There are many terms Shark use to describe the features within its vacuum cleaners (do Lift-Away, DuoClean and Anti-Hair Wrap ring any bells?), and all of these separate aspects need to be thoroughly deep cleaned too. Cleaning this vacuum is a good exercise in learning more about your vacuum as well as its longevity so that you can keep one of the best vacuums in your space for longer. Every vacuum cleaner might be slightly different, so while this is our advice, be sure to check your vacuum’s manual before getting started.
How often should I clean my Shark vacuum?
If you’re using a cordless vacuum or a corded vacuum with a smaller dust tank, you’ll probably want to empty the dirt and debris you’ve collected after every substantial cleaning session. About every month or so, you’ll want to clean your dust cup and learn how to clean a vacuum filter during that time too, so you can apply what you’ve learned. Shark specifically recommends for you “Clean the pre-motor filters at least once a month and post-motor filter at least once a year.” for a cordless vacuum. Shark also states that “more frequent cleaning may sometimes be necessary with heavy use”, so if you’ve been using your vacuum during renovating or other heavy debris periods, bear that in mind.
How to clean a Shark Vacuum in 10 steps
- Empty the bin Empty your Shark vacuum’s dust bin when the capacity reaches the fill line. Many Shark vacuums now have excellent point-and-shoot triggers, making this step a whole lot easier but just make sure to stay as close to your bin as you can, to avoid any dust clouds.
- Clean the dust cup Every month, remove your dust cup from the main body of the vacuum and wipe it with a damp cloth. You might find that you’ll sometimes find pockets of dust you need to edge out that you didn’t get during emptying. Some dust cups can be rinsed with water (and just water) before being left to dry, but check that yours can by consulting your manual.
- Check the filters Now your dust cup is clean, move on to your filters. As this is where dust is being captured, your filters might sometimes get blocked, which will spell disaster for your suction. Take the time to remove your pre-motor filter once a month, and rinse it with water. Leave it to fully dry before inserting it back into your vacuum.
- Then rinse With post-motor filters, expect to need to get in and clean them once a year. Again, wash only with water, and be sure to leave the filter to fully dry before putting it anywhere near your vacuum again.
- Clear out the vacuum head Many of Shark’s vacuum heads are ingeniously designed to suction up more dirt and debris, such as the DuoClean heads. To clean this head, turn it over and check for any blockages that will be preventing you from getting a full clean. If you have a vacuum with Anti-Hair Wrap technology, you shouldn’t find clumps of hair here, but on the rare chance you do, make sure to (very, very) carefully cut away the hair with scissors.
- Hand wash the heads Those DuoClean heads we mentioned incorporate soft rollers, to maximize pick-up. Clean it by pulling it out of the vacuum head and handwashing it. These rollers can take up the 24 hours to dry (thanks to their fluffiness) so don’t be alarmed if you need to wait a while before reinserting.
- Keep checking back for blockages Inspect the handheld wand of your vacuum for blockages regularly, making sure to remove any dust or debris you find. Sometimes a light tap can help remove those disturbances.
- Wash the attachments Certain Shark attachments that don’t contain any electrical elements can also be cleaned and rinsed in hot water, but nothing else. Cleaning will make using your attachments with the vacuum much easier.
- Don’t forget the sensors If you have a newer generation Shark vacuum, then you may also need to clean the sensors within your vacuum. The Shark Stratos DuoClean Cordless Vacuum has sensors inside of the handheld element, and these can be wiped clean with a microfiber cloth, carefully allowing you to get rid of any hair and debris.
- End with the exterior For the finishing touch, wipe the exterior of your vacuum using a damp cloth. It’ll keep away any dirt that has gathered on the main outside body of your appliance. Discover more guides for the home… Best top load washers (opens in new tab) Best dishwashers (opens in new tab) Best dryers (opens in new tab) Best steam mops (opens in new tab) Best robot vacuums (opens in new tab)
