A Dyson vacuum cleaner is a big investment. You want to make sure that you keep it in good condition so that it lasts for years to come. The best way to do that is to keep it clean so that it will take care of you and your floors.
The first thing you need to do is find the instruction manual to learn how to take it apart. If you no longer have the booklet, here’s how to do it.
What Do You Need to Clean a Dyson Vacuum Cleaner?
To get the job done, you’ll need a few basics:
- Microfiber cloth
- Flathead screwdriver (or a coin)
- Philips head screwdriver
- A bucket
- Compressed air device
- Cotton buds
- Warm water
- White vinegar
- Rubbish bin
How Often Do I Need to Clean a Dyson Vacuum?
Regularly cleaning your Dyson vacuum and filter is crucial for maintaining its suction power and ensuring it lasts longer.
Dyson recommends cleaning the filter and dust canister at least once a month or more often if you use the vacuum frequently.
How Do You Take Apart a Dyson Vacuum to Clean It?
Cleaning a Dyson vacuum is similar to cleaning other types of vacuums. The process involves some unscrewing, some shaking and a lot of dust bunnies.
- To start, make sure your Dyson is unplugged. If it’s a cordless model, detach all the parts by unscrewing it with the necessary tools or your hands.
- Detach all the attachments, such as the wand, hose and brush head from the vacuum. Remember to hold on to both sides when removing pieces, such as canisters, in order to avoid breaking them.
- Press the release button to remove the dustbin from the vacuum.
- The filter may be located inside the dustbin or near the motor, depending on the model. Refer to the user manual to find the filter and remove it.
- Remove the end cap to access the brush bar and lift it from the vacuum head.
How to Clean a Dyson Vacuum Cleaner
Step 1: Disconnect All Parts from your Dyson Vacuum
Turn off (and unplug) your Dyson vacuum before cleaning. Remove all the attachments, including the hose, wand and brush bars.
Step 2: Clean the Vacuum Hose
Once you have disconnected the hose, it’s time to look inside. If there’s debris blocking your hose, it can affect your Dyson machine and slow down the cleaning process.
- Grab a mop handle (or something similar) and push the dirt inside through the length of the hose.
- Fill up a bucket with one part white vinegar and nine parts warm water.
- Submerge the hose in the mixture for at least ten minutes.
- Flush the hose with clean, warm tap water.
- Let it dry before reconnecting it to your vacuum.
Step 3: Remove and Clean the Vacuum Filter
There are two types of filters in a Dyson vacuum cleaner: the pre-motor filter and the post-motor filter. Both vacuum filters should be cleaned every three months or as needed.
Here are some Dyson filter cleaning tips:
- Remove the pre-motor filter from the vacuum and rinse it with cold water until the water runs clear. Allow the vacuum filter to air dry completely before putting it back in the vacuum.
- To clean the post-motor filter, remove it from the vacuum and gently tap it on a hard surface to remove loose dust and debris. You can use a damp cloth to clean this filter, but do not soak it or wash it with water. Allow the filter to dry completely before putting it back in the vacuum.
- Pro tip: Use cotton buds for an extra deep clean when dealing with hard-to-reach areas!
Step 4: Clear the Dust Canister
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to do it nonetheless. A full dustbin will cause your vacuum to lose suction power, making it less effective at doing its job.
- Press the release button on the dust canister and lift it out of the vacuum.
- Hold the canister over a rubbish bin and firmly shake it to remove debris and excess dust.
Step 5: Clean the Dust Canister
It’s best to use a damp microfiber cloth to properly clean the inside of the Dyson dust canister.
Dyson advises against washing the canister with any detergent or soap, as this might make the canister sticky.
Step 6: Clean the Cyclones
Dyson uses patented cyclone technology on all their vacuum cleaners. When you use any Dyson vacuum, the inbuilt cyclones separate dirt from very fine dust particles using centrifugal force.
- All you need to clean the cyclones is a soft brush and microfiber cloth.
- Gently brush the cyclone cover, then wipe it down with a dry cloth.
- If you need to clean dirt stuck in the cyclones, you can use a compressed air device to blast away all the hair, excess dust and debris.
- Dyson advises against washing or wetting the cyclones as this could reduce the efficiency of your vacuum cleaner.
Step 7: Clean the Brush Bar
Each Dyson has its own vacuum head, which contains the brush bar or brush head. The brush bar has soft bristles used to pick up microscopic particles of dust and dirt. While you can wash the brush bar, it will still be worn out with use and may need to be replaced after a year.
- Remove the end cap by using a coin or flathead screwdriver.
- Remove the main brush bar and lift out the rear brush bar.
- Clean the bristles by removing them from the vacuum and plucking off any hair or debris wrapped around them.
- Use a damp cloth to clean the brush bars, or wash them with cold water if they’re quite dirty.
- Squeeze out excess water, then prop the bars upright against a wall or flat surface.
- Let the brush bars dry completely — this may take up to 24 hours.
- When the bars are completely dry, it’s time to replace them in the vacuum. Put the rear bar first, then the main brush bar.
- Replace the end cap by reversing the first step.
Step 8: Wipe Down the Dyson Vacuum and Reconnect All Parts
When you’re done waiting for all the parts to dry, it’s time to reassemble your Dyson vacuum.
- Reattach the filters, brush bar and hose.
- Wipe down the exterior of the vacuum with a dry microfiber cloth. You don’t need to (and shouldn’t) wet it again because your vacuum is now ready for use.
FAQs About Cleaning a Dyson Vacuum
Where Does the Dust Go In a Dyson Vacuum?
Dyson vacuums are designed to be bagless, so any large debris and dust are collected in a dustbin located inside the vacuum’s main body. This is usually a clear bin, so you can see how much dirt has been collected.
How Do I Get My Dyson to Stop Smelling of Dog?
Having a loyal furry friend around is great, but that can mean dealing with some undue doggy smell!
Take these steps to keep your Dyson smelling fresh:
- Start by removing the dust canister and any reusable filters.
- Wash the parts you detached in warm water with mild detergent. You don’t need bleach or strong chemicals to get rid of the dog smell!
- Once they’re dried off, put the canister back in the vacuum and make sure all filters are back in place as well.
- Now it’s time to tackle the cyclone component which likely trapped most of the fur and pet odours: you’ll need to use a pipe cleaner or an old toothbrush to remove any excess pet hair or dirt from the grooves and spines. Or if you want to be extra thorough, use a cotton bud to spot clean!
These simple steps should leave your beloved Dyson smelling fresh again.
When Do I Replace My Dyson Filter?
Dyson vacuums use a HEPA filter, which is a washable filter. However, you need to replace your Dyson filter every twelve months for maximum efficiency.
It’s not a good idea to keep using the same filter for too long because it traps microscopic particles that may harm your health.
A Dirty Vacuum Sucks the Joy Out of Cleaning
You may need to clean your Dyson more often, depending on how often you use it and what it has come into contact with (i.e., pet hair).
If you find this routine maintenance too much of a chore, you can always call on a cleaning expert to help you out. They know more about how to clean a Dyson and can help keep your home in good condition.