How to Empty & Clean your Shark Cordless Vacuum, Filters & Bins

Last Updated on February 15, 2021 by Gemma Tyler

Something that is forgotten too often is the fact that your vacuum cleaner needs regular maintenance and upkeep in order to ensure that it functions fully.

If you don’t stay on top of it, you not only run the risk of losing suction; but also having the vacuum cleaner break down entirely. I actually lost my last vacuum because I never cleaned the filters. It’s something that I didn’t really think about, and I wish I had.

To ensure that you don’t make the same mistake I did, here’s a quick and easy guide on how to empty and clean your Shark vacuum – with everything from the filters to the bin.

How-to-Empty-Clean-your-Shark-Cordless-Vacuum-Filters-Bins

How Can You Find Out When the Shark Vacuum Cleaner Needs to be Cleaned Up?

The signs are not always particularly obvious, and sometimes they can be mistaken for other issues. So, to make sure that things are a little clearer, here are three of the main signs that your Shark could use a cleaning (and each of these is often mistaken for something more severe):

Loss of Suction Power

This is the biggest indicator that your vacuum needs to be cleaned, and it is most likely caused by filthy filters. It’s amazing how much the filters can impact the suction power, and the effect cleaning them can have.

If you have cleaned the filters and are still experiencing a suction decrease, you should also check the brush roll for large debris as well as the bin.

Bad Odour

The smell could be coming from a few places, but it is most likely that you have a collection of dirt and debris in the bin that has stuck and is starting to smell.

Cleaning it out and washing the bin should get rid of the odour. However, if it still remains, then there may be something unpleasant in the hose or cleaning tools that need to be removed.

Change of Sound

This is usually associated with the motors or something severely wrong, but this is not usually the case. A lot of the time, it means that your vacuum’s dust canister is full and needs to be emptied so that it can continue functioning as normal.

If the sound continues even after the vacuum has been emptied and you have checked for clogs, it could be a motor issue.

How Can You Empty a Shark Vacuum? Step by Step Guide

So, how do you empty a Shark vacuum cleaner? Well, the good news is that it’s a pretty quick and simple process. It’s part of what I love about Shark; they do their best to make everything easy. Here are each of the steps for you:

#1 Switch the vacuum off and unplug it from the mains (just in case you accidentally hit the power button). Then, securely grab the handle on the top of the canister.

#2 Press the bin release button and then pull the canister up, releasing it from the frame/body.

#3 Carry it over to your rubbish bin and then hold it over the top. Press the button on the side of the canister that opens it, emptying the contents into your rubbish bin. Pick out any clumps that are stuck with your hand.

Also Read: How to Repair Shark Steam Mop

#4 Using your hand or the floor, push the flap back up and click it into place; sealing the bin and putting it back together. Or, click the top back in place, depending on the type of Shark you have. Then, reattach it to the vacuum cleaner.

How Should You Clean a Shark Vacuum Rotating Brush?

The rotating brush needs to be cleaned carefully, and it should be done regularly to keep it in good condition and stop it from getting worn down. So, here’s the best way to get it clean and ensure it lasts a long time.

#1 Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the power socket so that there is no risk of it turning on while you are looking at the brush.

#2 Place the vacuum on a level surface, and put a plastic bag underneath if you want to collect any debris up quickly and avoid mess. Flip it over, and access the brush bar under the main floorhead.

#3 Cut any hairs that have become wrapped around the bar and use a soft cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris that has become stuck. Make sure you are gentle as minimal pressure is required for this part. Some Shark vacuums even come with a cleaning tool for the brush bar.

The machine is very balanced though, as the battery is positioned near the handle, and this makes it very comfortable to use (something I look at further a little later). This balance is achieved equally in both the single battery and twin battery models.

How to Clean the HEPA Filters on a Shark Vacuum?

Shark vacuum cleaners have two filters installed. The first of these is foam, and it is quite large as well as able to hold a shocking amount of dust; it’s quite amazing. The second is the HEPA filter, and this is what traps allergens so that you don’t end up with any unpleasant reactions.

Both of them need to be cleaned, although the foam one should be washed monthly while the HEPA is cleaned yearly. Here are the best steps for effective filter cleaning:

#1 Unplug the vacuum cleaner from the mains so that you can’t accidentally turn it on while you are cleaning the filters. Then, remove the dust canister from the machine so that you can access the filters.

#2 Depending on your model of Shark, you should find the main filter attached to the dust canister and the other HEPA filter located closer to the motor. Remove them, and place them to one side.

#3 Hold them over the bin, or a paper towel, and gently tap them to remove any loose dust and debris.

Further Reading: Cleaning Shark Vacuum and Filter

#4 Run the cold water tap in your kitchen sink and hold the filters underneath to rinse them. You should only use plain water, and never soap, as this is the most effective way to keep them clean and functioning.

#5 Once they are clean, leave them to the side to dry completely for at least 24 hours. They must be entirely dry before being placed back in the vacuum, so leave them for longer if you feel it is necessary.

To Conclude

Hopefully, this guide has been helpful when showing you the best way to take care of your vacuum. A Shark will last a long time, but you need to be willing to put the effort in and keep it maintained.

It doesn’t take up a great deal of time, and getting it done can bring extended life to your vacuum. Shark is an excellent brand, and they have been built to last a long time, but you will find they only make half that span if they aren’t cared for properly.

Did you find our Shark cleaning and maintenance guide helpful? Are there any tips here that you really liked, or ones that you felt should have been included? We love hearing from you, so leave us a message in the comments below.

Last Updated on February 15, 2021 by Gemma Tyler

Gemma Tyler

Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.