A Roomba that drives normally but does not spin its brushes usually has a mechanical jam. Hair, string, and debris build up at brush ends and bearings until the motor cannot turn them.
These steps apply to iRobot Roomba models with main roller brushes and side brushes, including 600, 800, i, e, and s series.
Does this affect you?
Use this if the robot moves but does not pick up dirt because the main brush, side brush, or both are not turning.
Remove and clean the main brush
- Turn the Roomba off.
- Flip it upside down on a table or soft surface.
- Locate the brush cage.
- Press the release tabs on the cage.
- Lift out the main roller brush.
- Cut away hair, thread, and string from the brush.
- Clean both brush ends and bearings carefully.
- Wipe debris from inside the brush cage.
- Reinsert the brush.
- Snap the cage closed until it clicks.
Brush-end bearings are where debris often wraps tightest, even when the visible center of the brush looks clean.
Clean the side brush
- Find the side brush on the underside near one corner.
- Remove the center Phillips screw.
- Lift the side brush off.
- Clear hair or string wrapped around the post.
- Check that the brush spins freely by hand.
- Reinstall the brush flat against the housing.
- Tighten the screw without over-tightening.
A side brush can fail independently of the main brush, so check both before assuming a motor problem.
Clear errors and replace worn parts
If the app or robot reports brush stalled or roller brush errors, recheck the brush ends and bearings. After cleaning, place Roomba on the dock, let it charge briefly, then reboot it to clear a stuck error.
If the brush feels gritty or stiff when removed, replace the brush assembly. Use the correct iRobot replacement size because mismatched third-party brushes can jam. Also inspect the brush cage tabs; cracked tabs can stop the cage from seating and disengage the brush.
Homes with pets or long hair may need brush cleaning every 1 to 2 runs. A clogged filter does not stop brushes from spinning, but it can make a working Roomba seem like it is not cleaning.
Sources
- iRobot Support – Cleaning the main brush and side brush (2025)
- iRobot Support – Roomba error codes and what they mean (2025)
- iRobot Support – Replacing Roomba brushes (2025)