How to Clean Dyson Ball Animal 2 Vacuum Filters Safely

The Short Version

• Disconnect power: Always unplug your vacuum before taking off latches or covers.
• Locate both filters: Remove the stick filter inside the bin handle and the round disc filter inside the ball wheel.
• Rinse with cold water: Wash both filters under cold tap water with no soap until runoff runs clear.
• Air-dry 24 hours: Let both pieces dry completely in a warm room before reinstalling them.

Finding Both Filters on Your Machine

Dyson Ball Animal 2 upright vacuums rely on a two-part filtration system. Many owners only clean the top filter because it sits in plain sight, completely unaware that a second filter hides inside the lower rolling ball. Running your machine with one clean filter and one clogged filter suffocates the motor, cuts suction in half, and causes hot motor smells.

The first filter is the stick filter inside the bin handle. To remove it, press the red release catch on top of the carry handle to detach the clear dirt container from the vacuum body. Once the clear dirt container is off, look at the top rim of the handle assembly. Press the purple release button to open the top cap, then grasp the fabric tab to pull out the stick filter.

The second filter is the round disc filter inside the ball wheel. Look directly at the center hub on the side of the large ball wheel. Twist the central circular dial counterclockwise until it releases, then pull the outer plastic shell off the ball. Turn the circular filter cartridge a quarter turn counterclockwise to unlock it, then lift it straight out.

Step-by-Step Washing Routine for Both Filters

Washing these filters takes less than ten minutes at your sink without tools or chemicals. Plain cold tap water is the only safe way to clean the fibers without damaging their structure.

1. Tap out dry dust: Tap the plastic frames gently against the inside of a trash can to knock loose surface dust, pet hair, and lint. Removing loose dirt first keeps water from turning that dust into thick mud that clogs the inner pores.
2. Flush the stick filter: Hold the stick filter inside the bin handle under a cold tap. Let cold water run through the open top cone so it flows outward through the fabric. Squeeze the foam body gently with your hands as the water runs through it. Turn the filter over, rinse the outside, and continue squeezing gently for two minutes until the runoff is clear.
3. Rinse the round disc filter: Hold the round disc filter inside the ball wheel under cold water. Direct the stream into the center ring so water flows across the pleats from the inside out, washing trapped dust away from the folds. Fill the inner plastic cavity with cold water, cover the opening with your hand, and swirl gently to flush out fine grit.
4. Tap away trapped silt: Gently tap the hard plastic edge of the round disc filter against the palm of your hand over the sink basin. This light vibration frees microscopic silt trapped between the pleats. Keep rinsing under the tap until the draining water runs clear.
5. Shed excess water: Do not twist or wring the stick filter, because twisting rips the stitched seams. Press it firmly between your flat palms to squeeze out pooled water. For the round ball filter, hold the rigid plastic frame and give it several brisk downward shakes over the sink to dislodge droplets caught in the pleats.

Drying Guidelines and How to Check for Full Dryness

Letting both filters dry until they are completely free of moisture is the most critical step in this entire routine. Trapped water will ruin an upright vacuum motor within seconds. Allow at least 24 hours of natural air-drying time, though humid rooms can require up to 48 hours.

Choose a warm spot with strong air circulation. Stand the stick filter upright on its wide plastic base on a clean towel so air moves through its hollow center. Place the round disc filter flat on the towel with its pleated side facing down, allowing gravity to pull water out of the folds. Setting the parts near an open window or a circulating fan speeds up drying naturally.

Before snapping either part back into your vacuum, use this quick checklist to confirm no moisture remains:

• The seam check: Press your fingers along the thick stitched edge at the top of the stick filter. Seams hold dampness long after the thin outer fabric feels dry.
• The core squeeze check: Squeeze the center of the foam stick filter between your thumb and forefinger. If your skin feels cool or clammy, moisture remains trapped inside the foam cells.
• The paper towel check: Press a dry paper towel firmly into the pleats of the round disc filter. If the paper towel picks up even a tiny damp spot, the filter needs more drying time.
• The sniff check: Smell both filters up close. Dry, clean filters have no odor. If you notice a sour or wet-laundry smell, moisture lingered too long. Rinse the filter again with cold water and dry it in an area with better airflow.

