How to clean your Shark vacuum — from dust cups to filters

Shark Cordless PowerDetect vacuum cleaner
(Image credit: Shark)

In my quest for domestic bliss, I've learned that a vacuum cleaner is the unsung hero of home cleanliness. While I've spent much time researching how to choose the right vacuum cleaner and poring over lists of the best vacuum cleaners, I've discovered a universal truth: even the top models need regular TLC. 

This applies whether you're wielding a Shark, improving your Dyson's performance by cleaning the filter, or using any other brand. Shark vacuums, with their powerful suction and innovative features, are no exception to this rule. 

With proper care, your Shark can continue to be your steadfast ally in the ongoing battle against dirt, hair, and dust. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping your Shark vacuum cleaner in prime condition. 

1. Tackle the brush rolls

(Image: © Future)

Start with the heart of your vacuum's cleaning power. For single brush-roll models, detach the floorhead and remove debris from the bristles. 

Use scissors to carefully cut away any tangled hair or string. If you have a DuoClean model, clean both the bristle brush-roll and the soft front roller according to your instruction manual.

2. Empty and clean the dust cup

(Image: © Future)

Remove the dust cup and empty it over a bin. Don't wait for it to reach the MAX fill line — regular emptying keeps your vacuum running efficiently. While you're at it, wipe down the inside of the cup to remove any stubborn dirt.

3. Give your filters some attention

(Image: © Future)

Remove the filters and tap off loose dirt. Hand wash them using only water, and let them air dry completely for 24 hours before reinserting. Clean filters are crucial for maintaining suction power and keeping allergens at bay.

4. Check for sneaky blockages

(Image: © Future)

Inspect the floorhead, wand, hose, and airways for any obstructions. For upright models, remove the handle and check for blockages

Use a flashlight to peer into the hose and wand. Don't forget to check the arm of the floorhead where it connects to the wand.

5. Perform a final inspection

(Image: © Future)

Once you've completed these steps, reassemble your vacuum and run it briefly to ensure everything is working smoothly. Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate you've missed a blockage.

Remember, regular maintenance keeps your Shark vacuum running at its best, ensuring your home stays clean with minimal effort.


Now that you've mastered cleaning your Dyson filter, why not tackle other household cleaning challenges? Learn how to remove limescale from your shower glass for a streak-free shine, or try 7 tips to blast away bathroom mold that actually work

And to organize your cleaning schedule, check out our guide on 7 cleaning apps to help you maintain a tidy home

Kaycee Hill
Tutorials editor

Kaycee is an Editor at Tom’s Guide and has been writing for as long as she can remember. Her journey into the tech world began as Cazoo's Knowledge Content Specialist, igniting her enthusiasm for technology. When she’s not exploring the latest gadgets and innovations, Kaycee can be found immersed in her favorite video games, or penning her second poetry collection. 

Read more
White vacuum cleaner on a jute rug
How to deep-clean every part of your vacuum for peak performance
Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra on carpet
How to clean your Roborock vacuum — 5 essential maintenance tips
Roomba i3
How to clean your Roomba for peak performance — 5 easy steps
The Dyson WashG1 cleaning under a table
I test vacuums for a living and these are my top 3 of 2024
Shark Robot Vacuum & Mop Combo
Which Shark robot vacuum should I buy? How to pick the best model for your needs and budget
Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry Cordless Floor Cleaner on white tiles
I tested this wet and dry vacuum cleaner — and I’m never using my mop again
Latest in Home
A mosquito resting on a plant
Experts predict a spring surge in these 9 pest populations — here's what's forecast for your area
Breville Air Fryer toaster
Hot deal! Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer is $70 off for Amazon's Big Spring Sale
De'Longhi Linea Classic
De'Longhi's timeless new Linea Classic espresso machine is shockingly affordable, and ideal for small kitchens
The new Husqvarna iQ series robot lawn mower.
Husqvarna’s new robot mowers offer GPS for less
Roborock Saros Z70
Roborock's new robot vacuum that comes with a robotic arm is now available to buy
the dyson airwrap ID in teal and terracotta colorway (patina and orange) with a lapis case, with a brush, hairfryer, curling wand attachments
I'm so sick of everything being 'smart' — and the Dyson Airwrap i.d. I've been testing is the last straw
Latest in How To
An image of an iPhone screen showing the Safari app icon in the center
I got tired of Safari revealing my web searches in iOS 18.4 — this setting fixes that
Gmail logo on iPhone
I used Google Gemini to declutter my Gmail account — here's how you can do it too
AirPods Pro 2 in hand
Your earbuds are disgusting — here's the right way to clean them
ChatGPT logo on a smartphone screen being held outside
7 biggest ChatGPT mistakes — and how to fix them
a photo of a woman looking at her fitness tracker
Forget the treadmill — I boosted my metabolism and walked 2,000 steps with this 15-minute workout
a photo of a woman out for a walk
Forget running — I did this one thing to boost the calorie burn on my daily walks