If you need to buy a new appliance or describe a cleaning task, knowing how to say vacuum in Spanish is essential. The direct translation is “aspiradora,” and it’s a word you’ll hear and use often in Spanish-speaking countries. This guide will give you the correct term, show you how to use it in sentences, and cover related vocabulary so you can communicate clearly in any situation.
How To Say Vacuum In Spanish
The most common and standard word for a vacuum cleaner in Spanish is aspiradora. It’s a feminine noun, so you use “la” before it. The word comes from the verb “aspirar,” which means “to suck in” or “to inhale.” This makes sense because the machine works by sucking up dirt.
You’ll find this term used everywhere, from appliance stores to home care instructions. It’s universally understood in Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and all other Spanish-speaking regions. Here’s how you pronounce it: ahs-pee-rah-DOH-rah. Try saying it a few times to get comfortable with the rhythm.
Using “Aspiradora” in Everyday Sentences
Let’s look at some practical examples. These sentences will help you use the word correctly when talking or writing.
- Necesito pasar la aspiradora. (I need to vacuum / I need to run the vacuum cleaner.)
- ¿Dónde está la aspiradora? (Where is the vacuum cleaner?)
- Voy a comprar una aspiradora nueva. (I am going to buy a new vacuum cleaner.)
- Esta aspiradora es muy potente. (This vacuum cleaner is very powerful.)
- ¿Me puedes ayudar a limpiar la aspiradora? (Can you help me clean the vacuum?)
Important Note: “Vacuum” as a Verb
In English, “vacuum” is both a noun and a verb. In Spanish, the noun is “aspiradora,” but the verb is different. You don’t say “aspiradorar.” Instead, you use the phrase pasar la aspiradora. This literally means “to pass the vacuum cleaner.”
So, you say “Voy a pasar la aspiradora en la sala” for “I’m going to vacuum the living room.” It’s the standard way to describe the action. Sometimes people shorten it in casual speech, saying just “aspirar” (to vacuum), but “pasar la aspiradora” is more complete and common.
Other Words and Regional Variations
While “aspiradora” is the king, there are some other terms you might encounter. These can vary by country or context.
1. La Aspiradora de Polvo
This just means “dust vacuum.” The “de polvo” part specifies it’s for dust. You might see this on older models or in very formal descriptions, but in daily talk, people usually just say “aspiradora.”
2. Regional Slang and Nicknames
In some countries, people use playful or shortened slang. For instance, in parts of Argentina, you might hear “la aspi” as a casual nickname. In Chile, some people say “la succionadora,” which comes from “succionar” (to suck). However, these are not as universal. If you stick with “aspiradora,” everyone will understand you perfectly.
3. What About “Vacuum” in a Scientific Context?
This is a crucial difference! In science, a “vacuum” is an empty space with no matter. The Spanish word for this is vacío. It’s a masculine noun (el vacío).
- El espacio exterior es un vacío. (Outer space is a vacuum.)
- Se creó un vacío dentro del tubo. (A vacuum was created inside the tube.)
You would never use “aspiradora” for this scientific concept. Mixing these up could lead to some very confusing conversations about cleaning or physics!
Types of Vacuum Cleaners and Their Names
Knowing the general word is great, but what if you need a specific type? Here’s the vocabulary for different vacuum models.
Common Vacuum Cleaner Types
- La aspiradora vertical / de pie: Upright vacuum cleaner.
- La aspiradora de carro / con ruedas: Canister vacuum cleaner (the kind with a separate unit on wheels).
- La aspiradora de mano: Handheld vacuum cleaner.
- La aspiradora robot / robótica: Robot vacuum cleaner.
- La aspiradora inalámbrica / sin cable: Cordless vacuum cleaner.
- La aspiradora de agua: Wet-dry vacuum cleaner (sometimes called a “water vacuum” in some regions).
Key Features and Parts
When shopping or reading instructions, these words will be helpful.
- La bolsa: The bag (for bagged models).
- El depósito / El tanque: The canister or tank (for bagless models).
- El filtro: The filter (HEPA filter = filtro HEPA).
- La manguera: The hose.
- El cepillo: The brush (floor brush = cepillo para pisos).
- La potencia: The power (suction power = potencia de succión).
A Step-by-Step Guide to Shopping for a Vacuum in Spanish
Imagine you’re in an appliance store in Madrid or Mexico City. Here’s how the conversation might go, step by step.
Step 1: Finding the Right Section
You can ask an employee: “Disculpe, ¿dónde tienen las aspiradoras?” (Excuse me, where do you have the vacuum cleaners?). They will point you to the correct aisle.
Step 2: Describing What You Need
Be ready to explain what you’re looking for. Use the vocabulary from above.
- “Busco una aspiradora inalámbrica para una casa con alfombras.” (I’m looking for a cordless vacuum for a house with carpets.)
- “Necesito algo potente pero no muy pesado.” (I need something powerful but not too heavy.)
