How to Deep Clean a Dyson V8 | V10 | V11 Direct-Drive / High-Torque Head
Remove plates, roller & bearings, wash safely, then reassemble without damage — the easy, no-nonsense guide.
Simple tools, big results: a Torx T8, flathead, and pliers.Brush head not spinning, noisy, or looking cloudy and scratched? A full strip-down clean can make your Dyson V8, V10, or V11 head feel new again. In this guide we remove the top and bottom plates, roller and roller bearings, wash the right parts (and keep the wrong parts dry), then reassemble with a few pro tips to avoid damage.
Tools & Supplies
- Torx T8 screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver (for gentle prying)
- Pliers (for end caps/bearings as needed)
- Soft brush, microfibre cloths, mild detergent
- (Optional) Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Coating Spray — helps remove fine marks and adds UV protection: https://amzn.to/4onMy8j
Important: It’s safe to wash the plastic housings, plates and roller. Do not get the motor or the roller bearings wet.
Step-by-Step
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Remove the top plate
Undo the Torx screws along the top plate. Lift it away carefully to expose the roller chamber.
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Release the roller & end caps
Open the side cap. Slide the roller out. Note the order of spacers/end caps so reassembly is easy later.
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Remove the bottom plate (if fitted)
Undo the fasteners and lift off the base plate. This exposes hair traps and sand that block airflow.
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Wash only the washable parts
Wash the plastic shell, plates and the brush roller using mild detergent and warm water. Rinse well. Keep the motor cavity and roller bearings dry.
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Dry completely
Air-dry thoroughly (no heat guns). Trapped moisture causes fogging, bad smell, and premature bearing failure.
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Reassemble in order
Refit bottom plate, roller (with spacers/end caps), then top plate. Tighten screws snugly — don’t over-torque.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Getting the motor or roller bearings wet. Bearings hate water — they’ll seize and screech later.
- Forcing clips or tabs. If something won’t move, re-check for hidden screws first.
- Reversing spacers/end caps. Lay parts out in order as you remove them for fool-proof reassembly.
- Reassembling before fully dry. Moisture = foggy plastics, mouldy smell, and sensor issues.
Make It Look New Again
After cleaning, we polish head shells using Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Coating Spray to minimise fine scratches and add a hydrophobic layer. It also helps the head stay clearer for longer under UV exposure.
Product link (as used in our workshop): https://amzn.to/4onMy8j
Related Parts You May Need
FAQ
Can I wash the entire head under a tap?
No. Wash plastic housings, plates and the brush only. Keep the motor cavity and roller bearings dry.
It still smells after cleaning — what now?
Let all parts dry longer and refresh your filters. See filter links above for your model.
The roller still sticks after reassembl;y.
Re-check the end cap orientation and hair in the bearing seats; don’t overtighten the side cap.
Need a Hand?
If you get stuck, message us via live chat or call (03) 7048 4761. We service V6–V11 cordless models and stock tested, great-value parts to keep good machines out of landfill.
