How to Clean a Dyson Filter

Co-authored by Regina DeCorte

Once you find the model number of your Dyson machine, you can determine which filters you need to wash, and how often. Make sure to turn off and unplug your machine before removing the filter(s). Wash your filter(s) with cold water only. Some models have filters that require a short pre-soak in cold water before rinsing. Allow the filter(s) to air-dry naturally. Maintaining the cleanliness of your washable filters helps the performance and longevity of your machine.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Finding Your Model Number

1
Locate your vacuum’s serial number. Look for a sticker on your machine. Write down the first three digits of the serial number shown on the sticker. The sticker may be in one of the following places: on the back behind the hose; at the base between the wheels; behind the bin.
- If you’re having trouble finding the sticker, navigate to http://www.dyson.com/support/findserialnumber.aspx.
2
Select your model on Dyson’s support site. Navigate to http://www.dyson.com/support.aspx. Enter your serial number, if you have it. Otherwise, select the style of your machine. Choose the image and description that matches your machine. Select the topic “Wash the filter.”
- If you don’t see an option for “Wash the filter,” view the user guide instead.
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3
Check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Find out how to remove filter, if needed. Determine which filters you should wash. Check how often to wash them. Determine whether your model’s filter requires a pre-soak.
- Some models, such as the DC07, have a washable filter as well as a post-motor filter that never needs to be washed.^{[1]
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- Some models, such as the DC24 Multi Floor, have more than one washable filter.^{[2]
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- Most models’ filters require washing every three to six months. However, Dyson 360 robot vacuum’s pre-filter should be washed at least every month.^{[3]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Removing and Washing the Filter

1
Disconnect from any power source. Unplug the vacuum, if applicable. Switch the vacuum to OFF. Never attempt to open your vacuum cleaner when it is switched on or plugged in.
2
Remove the filter. Open the vacuum carefully. Push the filter housing’s release button, if your model has one. Separate the filter from its plastic housing, if applicable.
3
Soak the filter, if applicable. Fill a bowl with cold water. Do not add any detergent to the bowl. Submerge the filter and allow it to soak for no less than five minutes.
- Some cordless models – such as DC35 and DC44 – require a pre-soak.^{[4]
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- Some upright vacuums, such as DC17, require a pre-soak. Others, such as DC24 Multi Floor, do not.^{[5]
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4
Rinse the filter under cold water. Squeeze the filter gently as you rinse it. Continue rinsing and squeezing for at least five minutes, until the water from the filter runs clear.^{[6]
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- Some filters may require up to ten rinses until the water runs clear.^{[7]
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Drying the Filter

1
Tap off the excess water. Shake off the filter over the sink. Tap the filter against your hand or the sink to expel extra droplets of water.^{[8]
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2
Lay the filter in a warm, dry place. Set the filter down horizontally, unless your model’s directions instruct otherwise. Never put your filter in a microwave, tumble dryer, or near an open flame.^{[9]
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- For example, leave your filter outside in the sunshine, or near (not on) a radiator.
3
Allow the filter to dry completely. Leave the filter to air dry as long as needed. Make sure it is entirely dry before putting it back into your machine.^{[10]
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- Some upright and cordless models – such as DC07, DC15, DC17, and DC24 – should air dry for twelve hours.
- Some models – such as DC17 (upright) and 360 (robot) – should air dry for twenty-four hours.

Expert Q&A

Question

How often should Dyson filters be replaced?

Regina DeCorte
Residential Cleaning Specialist
Regina DeCorte is a Residential Cleaning Specialist and is the Founder of Maid in JC, a home cleaning service based in downtown Jersey City, NJ. With more than eight years of experience, she specializes in cleaning apartments, condos, and townhomes using natural products. Regina and her staff are fully bonded and insured.

Regina DeCorte

Residential Cleaning Specialist

Expert Answer

Depending on usage, the filters need to be cleaned on a regular, monthly schedule for better results. Even well cared for filters will need to be replaced, though, and that must be done on an annual basis.
Question

What if dust is coming out from the ball?

Community Answer

The only way to restore a Dyson and remove symptoms like this is to take it completely apart and clean every millimeter back to new. It's easy enough for anyone to do, though tedious, but most people just take them to the repair shop.

Warnings

Do not wash filters with detergent.^{[11]
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Never wash filters in a washing machine or dishwasher.^{[12]
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Never dry your filter in a microwave, tumble dryer, oven, or with a hair dryer.^{[13]
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Never put your filter near an open flame.^{[14]
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