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How to Clean a Ball Vacuum Filter to Restore Full Suction

by 
Jennifer Davis
  Oct 1, 2026 6:57 PM
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A dusty smell or a sudden drop in suction is rarely a sign of a broken machine. Fixing it simply takes rinsing the two internal filters under cold tap water without soap until the runoff stays clear. Letting both parts air dry for at least 24 hours is the most critical step, as trapping moisture inside the fast-spinning motor can ruin the electrical parts.

A few details will shape your routine. Upright machines hide the round exhaust filter inside the rolling ball wheel, while pull-along models keep it in the main frame. High indoor humidity can also stretch the required drying time from one day to two. Check the rubber edges and mesh while cleaning, since torn fabric or warped seals mean buying a fresh set instead of washing. Here is how to find each piece and clean them properly.

Where are the filters hidden on a ball vacuum?

Unplug the vacuum from the wall before touching anything. This keeps you safe from accidental starts while your hands are near internal parts. Ball vacuums use two separate filtration spots to catch dust. If you only clean one, your machine will still choke for air.

The first filter is the pre-motor filter (the washable stick filter inside the handle assembly). On upright models, look at the clear dirt canister top, which is called the cyclone. Press the release catch to lift the canister away from the vacuum body. At the top of the cyclone handle, you will find a small tab that pops open the filter compartment. Inside sits a long stick filter made of cloth and foam. It slides straight out like a wand.

The second filter is the post-motor filter (the round exhaust filter inside the ball wheel). This filter catches fine dust right before air leaves the machine. Look at the large plastic ball on which the vacuum rolls. In the center of the ball wheel, there is a circular locking dial. Turn this dial counterclockwise by hand. Pull the round wheel cover off to reveal the disc-shaped exhaust filter. Press the small clip to release the filter from the wheel hub.

On canister ball vacuums, placement is very similar. The washable stick filter rests inside the central cyclone body, while the exhaust filter sits inside the side wheel or lower rear vent.

How do you wash the filters correctly?

Washing these parts does not require special tools or cleaners. Gentle handling protects the delicate fibers. Follow these steps at your sink:

  1. Tap out the loose dry dust first. Take both filters to an outdoor trash can. Gently tap the plastic rims against the inside of the bin. Never strike the pleated cloth against hard surfaces, as this can crack the plastic frames. Tapping dislodges loose surface debris so you do not turn dry dust into sticky mud when you add water.
  2. Wash the stick filter under cold running water. Hold the stick filter upright under a cold tap. Let water fill the hollow center, then squeeze the foam sleeve gently. Pour the dirty water out and repeat. Never twist or wring the filter, because twisting tears internal seams. Squeeze under running water until the runoff is clear.
  3. Rinse the round ball wheel filter. Hold the round disc filter under cold water. Let water run through the pleats from the back side outward to flush trapped dirt away. Rotate the filter under the stream. Tap the rim against your palm to loosen stuck grime. Do not brush the pleats, which creates holes that let dust escape.
  4. Shake off excess moisture. Once the water runs clean, give both filters several firm shakes over the sink. Flick your wrists to force trapped droplets out of the dense pleats and foam. Squeeze the stick filter between clean paper towels to remove heavy moisture.

Why must the filters dry for twenty-four hours?

Drying the filters completely is the most critical step. While the outer plastic casing feels dry within an hour, the internal foam and dense pleated fibers hold moisture for a long time.

If you reinstall a damp filter, the motor pulls moisture straight into the high-speed electrical housing. Water mixed with fine dust turns into conductive mud. This creates short circuits, produces an unpleasant burning smell, and can destroy the motor within minutes. Damp filters also breed mold and mildew inside the dark vacuum chambers. Once mold spores establish themselves, every cleaning session blows a musty odor across your home.

