Empty the dirt tank or replace the bag before every use

A full dirt tank or bag cuts suction and makes the motor work harder. For bagless Bissell models, press the release button on the side of the tank and twist it away from the unit. Hold the tank over a trash can, press the bottom latch, and let the dirt fall out. Rinse the tank with water if it looks dusty inside, then let it dry completely before snapping it back on.

For bagged models, locate the bag compartment door on the side or back of the vacuum. Open it, pinch the bag's collar, and pull it straight out. Tie the bag closed before throwing it away, then insert a new Bissell bag of the same size. The bag should slide in smoothly and click into place.

Check the dirt level after every few rooms you vacuum, not just when the indicator light comes on. A vacuum that loses suction mid-job is usually full, not broken.

Key Takeaways

  • Empty the dirt tank or replace the bag before it gets full, because a full tank reduces suction and strains the motor.
  • Clean the filter every month by tapping it over a trash can and rinsing it with cool water, then let it air-dry for at least four hours before reinstalling.
  • Check the brush roll for hair and string every two weeks, and replace it when the bristles look matted or worn down.
  • Rinse the hose and check for clogs monthly, because blockages are the most common reason a Bissell loses suction without being full.

Clean or replace the filter monthly

The filter traps dust that the dirt tank misses. Over time it clogs, and a clogged filter kills suction faster than anything else. Most Bissell uprights and carpet cleaners have a pleated foam or paper filter located on top of the unit or inside the tank compartment.

Remove the filter by twisting it counterclockwise or pressing the release tab, depending on your model. Tap it firmly over a trash can to knock loose dust out of the pleats. Then rinse it under cool running water—not hot, which can damage the material. Let it drip dry, then stand it upright on a clean towel for at least four hours before putting it back in. Never reinstall a wet filter.

If the filter looks matted, stained, or no longer springs back when you squeeze it gently, replace it. Bissell sells replacement filters for most models for $15 to $40. Buying a new filter every 6 to 12 months is cheaper than replacing the motor.

Clear the brush roll and hose of hair and blockages

Hair and string wrap around the brush roll and stop it from spinning. Flip the vacuum upside down and look at the brush—if you see hair wound around it, the brush needs cleaning. Use scissors or a seam ripper to cut the hair away, working carefully so you do not cut the bristles. Wipe the brush with a damp cloth when you are done.

Check the hose next. Disconnect it from the vacuum by twisting or unclipping the connector, depending on your model. Hold it up to a light and look through it. If you see a blockage, push a broom handle through gently to dislodge it, or run warm water through the hose over a sink. Let it dry completely before reattaching.

Do this check every two weeks if you have pets or long hair in your home. A blocked hose or tangled brush roll feels like a suction problem but is not a broken motor.

Wipe down the exterior and check wheels

Dust and debris stick to the outside of the vacuum. Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the body, handle, and cord. Pay attention to the wheels at the base—they pick up hair and lint that can stop them from rolling smoothly. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to scrub around the wheel axles, then wipe with a damp cloth.

If a wheel does not spin freely after cleaning, it may be cracked or the axle may be bent. Bissell sells replacement wheels for most models for $5 to $15 per wheel. A stuck wheel makes the vacuum hard to push and can damage the motor over time.

Inspect the belt and replace it if it is frayed or loose

The belt connects the motor to the brush roll. If the brush stops spinning even though the motor is running, the belt is usually broken or slipping. To check it, flip the vacuum upside down and look at the belt running around the brush roll. It should be tight and smooth, not cracked, frayed, or hanging loose.

If the belt looks damaged, you can replace it yourself on most Bissell models. Remove the brush roll by unclipping or unscrewing it, slide the old belt off, and slide the new one on. Bissell replacement belts cost $10 to $25. If the belt keeps breaking after a few months, the motor pulley may be worn out, which means the vacuum needs professional repair or replacement.

Clean the water tank on carpet cleaning models

If you own a Bissell carpet cleaner like the ProHeat or CrossWave, the water tanks need regular cleaning. After each use, empty both the clean water tank and the dirty water tank. Rinse them with hot water and let them air-dry completely before refilling. Do not put them in the dishwasher.

Once a month, fill the clean water tank with equal parts white vinegar and water, run the solution through the machine over a sink or bathtub, then flush the system with plain water. This prevents mold and mineral buildup inside the hose and nozzle. If you see brown or cloudy water coming out, run the vinegar cycle again.

Store the vacuum in a dry place and check it before long storage

Keep your Bissell in a closet or garage where it stays dry. Moisture can rust the motor and damage the electrical cord. Before storing the vacuum for more than a month, empty the dirt tank, remove the filter and let it dry, and make sure the brush roll is clean and dry.

If you are storing it for the winter or longer, run the motor for a few seconds to make sure it still starts, then unplug it and store the cord loosely coiled—not wrapped tightly, which can crack the insulation. Keep the manual and any spare parts in a plastic bag taped to the handle so you know where they are when you need them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my Bissell vacuum?

Empty the dirt tank after every use, clean the filter monthly, and check the brush roll and hose every two weeks. Wipe the exterior and wheels monthly. If you have pets or use the vacuum daily, do these checks more often—weekly for the brush roll and hose.

Why does my Bissell lose suction even after I empty the tank?

A clogged filter is the most common cause. Check that the filter is clean and completely dry before reinstalling it. Next, inspect the hose and brush roll for blockages or tangled hair. If suction is still weak, the belt may be slipping or the motor may need repair.

Can I wash the filter in hot water?

No. Hot water can melt or warp the filter material. Use cool or lukewarm water only. Let the filter air-dry for at least four hours before putting it back in the vacuum.

What should I do if the brush roll stops spinning?

First, check for hair or string wrapped around it and cut it away. If the brush still does not spin, the belt is likely broken or slipping. Flip the vacuum over and look at the belt—if it is frayed, cracked, or hanging loose, replace it with a new one for your model.

Is it normal for my Bissell to smell bad?

A musty or moldy smell usually means moisture is trapped in the filter, hose, or tank. Make sure you let the filter dry completely before reinstalling it, and rinse the hose and tank with water, then let them air-dry. For carpet cleaners, run a vinegar and water solution through the system monthly to prevent mold buildup.