How to Clean Dyson Canister Filter | Our Guide To Restoring the Suction Power

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Has your Dyson vacuum lost its suction power? It’s possible you have neglected your machine and have not washed its canister filters in a while. In this regard, you must learn how to clean the Dyson canister filter like an expert.

Canister filters play a vital role in vacuum performance (see the best canister vacuums), and require utmost care and protection. You need to clean them properly. Regular filter cleaning increases the machine’s durability and efficiency.

 Is it your first time cleaning a canister filter? No need to worry. Read this easy-to-follow guide as you learn more. 

How To Clean Dyson Canister Filter – The Step By Step Guide To Cleaning Dyson Filter

Are you wondering how to clean the canister filter? Dyson recommends one to follow the simple cleaning guide and do so at least once per month for optimum performance. But, I would advise not to limit the washing to the manufacturer’s guidelines. 

Instead, cleaning your machine should depend on how often you vacuum your floor and carpet. Additionally, the number of pets in your house dictates how often you should clean the filters. All pet owners should wash their filters more often. Why?

Pets shed off hairs that accumulate on the floor, carpet, and furniture. The vacuum then collects hairs, dirt particles, and debris and pushes them to the filter, causing it to slow down on its operation. 

So, the best way of ensuring optimum performance is by washing your Dyson filter. It might be challenging if it is your first time, but that should not be the case. Follow these simple steps and make to check out how to clean the Dyson canister itself.

Filters of a dyson

Turn Off and Unplug the Vacuum

Before dismantling any electronic equipment, you must switch it off, and Dyson vacuum is no exception. By not turning off or unplugging the equipment of the wall socket, you put yourself at risk of being electrocuted

Remove the Filter

First, confirm if your Dyson vacuum has more than one filter. Some have more than two filters, and you must clean all for the machine to function efficiently. Most Dyson filters are purple and are strategically placed near the cyclone, making it easy to locate them.

If you are using a Dyson vacuum with v6 and v7 filters, they have cord-free sticks with a simple design that makes removing very easy. The two models have pre-filters and post-filters located near the handle.

To remove the filters from their original position, pull the pre-filter from the cyclone assembly followed by an anticlockwise rotation to remove the post-filter. 

Yellow dyson vacuumOn the other hand, pet owners prefer specific pet vacuums due to their powerful suction that can collect debris and pet hair. To open;

  • Remove the bin and cyclone by pressing the red button on the carry handle
  • Put the machine on the ground
  • In anticlockwise movement, turn the blue locking dial until the cover is released. 
  • Turn the post-filter anticlockwise and unclip the front part of the carry handle to open.
  • To remove the post-filter from the baffle, press the three catches. 

 

Wash the Filters 

In an upside-down position, gently tap the pre-filter and remove any dirt. Doing so helps eliminate debris that can clog once in contact with water. Proceed by running the inside and outside under cold water. Do so for a few minutes and tap the filter again to release trapped debris.

Rerun the filter underwater. If the water coming out is still dirty, it means more debris is trapped inside. Repeat the process until clear water runs out. Once satisfied, remove excess water by squeezing the pre-filter with both hands.

The post-filter has a plastic housing. So, run cold water to its open side. To remove any dirt trapped inside, shake the post-filter gently. Repeat the process until water comes out clean. Both the pre-filter and post-filters should be completely dry before refitting

Ensure the filters do not come anywhere close to a naked flame, tumble dryer, or microwave. Instead, please place them in an air-conditioned room or near the window for 24 hours.

Refit the Filters 

Refitting completely dried filters is easy. First, fix the pre-filter back to its original position in the cyclone assembly. On the other hand, align the two black dots on the post-filter, then rotate clockwise until lined up properly with the empty circle.

How to Clean a Dyson VacuumPurple dyson

Dyson filters are not the only parts that need regular cleaning for the machine to work perfectly. Cleaning the entire vacuum machine is paramount for maximum operating efficiency. Here is a step-by-step guide.

