To keep a Roomba running at peak performance, it’s important to perform a few simple maintenance tasks regularly, including emptying the bin and cleaning the filter.

Here’s how to clean a Roomba filter, based on the model:

How to Clean Roomba 600 Series Filter

1. Open the bin door and empty it into the trash.
2. Push down and remove to clean the filter. Tap the filter gently against a trash can.
3. Then, return the filter into the bin and place the bin back in the robot.
4. The filter should be replaced every two months.

How to Clean Roomba 800 Series Filter

1. Remove the bin by pressing the bin release button.
2. Next, press and lift the filter door release tab.
3. Remove the filter by grasping the yellow tab.
4. Clean Roomba’s filter by tapping it against your trash container.
5. To reinstall the filter, press in the metal filter lever with the side of the filter and push the filter down. The filter door will not close if the filter is not installed correctly.

How to Clean Roomba 900 Series Filter and Bin

To clean the filter, remove and empty the vacuum bin. Next, squeeze and lift the filter door release tab and remove the filter by grasping the yellow tab. Shake off any debris by tapping it against a trash container.

To reinstall the filter, press the side of the filter against the metal lever in the filter compartment and close the filter door. Wipe the inner and outer sensor ports on the bin and the full bin sensors on the robot with a clean, dry cloth. Then, reinstall the bin.

How to Clean Roomba e Series, i Series, and j Series Bin and Filter

1. To wash the washable dust bin, press on the bin release button and remove the bin.
2. Press on the bin door release button and empty the debris in a trash container.
3. Remove the filter from the side of the bin by grasping the side of the filter from the left side of the bin, and tap it to clean.
4. Shake off debris by tapping the filter against your trash container.
5. Rinse out excess debris from the bin with warm water. Then, let the bin air-dry.
6. When the bin is completely dry, place the filter back onto the bin, ensuring it snaps into place. Then, put the bin back in the robot.

FAQ on Cleaning Roomba Filter

1. Can you wash a Roomba filter?

Never wash a Roomba filter with water.

According to iRobot, Roomba filters are not designed to be washed or to come in contact with liquid. Washing a Roomba filter with water may reduce its filtration effectiveness and potentially cause mold and mildew to form, especially when the filter is not dried completely after being washed.

A gentle tap against a trash container is more than enough to shake off debris from the filter.

So, despite what you find on the internet, please do not wash a Roomba filter. Instead of washing it with water, it is good practice to replace the filter once every two months.

2. How often should you change a Roomba filter?

Every 2 months.

According to iRobot, you should change a Roomba filter once every 2 months. It is also a good idea to clean the filter once per week, or twice per week if your home has pets.

If you ever need to replace your Roomba filter, please make sure to buy it from the official iRobot store. You can browse parts and accessories based on your Roomba model right here.

Roomba 800 and 900 Series filter

Roomba e, i, and j Series filter

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Roomba 800 and 900 Series filter

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Roomba e, i, and j Series filter

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3. Can you wash a Roomba bin?

You can wash a Roomba bin.

A Roomba bin is designed to be rinsed by hand only. It is not dishwasher safe and should only be cleaned by rinsing with warm water. After washing, make sure to let the bin dry completely before reinstalling, otherwise, mold and mildew can form causing damage inside the robot.

Emptying the bin and washing it water regularly should allow the Roomba to hold more dirt. It is recommended to empty the bin after every use, while washing the bin can be done once per week.

Bottom Line

Roomba works in smart ways and is so simple to use. And it is even easier to maintain. Just a few quick routine steps will help keep your robot running at peak performance, like emptying the bin after every use and cleaning the filter once per week. This gives your Roomba a nice, clean start to every job.

The full bin indicator and a notification to your iRobot Home app serve as helpful reminders. If you share your home with pets, you should clean the filter twice a week to shake off fur, dirt, dust, and dander. Homes without pets should clean Roomba filters once per week. 

To make sure each Roomba component can move freely, regularly check the extractors, side brush, and front caster wheel, and remove any hair or debris. Roomba will let you know if something is wrong and give you troubleshooting tips to help get it going again. 

Other helpful articles:

• How to clean Roomba brushes
• How to clean Roomba wheels
• How to clean Roomba sensors
• Why Roomba side brush not spinning?
• Why Roomba brush roller not spinning?