How to Deep Clean a Dyson V11 Outsize Cyclone – Step-by-Step Guide
If your Dyson V11 Outsize ( has lost suction or started to smell like pets and dust, there’s a good chance the cyclone is clogged. In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly how to remove, strip down, wash, deodorise, and reassemble your V11 Outsize cyclone at home.
This tutorial is based on the same process we use every day at VacRevive, where we specialise in refurbished Dyson vacuums, motors, cyclones, dustbins and accessories.
Why Clean the Dyson V11 Outsize Cyclone?
Over time, fine dust builds up inside the cyclone and metal mesh. If you have pets, hair and odour particles also get trapped in the internal chambers. This can cause:
- Loss of suction
- Bad smells when you start the vacuum
- Extra strain on the motor
- More heat and shorter motor life
A proper cyclone deep clean helps restore airflow and removes trapped odours, especially in V11 Outsize units that are often used in bigger homes with more carpet and pets.
Tools & Parts You Might Need
Before you start, it’s useful to have:
- A small screwdriver set (for the cyclone screws) – e.g. our screwdriver set for Dyson V10/V11
- A crevice tool for detailed dust removal – genuine refurbished Dyson crevice tool
- A soft dusting brush for gentle cleaning around seals and gaps – scratch-free soft dusting brush
- Dishwashing liquid + floor cleaner (for odour removal soak)
- Clean container or bucket for soaking
- Dry towels and a warm, ventilated place for drying
If your cyclone or dustbin is already cracked or heavily worn, deep cleaning may not be enough. You can replace those parts directly with:
- Genuine refurbished Dyson V11 Outsize cyclone only
- Dyson V11 Outsize dustbin canister
- V11 Outsize bin runner (dustbin slide rail)
Step 1 – Remove the V11 Outsize Cyclone From the Main Body
Start by removing the dustbin and then sliding the cyclone off the main body. Make sure the machine is switched off and the battery removed for safety. If your main body is damaged or the trigger is worn, you can also replace the whole assembly:
- Genuine refurbished Dyson V11 Outsize SV16 main body handle motor
- Dyson V11 Outsize motor assembly (SV16)
- Dyson V11 main body motor replacement assembly
At this point, you should be holding the cyclone unit in your hand, separate from the handle and dustbin.
Step 2 – Remove the Screws & Metal Mesh
Lay the cyclone on a towel so you don’t scratch the plastic. Use a precision screwdriver to remove the small screws around the cyclone housing. Keep the screws in a dish so you don’t lose them.
The key step is removing the metal mesh without bending or breaking it. In the video tutorial we show:
- Where to pry gently to release the tabs
- How to avoid bending the mesh ring
- How to separate the mesh from the plastic cyclone body cleanly
Step 3 – Rinse & Soak to Remove Dust and Odours
With the cyclone fully stripped (and all electronic parts kept far away from water), you can start washing.
- Rinse the cyclone shell and metal mesh under running water to remove loose dust.
- Use a soft brush and your crevice tool to reach into tight gaps and chambers.
- For pet smells and stubborn odours, prepare a soaking mix: 50% dishwashing liquid + 50% floor cleaner.
- Submerge only the washable plastic and metal parts (no motors, no electronics).
- Leave to soak overnight to break down smell-causing residue.
The next day, rinse everything thoroughly with clean water until no soap remains.
Step 4 – Dry Completely Before Reassembly
This step is crucial. Any trapped moisture can cause dust build-up or even damage the machine later.
- Shake off excess water from all parts.
- Leave components in a warm, dry, ventilated area for at least 24 hours.
- Ensure the cyclone, mesh, and seals are completely dry before putting them back onto your V11 Outsize.
While you’re waiting, it’s a good time to check the rest of your machine. If your filter is dark or clogged, consider replacing it. You can find compatible Dyson filters here:
Step 5 – Reassemble the V11 Outsize Cyclone
Once everything is fully dry, follow the reverse order of disassembly:
- Refit the metal mesh into the cyclone shell, making sure all tabs click in place.
- Reinstall internal plastic parts and connectors.
- Replace and tighten the small screws evenly.
- Slide the cyclone back onto the main body and reattach the dustbin.
If your dustbin is cracked, stained, or worn, replacing it can give your machine a “like-new” feel:
When to Repair vs Replace
A deep cyclone clean can solve most odour and suction issues. But if your V11 Outsize has motor noise, burning smells, or cracked major components, it may be more cost-effective to replace the key parts rather than buy a brand-new vacuum.
For heavier repairs, you can look at:
- Dyson motor collection (including V11 options)
- V11 Outsize motor assembly SV16
- Genuine screw-in battery for Dyson V11
- Genuine click-in battery for Dyson V11 / V15
If your whole setup is tired and you want a fresh start, you can also consider a refurbished full set:
More Dyson V11 Outsize Parts & Accessories
To keep your Dyson V11 Outsize / L-size running smoothly for years, you can explore more genuine and refurbished parts here:
- Dyson motorised cleaner heads
- Dyson vacuum accessories
- Dyson chargers
- General Dyson parts
- Wall mounts & docking stations
- Extension wands / tubes
About VacRevive
VacRevive is an Australian refurbished Dyson specialist. We test, clean and restore Dyson vacuums, motors, cyclones, dustbins, batteries and accessories so you can:
- Save money compared to buying brand new
- Extend the life of your existing Dyson
- Reduce e-waste by keeping quality machines out of landfill
If you found this V11 Outsize cyclone cleaning guide helpful, visit VacRevive.com.au to find the exact parts you need and keep your Dyson running at full power.