Common Washing Mistakes That Ruin Filters and Motors

Simple cleaning mistakes can permanently destroy your filters or kill your vacuum motor. Knowing what to avoid saves you from costly repairs or having to replace the entire machine.

The most dangerous mistake is reinstalling filters while they are still slightly damp. Suction pulls leftover water droplets directly into the motor housing. Water contacts the electrical wiring and spinning bearings, causing short circuits, motor burnouts, or tripped breakers. Even if the motor survives, wet fibers trap dust instantly, creating a hard crust that suffocates suction.

Never wash either filter with laundry detergent, dish soap, or bleach. Soap leaves behind a sticky film that does not rinse out of dense filter paper or tight foam pores. That residue dries into a tacky coating that glues dust to the fibers, permanently choking airflow. Plain cold tap water washes away dust without leaving residues behind.

Avoid hot water, clothes dryers, hair dryers, and ovens. Hot water warps the plastic ring on the round disc filter, preventing it from sealing properly inside the ball wheel. Direct heat from hair dryers or clothes dryers melts the adhesive holding the paper pleats and shrinks synthetic fibers.

Remember that your upright vacuum is built for dry dirt only. If pets create wet stains on rugs, do not vacuum them up. Using a carpet cleaner for tough stains and odors handles wet pet messes safely without pulling moisture into your vacuum. For older, dried-in spills, a carpet cleaner for stubborn stains removes deep grime while keeping your dry vacuum filters protected.

Washing Versus Replacing: When to Buy New Filters

Both filters on your upright vacuum are washable and reusable, but they do not last forever. Microscopic grit and pet dander slowly wear down the filter fibers over time. Regular washing clears surface dust, but fine particles eventually become trapped deep inside the material.

Inspect and wash your filters at least once every month. Even with regular washing, filters generally need replacement every 6 to 12 months. If you spot any of these warning signs, washing will no longer restore performance, and you should install a fresh set:

• Frayed or thin fabric: If the stick filter shows holes, thinning spots, or unraveled seams, dirty air will bypass the cloth and enter the motor.
• Crushed or separated pleats: If the paper pleats in the round ball filter are torn or pulling away from the plastic frame, fine dust escapes straight into your room.
• Cracked rubber seals: The round disc filter relies on a flexible rubber gasket to maintain an airtight seal against the motor housing. If that gasket cracks or hardens, suction drops.
• Permanent discoloration: If the filter fabric remains dark brown or grey after a thorough rinse, the pores are permanently clogged with fine silt.
• Lingering odors: If your vacuum emits a stale dog odor when running despite completely dry filters, pet oils have saturated the fibers beyond recovery.

Choosing Spare Filters and Upright Vacuum Attachments

Waiting 24 to 48 hours for your filters to air-dry can leave you without a working vacuum when pet hair builds up on your floors. Keeping an extra set of replacement filters in your closet solves this problem. You can install your clean, dry spare set immediately, vacuum your home, and let the washed pair dry on a towel without rushing the process.

When selecting spare filters and replacement parts for your upright vacuum, check these practical features:

• Complete two-piece sets: Ensure the replacement set contains both the stick filter for the bin handle and the round disc filter for the ball wheel to keep both stages of filtration balanced.
• Precise model fit: Confirm that the parts match the Ball Animal 2 series, including related upright models such as DC41, DC65, DC66, UP13, and UP20.
• Pliable rubber gaskets: Make sure the round disc filter includes a flexible rubber rim that forms an airtight seal against the vacuum body so pet dander cannot escape.
• Floor nozzle maintenance: Good filtration works hand-in-hand with an unobstructed intake. While servicing your filters, check your floor nozzle and clear wrapped pet hair from the spinning brush roller so your restored airflow pulls dirt out of carpets efficiently.

