The battery in your Swiffer WetJet or Swiffer Sweeper goes into the handle, and you swap it out by twisting the battery cap counterclockwise until it comes free

The Swiffer uses two AA batteries housed in a compartment at the base of the handle. When your Swiffer stops spraying or the motor slows down, the batteries are dead. You do not need tools or special knowledge—just two fresh AA batteries and about a minute of your time.

The process is the same whether you own a WetJet (the spray model) or a regular Sweeper. The battery cap is always at the bottom of the handle, and it always twists off by hand.

Key Takeaways

  • The battery compartment is at the base of the Swiffer handle and opens by twisting the cap counterclockwise.
  • You need two AA batteries, not AAA or any other size.
  • Check the polarity markings inside the compartment—the flat end (negative) goes in first, then the bumped end (positive) toward the spring.
  • If the Swiffer still does not work after you install new batteries, the motor or spray mechanism may be broken and the unit may need replacement.

Locate the battery compartment at the bottom of the handle

Hold the Swiffer upright and look at the very bottom of the handle, just above where the handle meets the cleaning pad or mop head. You will see a round or oval cap with a small slot or ridge on the edge. This is the battery cap.

The cap is usually black or gray and blends into the handle, so if you do not see it when ready, run your thumb around the bottom edge of the handle until you feel the ridge.

Twist the battery cap counterclockwise to open it

Place your thumb and forefinger on the ridge or slot of the battery cap. Turn it counterclockwise (to the left) with steady, gentle pressure. Do not force it—it should turn smoothly. After a quarter turn or so, the cap will come free in your hand.

Set the cap somewhere you will not lose it. You will need to screw it back on after you install the new batteries.

Remove the old batteries and check the polarity markings

Inside the compartment, you will see two AA batteries sitting end to end, or one battery and an empty slot. Pull out any old batteries and throw them away. Do not leave dead batteries in the compartment—they can leak and damage the motor.

Look inside the compartment at the metal contacts. You will see a flat metal plate at one end (the negative terminal) and a spring or raised contact at the other end (the positive terminal). The markings are usually labeled with a minus sign (−) and a plus sign (+), or the words "−" and "+". Memorize which end is which before you insert the new batteries.

Insert two fresh AA batteries with the correct polarity

Take your first new AA battery. The flat end is the negative terminal (−), and the bumped end is the positive terminal (+). Insert the battery with the flat end first, pushing it toward the flat metal plate inside the compartment. Push it all the way in until it sits flush.

Insert the second battery the same way, with the flat end first. Both batteries should sit snugly side by side or end to end, depending on your Swiffer model. If a battery is loose or does not sit flat, remove it and reinsert it.

Screw the battery cap back on clockwise

Pick up the battery cap and align it with the opening at the bottom of the handle. Push it in gently and turn it clockwise (to the right) until it is snug. Do not overtighten—you should feel it seat with light resistance, then stop. Overtightening can crack the cap or strip the threads.

The cap should sit flush with the handle and not wiggle or rattle. If it does, unscrew it slightly and reseat the batteries, then try again.

Test the Swiffer to confirm it works

If you have a WetJet, press the spray trigger a few times. You should hear a click and see a mist of cleaning solution. If you have a regular Sweeper, turn it on or set up the motor (the method depends on your model—some have an on/off switch, others set up when you press down). The motor should hum or vibrate smoothly.

If the Swiffer still does not work, the batteries may be installed backward. Open the cap again and double-check that the flat end of each battery is facing the flat metal plate. If the batteries are correct and the Swiffer still does not work, the motor or spray mechanism may be broken and the unit may need to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rechargeable AA batteries in my Swiffer?

Yes. Rechargeable AA batteries work in a Swiffer, though they may not last as long per charge as alkaline batteries. Make sure they are fully charged before you insert them, and follow the same polarity rules as you would with regular batteries.

What if one battery works but the other does not?

One dead battery can prevent the Swiffer from working at all, because the two batteries are wired in series. Replace both batteries at the same time, even if only one appears dead. Do not mix old and new batteries.

How often do I need to replace the batteries?

It depends on how often you use the Swiffer and which type of batteries you buy. Alkaline AA batteries typically last several months of regular use. If you use your Swiffer daily, you may need new batteries every month or two.

Can I use AAA batteries instead of AA?

No. The compartment is sized for AA batteries only. AAA batteries are too small and will not make proper contact with the terminals. Always use AA batteries.

What should I do with the old batteries?

Take them to a battery recycling program or a retailer that accepts used batteries, such as Best Buy or Home Depot. Many communities also have hazardous waste collection days. Do not throw batteries in the trash.