I've spent over 200 hours testing vacuums and swear by my two Dysons – this is how I properly clean a Dyson vacuum filter for longer-lasting appliances

As somebody who has spent more than 200 hours testing and reviewing vacuum cleaners, I understand the importance of vacuum maintenance. So, how do you clean a Dyson vacuum filter?

It's often overlooked, but luckily, the Dyson vacuum filters are designed to be cleaned and reused, as opposed to other brands with filters that are disposed of and replaced.

I've lost count of how many times I've had to clean vacuum filters over the years, so here are my top tips for cleaning Dyson filters, including what to avoid, for a longer-lasting appliance.

How to clean the filter in a Dyson vacuum

The best Dyson vacuums will only stay the best so long as you care for them correctly. Avoiding common vacuum cleaner mistakes, cleaning before your vacuum cleaner starts smelling, and using the right tools will help to prolong its lifespan.

Here's how to focus on cleaning a Dyson vacuum filter so you don't have to replace a vacuum prematurely.

1. Locate and remove the filter

Like most vacuum cleaners, Dyson vacuums utilize pre-motor and post-motor filters and both need to be cleaned.

If you have one of the best cordless vacuums such as the Dyson V15 Detect or Dyson V8, you'll find the post-motor filter at the top of the vacuum in either a purple or light blue container, depending on the model. Simply unscrew it then remove the filter.

The pre-motor filter in a cordless Dyson can't be removed and should be cleaned by accessing the dustbin and cleaning with a soft brush, such as the Mr. Siga Cleaning Brush Set, available at Walmart, which comes with a long-handled, soft brush with the bristled situated at the tip for easy maneuverability.

If you own one of the best upright vacuums, such as the Dyson Ball Animal 3, both filters can be removed. The pre-motor filter is found in the center of the dustbin – remove the dustbin, then lift up the handle flap and filter cover.

The post-motor is found within the 'ball.' Unscrew the side of the ball using the colored handle and you'll find the large, round filter inside. Unscrew it to remove it. This six-piece screwdriver set from Target makes light work of removing sections for easy cleaning.

2. Tap and rinse

Depending on when you last cleaned your vacuum filter, there could be heaps of dust and hair caked on. Tap away as much as you can into a trash can, then rinse, thoroughly, for about five to 10 minutes under running water. Use cold water only, and avoid using any detergent or soap as it damages the delicate fibers.

Top tip: you can fill the cylindrical filters with water, cup both sides with your hands, and shake to clean even more rigorously.

For the cordless pre-motor filter – the one that can't be removed – you'll have to reach inside the dustbin using a long, soft brush, like this set of bottle-cleaning brushes from Walmart. It can be a little tricky, but make sure to brush the entire surface, removing all visible dirt from the metal.

3. Dry, thoroughly

Once you've cleaned as much dirt from the filter as possible, it needs to dry completely. Moisture is one of the most important things you should never vacuum as it reaches the electrical components, causing significant damage to the motor and eventually causing your vacuum to lose suction power, or even break completely.

So, air dry the filter for at least 24 hours, until it's completely dry. Don't use the dryer, heat vent, or a flame to do this as the heat can warp the materials. Placing the filter in a well-ventilated spot, such as on a clothes drying rack or a dish rack such as the Joseph Joseph Y-rack from Walmart, so that air can circulate on both sides will help the process along and stop your vacuum cleaner from smelling.

I've spoken with vacuum engineers about filter maintenance, and a common recommendation is to buy an extra filter. This allows you to swap it out while the other is being cleaned and dried and will double how long you can vacuum without putting a strain on the motor.

Once your filter is clean and your vacuum has been reassembled, it is worth checking over your appliance for the four common faults that engineers fix in Dyson vacuums, and taking steps to prevent them.