A surface cleaning apparatus includes a housing having an elongate axis (H) and supports a suction source, and a dirt separation device having an elongate axis (A). The dirt separation device includes a separator for separating dirt from dirt-laden air, and a dirt collection chamber for receiving separated dirt. The dirt separation device or a part of the dirt separation device is releasably connected to the housing. A passage member that transports dirt-laden air to the dirt separation device has an elongate axis (B). The dirt separation device is pivotally moveable relative to the housing to effect release of the dirt separation device.