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How to clean a Dyson Supersonic filter

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In short

Unplug the Supersonic and let it cool. Remove the filter cage at the bottom of the handle as your manual shows, usually by sliding it down towards the cable. Brush lint and hair from the inner mesh with a soft, dry brush, wipe the cage and refit it. A clogged filter starves the dryer of air, so it heats up and its thermal protection can cut it out. Check Dyson's manual for your model.

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A hairdresser works with a client under a dryer in a stylish and well-equipped hair salon
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The Dyson Supersonic draws air in through a filter cage at the base of the handle. The cage and the fine mesh behind it catch lint, dust and hair. If they clog, the dryer moves less air, gets hotter and may cut out to protect itself. Dyson's support pages point to filter cleaning as one of the first checks if your dryer keeps stopping. This guide explains how to clean it safely and how often. The Supersonic Origin, standard, Nural and r models differ in detail, so follow the manual for yours.

What you need

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

  • A soft, dry brush, such as a clean old toothbrush.
  • A dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Your Supersonic manual or Dyson's online support page.

Step by step: cleaning the filter

Hair wound tightly into the mesh can be teased out gently with your fingers or the brush. Do not pull hard or poke the mesh, as a torn mesh lets debris reach the motor. If the cage feels stiff to remove, check the manual rather than forcing it.

A quick look at the cage whenever you put the dryer away tells you when it is due. A visible layer of grey lint means it is time to clean.

  1. 1

    Switch off, unplug and let the dryer cool fully.

  2. 2

    Hold the handle with the cable end facing you.

  3. 3

    Remove the outer filter cage. On the classic Supersonic you slide the cage down off the handle; your manual shows the method for your model.

  4. 4

    Look at the inner mesh and the inside of the cage for lint and hair.

  5. 5

    Brush the mesh gently with a soft, dry brush.

  6. 6

    Wipe the cage inside and out with a dry cloth, and check the holes are clear.

  7. 7

    Refit the cage, sliding or clicking it back into position until it is secure.

  8. 8

    Plug in and test the dryer on a low setting.

Note:Always unplug the dryer before removing the cage. Never use it without the cage fitted, and never push objects into the air intake.

Why a clogged filter makes it cut out

The Supersonic's motor draws air in and pushes it past the heater. If the filter is blocked, less air flows over the heater, so the air and parts get hotter. The dryer's heat control is designed to stop it overheating, and when it gets too hot the thermal protection reduces heat or switches it off. That is why a dirty filter often shows up as the dryer cutting out mid-blow-dry.

Other causes include a damaged cable, a blocked attachment or the dryer being covered by a towel. Our guide to why a Dyson dryer keeps cutting out covers each one.

FilterMotor and fanHeaterNozzle (magnetic)Cold shot buttonCable entryair inwarm air out
Inside a premium hair dryer: air comes in through the filter, the motor and fan push it past the heater and out of the nozzle.

How often to clean it

These are rough guides. Dyson's manual gives the recommended interval. Some Supersonic models show a light or message when the filter needs attention; check your manual for what it looks like.

UseSuggested check
Daily useWeekly
A few times a weekEvery two to four weeks
After the dryer cuts outStraight away
Heavy product or hairspray nearbyMore often
A sensible cleaning routine

Attachments and replacement parts

Magnetic attachments can collect dust and product too. Wipe them with a dry cloth once cool and keep the outlet clear. If the filter cage is cracked or damaged, stop using it and order a replacement from Dyson matched to your model. Cages are not shared between all Dyson dryers.

For tips on using your dryer, see how to blow-dry your hair. If you are choosing a new Dyson, our Dyson hair dryers compared guide sets out the models, and Supersonic alternatives covers other brands.

If it still cuts out

After cleaning, let the dryer cool and try again. If it still stops, check the plug fuse and the socket, and look for damage along the cable. Do not open the dryer or attempt repairs inside it. Contact Dyson support, as your dryer may be covered by its guarantee.

If the dryer will not start at all, see Dyson hair dryer not turning on.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash the Supersonic filter? Do not use water unless your manual says so. A dry brush is Dyson's usual guidance.

How do I remove the Supersonic filter cage? On the classic model it slides off the bottom of the handle. Check your manual, as the r and other models differ.

Why is my Dyson hair dryer getting hot and stopping? A blocked filter is the most common reason. Clean it and let the dryer cool.

Do I need to replace the filter? Usually only if it is damaged. Regular cleaning is normally enough.

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