Follow this drying checklist to keep your vacuum safe:

  • Place filters in a well-ventilated spot near natural airflow.
  • Stand the stick filter upright on its wide end so air circulates through its hollow core.
  • Lay the round exhaust filter flat with its pleats facing upward.
  • Leave both parts undisturbed for at least 24 full hours.
  • Extend drying time to 48 hours during humid weather or cold winter months.
  • Squeeze the thick foam firmly with dry fingers to confirm zero dampness remains.

Which common cleaning mistakes can destroy your filter?

A ball vacuum filter catches microscopic particles, making its fibers surprisingly delicate. Many owners ruin their filters trying to speed up maintenance.

First, avoid dish soaps, laundry detergents, and household cleaners. Soap leaves behind a sticky chemical residue that acts like glue. As soon as you vacuum again, fresh household dust sticks to this residue and clogs the tiny pores faster than normal dirt. Plain cold water is all you need to flush out debris.

Second, avoid hot water and direct heat. Never rinse filters with scalding water, and never dry them with hair dryers, ovens, or radiators. High heat shrinks synthetic fibers, softens structural glue, and warps plastic frames. If a plastic ring warps, the filter will not lock into the ball wheel tightly, allowing dirty air to bypass the filter completely.

Third, keep filters out of dishwashers and clothes washers. The aggressive churning of a washing machine tears foam seams, while dishwasher heat and water jets crush delicate pleats.

Finally, never use your vacuum to pick up liquid puddles, wet mud, or damp spills. Dry vacuums need dry air moving across dry filters. If you need to tackle liquid pet messes or soaked rugs, use an extraction machine such as a carpet cleaner for deep stain removal instead. Vacuuming liquids with an upright ball vacuum ruins filters immediately and risks electrical shock.

How do you know when washing is not enough?

Washing your filters restores airflow, but washable materials do not last forever. Over months of use, microscopic debris embeds itself deep within the material where running water cannot reach. Flexible rubber seals and plastic clips also fatigue over time.

Inspect your filters once they are dry. Replace the set rather than wash it if you notice any of these signs:

  • The fabric shows tears, fraying edges, or thin spots where light passes straight through.
  • The round rubber gasket around the ball filter has become brittle or cracked, letting air leak around the edges.
  • The pleated fabric stays dark gray or black after rinsing, showing permanent clogging from soot or fine ash.
  • The vacuum shuts off unexpectedly during use. Ball vacuums use thermal switches that shut off the motor when it overheats from restricted airflow.
  • A sour, musty smell lingers when the filter is bone dry, indicating mold has colonized the inner foam.

For homes with pets or active families, replacing the filter set once every 6 to 12 months maintains peak suction and protects the motor.

What should you look for in a replacement set?

When washing no longer brings back strong suction, getting a fresh filter set restores original airflow. Keeping a spare filter set at home also eliminates the 24-hour drying wait. You can insert the dry spare set right away and keep cleaning while your washed filters dry safely on the counter.

Before ordering replacement parts, verify a few key details:

  • Check your vacuum's exact model series. Upright ball models share similar shapes, but stick filter latches and ball wheel diameters vary across model generations.
  • Select sets that include both the pre-motor stick filter and the post-motor ball wheel filter. Replacing only one leaves half the airflow restricted.
  • Inspect the rubber sealing rings. A good replacement filter needs a flexible rubber gasket that creates an airtight seal against the vacuum housing.
  • Look for dense pleated materials rated to trap fine dander and dust, preventing fine particles from blowing back into your living room.

