Clean your Dyson filter every month by tapping out loose dust, then rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear
Most Dyson vacuums clog because the filter gets packed with dust and loses suction. The filter is the part that traps particles before air leaves the machine — when it's dirty, the motor works harder and the vacuum loses power. Cleaning takes about five minutes and costs nothing. You do not need to replace the filter every time; a good rinse restores most models to full strength.
The exact steps depend slightly on your Dyson model, but the principle is the same across all of them. This guide covers the most common upright and cordless models. Check your manual if you have a robot or handheld-only machine, as those sometimes have different filter designs.
Key Takeaways
- Remove the filter from your Dyson by twisting or unclipping the top of the dust bin — the filter sits inside the lid or on top of the motor head.
- Tap the filter firmly over a trash can to dislodge loose dust before you rinse it, so you do not clog your sink.
- Rinse under cold running water only, holding the filter so water flows from the clean side toward the dirty side, until water runs clear.
- Let the filter dry completely — at least four hours, or overnight — before you put it back in the vacuum.
- If the filter still loses suction after cleaning and drying, it may need replacement, which usually costs between $20 and $50 depending on your model.
Locate and remove your filter
On most upright Dyson models, the filter sits inside the dust bin lid. Hold the vacuum upright, press the red release button on the side of the dust bin, and pull the bin straight down and away from the motor head. The filter is the cylindrical or oval part attached to the inside of the lid — it looks like a pleated accordion made of white or gray material.
On cordless models like the V15, V11, and V8, the filter is usually on top of the motor head itself. After you remove the dust bin, you will see the filter as a round or oval piece sitting on the motor. Twist it counterclockwise (or press the release button, depending on your model) and pull it straight up and away from the motor.
If you cannot find your filter, check the manual that came with your vacuum — some older or specialty models have the filter in a different spot. Dyson's website also has video guides for each model number.
Tap out loose dust over a trash can
Hold the filter over an open trash can and tap it firmly on the sides and bottom with your hand or a soft brush. You want to dislodge the thick layer of dust that has built up on the pleats. Tap for about 30 seconds, rotating the filter as you go so you hit all sides.
Do not tap the filter against a hard edge or bang it hard — the pleats are delicate and can tear. A firm tap with your palm is enough. If dust is caked on and won't come loose, let the filter sit for a few minutes, then try again. Tapping first keeps you from sending a cloud of dust into your sink.
Rinse the filter under cold running water
Hold the filter under a cold tap with the water flowing from the clean side (the outside) toward the dirty side (the inside). This pushes dust out rather than deeper into the pleats. Let water run over the filter for 15 to 20 seconds, then gently squeeze the pleats with your other hand to help water flow through. Do not wring or twist the filter — squeezing gently is enough.
Keep rinsing until the water running out of the filter runs clear, with no dust or dirt visible. This usually takes 30 seconds to one minute. If the water is still brown or gray after a minute, repeat the tapping step and rinse again. Some filters need two or three rinses if they have been used for several months without cleaning.
Never use hot water or a dishwasher. Heat can damage the filter material and the glue that holds the pleats together. Cold water only.
Shake off excess water and set the filter to dry
After rinsing, hold the filter upright and gently shake it to remove excess water. You can tap it lightly against the side of the sink to help water drip out. Then stand the filter upright on a clean, dry towel or paper towel in a spot where air can reach all sides — a windowsill, shelf, or counter works well.
Do not lay the filter flat or on its side while it dries, because water will pool inside the pleats. Upright drying lets gravity help. The filter must be completely dry before you put it back in the vacuum — any moisture left inside can damage the motor or create a musty smell. Most filters dry in four to six hours. Overnight is the safest option if you can wait.
Reinstall the filter and test your vacuum
Once the filter is completely dry, put it back where it came from. If it was in the dust bin lid, align it with the slot and push it straight up into place until you hear a click. If it was on the motor head, align the tabs and twist clockwise until it stops, or push down until the release button clicks into place.
Reattach the dust bin by sliding it up into the motor head until it clicks. Turn on the vacuum and listen — it should sound noticeably quieter and have stronger suction than it did before cleaning. If suction is still weak after the filter has dried for a full night, the filter may be worn out and need replacement.
When to replace your filter instead of cleaning it
A clean filter usually restores suction for several more months. But filters do wear out. If your vacuum still loses power after you have cleaned and dried the filter, or if you notice tears or holes in the pleats, replacement is the next step.
Dyson filters cost between $20 and $50 depending on your model. You can find the right one by searching your model number on Dyson's website or on Amazon. Installation is the same as removal — just twist or click the old one out and the new one in. Most people need a new filter once every one to two years with regular cleaning in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a brush or cloth to clean the filter instead of rinsing it?
Tapping alone removes some dust, but rinsing is much more effective because it clears dust from deep inside the pleats where a brush cannot reach. A soft brush can help dislodge stubborn dust before you rinse, but water is what actually cleans the filter. Rinsing takes only a minute and restores far more suction.
What if my filter has a hole or tear in it?
A small tear will not stop the vacuum from working, but it lets dust bypass the filter and go straight into the motor, which can damage it over time. If you see a hole, replace the filter rather than continuing to use it. Patching a filter is not reliable and voids most warranties.
How often should I clean my Dyson filter?
Clean the filter once a month if you use your vacuum weekly, or every two weeks if you use it daily or have pets. You will notice suction dropping before the filter is damaged, so if your vacuum feels weak, that is a sign to clean it. Some models have a filter-cleaning light that tells you when it is time.
Can I wash the filter in the washing machine or dishwasher?
No. Heat and the agitation in a washing machine or dishwasher will damage the filter material and the adhesive that holds the pleats together. Hand rinsing under cold water is the only safe method. It takes less than a minute and keeps your filter working longer.
Why does my filter still smell bad after cleaning?
A musty smell usually means the filter was not completely dry before you put it back in the vacuum. Moisture trapped inside creates mold smell. Remove the filter, let it dry for another full day in a warm, dry spot, and try again. If the smell persists, the filter may need replacement.