Short answer: unplug the vacuum, turn the floorhead over, cut away hair wrapped around the brush roll, pull out debris, and wipe the underside with a dry brush or barely damp cloth. Only wash parts your manual says are washable, and never wet a powered (electro) brush head. Let everything dry fully before refitting.

Why the head matters

The floorhead picks up the most hair and grit. When the brush roll is wrapped in hair or the air channels are blocked, suction drops, the head can stop turning, and it can start to smell.

What you need

  • Scissors or a seam ripper
  • A soft brush or old toothbrush
  • A dry or barely damp microfibre cloth

Step by step

  1. Unplug the vacuum and detach the floorhead from the wand.
  2. Turn it over and inspect it. Look for hair around the brush roll, packed dust in the corners, and stiff wheels.
  3. Cut away hair from the brush roll. Run scissors or a seam ripper along the groove of the brush, then pull the strands out. Take care not to cut the bristles.
  4. Remove the brush roll if your model allows it. Some Miele heads have a release for the brush roll; check your manual. Clean it with a dry brush. Only wash it if the manual says it’s washable, and dry it completely before refitting.
  5. Clean the inside of the head. Brush out dust and wipe with a barely damp cloth. Don’t pour water into the head, and keep water away from motorised heads and their electrical contacts.
  6. Check the wheels and air channels. Remove hair from the axles and clear anything blocking the opening into the wand.
  7. Reassemble and test on a small area.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Soaking the head or washing a powered brush head
  • Refitting parts that are still damp
  • Forcing clips or covers that don’t release easily
  • Ignoring a burning smell or a brush roll that won’t turn

How often

Check the head every few weeks, or weekly if you have long-haired pets. Clearing hair early stops it from wrapping tightly enough to strain the brush.

When cleaning isn’t enough

If the brush roll still won’t spin, suction stays weak after you’ve also changed the bag and filters, or there’s a burning smell, the head or vacuum needs repair. If it smells even after cleaning, see why a Miele vacuum smells. Dusti specialises in Dyson and stick vacuums. If you have a Miele, send us the model and the problem and we’ll let you know whether we can help.