1
Filters Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30 Animal, Multi Floor and Ball Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Ball Animal 3, 2 Pack Post Filters & 2 Pack Pre Filter Replacement Parts
Filters Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Filter Kit Contents
2 pre-motor filters and 2 post-motor HEPA filters
Upright Ball Fit
  • Fits Dyson DC41, DC65, and DC66 upright models
  • Fits UP13, UP20 Ball Animal 2, and UP30 Ball Animal 3
  • Incompatible with compact DC40 and DC50 vacuums
Pros & cons42
Pros
  • Includes two complete sets with two pre-motor filters and two post-motor HEPA filters
  • Captures particles down to 0.3 microns to trap fine dust and pet dander
  • Washable design allows rinsing with cold water to extend working life
  • Drops into place without tools on compatible Dyson Ball upright machines
Cons
  • Does not fit Dyson DC40 or DC50 upright models
  • Requires complete air drying before reinstallation to prevent motor damage
2
Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30 Hepa Post-Motor Filter & Pre-Motor Filter, Multi Floor, Animal and Ball Vacuums Ball Animal 2 Ball Animal 3. Part#920769-01 & 920640-01
Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Efficiency Standard
Meets H12 filtration standard for exhaust air
Maintenance Routine
Rinse in clean water and allow to dry completely before reinserting. The manufacturer suggests changing filters every 2 to 3 months.
Pros & cons32
Pros
  • Provides a direct single-set replacement with one pre-filter and one post-filter
  • Built to H12 efficiency standards for reliable particle containment
  • Both filters rinse clean under water for repeat use
Cons
  • Single pair provides no spare set while one is drying
  • Excludes smaller DC40 and DC50 upright frames
3
Lemige 2 Pack Post Filters & 2 Pack Pre Filters Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30 Animal, Multi Floor and Ball Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Ball Animal 3, Compare to Part 920769-01&920640-01
Lemige 2 Pack Post Filters & 2 Pack Pre Filters
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Filter Sizing Specs
  • Post-filter measures 6.88 x 6.88 x 1.47 inches
  • Pre-filter stick measures 8.7 x 3.1 x 2.1 inches
Included Backup Pairs
2 pre-motor sticks and 2 ball exhaust filters
Pros & cons42
Pros
  • Supplies two full cycles of pre-motor and post-motor ball filters
  • Rated to block fine dust and pet dander down to 0.3 microns
  • Generous backup pair keeps the vacuum running while washed filters dry
  • Listed 1-year warranty provides extended manufacturer backing
Cons
  • Will not fit DC40 or DC50 vacuum housings
  • HEPA post-filter requires careful alignment inside the ball wheel assembly
4
Fanulter 2 Pack Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Filter Replacement for D-yson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30 Animal, Multi Floor and Vacuum Ball Animal 3,2 Post Filters & 2 Pre Filters, Part 920769-01 & 920640-01
Fanulter 2 Pack Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Filter Replacement for
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Key specs2
Included Cleaning Tool
Includes 1 brush to loosen dried debris before rinsing
Multi-Pack Longevity
With two pre-filters and two ball post-filters in the box, one set can remain in the machine while the other set dries for 24 hours.
Pros & cons32
Pros
  • Includes a dedicated cleaning brush to clear heavy dirt before washing
  • Four-piece pack provides two full pre- and post-motor replacements
  • Reusable materials hold up to repeated tap water rinsing
Cons
  • Not compatible with slim DC40 or DC50 vacuum frames
  • Purple color accent may not match original factory filter trim
5
Universal Vacuum Cleaner Filter, Cloth Felt Filter 12 x 18 cm Pack of 5
Universal Vacuum Cleaner Filter, Cloth Felt Filter 12 x 18
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Key specs2
Pad Dimensions
7.08 x 4.72 inches with 0.07-inch thickness
Cut-to-Fit Design
Flat sheet format requires manual trimming with scissors. It serves flat vacuum intake chambers rather than molded ball vacuum housings.
Pros & cons33
Pros
  • Trimmable felt cloth sheets adapt to custom canister filter trays
  • Five-piece pack offers multiple cut-to-fit replacements
  • 0.07-inch thickness fits narrow secondary filter slots
Cons
  • Does not fit upright ball vacuum pre-motor tubes or round ball wheels
  • Lacks molded plastic frames or silicone sealing gaskets
  • Listing provides no specific micron filtration rating
6
Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30 Animal, Multi Floor and Ball Vacuum Ball Animal 2 Ball Animal 3, Washable and Reusable, Pre-Motor & Post-Motor Filter Kit for Pet Hair, Dirt
Filter Replacement for Dyson DC41 DC65 DC66 UP13 UP20 UP30
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Filtration Efficiency
Traps 99.99% of microscopic particles to 0.3 microns
Incompatible Ball Models
  • Does not fit Slim Ball or Light Ball models
  • Incompatible with Ball MultiFloor 2 and Ball Animal 2 Origin
  • Excludes DC40, DC50, UP16, and UP19 housings
Pros & cons32
Pros
  • Form-fitted to match OEM dimensions across DC41, DC65, UP20, and UP30 models
  • Rated to capture 99.99% of dust, dander, and pollen down to 0.3 microns
  • Washable design allows straightforward cleaning under cold tap water
Cons
  • Explicitly incompatible with Ball MultiFloor 2, Slim Ball, and UP19 frames
  • Single replacement kit contains one pre-filter and one post-filter
7