- “¿Este modelo viene con diferentes cepillos?” (Does this model come with different brushes?)
Step 3: Asking About Details
These questions will help you get the information you need.
- “¿Cuál es la capacidad del depósito?” (What is the capacity of the tank?)
- “¿Es fácil de encontrar los filtros de repuesto?” (Is it easy to find replacement filters?)
- “¿Tiene garantía?” (Does it have a warranty?)
Step 4: Understanding the Price and Payment
Finally, you’ll discuss cost. “¿Cuesta lo mismo si pago en efectivo?” (Does it cost the same if I pay in cash?) is a common question in some places. Also, “¿Puede explicarme las funciones básicas?” (Can you explain the basic functions to me?) is a good idea before you buy.
Common Phrases for Using and Maintaining Your Vacuum
Once you have your “aspiradora,” here’s how to talk about using and taking care of it.
Cleaning Instructions
- Tienes que vaciar el depósito después de cada uso. (You have to empty the tank after each use.)
- El filtro se debe limpiar cada mes. (The filter should be cleaned every month.)
- Ten cuidado de no enrollar la manguera demasiado apretada. (Be careful not to wrap the hose too tightly.)
Talking About Problems
If something goes wrong, you’ll need to describe the issue.
- La aspiradora perdió potencia. (The vacuum cleaner lost suction/power.)
- Se rompió el cepillo. (The brush broke.)
- Hace un ruido raro. (It’s making a strange noise.)
- No se enciende. (It won’t turn on.)
Practice Dialogues: Putting It All Together
Reading dialogues can help you see how the words flow in real conversation.
Dialogue 1: At Home
Persona A: El piso de la sala está lleno de migas. (The living room floor is full of crumbs.)
Persona B: Tienes razón. Voy a pasar la aspiradora ahora mismo. (You’re right. I’m going to vacuum right now.)
Persona A: ¿Está lista la aspiradora? (Is the vacuum ready?)
Persona B: Sí, solo tengo que conectar el cable. (Yes, I just have to plug in the cord.)
Dialogue 2: At the Repair Shop
Cliente: Buenas tardes, traigo mi aspiradora para reparar. (Good afternoon, I’m bringing my vacuum cleaner in for repair.)
Técnico: ¿Qué le pasa? (What’s wrong with it?)
Cliente: Creo que la manguera está tapada. No succiona nada. (I think the hose is clogged. It doesn’t suck up anything.)
Técnico: La revisaré. ¿Es este modelo viejo? (I’ll check it. Is this an older model?)
Cliente: Sí, tiene como diez años, pero antes funcionaba perfecto. (Yes, it’s about ten years old, but it worked perfectly before.)
Cultural Notes and Helpful Tips
In many Spanish-speaking countries, homes often have tile or hardwoord floors. Because of this, you might see more lightweight or hard-floor specific models. Also, in some smaller apartments or traditional homes, you might still see small brooms (“escobas”) and dustpans (“recogedores”) used for quick clean-ups, even if a family owns a vacuum.
Remember, politeness goes a long way. Starting a request with “¿Podría…?” (Could you…?) or “Disculpe…” (Excuse me…) is always appreciated when asking for help in a store or talking to someone.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Is “aspiradora” used in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, “aspiradora” is the standard term and is understood everywhere. Some countries might have local slang, but this is the safe word to use.
How do you say “to vacuum the floor” in Spanish?
You say “pasar la aspiradora en el piso/suelo.” “Piso” and “suelo” both mean floor. “Piso” is more common in Latin America, and “suelo” is common in Spain.
What is the difference between “vacío” and “aspiradora”?
This is very important! “Aspiradora” is the cleaning appliance. “Vacío” refers to the scientific concept of an empty space (or can mean “empty” as an adjective). They are not interchangeable.
How do you pronounce “aspiradora” correctly?
Break it into syllables: ahs-pee-rah-DOH-rah. The stress is on the second-to-last syllable, which is typical for Spanish words ending in a vowel.
Can I just use the verb “aspirar” to mean “to vacuum”?
Technically, yes, and you will be understood. But the more natural and common phrase is “pasar la aspiradora.” Using the full phrase sounds more fluent.
What are some related cleaning words I should know?
Here’s a quick list: limpiar (to clean), la escoba (broom), el polvo (dust), barrer (to sweep), trapear (to mop). Knowing these helps you talk about the whole cleaning process.
Now you have a complete guide on how to say vacuum in Spanish and much more. You know the main word is “aspiradora,” the verb phrase is “pasar la aspiradora,” and the scientific term is “vacío.” With the sentences, shopping dialogue, and maintenance phrases, you can confidently talk about this everyday appliance. Whether your reading a manual, shopping for a new model, or asking for help, you’ve got the vocabulary you need. Practice these words and phrases, and they’ll become second nature the next time you need to talk about cleaning.