How to Clean a Dyson Filter (and When to Replace It)

If your Dyson vacuum is losing suction, pulsing on and off, or smells musty, a clogged filter is the most common cause. Most Dyson filters are washable, but only with cold water and a long drying time. Here's how to clean a Dyson filter correctly, and when it's time for a replacement.

Quick answer: Remove the filter (check your model's manual for its location), tap out loose dust, rinse it under cold water only, with no soap, until the water runs clear, shake out excess water, and let it dry for at least 24 hours before refitting. Most Dyson models suggest washing the filter about once a month.

Find Your Filter

Dyson models have different filter setups: many cordless stick vacuums have a single filter unit at the top or back of the cyclone; some older models have a pre-motor filter and a separate post-motor filter. Look for the purple, blue or gray filter cap with a "washable" icon, and check your manual or the Dyson app. Some filters (especially certain HEPA units) are not washable and must be replaced.

What You'll Need

Cold tap water
A bin or trash bag for tapping dust
A warm, dry, well-ventilated spot to dry the filter

Step-by-Step

Unplug or remove the battery pack and empty the bin.
Remove the filter by twisting or pulling it out, as your model directs.
Tap out dust over a trash bag.
Rinse with cold water only. Run water over and through the filter, gently squeezing pleated or foam parts, and tapping it out. Repeat until the water runs clear. Many filters need 5–10 rinses.
No soap or detergent. Soap can damage the filter media and leave residue.
Shake out water and place the filter in a warm, airy spot.
Dry for at least 24 hours (longer in humid weather). It must be completely dry.
Refit the filter firmly.

What NOT to Do

Don't use a dishwasher, washing machine, hair dryer, oven or microwave.
Don't use hot water or soap.
Don't run the vacuum without the filter, or with a damp filter (it can damage the motor and smell musty).

Clean the Rest of the Vacuum

While the filter dries, clean the bin, cyclone shroud and brush bar. Cut tangled hair off the brush bar and wipe the bin with a dry cloth. Full step-by-step: How to Clean Your Vacuum Cleaner.

When to Replace a Dyson Filter

The filter is torn, warped or crumbling.
It stays gray or smells after a thorough wash.
Suction doesn't improve after cleaning the filter, bin and brush bar.
Your model uses a non-washable filter.

Troubleshooting Low Suction

Symptom	Check
Pulsing on and off	Blocked filter or blockage in wand/hose
Musty smell	Filter put back damp; rewash and dry fully
Brush not spinning	Hair wrapped around the brush bar

Related Guides

Choosing a new vacuum? Read Types of Vacuum Cleaners Explained. Got carpet odors? How to Get Rid of Carpet Odors Naturally.

FAQ

How often should I wash my Dyson filter?

Many Dyson models recommend about once a month, or more often with pets or heavy use. Check your manual.

Can I speed up drying?

Not with heat. Air circulation from a room fan is fine; direct heat can warp the filter.