If you’re considering a Dyson cordless vacuum, it’s essential to look beyond the hype and glossy marketing.
I’ve personally tested Dyson models ranging from the older V6 to the latest Gen5 Detect, and while there’s a lot to like, there are also recurring issues that buyers need to be aware of.
Think of this article as a reverse buyer’s guide — instead of praising the product, I’m breaking down the most common problems, so you know exactly what to expect.
Battery Failure Is Inevitable
The most common — and unavoidable — issue is battery degradation.
Over time, all batteries wear out, and Dyson’s are no exception. After enough usage, you’ll start to notice a shorter runtime until eventually, the battery fails altogether.
The good news is that there are numerous third-party battery replacements available online, so you’re not limited to expensive OEM options.
For DIY enthusiasts, some adapters allow you to use power tool batteries, such as those from DeWalt or Craftsman.
Please note that these adapters are brand-specific — a Craftsman battery, for example, won’t fit into a DeWalt adapter.
Dust Clouds When Emptying the Bin
This isn’t exclusive to Dyson, but all bagless vacuums come with a side effect: dust exposure.
If you’re sensitive to dust or suffer from allergies, be warned — opening the bin often releases a puff of fine particles. The best way to deal with this is to empty it directly into a large trash bin and consider wearing a face mask if you’re particularly sensitive.
Hair Wrap on Laser Slim Roller Axles
With models like the V12, V15, and Gen5 Detect, I’ve noticed that long hair tends to wrap around the roller axles, especially on the Laser Slim roller head.
This doesn’t seem to be an issue with short hair, but it’s still something you’ll need to check and clean regularly as part of routine maintenance.
If you’re dealing with long human or pet hair, expect to spend some time detangling.
Hair Sticking to the Dustbin
Closely related to the hair wrap problem is hair clumping and sticking to the inside of the dustbin, especially when there’s a significant amount.
If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, a simple trick is to shake the bin until the entire clump falls out. Still, it’s not the most pleasant task.
Flawed Mopping Design on the V15S Submarine
The V15S Submarine is the first Dyson with a mopping function.
Unfortunately, its wet/dry nozzle design brings serious drawbacks.
The dirty water tray isn’t sealed properly, so even a slight tilt can cause dirty water to spill out.
Additionally, the locking mechanism on my unit cracked, preventing the tray from locking securely in place. For a product at this price point, this is a huge disappointment.
Another letdown is its inefficiency in picking up liquids.
You often need to go over the same spot multiple times, and the small dirty water tank fills up quickly, requiring frequent emptying.
When combined with the spilling issue, it’s enough to make you want to go back to a regular mop.
Hard-to-Push Carpet Nozzle on Max Power
Dyson’s newer models, such as the V11, V15, and Gen5 Detect, feature powerful motors.
However, when using the Maximum power setting with the airflow gates closed, the vacuum becomes extremely difficult to push on carpets.
To fix this, open the airflow gates and use the medium setting. Not only does this make vacuuming easier, but it also helps preserve battery life — a win-win.
Outsize Models Are Heavy and Impractical as Handhelds
If you’re eyeing Dyson’s Outsize models, be prepared for a much heavier body.
While the larger dustbin and wider nozzle are great for large areas, these vacuums are not ideal for handheld use.
Using them for above-floor cleaning or car interiors can feel like a workout.
No Hygienic Dirt Ejector on the V6
The Dyson V6 lacks the newer “hygienic dirt ejector” feature found in later models.
It only has a trapdoor mechanism that opens to release the dirt, meaning you may have to reach inside to clear stuck debris.
If cleanliness or convenience matters to you, this could be a deal-breaker.
Cracked Dustbin Seal on V10 and V15
I’ve experienced issues with the dustbin seal cracking and coming loose on both the V10 and V15. This compromises suction and can make the vacuum feel underpowered. The good news is that the seal is replaceable, and I’ve uploaded a step-by-step video guide on my channel if you run into this issue.
Clogged Soft Roller from Large Debris
You might have seen those viral Dyson videos showing soft rollers sucking up piles of cereal — it looks impressive, but don’t fall for it.
Feeding large debris, such as Cheerios, into the soft roller nozzle will most likely result in a clog. I’ve tested this multiple times, and trust me — it’s not worth it.
Final Thoughts
Dyson cordless vacuums are among the most popular on the market, and for good reason — they’re sleek, powerful, and convenient.
But they’re not perfect. From inevitable battery issues to frustrating design flaws, these vacuums have their share of downsides.
Hopefully, this detailed list has helped you decide whether a Dyson is worth the investment or whether you should look elsewhere.
If you found this breakdown helpful, be sure to check out the full video on my YouTube channel where I demo these issues and share even more tips.
