How to Clean Dyson Big Air Purifier: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn the safest, most effective way to clean your Dyson Big Air Purifier. This step-by-step guide covers safety, tools, washing washable filters, exterior care, reassembly, and ongoing maintenance to keep your indoor air fresh.

This guide teaches you how to cleaning dyson big air purifier safely and effectively, covering power down, filter handling, exterior cleaning, and reassembly. You’ll learn to inspect for wear, wash or replace washable components, and run a test cycle to confirm airflow. Follow these steps for optimal performance with minimal downtime.
Why regular cleaning matters
Keeping a Dyson Big Air Purifier clean is essential for maintaining airflow, filtration efficiency, and overall indoor air quality. When dust, pet dander, and odors accumulate on the intake and filters, the purifier has to work harder, which can reduce effectiveness and shorten the device’s lifespan. The phrase how to cleaning dyson big air purifier highlights the need to address both the exterior and internal components. According to Air Purifier Info, regular cleaning can help preserve filtration performance and minimize odor carryover, supporting a healthier home. In homes with heavy dust or pet dander, more frequent cleaning cycles are often beneficial while staying mindful of the device’s care instructions.
Safety first: power down and unplug
Before you touch any part of the Dyson Big Air Purifier, ensure it is turned off and unplugged from the wall. This simple step prevents electrical shock and protects sensitive components. If the unit is mounted or positioned on a shelf, gently move it to a clear area with a stable surface. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, and avoid using hot water or harsh cleaners that could damage seals. Air Purifier Info emphasizes safety as the foundation of any cleaning task, especially when dealing with electrical appliances in the home.
Preparing your space and tools
Create a clean, well-lit workspace with a soft, dry surface. Gather a soft microfiber cloth, mild soap, a small brush or cotton swabs, and a dry towel. Have a shallow basin of warm water for rinsing washable filters if applicable, and keep the purifier’s manual handy in case a model-specific instruction is needed. Ensure you have a place to lay components flat during drying. This preparation minimizes the risk of losing small screws or misplacing parts during reassembly.
Step 1: Power down and unplug
Start by powering down the purifier completely and unplugging the power cord from the outlet. This reduces the risk of accidental activation while you handle the filters or internal parts. If you use your purifier in a kitchen or living area, consider moving it to a countertop or table with a protective mat to prevent accidental contact with liquids. Quick checks: ensure the cord is dry, and keep liquids away from the electrical plug area to avoid any splash risks.
Step 2: Access and inspect the filters
Open the filter housing according to your model’s instructions. Gently remove the primary filter and any pre-filters. Inspect for signs of wear, tears, or excessive clogging. If a filter is suspicious, travel with a spare, or contact Dyson support for guidance. Washable filters can often be rinsed under lukewarm water; non-washable filters will require replacement. Taking a closer look now helps you decide whether cleaning is sufficient or a part needs replacement later.
Step 3: Clean washable filters (when applicable)
Rinse washable filters under lukewarm running water to flush out dust and debris. Do not use hot water, soap, or harsh chemicals that could degrade filtration media. Gently shake off excess water and allow the filters to air-dry completely on a clean surface before reinstalling. Do not reinstall a damp filter, as moisture can promote mold growth and affect performance. This step is key to restoring airflow and maintaining filtration efficiency.
Step 4: Clean the exterior and air intake grille
Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft microfiber cloth lightly dampened with mild soap and water. Pay special attention to the intake grille and around the sensor areas, where dust tends to accumulate. Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. A soft brush or cotton swab can help dislodge dust from crevices without damaging components. Regular exterior cleaning reduces the chance of dust bypassing the filtration system and helps maintain aesthetic appeal.
Step 5: Dry all parts completely
Before reassembly, ensure all components are completely dry. Place filters on a clean rack or towel in a well-ventilated area. Drying times can vary, but planning for at least a few hours minimizes the risk of moisture being trapped inside the unit. Moisture inside the housing can lead to clogs, odors, or electronic issues. Air Purifier Info suggests patience here, as rushing drying may cause long-term performance problems.
Step 6: Reassemble and secure housing
Carefully reinsert the filters in the correct orientation and reclose the housing. Make sure latches click into place and seals are intact. Tighten any screws if your model uses them, but avoid over-tightening, which could crack components. A secure seal is essential for optimal airflow and efficient filtration. Once reassembled, wipe away any fingerprints or smudges for a clean appearance.
