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How to clean the Dyson Airwrap filter

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In short

Unplug the Airwrap and let it cool. Remove the filter cage at the base of the handle as your manual shows, usually by sliding or twisting it off. Brush lint and hair from the inner mesh with the cleaning brush or a soft, dry brush, wipe the cage, then refit it until it clicks. Do this whenever the filter light shows and regularly in between. Steps vary by model, so follow Dyson's manual.

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Every Airwrap pulls air in through a filter at the base of the handle. Over time that filter collects lint, dust, hair and residue from styling products. When it clogs, airflow drops, curls take longer to set and the Airwrap may get hot and cut out to protect itself. Cleaning it takes a few minutes and is the first thing to try if your Airwrap is underperforming. Dyson has changed the design across generations, so this guide covers the general steps and points you to the manual for the details of your model.

What you need

Do not use water, solvents or sharp tools on the filter unless the manual specifically says you can.

  • The cleaning brush that came with your Airwrap, if supplied, or a soft, dry brush such as a clean old toothbrush.
  • A dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Your Airwrap manual or Dyson's online support page for your model.

Step by step: cleaning the filter

  1. 1

    Switch off, unplug and let the Airwrap cool fully.

  2. 2

    Hold the handle with the cable end facing you.

  3. 3

    Remove the outer filter cage. On many models you hold the cage and twist or slide it down towards the cable; check your manual for the exact method.

  4. 4

    Inspect the fine inner mesh for lint, hair and product build-up.

  5. 5

    Brush the mesh gently with the cleaning brush, working in one direction to lift debris away.

  6. 6

    Wipe the inside and outside of the cage with a dry cloth.

  7. 7

    Check the cage holes are clear and nothing is caught in the intake.

  8. 8

    Refit the cage, aligning it as the manual shows, until it is secure.

  9. 9

    Plug in and check the filter light, if fitted, has cleared.

Note:Always unplug the Airwrap before removing the filter cage. Never use it without the cage fitted, and do not push objects into the air intake.

What the filter warning light means

Many Airwraps have a light or symbol that shows when the filter needs cleaning. It does not mean the tool is broken; it means airflow is restricted. Clean the filter as above, and the light should clear. On some models it may take a short time after restarting, or you may need to follow a reset sequence in the manual.

If the light stays on after a thorough clean, check for blockages in the attachments as well, and see our guide to Airwrap faults and fixes. If it still persists, contact Dyson support.

How often to clean it

These are rough guides. Dyson's manual gives the recommended interval for your model. A quick look at the filter cage each week takes seconds and catches build-up early.

UseSuggested check
Daily stylingWeekly, or when the light shows
A few times a weekEvery two to four weeks
Heavy product useMore often, as residue builds up faster
Any timeWhen airflow feels weaker or curls stop setting
A sensible cleaning routine

Cleaning attachments and replacing parts

Barrels and brushes collect hair and product too. Remove trapped hair from bristles after use, and wipe barrels with a dry cloth once they have cooled. Keep the air slots on barrels clear, as blocked slots weaken the Coanda wrap.

If the filter cage is cracked or the mesh is damaged, do not keep using it. Dyson sells replacement filter cages and cleaning brushes for its stylers through its own website and support line. Make sure any replacement matches your model, as parts differ between the Origin, i.d. and Co-anda 2x. Our Airwrap models compared guide explains the generations.

Why a clean filter matters

The Airwrap relies on strong airflow to wrap hair round the barrel. A clogged filter reduces that airflow, so curls do not grip well and the motor works harder. The heater also has less air passing over it, so the Airwrap's thermal protection may switch it off to prevent overheating. Keeping the filter clean helps the styler work as designed.

If you also own a Dyson dryer, see how to clean the Supersonic filter. For styling tips, see our Airwrap beginner's guide, and for alternatives, Airwrap-style multi-stylers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash the Airwrap filter with water? Do not, unless your manual says so. Dyson's guidance for its stylers is generally to use a dry brush.

Why is my Airwrap filter light still on after cleaning? Check the cage is fully refitted and no attachment is blocked. Some models need a short reset; see the manual.

Where do I get a replacement filter? From Dyson directly, matched to your model and serial number.

Can a dirty filter make the Airwrap cut out? Yes. Restricted airflow can trigger the thermal cut-out. Clean the filter first.

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