PetOde 2 Pieces Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Compatible with All Vacuum Cleaner, Dryer Lint Brush and Vacuum Hose Attachment with Stretch Universal Connector, Quickly Lint Remover
PetOde 2 Pieces Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit Compatible with All
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Key specs2
Tube Profile
0.73-inch outer height reaches narrow crevice spaces
Hose Connection Style
Elastic universal rubber cuff stretches over round vacuum attachments to clean lint, clogs, and dust channels around vacuum housings.
Pros & cons33
Pros
  • Flexible narrow tube slips into tight ball vacuum canister gaps and ducting
  • Elastic connector stretches over various round vacuum hose ends
  • Includes a long wire lint brush to dislodge stubborn clogs in narrow channels
Cons
  • Not a replacement filter for ball vacuum chambers
  • Narrow tube restricts suction volume on heavy or chunky debris
  • Universal rubber sleeve may slip off non-standard oval wands
8
Hufopik 2 Pack Filter Replacement suitable for Bissell Powerforce Compact Lightweight Upright 2112 1520 for Bissel Turbo Bagless 2690 Vacuum Cleaner
Hufopik 2 Pack Filter Replacement suitable for Bissell Powerforce Compact
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Foam Pad Dimensions
4.33 inches by 4.33 inches with 0.83-inch height
Setup Note
Sponge material arrives vacuum-compressed and requires about 4 hours of air exposure to restore its original shape before use.
Pros & cons32
Pros
  • Includes two reusable foam sponge filters for quick maintenance rotation
  • Rated to trap 99.97% of fine debris down to 0.3 microns
  • Simple tool-free drop-in fit for compact upright assemblies
Cons
  • Designed exclusively for Bissell PowerForce uprights and will not fit Dyson Ball vacuums
  • Requires roughly 4 hours of resting time after unsealing to regain shape
9
Reusable Filters For VacLife VL188/VL189 Handheld vacuum cleaners, Cordless Vacuums Washable Replacement Filters(2Pcs)
Reusable Filters For VacLife VL188/VL189 Handheld vacuum cleaners, Cordless Vacuums
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Handheld Vacuum Fit
Fits VacLife VL188 and VL189 cordless handhelds only
Washing Allowance
Unlike Dyson ball filters that require cold water only, these handheld filters can be washed with mild soap and warm water.
Pros & cons33
Pros
  • Two-pack provides a spare filter while the primary unit is drying
  • Filters down to 0.3 microns with 97% filtration effectiveness
  • Washable construction allows cleaning with mild soap and warm water
Cons
  • Only fits VacLife VL188 and VL189 cordless handheld models
  • Does not fit upright or canister ball vacuum systems
  • 97% efficiency rating is lower than standard 99.97% HEPA thresholds
10
Tweruna 4 PCS Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Brush, 4 Styles Universal Dusting Brush, 2 in 1 Vacuum Roller Cleaning Tool for Sweeping Robot
Tweruna 4 PCS Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Brush, 4 Styles Universal
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Key specs2
Bristle Material
Soft nylon bristles with rigid ABS plastic handles
Multi-Style Brush Set
Four separate handheld tools allow brushing out pleated paper filters, screen meshes, and hair wrapped around vacuum rollers.
Pros & cons32
Pros
  • Four distinct brush styles remove clung dust from filter pleats and mesh screens
  • Soft nylon bristles sweep away debris without puncturing delicate filter paper
  • Integrated cutter edge helps untangle hair from vacuum rollers and seals
Cons
  • Does not include replacement filter media or seals
  • Manual cleaning tool requires hands-on scrubbing effort to loosen grime
11
ilovelife Pre Motor Filter Replacement Compatible with Dyson CY18 CY22 CY23 CY24 CY25 DY75 DY77 DY78 Big Ball Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner (2 pack)
ilovelife Pre Motor Filter Replacement Compatible with Dyson CY18 CY22
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Key specs2
Canister Compatibility
  • Fits Dyson Big Ball CY18, CY22, CY23, CY24, and CY25
  • Fits DY75, DY77, and DY78 cylinder vacuums
  • Replaces OEM part number 967371-01
Cylinder Filter Pack
Includes 2 pre-motor filters and 1 cleaning brush
Pros & cons42
Pros
  • Tailored specifically for Dyson Big Ball canister cylinders rather than uprights
  • Rigid outer shell prevents filter distortion inside the cyclone assembly
  • Includes two replacement pre-filters plus an accessory cleaning brush
  • Washable design rinses clean with water for prolonged service
Cons
  • Captures down to 3 microns rather than standard 0.3 micron sub-micron levels
  • Does not fit Dyson upright Ball Animal models
12
Buy Parts compatible for dyson big ball vacuum filter compares to 967371-01, 123-DY-2109C
Buy Parts compatible for dyson big ball vacuum filter compares
View on Amazon
Key specs2
Cylinder Model Coverage
  • Compatible with CY22 through CY28 canister lines
  • Fits DC75, DC77, DC78, and DY series machines
  • Compares to Dyson part 967371-01
Recommended Care Cadence
Manufacturer advises washing under room-temperature water once per month and replacing the unit every 4 to 6 months.
Pros & cons43
Pros
  • Direct replacement for Dyson Big Ball canister vacuums using part 967371-01
  • Broad compatibility spanning CY22 through CY28 and DC75 through DC78 models
  • Multi-layer filter fabric captures pet hair, pollen, and everyday dust
  • Can be rinsed under room-temperature tap water once a month
Cons
  • Listing supplies a single filter rather than a multi-pack
  • Product listing does not specify exact micron-level filtration efficiency
  • Incompatible with upright Ball Animal vacuum frames

