two colleagues recently walked into the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab with the same problem: Their Dyson hair dryers suddenly stopped working and they needed recommendations for replacements. Before sharing our top-tested hair dryers, I asked them one question: “When was the last time you cleaned the filter?” Both were surprised to learn that most hair dryers require regular cleaning. After a quick clean, the dryers were back in action.
Whether your hair dryer has stopped working or you have never cleaned its filter, consider this your cue. A little maintenance could help keep it running smoothly and might save you the cost of a replacement.
How to clean your hair dryer filter?
“A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can cause your hair dryer to overheat and put unnecessary strain on the motor,” says Good Housekeeping Home Care & Cleaning Lab Reviews Analyst Noah Pinsonnault. “Regularly removing accumulated dust and lint is a simple way to help maintain your dryer’s performance and extend its useful life.”
Below are general steps for cleaning your hair dryer. Since each model is unique, the Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab scientists recommend reviewing your product’s manual for specific instructions.
1. Power off. Before you start cleaning, unplug the hair dryer from the power source and let it cool completely.
2. Locate the filter. It’s usually a round, perforated area where the air enters the hair dryer. Dyson models have the filter at the bottom of the handle, where it meets the cord. On many traditional dryers, it’s at the back, opposite the nozzle.
3. Detach the external filter cage. Depending on the model, you’ll either gently pull the external filter down or twist the filter counterclockwise to unlock it.
4. Brush away dust and lint. With the included brush, if available, or a clean, soft-bristle one, gently sweep the cage and internal filter to remove any dust or debris.
5. Clean the external cage. If your dryer’s external filter cage fully detaches from the tool, it can also be rinse it under warm water to remove stubborn debris. Shake off the excess water and allow it to completely dry. Do not expose the internal filter to soap or water, as it can damage the motor.
6. Replace the external filter. Gently reattach the cage, making sure it’s securely in place before using the dryer.
7. Repeat regularly. To keep you hair dryer running smoothly, Institute experts recommend cleaning your hair dryer about once a month for home use. It’ll protect your motor, reduce the risk of overheating, and keep it running smoothly.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
For over a decade, Good Housekeeping Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek has researched and developed testing protocols for beauty products, including hair tools, at the Good Housekeeping Institute. For this article, she reviewed the maintenance instructions found in the manuals for each hair dryer evaluated in the Institute’s latest hair study. She also consulted Home Care & Cleaning Lab experts on how to properly maintain them.
