How To Clean Your Vacuum Cleaner

It’s ironic that the very devices we use to clean other items, like dishwashers and washing machines, also require cleaning themselves to work effectively. The same goes for your vacuum cleaner.

If your vacuum cleaner is losing efficiency or developing a stale odor, it’s a sign that it needs some maintenance. Here are the most common vacuum cleaner maintenance tasks: consult your manual for specific instructions on accessing each part.

1. Clean the brush bar

A clogged brush bar can hinder your vacuum cleaner’s performance, requiring more passes to pick up dust and debris. It can also strain the motor and belt, shortening their lifespan. Keeping the brush bar clean is essential.

Unplug the vacuum and flip it over. Use scissors to carefully cut away hair and threads, avoiding pulling them out. Be cautious not to damage the bristles. If there’s dirt or fibers in the bristles, clean the bar with warm water and ensure it’s completely dry before reattaching.

2. Washing and/or replacing filters

Clean filters are crucial for proper dust pickup. Locate your vacuum’s filter and determine if it’s washable. Tap it outside to remove excess dust, wash it if possible, and let it dry before reinstalling.

For non-washable filters, tap off dust and replace them when worn. Refer to your manual for filter replacement frequency.

3. Check for clogs

A loss of suction in your vacuum is often due to a blockage. Unplug the vacuum, inspect the hose, brush bar, attachments, and the main body for blockages. Even small items like hairpins can cause clogs.

4. Empty it often

Regularly change bags in bagged models and ensure they’re properly attached. For bagless models, empty the bin when two-thirds full to maintain suction.

5. Wash the bin

If your vacuum smells stale even after emptying, wash the bin. For bagged models, wipe with warm, soapy water. For bagless models, detach the canister, wash the bin, and dry completely. Use a vinegar and water solution to disinfect if odors persist.

By performing these maintenance tasks, your vacuum cleaner will run more efficiently and keep your floors cleaner. If cleaning doesn’t improve performance, consider upgrading to a new vacuum cleaner.