Unplug Dyson Vacuum Cleaner

The first and most important step when cleaning a Dyson vacuum is to unplug from the power outlet. Dismantling the machine while connected to the power is risky and can lead to an electric shock.

Empty and Scrub the Dust Canister

All the dust and debris after cleaning goes to the dust canister. Therefore, it should be your first cleaning destination. Most Dyson vacuums have their dust canisters located underneath the cyclones.

Some models have a button at the base that releases the bin for emptying. If your model is different and you are unsure how to remove the container, consult the manual. After releasing all the dirt from the canister, you need to clean the inside. 

A dump cloth made of microfiber would be perfect due to its positively charged material. A damp microfiber cloth captures dirt particles tightly and prevents smearing back into the canister when cleaning. Also, avoid using detergents when washing the canister as the chemicals can make the material sticky.

Remove and Wash the Filters

Dyson filters trap dust, bacteria, and dirt particles. Therefore, they require regular cleaning to avoid clogging. The filters are primarily located near the cyclone and are easy to identify and remove. 

To wash filters efficiently, run them under water and tap to remove any trapped dirt. While gently squeezing the filters, repeat the process until the water runs clear. 

Dyson with pink and purple background

Free the Brush Bar

You will require scissors or a seam ripper and a flat head screwdriver for this step. The brush bar is the part that collects all the hair and dirt after cleaning. Debris buildup over time, twisting around the brush, reducing its efficiency. 

Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the brush bar(some models require one to pull). Once out, remove the large debris from the brush manually or use the scissors to cut twisted hairs and dirt. Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the compartments and dry them entirely before fixing them back. 

Unclog the Hose

The hose also accumulates dirt over time and needs a thorough cleaning. Detach the hose from the wand and check any trapped debris. Use a mop handle to push the trash out.

Similarly, place a mixture of warm water and vinegar in a kitchen sink and soak the hose. This step is vital, especially if you have a stinky Dyson vacuum cleaner, as it helps kill germs and bacteria. After a deep clean, allow the hose to dry before refitting. 

Wipe the Vacuum

After cleaning all the components:

  • Remember to wipe the outer parts of the machine.
  • Use a damp cloth to clean.
  • Ensure you have also used an air compressor to clean the upper cyclone component.

Leave All Components to Dry 

Leaving the components to dry may seem like the easiest step, but it is most crucial. All parts submerged into water or wiped using a dump cloth should be left to dry completely for at least 24 hours before refitting them. Why? Wet components may damage the motor and other interior parts of the machine making it less effective. 

A man vacuuming a carpet with a dyson

Can I Clean the Dyson Filter With Vinegar?

In most instances, we use vinegar to make household cleaner. Vinegar is an excellent ingredient for killing germs and bacteria, but not always friendly to some materials, Dyson filters being one of them. Dyson filters are so fragile and require water to clean. Do not attempt to use even the detergent or dishwasher to clean. Always stick to cleaning with plain water to prolong the lifespan of your filters. 

Can I Wash the Cyclone Part of My Dyson?

The cyclones, too, play a massive part during vacuum cleaning. Small cyclones generate potent forces that separate dirt from the flowing air. Therefore, the constant contact with dirt particles means that cyclone components require regular cleaning. 

But, at no point should you submerge the cyclone in water. Instead, clean the section with a damp cloth to remove the plugged dirt in the tiny holes. You can also use a compressed air device to get rid of stuck dirt.

The Final Thoughts

Cleaning the Dyson canister filters is a simple process if done correctly. One needs to know their Dyson model to remove the filters safely. Once removed, washing only requires water and a gentle tap to release the dirt. 

Also, ensuring the filters are completely dry before refitting is paramount. In addition, avoid exposing them to extreme heat to prevent damage. Place them in an airconditioned room or near a window and wait for 24 hours to dry.

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