Keeping your home clean can be a challenge, especially if you have pets. The Shark Rocket Pet Plus vacuum is a popular choice for pet owners because it is light, powerful, and specially designed to pick up pet hair. But to keep your vacuum working at its best, you must clean it regularly. Neglecting this can lead to loss of suction, bad smells, and even damage to the vacuum.
Many people feel nervous about cleaning their vacuum. They worry about breaking something or not putting it back together correctly. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean your Shark Rocket Pet Plus, step by step. You’ll also discover expert tips, things beginners miss, and how to avoid common mistakes.
With the right approach, cleaning your vacuum is easy and helps it last much longer.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
A clean vacuum is not just about looking good. It affects how well your Shark Rocket Pet Plus works. Dirt, pet hair, and dust can block filters and airways, making the vacuum less effective. Over time, this can even burn out the motor.
Key benefits of regular cleaning:
- Better suction: Less dirt means air can flow easily.
- Removes odors: Pet hair and dust can smell if left inside.
- Longer life: Clean parts last longer and reduce the risk of breakdown.
- Healthier air: Clean filters trap allergens and dust.
Most owners notice their vacuum losing power after a few months. Often, this is just because the filter or brush is clogged. Learning to clean it well will save you frustration and money.
What You Need Before You Start
Before you begin, gather a few basic tools. This will make the cleaning process smoother and safer.
- Small screwdriver: For opening covers (if needed)
- Soft brush or old toothbrush: For cleaning filters and brushes
- Mild soap: For washing filters
- Microfiber cloth: For wiping the body and dust cup
- Scissors or seam ripper: For cutting pet hair from the brush roll
- Clean, dry towel: For drying parts
Never use harsh chemicals or hot water. These can damage plastic parts or the filter.
Step-by-step Guide To Cleaning Your Shark Rocket Pet Plus
Let’s break down the cleaning process into simple steps. Each part of the vacuum needs different care. Take your time and do not force any part—everything should come apart smoothly.
1. Unplug And Disassemble
Safety comes first. Always unplug the vacuum before you start.
- Remove the dust cup by pressing the release button.
- Detach the handheld unit from the wand.
- Take off the floor nozzle and any attachments.
If this is your first time, take a quick photo of how everything fits together. This helps when reassembling.
2. Clean The Dust Cup
The dust cup collects all the dirt and pet hair. If it’s full, empty it after every use.
- Open the dust cup over a trash can.
- Tap out any stuck dirt.
- Wash the cup with warm, soapy water (do not soak the lid if it has wires).
- Rinse well and dry completely before reattaching.
Never put wet parts back in the vacuum—moisture can damage the motor.
3. Wash And Dry The Filters
Your Shark Rocket Pet Plus usually has two main filters: pre-motor foam and felt filters, often under the dust cup.
- Remove the filters gently.
- Rinse foam and felt filters under cold water. Do not use soap unless the manual allows.
- Squeeze out extra water.
- Lay filters flat on a towel and let them air dry for at least 24 hours.
Pro tip: Filters should be 100% dry before use. Damp filters can lead to mold and reduce suction.
4. Clean The Brush Roll
Pet hair wraps around the brush roll and can slow it down.
- Turn the floor nozzle over.
- Use scissors or a seam ripper to carefully cut away hair and threads.
- Pull out the debris by hand.
- Wipe the brush and sides with a dry cloth.
Some models have a removable brush roll. If yours does, check your manual for removal instructions.
5. Check For Blockages
Sometimes, the vacuum loses power because something is stuck inside.
- Look through the wand and hoses.
- Use a flashlight to spot any blockages.
- Push out blockages with a broom handle or straightened coat hanger, but be gentle.
6. Wipe The Body And Attachments
Dust can build up on the vacuum’s body and attachments.
- Use a damp (not wet) microfiber cloth to wipe all surfaces.
- Dry with a clean towel.
- Clean any extra tools (like the crevice tool or pet hair tool) with a brush and soapy water.
7. Let Everything Dry
This is a step many people rush. Always let all washable parts dry completely before putting the vacuum back together.
Here’s a quick comparison of drying times for common parts:
| Part | Recommended Drying Time | Tips for Faster Drying |
|---|---|---|
| Foam filter | 24 hours | Place near a fan (not in direct sun) |
| Felt filter | 24 hours | Lay flat on a towel |
| Dust cup | 1-2 hours | Wipe with dry cloth after washing |
8. Reassemble And Test
Once all parts are dry, reassemble your Shark Rocket Pet Plus. Plug it in and test the suction. If you notice a strange noise or weak power, check that all filters are in place and dry.
