Do You Know How to Properly Clean a Vacuum?

Do You Want to Clean Your Vacuum, but You Don’t Know How? Discover What Type of Materials & Tools You’ll Need by Following These 9 Easy Steps. Read On…

Do You Know How to PROPERLY Clean a Vacuum Cleaner?

Do You Want to Clean Your Vacuum, but You Don’t Know How? Discover What Type of Materials & Tools You’ll Need by Following These 9 Easy Steps. Read On…
This article contains tops tips from our experts, backed by in-depth research.
Last Updated: 18 Apr 2025
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Cleaning Vacuums

It’s inevitable: eventually, you will have to know how to clean a vacuum

But you don’t have to dread it. 

Our vacuum cleaner guides are a great place to start, so keep reading!

As experts in our field, we discuss the following in this article:

    Follow these 9 simple steps to make cleaning your vacuum a breeze.

    See below…

    Why Should You Clean Your Vacuum?

    You should clean your vacuum because most of the dirt will get into the dust bag or canister as you vacuum your floors, carpets, and rugs. 

    However, some dirt, dust, allergies, and debris become trapped in the beater bar and filters.

    Cleaning your vacuum will also aid in the removal of dirt, bacteria, and other microorganisms that may be present.

    How Often Should You Clean Your Vacuum?

    You should clean your vacuum often.

    The owner's manual offers precise information about vacuum maintenance. 

    If you don't have one, you can always look it up online.

    You should take the vacuum apart for a thorough cleaning every 12 months, but only every 18 months.

    But that’s not all

    If your vacuum includes a dust bag, always empty it when it is roughly two-thirds full. Any higher, and the vacuum may not work properly. 

    Many vacuums contain a maximum line that shows when it is time to empty the tank.

    What You'll Need to Clean a Vacuum

    You'll need equipment and materials to clean a vacuum.

    This is what you need:

    Equipment

    • Small scissors or a seam ripper
    • A basin or bucket

    Materials

    • Washing detergent
    • Warm water
    • Sponge or microfiber cloth
    • Compressed air
    • Essential oil (optional)

    9 Step-By-Step Instructions for Cleaning a Vacuum

    Follow these 9 easy step-by-step instructions for cleaning your vacuum:

    1. Unplug the Vacuum

    Remove the vacuum from its charging station or unplug it when it's time to perform a thorough cleaning.

    To stop dust from entering your home, you might want to clean your vacuum outside.

    2. Empty the Bag or Dust Cap

    Remove any disposable bags from your vacuum and discard them. 

    Empty the dust cup or bin on vacuum cleaners that have one. 

    To make cleaning the dust cup easier, take apart as many components as you can. 

    The trick is…

    Consult your user manual for help. 

    In most cases, you can get instructions online if you can't find your manual.

    3. Mix a Cleaning Solution

    One teaspoon of dishwashing liquid should be added to a big basin or a sink full of hot water. 

    In order to remove any residue from the dust cup, pick a product that also includes a degreaser.

    4. Wash the Dust Bin or Cup

    Place the dust bin or cup entirely in the hot, soapy water. 

    Give it at least 10 minutes to soak. 

    To clean the bin's interior and exterior, use a sponge or microfiber cloth. 

    Allow to air-dry after a thorough hot water rinse.

    5. Clean or Replace Filters

    Many vacuums have lights that let you know when it's time to clean or replace a filter. 

    Find the filters (many vacuums have over one) and determine whether they can be washed or if a replacement is required.

    After that

    Remove the vacuum filter, then shake it out over a trash can, then rinse under a cold, flowing tap to remove as much dust and grime as possible.

    Use paper towels to gently press any excess water out. 

    To dry, place the filter flat on a rack and give drying up to 24 hours. 

    Put the filter back into the vacuum.

    6. Wipe Down the Vacuum Housing

    Wipe off the vacuum housing with a damp microfiber cloth. 

    If you detect dust in places that you can't reach, blow it away using compressed air.

    7. Detangle the Beater Bar & Inspect Motor Belt

    Unless you have a self-cleaning vacuum, use a seam ripper or extremely small, sharp scissors to remove any entangled hairs or threads from the beater bar. 

