Hi Nancy - to clean the filter, first remove the dirt tank and grip the top portion of tank and pull up to remove & clean the separator (the bottom ring of the separator will activate to "wipe" debris from screen & deposit into tank). Then, pull the filter frame from the top of the separator to remove & clean the foam pre-motor filter. The filter can be rinsed in warm water, allow to completely air dry (24 - 48 hours) before reinstalling. BISSELL offers illustrated instructions and helpful videos online, or call us anytime if we can help at 800-237-7691.