How to Clean a Dyson Airstrait Filter, Tension Bars and Diffusers

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Switch off, unplug, cool and open the arms

Finish styling, switch the Airstrait off, disconnect it from the outlet and wait until the body and air-exit components are cool. Put it on a dry stable surface and unlock the arms as the guide shows. Do not begin with wet hands or leave the plug where basin splashes can reach it. Inspect the filter cage, tension bars and diffuser openings to determine which parts actually need cleaning. Hair product on one component is not permission to submerge the whole machine.

Step 2: Remove the filter without transferring debris

Pull the filter downward and away from the device following Dyson’s removal direction. Hold it over the work surface so dry dust does not fall back into the intake. Inspect for tears, distortion or debris packed into the mesh. Do not insert a tool into the exposed machine intake or run the Airstrait with the filter absent. The filter is a removable washable component, but the intake, cord, plug and body remain wipe-only electrical areas.

Step 3: Soak and rinse the filter

Place the filter in warm soapy water for 30 minutes, as Dyson specifies. Agitate it gently with fingers and rinse under running water, working remaining debris free without crushing the mesh. Continue until soap and loosened product are gone. Avoid boiling water, bleach, dishwasher cycles and high-pressure spray. Shake off water gently and place the filter where air reaches all sides. It must dry completely before reattachment; a wet intake filter is not ready because its exterior feels dry.

Step 4: Brush the installed tension bars outward

With the machine still cool and unplugged, run a soft-bristled brush along the tension bars, moving away from the machine. This direction carries debris out rather than toward internal air paths. Follow with a soft lint-free cloth to collect residue. Do not pour solution across the bars, scrape them with metal or bend them to reach beneath. Close and lock the arms only after the dry cleaning pass is complete and no brush bristles remain.

Step 5: Remove and soak both diffusers

Unlock the machine and take out both diffusers according to Dyson’s guide. Soak them in warm soapy water for 30 minutes. Rinse under running water and use a cloth, fingers or soft brush on persistent buildup. Keep track of left and right orientation and do not wash a non-removable body surface simply because the diffusers tolerate immersion. Inspect mounting tabs; a cracked diffuser should be replaced rather than forced back after cleaning.

Step 6: Dry every washed component completely

Set the filter and both diffusers in a clean ventilated area with drainage openings exposed. Rotate them so hidden pockets release water. Do not accelerate drying in a clothes dryer, oven, microwave or on a radiator. Wipe the appliance exterior separately with a controlled cloth if needed, keeping openings dry. Wait until no moisture remains in the filter mesh or diffuser channels. Reattaching damp pieces can carry water to an air-moving electrical appliance.

Step 7: Reassemble and check airflow

Reinstall both dry diffusers in the documented positions, close and lock the arms as appropriate, then refit the completely dry filter. Confirm every part sits flush before connecting power. Run the normal startup check and listen for unusual airflow or alerts. If the machine still reports a filter issue, overheats or produces abnormal noise, verify seating once and use Dyson troubleshooting. Do not operate it without a filter or widen diffuser openings to increase airflow.