Empty the Dirt Tank or Replace the Bag First
The first step is to empty whatever container holds the dirt. If your Bissell uses a dirt tank (most uprights and many portables do), press the release button on the side or back of the tank and pull it away from the vacuum. Hold it over a trash bin and press the empty button — usually a lever or button near the bottom — to dump the contents. Tap the sides to shake loose any clinging dust.
If your model uses a disposable bag, unclip or unscrew the cover plate, slide out the old bag, and insert a new one. Bagged models need fresh bags roughly every three to five uses, depending on how much dirt you pick up. Emptying or replacing before you clean the rest of the machine keeps dust from spreading while you work.
Key Takeaways
- Empty the dirt tank or replace the bag before cleaning any other part, so dust does not spread during maintenance.
- Rinse the filter under cool running water every month, and replace it every six to twelve months depending on use.
- Check the brush roll for hair and string wrapped around it, and cut them away with scissors — a clogged brush roll cuts suction in half.
- Wipe down the hose and check for blockages by holding it up to a light, because a single clog can kill airflow.
- Store your vacuum in a dry place and run it on a hard floor for thirty seconds after each use to clear moisture from the motor.
Clean or Replace the Filter Monthly
The filter is the part that traps fine dust so it does not reach the motor. Bissell vacuums have either a pleated cartridge filter or a foam filter, depending on the model. Check your manual to find where it sits — usually near the top of an upright or on the side of a canister.
Once a month, remove the filter and rinse it under cool running water. Hold it up to a light and look for dust caked on the pleats or foam. Gently brush the pleats with a soft brush or your fingers to loosen buildup, then rinse again until the water runs clear. Let it air-dry completely — at least two hours — before putting it back. Do not use hot water or a dryer, because heat damages the filter material.
Replace the filter entirely every six to twelve months, depending on how often you vacuum and whether you have pets. A clogged filter forces the motor to work harder and shortens the life of the machine. Replacement filters cost between ten and thirty dollars and take two minutes to swap in.
Remove Hair and Debris from the Brush Roll
The brush roll is the spinning cylinder at the bottom of the vacuum head that agitates carpet fibers and loosens dirt. Over time, hair, string, and carpet fibers wrap around it and slow it down. This is one of the most common reasons a Bissell loses suction.
Unplug the vacuum and flip it over so you can see the brush roll. Look for hair wound tightly around the bristles. Use scissors or a seam ripper to cut the hair away — work carefully so you do not cut the bristles themselves. Pull out any string or fibers by hand. Wipe the roll with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Check the brush roll every two weeks if you have pets or long hair in your home. A clean brush roll makes the vacuum quieter, improves suction, and keeps the motor from overheating.
Clear the Hose and Check for Blockages
A clogged hose is invisible but deadly to suction. Disconnect the hose from the vacuum body — most Bissell models have a clip or twist-lock connection. Hold the hose up to a light and look through it. If you cannot see light on the other end, something is blocking the airflow.
For a blockage, straighten a wire coat hanger and feed it through the hose to push the clog out. You can also run warm water through the hose from one end and let it drain into a sink. If the blockage is stubborn, soak the hose in warm water for thirty minutes, then try again.
Even if you cannot see a blockage, rinse the inside of the hose with warm water once a month. Dust settles on the walls and reduces airflow. Let the hose dry completely before reattaching it — moisture in the hose can damage the motor.
Wipe Down the Vacuum Head and Wheels
Dirt builds up on the outside of the vacuum head and on the wheels, which can affect how smoothly it moves across the floor. Unplug the vacuum and use a damp cloth to wipe the head, paying special attention to the edges where the brush roll sits. Remove any visible dust or debris.
Check the wheels on the bottom of the head. Hair and string wrap around them just as they do the brush roll. Use scissors to cut away any tangles, then wipe the wheels with a damp cloth. Wheels that spin freely make the vacuum easier to push and reduce strain on the motor.
If your Bissell has a motorized head, check the connection points where the head attaches to the main unit. Dust can accumulate there and prevent a tight seal, which reduces suction. Wipe these areas clean with a dry cloth.
Inspect the Seals and Connections
Suction leaks happen when seals crack or connections loosen. Unplug the vacuum and look at the rubber gasket where the dirt tank connects to the main unit. If it looks cracked or dried out, it needs to be replaced. Most Bissell gaskets cost five to fifteen dollars.
Check all the clip and twist-lock connections on your vacuum — where the hose attaches, where the head connects, where the tank sits. Make sure each one is tight. A loose connection lets air escape and cuts suction.
If you notice cracks in the plastic body of the vacuum, they can usually be sealed with a two-part epoxy or plastic adhesive. Clean the area first, explore the adhesive, and let it cure for the time the product specifies before using the vacuum again.
Store Your Vacuum Properly and Dry It After Wet Cleaning
Store your Bissell in a dry place — a closet, garage, or utility room. Moisture damages the motor and electrical components. If you have used your vacuum on a damp surface or cleaned the hose with water, run the vacuum on a hard floor for thirty seconds before storing it. This pushes moisture out of the motor and hose.
Coil the cord loosely around the vacuum body or use the cord hook if your model has one. Do not wrap it tightly, because that can damage the insulation. Keep the vacuum away from extreme heat or cold, which can crack plastic parts and degrade the motor.
If you store your vacuum for more than a month, empty the dirt tank and remove the filter before putting it away. This prevents mold and odor from building up inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my Bissell vacuum?
Empty the dirt tank after every use. Clean the filter monthly, check the brush roll every two weeks if you have pets, and wipe the hose and head monthly. A quick monthly deep clean — filter, brush roll, hose, and connections — takes about fifteen minutes and keeps the vacuum running at full power.
Why does my Bissell smell bad?
Odor usually comes from moisture trapped in the filter, hose, or motor. Make sure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling it, and run the vacuum on a hard floor for thirty seconds after any wet cleaning. If the smell persists, soak the filter in white vinegar for an hour, rinse it well, and let it air-dry completely.
Can I wash the filter in a washing machine?
No. Machine washing damages the filter material and can cause it to fall apart. Always rinse by hand under cool running water. Hot water and soap can also damage the filter, so stick to cool water and a soft brush.
What should I do if my Bissell still has weak suction after cleaning?
Check the filter first — if it is more than a year old, replace it. Then inspect the brush roll, hose, and all connections for clogs or leaks. If suction is still weak, the motor may be failing and the vacuum may need professional repair or replacement.
Is it safe to use my Bissell on wet carpet?
Bissell makes wet-dry models designed for damp surfaces, but standard uprights and portables should not be used on wet carpet. Moisture can damage the motor and electrical parts. If you accidentally vacuum water, empty the tank when ready, remove the filter, and let all parts air-dry for at least twenty-four hours before using the vacuum again.