How Often Should You Clean Each Part?
Not every part needs to be cleaned after every use. Here’s a simple maintenance schedule:
| Part | Cleaning Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dust cup | After every use | Empty when full |
| Filters | Every 1-2 months | Wash more often with pets |
| Brush roll | Monthly | Check for hair buildup |
| Body/exterior | Every 2-3 months | Wipe as needed |
If you have several pets or a lot of carpet, you may need to clean more often.
Two Insights Most Owners Miss
Many Shark Rocket Pet Plus owners focus only on the dust cup and filters. But two areas are often forgotten:
- The wand can get blocked by fur or large debris. Even a small clog will reduce suction. Always check the wand if you notice a drop in power.
- The filter housing needs cleaning too. Dust can build up around where the filter sits, especially if you vacuum a lot of fine dust or pet hair. Wipe this area with a dry cloth before putting the filter back in.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even careful owners make mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Putting wet filters back in: This is the fastest way to ruin your vacuum. Always let filters dry fully.
- Forcing parts together: If something doesn’t fit, double-check you have the parts in the right order.
- Using harsh chemicals: These can melt or crack plastic, and may damage the filter material.
- Ignoring the brush roll: Pet hair buildup here can make the vacuum seem broken, but is easy to fix.
Signs Your Shark Rocket Pet Plus Needs Cleaning
Not sure if it’s time to clean? Watch for these warning signs:
- Loss of suction power
- Strange noises or vibrations
- Bad smells from the exhaust
- Visible dust escaping from seams
- Overheating or automatic shut-off
If you notice any of these, clean your vacuum right away. It’s better to do a quick clean now than pay for repairs later.
Advanced Tips For Pet Owners
Pet hair is tough. Here’s how to make your Shark Rocket Pet Plus handle it better:
- Use the pet multi-tool on furniture and stairs for deep cleaning.
- Sprinkle a little baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to help with odors.
- Brush your pets regularly—less loose hair means less vacuuming.
- If you vacuum large amounts of pet hair, check the brush roll and filters every week.
When To Replace Parts
Even with good cleaning, some parts wear out. Here’s when to replace them:
- Filters: Every 6–12 months, or sooner if they stay dirty after washing.
- Brush roll: If bristles are worn, bent, or missing.
- Belt: If the brush roll stops turning or makes a loud noise.
Always buy genuine Shark replacement parts for the best fit and safety. You can find them on the official Shark website or at trusted retailers.
How The Shark Rocket Pet Plus Compares For Cleaning
If you’re curious how the Shark Rocket Pet Plus compares to similar vacuums in terms of ease of cleaning, here’s a quick look:
| Model | Filter Access | Brush Roll Cleaning | Pet Hair Removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Rocket Pet Plus | Easy | Manual (scissors needed) | Excellent |
| Dyson V8 Animal | Moderate | Tool-free | Excellent |
| Bissell Pet Hair Eraser | Easy | Removable brush | Very good |
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus stands out for its simple filter access and strong pet hair pickup, though the brush roll does require manual cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Wash The Filters On My Shark Rocket Pet Plus?
You should wash the foam and felt filters every 1–2 months. If you have several pets or vacuum very often, check them monthly. Always let filters dry for at least 24 hours before using them again.
Can I Wash All Parts Of My Shark Rocket Pet Plus?
You can wash the dust cup, foam filter, and felt filter with water. Never wash the motor, electrical parts, or put any part in the dishwasher. Attachments like the crevice tool can be washed with mild soap and water.
What Should I Do If My Vacuum Still Smells Bad After Cleaning?
If your Shark Rocket Pet Plus smells, make sure all filters are completely dry and clean. Wash the dust cup with a bit of baking soda. If the smell remains, check for hidden blockages or consider replacing the filters.
What Is The Best Way To Remove Pet Hair From The Brush Roll?
Turn the nozzle upside down and cut away hair using scissors or a seam ripper. Pull out all loose hair. Clean the area around the brush too. Doing this regularly will keep the brush spinning freely.
Where Can I Find Official Cleaning Instructions?
You can find the official manual and cleaning tips on the Shark Clean Support website. Always follow the manual for your model.
Keeping your Shark Rocket Pet Plus clean does not have to be difficult or time-consuming. With just a little regular care, your vacuum will keep your home cleaner, remove more pet hair, and last for years. Clean smart, and enjoy a fresher, healthier home for you and your pets.