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

FAQs

Can you run the vacuum with damp filters?

No, you should never run the vacuum with damp filters. Running the motor pulls moisture straight into the electrical windings, which can cause motor burnout or serious electrical shorts. Damp filters also trap moisture inside the machine, leading to mildew growth and sour odors.

How often should you wash ball vacuum filters?

Wash both filters at least once every month under normal use. If you have shedding pets, vacuum thick carpets daily, or clean up fine dust, rinse them every two to three weeks to keep suction strong and prevent motor overheating.

Can you vacuum baking soda or drywall dust?

Avoid vacuuming fine powders like drywall dust, fireplace ash, or heavy coats of baking soda. These tiny particles bypass the dirt bin and clog filter pores almost immediately. If you accidentally vacuum fine dust, wash both filters right away.

Why does my vacuum still smell bad after washing?

A lingering odor usually means bacteria or mildew has formed deep inside the filter foam, requiring a new replacement set. Smells can also come from trapped hair around the spinning brush roller or pet dander stuck in the lower hose. Check and clear the brush roller and suction hose to remove hidden buildup.

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Jennifer Davis
WRITTEN BY
Jennifer Davis
Jennifer is a 45-year-old interior organizer and cleaning pro from Georgia. Drawing from her background in upscale home services, she evaluates premium vacuums and bathroom cleaners. Her expert tips on deep cleaning and odor elimination make her reviews essential for achieving that fresh, sparkling finish.