Ultimate Guide for Cleaning a Vacuum Cleaner

People have been placing more importance on cleanliness and health in the past year. It can be dangerous to have dirt and dust in your home or office. Asbestosis attacks and illness can be caused by dust and other allergens. You already know that regular vacuuming is the best way to prevent dust buildup. What keeps your vacuum cleaner clean? What about the grime in your vacuum cleaner? A 2008 University of Arizona study found that vacuum cleaners and their brushes were covered in bacteria and germs. All tested vacuums contained at least 50% fecal bacteria and 13% E.coli. Every single vacuum contained mold.

Research has shown that vacuums can emit detectable amounts of bacteria from humans. This could lead to the inhalation or ingestion of allergenic and infectious aerosols. You can think of it this way: After wiping down a surface, you either throw out the wipes or wash the rag. Your vacuum should not be left out of a dirty rag until it is ready to be used again. Although vacuums can be seen as a solution, they can quickly become a problem if not properly maintained.

Products for Use

You may need multiple products to clean your vacuum well. Dish soap is the most important and essential product. You can use any mild dish soap. Use a large sink or tub to fill with warm soapy water.

You will need microfiber clothing and a toothbrush. Microfiber cloths can trap dirt fibers so they should be used on areas of your vacuum that are not water-resistant. If you need to reach difficult areas, a toothbrush is a good option.

You can get rid of any dirt and grime in your vacuum by using compressed air. For dust and other particles, canned air is the best option. You can also keep a pair of scissors with you in case anything gets stuck between the bristles or brushes of your vacuum.

To protect yourself from dust allergies, it is a good idea to take allergy medication and use a dust mask when vacuuming. You’re bound to collect dust!

Locate Your Owner’s Manual

Your owner’s manual is a great resource. You will find information about the various components of your vacuum and safety warnings.

Don’t worry if you don’t own your owner’s guide. Many popular vacuum brands offer the ability to download the owner’s manual for your model and make from the internet. You can find the manual and model by simply searching Google.

Step 1: Clean your Filter

Start by cleaning the vacuum filter. There are a few filters in your vacuum. If you look at your manual you’ll be able see which one you have. It is essential to clean your filter regularly as it is your main line of defense against allergens and dust.

Many vacuums come with washable filters. However, if you don’t have one, you can purchase replacement filters. Wash your filter by removing it from the vacuum and shaking it until it is empty. Rinse it under cool water for several minutes. Your filter should be laid flat and dried for at least 24 hours.

Step 2: Clean Your Canister

This step will not apply if your vacuum has a bag. However, it is important to change the bag when it becomes full.

First, remove the canister and then empty it onto a bag. Next, use your instruction manual to separate the canister from the larger vacuuming part. You can soak the canister in warm soapy water or use a scrubber to clean it. It is important to rinse the canister well and allow it to dry flat for at least 24 hours.

After your vacuum is disassembled, you can clean the vacuum’s interior. You can clean the interior of your vacuum with a toothbrush. Use a downward stroke to remove any debris. Finally, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. You can use compressed air if there is really anything stuck to your vacuum.

Step 3: Cleaning Your Beater Bar (Powerhead)

Many hairs and other debris can build up on the beater bar of your vacuum. This makes it hard for the bristles to remove the carpet. This process of cleaning the carpet will remain the same regardless of whether the roller is removed.

Take out a pair of scissors, and begin to trim hair and other debris.

Do not cut the bristles. Next, pull the hairs out with your hands and then brush off any debris with your toothbrush.

Step 4: Cleaning You Vacuum Attachments

Attachments can be cleaned easily by filling a bucket or sink with warm water, and a teaspoon of dish detergent. Then drop them in. You can brush hair from attachments that have hair stuck to them with your toothbrush.

After your attachments have been cleaned, rinse them well and let them dry flat for at least 24hrs.