1

Filters Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30

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• VC Score

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  9.8
• Brand
  isinlive

Key specs2

Filtration rating

99.97% down to 0.3 microns

Filter bundle contents

• 2 washable pre-motor filters
• 2 post-motor HEPA filters

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Includes two complete sets with two pre-filters and two post-filters for rotating during drying
• HEPA post-filters capture 99.97 percent of particles down to 0.3 microns
• Direct fit for Ball Animal 2 UP20 alongside DC41, DC65, and UP30 models
• Washable filter materials allow air drying and reuse between routine swaps

Cons

• Incompatible with Dyson DC40 and DC50 upright vacuums
• Manufacturer warranty coverage is limited to 30 days

2

Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30

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  9.4
• Brand
  Innovaty

Key specs2

Filter grade

H12 efficiency standard

Package configuration

• 1 pre-motor filter
• 1 post-motor filter

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Meets H12 filtration efficiency standards with low airflow resistance
• Straightforward tool-free replacement for Ball Animal 2 pre and post locations
• Washable design supports rinsing in clean water followed by full air drying

Cons

• Supplies only a single pair of filters, leaving no backup while one set dries
• Does not fit Dyson DC40 or DC50 upright models
• Warranty terms are not stated in the listing specifications

3

Lemige Vacuum Filters Replacement Parts for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66

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  9.4
• Brand
  Lemige

Key specs2

Component dimensions

• Post-filter: 6.88 x 6.88 x 1.47 inches
• Pre-filter: 8.7 x 3.1 x 2.1 inches

Particle capture

Blocks debris down to 0.3 microns

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Provides 0.3-micron filtration to trap household dust, dirt, and pet dander
• Listing provides exact physical measurements for both post and pre-filter components
• Reusable pre-motor filter can be rinsed clean and air-dried without tools

Cons

• Single set bundle does not provide an immediate dry spare during 24-hour drying
• Will not mount inside Dyson DC40 or DC50 upright chassis

4

Filters Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30

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  9.4
• Brand
  Syxtidy

Key specs2

Maintenance recommendation

The manufacturer suggests cleaning the filters every 3 to 6 months and replacing them every 2 to 3 months to keep suction steady.

Included piece count

2 pieces total (1 pre, 1 post)

Pros & cons32

Pros

• HEPA media targets 99.97 percent of fine debris down to 0.3 microns
• Tool-free swap aligns directly with factory Ball Animal 2 housing slots
• Washable materials allow running-water rinsing to extend operating life

Cons

• Contains only one pre-filter and one post-filter, preventing continuous vacuum use during drying
• Not compatible with Dyson DC40 or DC50 series uprights

5

Kaulolado Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Ball Animal 3 Filter Replacement,for

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  9.2
• Brand
  Kaulolado

Key specs2

Spare pair availability

2 pre-filters and 2 post-filters

Shape retention

Constructed with reusable media engineered to hold its structure without deforming during hand washing and ambient drying.

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Four-piece bundle supplies two complete filter pairs to eliminate vacuum downtime while washing
• Dense filter media traps 99.97 percent of microscopic particles down to 0.3 microns
• Rigid deformation-resistant construction withstands repeated cold rinsing

Cons

• Listing does not state formal warranty duration beyond customer service contact
• User must verify vacuum model code to avoid mismatch with DC40 or DC50 frames

6

Aunifun Replacement Filter for DC41, DC65, DC66, Animal Multi Floor

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  9.2
• Brand
  Aunifun

Key specs2

Pre-filter construction

Double-layer media

Total package weight

0.11 pounds

Pros & cons33

Pros

• Double-layer pre-motor filter design catches coarse debris before reaching the motor
• Lightweight construction weighing just 0.11 pounds for easy handling during washing
• Direct cross-reference for Dyson part numbers 920769-01 and 920640-01

Cons

• Includes only one pre-filter and one post-filter, requiring downtime while drying
• Listing omits UP30 Ball Animal 3 compatibility confirmation
• Warranty terms are not disclosed in the listing specifications

7

Fanulter 2 Pack Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Filter Replacement for

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  9.2
• Brand
  Fanulter

Key specs2

Included tools

1 cleaning brush included

Set composition

• 2 pre-motor filters
• 2 post-motor filters
• 1 cleaning brush

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Includes a dedicated cleaning brush alongside two pre-filters and two post-filters
• Generous 5-piece kit allows rotating clean filters while damp sets air-dry
• Compatible across Ball Animal 2 UP20 and Ball Animal 3 UP30 upright series

Cons

• Does not fit Dyson DC40 or DC50 vacuum housings
• No specific warranty duration is detailed by the manufacturer

8

Filter Replacements for dy.son Ball Animal 2, DC65 DC41 UP13,

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  9.2
• Brand
  Aryavos

Key specs2

Particle filtration size

Down to 0.3 microns

Routine maintenance plan

The manufacturer suggests washing the filters monthly and installing fresh replacements every 2 to 3 months to preserve motor airflow.

