How to Clean Your Vacuum Cleaner: Easy Maintenance Guide

Vacuum cleaners are one of the most important appliances in your household. Without them, your house will be a complete mess. With the press of a button, it works hard to keep your space spotless. But just like you need self-care, so does your vacuum cleaner!

Think of it this way: you service your car, update your phone, and maintain your appliances.  Similarly, it requires timely maintenance to continue performing at its optimum. Proper upkeep can significantly improve its suction power, enhance its cleaning efficiency, and extend its lifespan.

In this blog, we will discuss how to clean your vacuum cleaner at home. 

Step 1: Unplug and Disassemble the Vacuum Cleaner

Before starting any maintenance it’s essential to unplug your vacuum cleaner.  It’s a vital safety measure that protects you from potential electrical hazards.

Start by locating the release mechanism for your dustbin or canister. This is usually a marked button or latch. A good thumb rule is to empty it when it’s 2/3rd full. 

For bagged vacuums, carefully remove the full bag without dispersing dust. For bagless models, hold the container close to your trash bin while emptying to minimize dust scatter.

Then remove the primary and secondary filters, disconnect the hose by pressing the release button, and remove any cleaning attachments.

Step 2: Clean the Vacuum Filter

Different vacuum cleaners have different filter types, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air), pre-motor, post-motor, or carbon filters. Each requires a specific cleaning method:

Washable filters: Gently rinse with cold water until clear and let them dry completely for 24-48 hours.

HEPA filters: Some of these are washable while some might need replacement. If not specifically marked as washable then replace it. At the same time, foam filters can be washed and reused. While washing squeeze them gently to avoid tearing.

Pre-motor filters: Need to be cleaned once every 1-2 months and replaced every 3-6 months depending on usage.

Carbon filters: They can’t be cleaned effectively so replacement is the only option.

Post-motor filters: These require monthly checks and need to be cleaned or replaced as needed.

Step 3: Remove Debris from the Vacuum Roller Brush

Have you ever wondered why your vacuum isn’t picking up as well as it used to? 

It’s because the roller brush may be clogged with hair, fur, and other debris. They need to be cleaned regularly. 

Here is how: 

• Turn your vacuum over and carefully remove the brush.
• Use scissors to cut along the length of the brush to remove tangled hair and fibers.
• Wipe the brush with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt.

Step 4: Check and Clean the Vacuum Hose

Checking and cleaning your vacuum hose is crucial to understanding how to clean the device. When your vacuum hose gets clogged its suction power dramatically decreases. Common culprits include large debris like paper scrap or small toys, accumulated dust, pet hair, and carpet fibers.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning the hose:

• Remove the hose, and look through to spot blockages.
• Use a broom or a yardstick to gently push through clogs, and add a small amount of soap to clean off the dirt.

For visible blockages after locating the clog use long-handled cleaning tools to push it out. For hidden blockages use compressed air to throw out debris.

Step 5: Empty and Clean the Dustbin/Canister

An overfilled dustbin can reduce suction power, motor strain, and even unpleasant odors.

Here are some cleaning tips:

• Empty the contents into a trash bag.
• Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
• Use disinfectant for additional sanitization.
• To clean pet hair use rubber gloves to wipe the bin—hair will stick to the rubber.
• For fine dust, using a damp cloth helps trap tiny particles.

Cleaning and maintaining a cleaning device is not easy. Therefore, we recommend choosing Miele. The Miele Complete C3 canister vacuum has high suction power, hygienic filter bags, a high-quality HEPA filter. They are also gentle on the floor. 

We use Miele for all our clients and it offers the best results. If you need a full-house cleaning, please contact Vella. We will take care of it. 

Step 6: Clean the Vacuum Cleaner’s Exterior

Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the dust and dirt. Pay special attention to crevices and seams where dust can accumulate.

Inspect the wheels for hair, dust, and debris. Clean the wheels with a damp cloth and use a scissor to cut off any tangled materials like hair, tape, or anything sticky that might hamper the mobility of your vacuum.

For the stubborn stains gently scrub the area without using excessive force with a non-abrasive cleaning solution. 

Step 7: Inspect and Maintain Vacuum Cleaner Parts

Timely inspection of parts is one of the most crucial steps in learning how to clean your vacuum cleaner. 

Belt: Inspect the belts for signs of cracking, stretching, or wearing, replace them if it is worn or loose. Ideally, it should be replaced every 6-12 months.

Brush Rolls: Examine the brush rolls, check the hose attachments, and ensure all clips and points are secure.  

Low suction issues: If your vacuum has low suction, start by checking for blockages in the hose and attachments. Make sure the filters are clean, properly installed, and the dust container or bag isn’t full. Lastly, inspect all seals to ensure they’re intact.

Strange noises: First, listen for the location of the noise to identify the source, check for objects caught in the brush roll. Then inspect the belt for proper alignment and ensure all parts are properly secured. Finally, check for debris in the fan housing.

Cleaning a home is not an easy task. Hence, make sure to incorporate time to clean your vacuum and other devices in your daily cleaning checklist to ensure its maintenance. 

Sometimes, even this can be overwhelming, then it is time to seek professional help. Vella’s Cleaning service is available all across Texas including Austin and Plano. 

We are also the best house cleaning service in Dallas.  We offer basic cleaning to deep cleaning services to keep your home neat and clean. Be sure to review the specifications carefully before scheduling your appointment. 

Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner Running Smoothly

Remember your vacuum cleaner is just like you, it needs self-care and attention. Since vacuum cleaners are essential for your home’s cleanliness it is imperative to maintain them. 

While regular maintenance helps maintain your vacuum’s performance, sometimes you need professional cleaning services for the deepest clean possible. If you’re looking for expert cleaning assistance in Dallas, Vella is your answer. 

Let us take care of the cleaning so you can enjoy a spotless home—book your appointment today!