If you own a Dyson vacuum, you know just how impressive it is at picking up dirt, debris, and even those pesky pet hairs. But, like any machine, your Dyson vacuum needs regular care and maintenance to ensure it continues to perform at its best. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to clean your Dyson vacuum, keeping it in top shape and making sure it lasts for years to come.
Table of Contents
Why Cleaning Your Dyson Vacuum is Essential
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s take a quick moment to understand why it’s so important. Dyson vacuums are designed to be powerful and efficient, but over time, dirt and debris can build up in the filters, brush bar, and other components. This can lead to decreased suction power, less efficient cleaning, and even potential damage to the motor. Regular cleaning ensures your vacuum continues to work like new and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
What You’ll Need:
- A clean cloth or microfiber towel
- Warm soapy water (mild dish soap works well)
- A brush (preferably one with soft bristles)
- A pair of scissors (for cutting hair or string from the brush bar)
- A dry towel or cloth for drying
Now, let’s get to it—here’s how to clean your Dyson vacuum, step by step.
1. Turn Off and Unplug Your Vacuum
This may seem like an obvious first step, but it’s always important to turn off and unplug your Dyson before starting any cleaning. Safety first!
2. Empty the Dust Bin
The dust bin is the first place to start. Once it’s full, your vacuum’s performance can suffer. To empty the dust bin, simply detach it from the body of the vacuum. Dyson vacuums have a hygienic dirt ejector mechanism—press the button and release the dirt directly into your trash can. Give the inside of the bin a quick wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any excess dust and debris.
Pro Tip: Make sure the dust bin is completely dry before reattaching it. If there’s any moisture left, it could affect the vacuum’s suction.
3. Clean the Filters
Dyson recommends washing your vacuum filters once a month to keep them performing at their best. Depending on your model, there may be one or two filters to clean. You can find the filter either near the cyclone or inside the machine’s body.
To clean the filters, follow these steps:
- Remove the filters from the vacuum. Dyson filters are typically easy to locate—just check the user manual if you’re not sure where they are.
- Wash the filter under cold water. Do not use any detergent, as this can damage the filter.
- Gently rinse the filter until the water runs clear.
- Let the filter dry completely for 24 hours before reinserting it into the vacuum. It’s crucial that it’s fully dry to avoid any potential damage to your vacuum.
4. Clean the Brush Bar
If you have pets or long hair in your home, the brush bar is likely to collect hair, thread, and other debris. Cleaning the brush bar is important to maintain suction power and prevent the motor from overworking.
Here’s how to clean it:
- Turn the vacuum upside down and look for the brush bar. Most Dyson models have an easy-to-remove brush bar, but you might need a screwdriver to remove the cover on some models.
- Once you have access to the brush bar, use scissors to carefully cut any hair or string that’s wrapped around it. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bristles.
- After you’ve cut away the hair, use a soft brush to clear any remaining dirt and debris from the brush bar.
- Wipe the brush bar with a damp cloth to get rid of any remaining dust.
5. Check the Hose for Blockages
Sometimes, suction issues can be traced back to blockages in the hose. If your Dyson vacuum is losing suction power, it might be time to check for blockages.
- Detach the hose from the vacuum body.
- Shine a flashlight inside the hose to check for any blockages. You can also use a long object (like a broom handle) to gently push out any debris.
- If you find any blockages, carefully remove them and check for any cracks or tears in the hose.
Pro Tip: If you frequently vacuum up pet hair, the hose can become clogged more easily. Try to vacuum slowly and in shorter bursts to prevent hair from getting trapped inside.
6. Clean the Cyclone
The cyclone is one of the most important parts of a Dyson vacuum. It helps with the powerful suction that Dyson vacuums are known for. Over time, the cyclone can collect dirt and dust, which can affect its performance.
To clean the cyclone:
- Remove the cyclone from the vacuum.
- Use a damp cloth or a microfiber towel to wipe the inside of the cyclone.
- Be gentle with the cyclone as it contains small, delicate parts. Avoid submerging it in water or using harsh chemicals.
7. Wipe the Exterior of the Vacuum
The exterior of your Dyson vacuum can collect dust and dirt over time. To give it a fresh look, simply wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth. You can use a little mild dish soap and warm water if needed, but make sure you avoid using any harsh chemicals that could damage the vacuum’s surface.
8. Reassemble and Test
Once all the parts are cleaned and dried, it’s time to put your Dyson back together. Reattach the filters, cyclone, dust bin, and brush bar. Once everything is in place, plug the vacuum back in and test it to ensure it’s working as well as it did when it was brand new.
Extra Tips for Maintaining Your Dyson Vacuum
- Avoid vacuuming up large or heavy objects: Dyson vacuums are designed to pick up dirt and debris, not large objects. If you vacuum up something too large, it could damage the machine.
- Store your Dyson properly: When you’re not using your Dyson vacuum, store it in a clean, dry place. Avoid leaving it in a damp area, as this could affect its performance.
- Vacuum in short bursts: If you tend to vacuum a lot of hair or pet dander, take breaks to prevent the brush bar and hose from getting clogged.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your Dyson vacuum doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but it’s a crucial part of keeping it running smoothly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your vacuum continues to provide top-notch performance for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with dust, pet hair, or dirt, a clean vacuum is a more efficient vacuum!
Remember, regular maintenance is key to getting the most out of your Dyson. So, take the time to clean your vacuum, and it will continue to make your cleaning routine easier, faster, and more effective. Happy cleaning!