    Replace the brushes if they appear crushed or worn.

    To eliminate dust, wipe the motor belt with a moist cloth. 

    If the belt appears to be loose or damaged, it is time to replace it.

    8. Clean the Hose & Attachments

    Dust can be trapped within your vacuum if it has a suction hose. 

    If the hose is detachable, soak it in hot, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. 

    Rinse well with hot water and hang to drip dry.

    Check for clogs, tangled hairs, and dust in attachments such as the upholstery or dusting brush, crevice tool, turbo brush, and extension wand.

    9. Reassemble the Vacuum Cleaner

    Reassemble the vacuum once everything is clean and dry.

    How to Disinfect Your Vacuum

    To disinfect your vacuum, remove the attachments from your vacuum as usual, and then thoroughly rinse them in hot water to disinfect them. 

    Then, combine 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 tablespoon of water in a spray bottle. 

    Any pieces you want to disinfect should be sprayed with the solution, and then drying by air is best.

    The secret is…

    Spend a few additional seconds periodically cleaning your vacuum. 

    This is especially crucial if you use your vacuum in the kitchen or bathroom, 2 areas where germs pose a serious threat to public health, or if you have sick family members.

    How to Deep Clean Your Vacuum

    You can deep clean your vacuum by grabbing a can of compressed air to use on debris that is difficult to remove. 

    Compressed air can help clear anything stuck in the crevices of your vacuum that's blocked with pet hair, dirt, or a small object, besides the techniques mentioned above. 

    If, after cleaning, worn-out components, like the filter or rolling brush, still cannot perform as intended, you can also replace them.

    3 Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Vacuum

    The 3 missteps you should avoid when cleaning your vacuum are keeping the vacuum switched on, faulty electrics, and carrying the vacuum by its cord. 

    Here's what you need to know:

    Keeping the Vacuum Switched On 

    Make sure the vacuum cleaner is switched off and unplugged before inspecting the beater bar.

    A running vacuum can tear your hair from your scalp.

    It can cause clothing damage and even harm.

    Faulty Electrics

    If the electrical fault is aged or has wires poking out, don't use your vacuum cleaner.

    Carrying the Vacuums By Its Cord

    Avoid carrying the vacuum cleaner by the cord since this might harm the cord and cause an electrical problem.

    How Often to Clean Your Vacuum

    You have to clean your vacuum often, at least quarterly, or monthly if your home is extremely dusty, inspect the brush rollers and hose for problems, clean out the dust cup, change or wash filters, and wipe off the exterior casing to eliminate dust.

    Bagless vacuums with a dust cup or bin should be emptied when the debris level reaches the cup's top or after each use. 

    When the captured material reaches the specified full line, vacuum bags should be removed and disposed of.

    Why You Can Trust ByPurify

    You should trust ByPurify because, in the world of vacuum cleaners, ByPurify is a thought leader.

    To discover the best approach to clean vacuum cleaners, my experts spent hours conducting studies on the subject.

    Therefore, you may trust the thorough expertise and knowledge given in this and other publications by ByPurify.

    Common Questions

    How Long Will It Take to Clean a Vacuum?

    How Do You Know It’s Time to Clean Your Vacuum?

    Can I Clean the Inside of My Vacuum?

    How Do I Clean a Smelly Vacuum?

    How Do I Get My Vacuum to Stop Smelling Like a Dog?

    Can I Clean a Vacuum Filter With Water?

    How Do I Deodorize a Bagless Vacuum?

    How Do I Clean the Inside of a Central Vacuum Hose?

    How Do I Clean a Vacuum Bag?

    How Do I Take Apart a Vacuum?

    How Do I Get Mold Out of a Vacuum?

    In Conclusion

    Before you clean, gather all of your cleaning supplies in one location so that you are prepared for the task. 

    This technique can increase the longevity of your vacuum for many years while taking only around 45 minutes.

    Your vacuum cleaner will operate more effectively and have a longer lifespan if you know how to properly clean it. 

    While you're at it, remember to periodically inspect the filters, dust bag, and trash bin for buildup.

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