How To Clean A Vacuum

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Your vacuum cleaner is a hardworking appliance, but it can’t do its job properly if it’s dirty itself. Learning how to clean a vacuum is essential for keeping your home truly clean and making your machine last for years. A well-maintained vacuum has stronger suction, smells fresher, and is less likely to break down. This guide will walk you through every part of the process, from simple weekly tasks to a deep annual clean.

How To Clean A Vacuum

This section covers the complete cleaning process. We’ll break it down into manageable steps, starting with what you should do every time you vacuum and moving to less frequent, more detailed tasks. Always unplug your vacuum before you start any cleaning or maintenance.

What You’ll Need

Gathering your supplies first makes the job smoother. You likely have most of these at home already:

  • Scissors or a seam ripper
  • Old towels or newspaper
  • A soft-bristled brush (an old paintbrush or toothbrush works)
  • A microfiber cloth
  • Mild dish soap
  • Warm water
  • A sink or large bucket
  • Disposable gloves (optional)
  • A flat-head screwdriver (for some models)

Step 1: Empty the Dust Canister or Replace the Bag

This is the most important and frequent step. For bagless vacuums, empty the canister after every few uses, or when it reaches the “full” line. Do this over a trash can, and consider wearing a mask if you have allergies. Gently tap the canister to dislodge fine dust. For bagged vacuums, replace the bag when it’s about 3/4 full. A overstuffed bag severely reduces suction and strains the motor.

Step 2: Clean the Filters

Clogged filters are the number one cause of weak suction. Most vacuums have at least two: a pre-motor filter and a post-motor or exhaust filter. Consult your manual for their location.

  • Foam or Felt Filters: Rinse these under lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze out excess water—never wring them. Let them air dry completely for at least 24 hours before reinstalling. Putting in a damp filter can cause mold and motor damage.
  • HEPA or Pleated Filters: These are often not washable. Check your manual. If it’s not washable, tap it gently against the inside of a trash bin to remove loose dust. Some can be rinsed, but they must be bone-dry before use.

You should check and clean pre-motor filters monthly, and post-motor filters every 3-6 months.

Step 3: Clear the Brush Roll

The brush roll (or beater bar) picks up dirt but also collects hair, string, and carpet fibers. This tangles can burn out the motor belt and stop the brush from spinning.

  1. Turn the vacuum over. You may need to release latches or remove a cover plate.
  2. Use scissors to carefully cut and remove all wrapped-around debris. Pull it out from the ends of the roll.
  3. Manually spin the brush roll to check for smooth movement. Look for worn bristles or damage.
  4. Use your soft brush to clean the housing area around the brush roll, removing any stuck dirt.

Step 4: Check and Replace the Belt

The belt connects the motor to the brush roll. A worn or broken belt means the brush won’t spin. Inspect it every few months.

  • Remove the brush roll cover to see the belt.
  • Look for signs of cracking, stretching, or glazing (a shiny, slick appearance).
  • If it’s damaged, refer to your manual for the correct replacement belt and installation steps. Usually, you slip the old belt off, place the new one over the motor spindle, and stretch it onto the brush roll.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Vacuum’s Exterior

Use a damp microfiber cloth with a little soapy water to wipe the entire outside of the vacuum. Pay special attention to the handle, buttons, and any clear plastic viewing areas. Avoid getting water into any openings or vents. Dry it thoroughly with another cloth.

Step 6: Deep Clean the Hose and Attachments

Blockages in the hose can cause frustrating loss of suction. Every few months, detach the hose and attachments.

  1. Shine a flashlight through the hose to look for clogs.
  2. For a blockage, use a long, flexible object like a broom handle or a plumbing snake to gently push it through. Never use anything sharp that could puncture the hose.
  3. Wash the plastic or metal wands and attachments in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry completely.
  4. For the hose, you can run warm soapy water through it, swish it around, and then hang it over a shower rod to drip dry. Ensure it’s totally dry inside before reattaching.

Step 7: Deodorize Your Vacuum

A smelly vacuum makes your whole house smell. After cleaning, you can add a fresh scent.

  • For bagged vacuums, add a few drops of essential oil on the outside of a new bag before installing it, or use a branded vacuum deodorizer.
  • For bagless models, sprinkle a little baking soda into the empty, dry canister, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up. This will absorb odors.
  • Ensure all filters are completely dry to prevent musty smells.

