You might not think about it often, but knowing how to clean the vacuum is essential for keeping it working well. A clean vacuum cleaner sucks up more dirt and lasts much longer, saving you money and frustration.
This guide will walk you through the simple steps to clean every part of your vacuum, whether it’s a bagless upright, a canister model, or a stick vacuum. We’ll cover the tools you need, how to do it safely, and a easy maintenance schedule to follow.
How To Clean The Vacuum
Cleaning your vacuum isn’t a single task. It’s a process of cleaning different parts. You should do a basic empty-and-check after every few uses. A deep clean is needed about every one to three months, depending on how much you use it.
What You’ll Need
Gathering your supplies first makes the job faster. You likely have most of this at home already.
- Scissors or a seam ripper
- A soft-bristled brush (an old paintbrush or toothbrush works great)
- Microfiber cloths
- Warm water and mild dish soap
- A sink or basin for washing parts
- A flat-head screwdriver (for some models)
- White vinegar (for odors and mineral deposits)
- Compressed air (optional, for electronics)
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug Everything
This is the most important step. Always, always unplug your vacuum cleaner before you start cleaning it. You’ll be handling sharp objects and touching the motor area, so eliminating any risk of electric shock is crucial.
Step 2: Empty the Dirt Container or Replace the Bag
For bagless vacuums, take the dust cup outside. Hold it over a garbage bag and open the latch. Tap it gently to dislodge all the dust and hair. If the container is very dirty, you can wash it (see Step 6). For bagged vacuums, remove the old bag and replace it with a new one. Don’t try to reuse an old bag, it will be less effective.
Step 3: Clean the Filters Thoroughly
Filters are the lungs of your vacuum. Clogged filters make the motor work harder and suction drop. Most vacuums have two or three filters.
- Pre-Motor Filter: Protects the motor from dust. Check your manual, but many are washable. Rinse under lukewarm water without soap, let it air dry for at least 24 hours completely.
- Post-Motor or Exhaust Filter: Cleans the air before it leaves the vacuum. This is often a HEPA filter. Usually, you tap these clean, but some are washable. Again, check the manual.
- Dust Cup Filter: In bagless models, this is often a foam or felt sleeve. Rinse it gently and let it dry fully.
Never put a damp filter back in the vacuum. It will cause mold and can damage the motor.
Step 4: Clear the Brush Roll
Hair, string, and carpet fibers love to wrap around the brush roll. This stops it from spinning and picking up dirt. Flip the vacuum over. You may need a screwdriver to remove a cover plate. Use your scissors to carefully cut through the wrapped debris and pull it all off. Check the ends of the roll for hair tangled in the bearings too.
Step 5: Check and Clear the Hose and Attachments
A clogged hose means no suction. Detach the hose from the vacuum. Shine a flashlight through it to look for blockages. You can use a long, flexible object like a broom handle or a plumbing snake to gently push the clog out. Don’t push too hard or you might damage the hose. Also, rinse the crevice tool and other plastic attachments with soapy water to remove greasy dust.
Step 6: Wash the Dust Container and Other Parts
If your dust cup is plastic and removable, wash it in the sink with warm, soapy water. Use your soft brush to scrub the inside. Rinse well and let it air dry completely. You can wipe down the outside of the vacuum body with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid getting water near the motor or electrical intakes.
Step 7: Reassemble and Do a Final Check
Once every part is bone dry, put your vacuum back together. Make sure all filters are seated correctly and all latches click shut. Plug it in and do a quick test on a small area of floor. Listen for any unusual noises and check that suction feels strong.
Special Considerations for Different Vacuum Types
Not all vacuums are the same. Here’s what to focus on for your specific model.
Upright Vacuums
Pay close attention to the brush roll and the belt that drives it. If the belt looks stretched, cracked, or worn, it’s time to replace it. A worn belt won’t spin the brush effectively.
Canister Vacuums
The long hose is a common clog point. Also, check the connection points where the hose attaches to the wand and the canister itself, as dirt can build up there and create a seal break.
Stick & Handheld Vacuums
These have smaller dust bins that need emptying more frequently. Their filters are also smaller and can clog fast, so check them every time you empty the bin.
Robot Vacuums
They need daily and weekly care. Empty the small bin after every run. Weekly, clean the sensors and charging contacts with a dry cloth, clear the side brush of hair, and check the main wheels for debris.
Creating a Simple Maintenance Schedule
Sticking to a schedule prevents big problems. Here’s an easy plan to follow:
- After Each Use: Quick visual check for obvious blockages.
- Every Week: Empty the dust cup/bin. Check the brush roll for hair.
- Every Month: Wash the pre-motor filter (if washable). Wipe down the exterior.
- Every 3-6 Months: Deep clean all filters, the hose, and the dust container. Check the belt on upright models.
- Once a Year: Consider replacing non-washable HEPA filters for peak performance.
Troubleshooting Common Vacuum Problems
If your vacuum isn’t working right, a good clean often fixes it. Here are some common issues and their likely causes.
Loss of Suction
- The dust bag or container is full.
- A filter is clogged and needs cleaning or replacing.
- There is a clog in the hose, wand, or airpath.
- The brush roll is jammed with debris.
Strange Burning Smell
- The belt is worn out and slipping.
- The brush roll is jammed, causing the belt to burn.
- The motor is overheating due to a clogged filter (unplug immediately and let it cool).
Vacuum Won’t Turn On
- Check that it’s plugged in securely (it happens!).
- Check the circuit breaker or GFCI outlet.
- The on/off switch could be faulty (this may require professional repair).
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, cleaning isn’t enough. You should consider professional repair if:
- The motor makes a loud, grinding noise even after cleaning.
- You see sparks or smell electrical burning.
- The vacuum still has no power after checking the plug and outlet.
- There is a major internal clog you cannot reach.
For many basic models, if the motor dies, it’s often more cost-effective to buy a new vacuum than to repair it.
FAQ Section
How often should I clean my vacuum cleaner?
You should empty the dust container after every few uses. A full deep clean, including washing filters, should be done every 1 to 3 months.
Can I wash all vacuum filters?
No. Always check your user manual. Pre-motor filters are often washable, but many HEPA exhaust filters are not. Washing a non-washable filter will ruin it.
Why does my vacuum smell bad when I use it?
A bad smell usually comes from a dirty filter, a full dust bag that’s been in too long, or debris stuck in the hose or brush roll. A deep clean and letting all parts dry fully normally fixes it.
What’s the best way to clean a vacuum hose?
Detach it and look for the clog with a flashlight. Use a long, flexible object like a broom handle or a straightened coat hanger to gently push the blockage out. Be careful not to puncture the hose.
Is it worth repairing an old vacuum?
It depends on the cost of the repair versus the price of a new one. For a high-end model, a repair is often worthwhile. For a basic vacuum that’s several years old, replacement is usually the better option.
Keeping your vacuum clean is one of the easiest ways to maintain your home’s cleanliness and extend the life of an important appliance. By following these simple steps regularly, you ensure it has strong suction every time you need it. A little bit of maintenance prevents the need for costly replacements and keeps your floors looking their best with minimal effort from you.