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Traps pet dander and micro-particles down to 0.3 microns to protect exhaust air
• Supplies two full pairs of filters so cleaning does not interrupt vacuuming schedules
• Tool-free push-in replacement matches original UP20 and DC41 mounting recesses

Cons

• Cannot be used in compact Dyson DC40 or DC50 models
• No manufacturer warranty coverage is specified in the listing data

9

Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30

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  9.2
• Brand
  Fre.Filtor

Key specs2

Efficiency benchmark

99.99% at 0.3 microns

Housing fit specification

Engineered with 1-to-1 design tolerances matching original factory filters for an exact seal inside both the dust bin handle and the ball shell.

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Rated for 99.99 percent capture of microscopic particles down to 0.3 microns
• Molded to 1-to-1 original specifications for snug seating in the cyclone and ball
• Listing clearly specifies incompatible sub-models including Ball MultiFloor 2

Cons

• Explicitly incompatible with Ball Animal 2 Origin and Slim Ball variants
• Warranty protection extends for only 30 days

10

5PCS DC41 Hose Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66

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  9.2
• Brand
  Estelife

Key specs3

Included replacement components

• 2 pre-motor filters
• 2 post-motor HEPA filters
• 1 replacement suction hose

Hose cross-reference

Replaces OEM 920765-03 & 920765-04

Manufacturer warranty period

1 year

Pros & cons42

Pros

• Includes a complete replacement suction hose alongside two pre-filters and two post-filters
• Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty for long-term purchase security
• Two complete filter sets allow vacuuming to continue while one set washes and dries
• Hose replaces OEM part numbers 920765-03 and 920765-04 without requiring tools

Cons

• Will not fit Dyson DC40, DC42, UP16, UP19, or Ball Multi Floor 2 uprights
• Higher component count means paying for a hose even if only filters are needed

11

Filter Kit Compatible with Dyson DC41 UP13 DC65 DC66 UP20

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  8.6
• Brand
  Scienraise

Key specs2

Airflow rating

H12 standard with low resistance

Protection coverage

1 year warranty

Pros & cons32

Pros

• Features an H12 rating engineered for high filtration with reduced air resistance
• Four-piece bundle provides two complete changes to avoid downtime during washing
• Backed by a full 1-year warranty from the manufacturer

Cons

• Requires verifying upright model series to avoid DC40 and DC50 sizing conflicts
• Listing does not provide individual millimeter or inch measurements for each filter

Last update on 2026-10-01 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

How often should I clean the filters on a Dyson Ball Animal 2?

Wash both filters at least once every month under normal use. If you have multiple pets that shed heavily, vacuum thick carpets daily, or clean up fine construction dust, rinse the stick filter every two to three weeks to maintain strong suction.

Can I wash the clear dirt container with water while the filters dry?

You can wipe the inside of the clear dirt container with a damp cloth, but do not wash the upper cyclone assembly under running water or submerge it in a sink. The cyclone ducts trap water easily, which can enter the motor and cause electrical damage when you turn the machine back on.

What should I do if my vacuum suddenly cuts out while running?

If your vacuum stops unexpectedly, a clogged filter has likely caused the motor to overheat, tripping the built-in thermal safety switch. Unplug the machine immediately and let it cool for at least 60 minutes. While it cools, remove and wash both filters, check the hose and floor nozzle for clogs, and let all parts dry completely before restarting.

Why does my vacuum still smell dusty after washing the filters?

A dusty or stale smell after washing usually indicates the filters were reinstalled before they were completely dry, which allows bacteria to grow in the damp fibers. It can also mean pet dander oils have permanently soaked into the filter material after months of use. Letting the filters dry for another full day or replacing them with a fresh set will resolve the smell.