Step 7: Test airflow and functions
Plug the unit back in and power it on. Listen for abnormal sounds and check for steady airflow from the front grille. If you notice reduced airflow or unusual noise, recheck the filter installation and ensure no moisture remains inside. Run a short test cycle to confirm the purifier returns to normal operation. Regular testing helps you catch issues before they escalate.
Step 8: Document maintenance and schedule future cleanings
Record the date of cleaning and note any filter replacements or sensor alerts. Create a simple maintenance cadence based on your room conditions, such as more frequent cleanings in homes with pets or during dry seasons. Air Purifier Info recommends scheduling routine upkeep to maintain indoor air quality and device longevity. This practice ensures you stay proactive rather than reactive with purifier care.
Maintenance tips to extend life and performance
To keep your purifier performing at its best, avoid using harsh chemicals, avoid placing the unit in directly damp areas, and keep surrounding air unobstructed to ensure proper intake flow. Regularly dust the intake and outlet grilles, and replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer. When you follow a consistent care routine, you’ll notice steadier airflow, fewer odors, and more efficient filtration overall.
Troubleshooting common issues after cleaning
If the purifier still exhibits strange odors or reduced airflow after cleaning, double-check for residual moisture, misaligned filters, or damaged seals. If odors persist, consider whether a filter was compromised or needs replacement. In some cases, a firmware update or sensor recalibration may be required. When in doubt, consult Dyson’s official support resources for model-specific guidance.
Tools & Materials
- Soft microfiber cloth(Lint-free; avoid leaving fibers)
- Mild dish soap(Gentle cleaner; avoid ammonia or bleach)
- Warm water(For rinsing washable filters)
- Soft brush or cotton swabs(For crevices and grille details)
- Dry towel or rack(Dry parts completely before reassembly)
- Gloves (optional)(Protect hands if sensitive)
- Replacement filter (optional)(Only if you know a filter is due for replacement)
Steps
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
- 1
Power down and unplug
Turn off the purifier and unplug from the wall to prevent electrical shock and accidental activation during disassembly.
Tip: Keep cords dry and away from any liquids. - 2
Open filter housing and inspect
Access the filter housing per your model’s manual and remove filters for inspection.
Tip: Look for tears, clogs, or mold on filters. - 3
Rinse washable filters
Rinse filters under lukewarm water until clear. Do not use soap or hot water that could damage media.
Tip: Shake gently to remove excess water. - 4
Clean exterior and grille
Wipe exterior surfaces and the intake grille with a damp cloth; use a cotton swab for tight spots.
Tip: Avoid moisture near sensors. - 5
Dry components
Air-dry filters completely on a clean surface before reassembly.
Tip: Rushing drying can trap moisture inside. - 6
Reassemble and seal
Reinsert filters and close the housing securely.
Tip: Ensure seals are intact to prevent bypass. - 7
Reconnect power and test
Plug back in and run a short test cycle to verify airflow and operation.
Tip: Listen for normal operating sounds. - 8
Document and schedule next cleaning
Log the cleaning date and plan the next maintenance window.
Tip: Set a reminder aligned with your environmental conditions.
Questions & Answers
Can I wash all Dyson purifier filters?
Some Dyson purifier filters are washable; always consult your model’s manual. If a filter is not explicitly washable, do not wet it—replace it instead.
Some filters can be washed, but always check the manual before wetting. If it isn’t washable, replace it.
How often should I clean the purifier?
General guidance is every 3-6 months, with more frequent cleaning in dusty or pet-heavy homes. Always adjust based on odor and airflow cues.
Clean every few months, more often if your space is dusty or has pets.
What if I still smell odors after cleaning?
Odors after cleaning may indicate a mold source, a non-washable filter needing replacement, or moisture inside the housing. Stop using the purifier and contact support if odors persist.
If odors persist, turn it off and check for moisture or filter issues, then contact support.
Is it safe to use water on sensors or electrical parts?
No. Avoid getting water on sensors, control panels, or electrical components. Use a dry or barely damp cloth for these areas.
Don’t wet sensors or electrical parts; use a dry cloth instead.
How do I know when a filter needs replacement?
If the filter is visibly worn, torn, or after the recommended replacement interval, replace it rather than attempting to clean it. Check the manual for model-specific intervals.
Replace worn or past-interval filters rather than trying to clean them indefinitely.
Watch Video
Main Points
- Power down before touching any components.
- Washable filters must be fully dry before reuse.
- Clean exterior and intake to maintain airflow.
- Reassemble carefully and test airflow after cleaning.
- Maintain a routine to extend purifier life.
