wand and then turn it upside down. Using a coin or a flat head screwdriver, unlock the end cap then take it off so you can pull the main brush bar out.

Check for dirt inside the cleaner head and remove any larger particles. Then, wipe it all over with a damp microfiber cloth to capture fine dust and get the smaller particles of dirt. You can also use a dish soap water mixture to remove excess dirt.

Push the end cap into place, slide the brush bar back into the machine, and lock the cap. There’s a padlock symbol to show you the right position.

Soft Roller Cleaner Head

Follow these steps if your Dyson uses a soft roller.

Press the button on the end of the wand to release the cleaner head. Turn the whole head upside down and push the end cap up. You can then pull the entire brush bar out.

Rinse the brush bar under cold water and wipe excess dust off. If you don’t want to wash your brush bar entirely, you can spray a dish soap water solution on your microfiber cloth and wipe dirt off your brush.

For drying, shake off excess water and stand the brush bars upright with the closed-end pointing up. It will take at least 24 hours to completely dry.

Check the brush bar is dry, then reattach the end cap. Pop the brush back into the cleaner head and push the end cap to the closed position.

Brush-Bars-Dyson-Vacuum.png
Photo : Claire
06
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Clean the Vacuum Hose

If your Dyson has a hose, follow these tips to keep it blockage-free. Always make sure it’s turned off first.

Remove the hose and use a flashlight to look down the hose for any clogs.

Use a broomstick, wire hanger, or anything that will fit down the hose and push out any blockages.

When the hose has dried out, replace it with the cleaner before turning it on.

Clean-the-Hose-Of-a-Dyson-Vacuum.png
Photo : Claire

Tips to Keep Your Dyson Vacuum Clean Longer

  • Do not put the clear bin in the dishwasher.
  • Avoid harsh dishwashers or detergents, polishes, or air fresheners – especially when cleaning the filters. Detergents and dish soap will get stuck in the microfibers and damage your filter.
  • Don’t put the Dyson filters in a tumble dryer, microwave, or near a naked flame to speed it up.
  • Stick to cold tap water. Don’t use warm or hot water.
  • Make sure all the parts are completely dry before you replace them.
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