If you own a Dyson vacuum cleaner, you probably know how powerful and efficient it is. However, over time, even the best vacuums can get clogged, lose suction, or require maintenance. Ive been there, staring at my Dyson wondering how to fix it myself without having to call customer service or take it to a repair shop.
The good news is, taking apart a Dyson vacuum cleaner isnt as difficult as it may seem. In this guide, Ill walk you through the steps on how to disassemble your Dyson, clean it, and put it back together, so it works as good as new.

Image by maid2match
Why Take Apart Your Dyson Vacuum?
Before diving into the how-to, lets talk about the why. Dyson vacuums are known for their superior technology, but like any machine, they need maintenance. Dust, hair, and debris can get stuck in the filters, hoses, and other parts, causing a drop in performance. Taking apart your Dyson allows you to:
- Clean out clogs: Remove any buildup thats blocking airflow.
- Improve suction: Dirty filters can make your Dyson lose suction power.
- Extend the life of your vacuum: Regular maintenance helps your Dyson run smoothly for longer.
Tools Youll Need
You dont need any fancy tools to take apart a Dyson vacuum. Heres a simple list of what youll need:
- A flat-head screwdriver
- A Phillips screwdriver
- A cleaning brush
- A pair of scissors (to cut tangled hair or threads)
- A microfiber cloth (for wiping down parts)
Now that youre ready with your tools, lets move on to the actual disassembly process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Apart a Dyson Vacuum Cleaner
There are several models of Dyson vacuums, from upright to cordless, and while they share a lot of similarities, each model may have slight differences in how it comes apart. I’ll cover the general steps for the most common models, like the Dyson Ball and Dyson V-Series.
1. Unplug the Vacuum and Remove Attachments
Before you do anything, make sure your vacuum is unplugged from the power source. This is essential for your safety.
Next, remove any attachments, like the hose, wand, and cleaning head. Detaching these parts gives you more room to work, and theyll need to be cleaned separately.
2. Empty the Dustbin
The dustbin is where all the debris goes, and if its full, your vacuum wont work as effectively. Most Dyson models have a quick-release button that allows you to easily remove the dustbin. Take it over to a trash can and empty it.
Pro Tip: If the dustbin is particularly dirty, give it a quick rinse with warm water and let it dry completely before reattaching it.
3. Remove and Clean the Filter
Dyson vacuums have a washable filter that should be cleaned regularly to maintain suction. Typically, the filter is located either at the top of the vacuum or within the ball mechanism (on upright models).
To remove the filter:
- Twist the top (if its a top-located filter) or open the ball casing to access it.
- Rinse the filter under cold water, squeezing out any trapped dust.
- Let the filter dry for at least 24 hours before putting it back in the vacuum.
Pro Tip: Never use detergent or put the filter in a washing machine, as this can damage it.
4. Detach and Clean the Hose
If your Dyson is losing suction, the hose might be clogged. To check this, remove the hose from the vacuum body.
- Inspect the inside for blockages like dust, hair, or small objects.
- Use a long brush or a flexible cleaning tool to push out any debris.
- Rinse the hose with warm water if its particularly dirty and let it dry completely before reattaching.
Pro Tip: If you notice any cracks or holes in the hose, it might be time to replace it, as this can also reduce suction.
5. Clean the Brush Bar
One of the most common issues with vacuums is a tangled brush bar. Hair, string, and carpet fibers can get wrapped around it, stopping it from spinning properly.
- Flip the vacuum over so you can see the brush bar.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the screws or clips holding the brush bar in place.
- Pull out the brush bar and use a pair of scissors to carefully cut away any tangled hair or debris.
- Wipe it down with a cloth to remove dust and dirt.
Pro Tip: Some Dyson models, like the Dyson Ball, have a self-cleaning brush bar, but its still a good idea to manually check and clean it regularly.
6. Inspect and Clean the Cyclone Assembly
The cyclone assembly is one of the most innovative parts of a Dyson vacuum. Its responsible for creating the suction power that Dyson is famous for. However, over time, dust and debris can build up inside the cyclone.
- To access the cyclone, youll need to remove the dustbin. The cyclone is usually located above or within the bin.
- Once the dustbin is removed, look for screws or clips that hold the cyclone in place. Use your screwdriver to remove these.
- Once removed, tap the cyclone gently to dislodge any trapped dust.
- You can also use compressed air to blow out debris, but make sure not to get the cyclone wet, as this can damage it.
7. Clean the Ball (For Dyson Ball Models)
If you have a Dyson Ball model, its important to clean the ball mechanism. Dust and dirt can get trapped in this area, which can affect the vacuums movement.
- Remove the ball casing by unscrewing the screws located near the base of the vacuum.
- Wipe down the inside of the ball with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
- Check for any small clogs or debris stuck in the ball mechanism and remove them.
Reassembling Your Dyson Vacuum Cleaner
Once youve cleaned all the individual parts, its time to put your Dyson back together.
- Start by reattaching the cyclone assembly and securing it with screws or clips.
- Reinstall the filter (only if its completely dry), and put the dustbin back in place.
- Attach the hose and any accessories or attachments that you removed earlier.
- Make sure the brush bar is spinning freely and that all parts are securely reattached.
Now, your Dyson vacuum should be ready to go!
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Dyson Running Smoothly
Taking apart and cleaning your Dyson is important, but regular maintenance is key to making sure your vacuum lasts for years. Here are a few tips that Ive found helpful:
- Clean the filter every 1-2 months: This will help maintain suction power and prevent clogs.
- Empty the dustbin regularly: Dont let the bin get too full, as this can affect the vacuums performance.
- Check for blockages often: Every now and then, inspect the hose and attachments for blockages to prevent any issues.
- Replace worn parts: If you notice any worn-out parts, like the brush bar or hose, replace them promptly to keep your Dyson in top shape.
Comparison of Dyson Upright vs Dyson Cordless
Feature | Dyson Upright | Dyson Cordless |
---|---|---|
Suction Power | Stronger suction for deep cleaning | Slightly less powerful but versatile |
Portability | Heavier, less portable | Lightweight and easy to move around |
Battery Life | Not applicable (plug-in) | Limited, needs charging after 40 mins |
Maintenance | More parts to clean | Fewer parts, easier to maintain |
Best For | Large spaces, heavy-duty cleaning | Small spaces, quick clean-ups |
Final Thoughts
Taking apart your Dyson vacuum cleaner might seem like a daunting task, but its actually pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. Regular cleaning and maintenance will not only improve the performance of your vacuum but also extend its lifespan. Whether you have a Dyson Ball, an upright model, or a cordless version, the steps are generally the same.
Ive found that by following these steps every few months, my Dyson has continued to work just as well as when I first bought it. So, dont be afraid to dive in and give your Dyson some TLCitll pay off with better performance and longer life!

I’m Allen Kim, the chief editor of plumbinginto. I am a mid level plumber and assign to an local firm over 4 years of experience. During the working period, most of my experience is related to the house plumbing. I learned about the thing, when working with most experienced people in this sector, one must be as good as the inspector or better with knowledge of the project as well as the practical aspects of plumbing industry.