Special Considerations for Different Vacuum Types

Not all vacuums are the same. Here’s what to focus on for specific models:

  • Upright Vacuums: Pay close attention to the brush roll and belt, as these are high-wear items. The dirt cup is often located lower on the body.
  • Canister Vacuums: The main cleaning points are the hose, the filter in the canister body, and the brush head (which needs the same hair removal as an upright’s brush roll).
  • Stick Vacuums (Cordless): Battery life is key. Always empty the small dust cup after every use and clean filters weekly to maintain optimal airflow and motor efficiency. Check the battery contacts for dust and wipe them clean.
  • Robot Vacuums: These require daily and weekly attention. Empty the tiny bin daily. Clean the sensors and charging contacts with a dry cloth weekly. Remove and clean the side brush and main roller just like a full-sized vacuum, but more frequently.

Maintaining Your Vacuum’s Performance

Regular care prevents big problems. Create a simple schedule:

  • After each use: Check for and remove obvious debris from the brush roll.
  • Weekly: Empty the dust cup/bag. Visually inspect the brush roll.
  • Monthly: Clean or rinse the pre-motor filter (if washable). Wipe down the exterior.
  • Every 3-6 months: Do a full clean: all filters, hose check, deep brush roll cleaning, belt inspection.
  • Yearly: Consider replacing HEPA filters and belts as preventative maintenance, even if they look okay.

Troubleshooting Common Vacuum Problems

If your vacuum isn’t working right, here’s likely causes and fixes:

  • Loss of Suction: 90% of the time, it’s a full bag/canister, a clogged filter, or a blockage in the hose, wand, or brush head. Go through the cleaning steps above methodically.
  • Vacuum Won’t Turn On: Check the power cord, outlet, and on/off switch. For cordless models, ensure the battery is properly seated and charged.
  • Burning Smell: Immediately turn off and unplug the vacuum. This often indicates a tangled brush roll stalling the motor or a worn belt. Check and clear these components.
  • Loud Noise or Rattling: Something is likely caught in the brush roll or fan. Unplug the vacuum and inspect for foreign objects like coins, toys, or large debris.
  • Dust Blowing Out the Back: This means a filter is missing, damaged, or installed incorrectly. Check all filter seals and placements.

When to Call a Professional

While most maintenance is DIY, some issues require expert help. Contact a repair service if:

  • The motor runs but the brush roll doesn’t spin even with a new belt.
  • You’ve cleared all blockages but suction is still very weak.
  • There is visible smoke, sparks, or electrical burning smells.
  • The power cord is damaged or the plug gets hot.
  • The vacuum has taken in water or another liquid.

Sometimes, the cost of repair for an old vacuum may approach the price of a new one, so consider the age and value of your model.

FAQ Section

How often should you clean out your vacuum?
You should empty the dust cup or change the bag very frequently—when it’s 3/4 full. Give filters a quick check monthly and do a full, deep clean of all parts every 3 to 6 months.

Can you wash vacuum cleaner filters?
It depends. Many foam and felt pre-motor filters are washable. However, most true HEPA filters are not; they can only be tapped clean. Always, always check your owner’s manual first. Never put a filter back in unless it’s completely dry.

Why does my vacuum smell bad when I use it?
Bad odors usually come from a full dust bag/canister, damp or moldy filters, or debris stuck in the hose or brush roll. A deep clean and deodorizing with baking soda will usually solve the problem.

What is the best way to clean a vacuum hose?
Detach it from the vacuum. Look for blockages with a flashlight. To clean the inside, run warm, soapy water through it, swish it around, and then hang it to dry completely before reattaching.

How do I clean the brush roll on my vacuum?
Turn off and unplug the vacuum. Remove the bottom plate to access the roll. Use scissors to carefully cut and remove all hair and strings wrapped around the ends. Manually spin it to ensure it moves freely.

Is it worth repairing an old vacuum?
It often is, especially for higher-end models. Simple repairs like a new belt, brush roll, or filter are inexpensive. For major motor issues, compare the repair estimate to the cost of a comparable new vacuum to decide.

Keeping your vacuum clean isn’t just about appliance maintenance; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your home gets as clean as possible. By following these steps regularly, you’ll extend the life of your machine, maintain its power, and avoid unpleasant smells and breakdowns. A little bit of consistent care saves you money and time in the long run, and makes your weekly chores much more effective. Remember to always consult your specific model’s manual for the best advice tailored to it’s design.