Remove the brush roll before you clean it

The brush roll on a Shark vacuum sits inside the floor head and spins to pull dirt from carpet and hard floors. To clean it, you need to take it out first. Unplug the vacuum, then flip it over so you can see the underside of the floor head. Most Shark models have a release button or latch on each end of the brush roll — press or slide these to pop the roll out of its housing.

Once the brush roll is free, set it on a clean surface. You will see hair, lint, and dust wrapped tightly around the bristles. This buildup slows the brush and reduces suction, so cleaning it regularly keeps your vacuum working at full power.

Key Takeaways

  • Unplug the vacuum and flip it over to access the brush roll release buttons or latches on both ends of the floor head.
  • Hair and lint wrap around the bristles and must be removed by hand, scissors, or a seam ripper to restore brush speed.
  • Rinse the brush roll under warm water and let it dry completely before reinstalling it.
  • Clean the brush roll every one to three months, or more often if you have pets or long hair.

Cut away wrapped hair and lint by hand

The fastest way to remove wrapped hair is with scissors or a seam ripper. A seam ripper — a small tool with a curved blade designed to cut thread — works especially well because the curve lets you slide under the hair without cutting the bristles. Hold the brush roll steady and cut along the length of the roll, working from one end to the other. Pull away the cut hair as you go.

If you do not have a seam ripper, small scissors work fine. Go slowly and keep the blade parallel to the bristles so you cut the hair, not the brush itself. For stubborn tangles, you can also pick at the hair with your fingernail or a fine-tooth comb, though this takes longer than cutting.

Rinse and dry the brush roll

After you remove the visible hair and lint, rinse the brush roll under warm running water. Hold it so the water runs along the bristles, not against them. Use your fingers or an old toothbrush to gently scrub between the bristles and loosen any remaining dust or pet hair. Do not use soap — plain water is enough.

Shake off the excess water and stand the brush roll upright on a clean towel or paper towel. Let it air dry completely before you put it back in the vacuum. This usually takes two to four hours. Do not reinstall a wet brush roll, because moisture can damage the motor or create mold inside the floor head.

Check the brush roll housing while it is out

While the brush roll is removed, take a moment to look inside the floor head where the roll sits. Dust, hair, and debris collect in this space too. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe out the housing, paying special attention to the corners and the areas where the brush roll makes contact.

Also check the release buttons or latches to make sure they move freely and are not clogged with hair. If they are stuck, clean them gently with a damp cloth. A clean housing helps the brush roll spin smoothly and makes it easier to remove next time.

Reinstall the brush roll the right way

Once the brush roll is completely dry, slide it back into the floor head. Line up the ends of the roll with the slots or holders on each side of the housing. Push it in until you hear or feel a click — this means the release buttons or latches have snapped back into place and the roll is find.

Flip the vacuum back over and plug it in. Turn it on briefly to make sure the brush spins freely and the vacuum sounds normal. If the brush does not spin or the vacuum sounds different, unplug it and check that the roll is seated all the way in.

How often to clean the brush roll

If you live alone and do not have pets, clean the brush roll every three months. If you have pets or long hair, clean it every one to two months. If you notice the vacuum is not picking up as well as it used to, or if the brush sounds like it is dragging, check the roll right away — it may be clogged.

A quick visual check takes only a few seconds: flip the vacuum over and look at the brush. If you can see hair wrapped around it, it is time to clean. Keeping the brush roll clean is one of the easiest ways to keep your Shark vacuum working well and lasting longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash the brush roll in the sink or dishwasher?

Warm running water is fine, but do not soak the brush roll or put it in the dishwasher. The bristles can absorb too much water, and the heat in a dishwasher can warp the plastic housing. Rinse it under the tap, shake it dry, and let it air dry standing upright.

What if the brush roll will not come out?

Make sure you have pressed or slid both release buttons or latches — one on each end. If it still will not budge, check the manual for your specific Shark model, because some models have a slightly different release mechanism. Do not force it, or you may break the latch.

Is it normal for the brush to slow down over time?

Yes, but usually it is just hair and dust buildup. Clean the brush roll and check that it spins freely. If it still spins slowly after cleaning, the motor bearings may be wearing out, and you may need to replace the floor head or the entire vacuum.

Can I replace the brush roll myself?

Yes. Shark sells replacement brush rolls for most models. Once you know how to remove the old one, installing a new one takes less than a minute — just slide it in and make sure the latches click into place.