How to clean a vacuum cleaner – A complete guide
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Cleaning your vacuum cleaner is extremely important in order to keep your home clean. In this guide, Electrolux Thailand will show you how to clean a vacuum cleaner with the following steps:
- Things to prepare before cleaning your vacuum cleaner
- How to clean a vacuum cleaner’s canister
- How to clean your vacuum cleaner filters
- How to clean your vacuum cleaner’s base plate
Things to prepare before cleaning your vacuum cleaner
What you will need for cleaning your vacuum cleaner
Prepare the following to make sure you have everything you need to get your vacuum cleaner sparkling clean:
- Soft cloths such as microfiber cloths
- A soft-bristled brush
- Dishwashing soap
- Water
- A toothbrush and/or tweezers
How often should you clean your vacuum cleaner?
Vacuum cleaner filters should be cleaned or replaced every 3-6 months, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to clean or replace the filters more frequently.
The base plate and brushes should be checked and cleaned after every use. Dirt and debris can get stuck in the brushes and base plate, which can decrease suction power and cause clogs.
If your vacuum cleaner has a dust container, it should be emptied after every use or when it's half full. If your vacuum cleaner has a bag, it should be replaced when it's full or according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
The vacuum cleaner hose and attachments should be checked and cleaned regularly, especially if you use them to clean upholstery or hard-to-reach areas. Wipe them down with a damp cloth or rinse them under running water if they become dirty.
How to clean a vacuum cleaner canister
Cleaning a vacuum cleaner’s canister is essential to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate in the canister, which can decrease suction power and cause clogs. Follow these steps to clean your canister vacuum cleaner thoroughly:
Step 1: Disassemble the vacuum cleaner
Turn off the vacuum cleaner and unplug it from the power source. Remove the hose and any attachments from the canister.
Step 2: Empty the vacuum cleaner
Depending on the design of your vacuum cleaner, you may need to push a button or release a latch to remove the canister or vacuum bag. Dispose of the contents in a garbage bag.
Step 3: Remove the filters from the vacuum cleaner
Most canister vacuum cleaners have two filters: the pre-motor filter and the post-motor filter. Follow your instruction manual to remove the filters.
Step 4: Wash the filters
Follow the steps below to thoroughly clean your vacuum cleaner’s filters.
Step 5: Clean the canister
Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the canister's interior. If necessary, you may use a mild detergent such as dishwashing soap and warm water to clean the canister. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry completely.
Step 6: Clean the hose and attachments
Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to remove any dirt from the hose and attachments. You can use the same mix of dishwashing soap and water to clean them. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
Step 7: Reassemble the vacuum cleaner
Once all the components are clean and dry, reassemble the vacuum cleaner. Reinstall the filters, attach the hose and attachments to the canister, and plug the vacuum cleaner back in.
Step 8: Test the vacuum cleaner
Turn on the vacuum cleaner and test its suction power. If it seems weak or ineffective, check for clogs in the hose or attachments.
How to clean your vacuum cleaner filters
Cleaning the filters of your vacuum cleaner is another important step. Accumulated dirt can decrease suction power and cause the vacuum cleaner to work less efficiently. Here's our step-by-step guide
Step 1: Remove the filters from the vacuum cleaner
Depending on the model, the filters may be in different areas of the vacuum cleaner. Check the manual to show where the filters are found.
Step 2: Check the filters for damage
If you see any tears, holes, or other damage, replace the filter instead of cleaning it.
Step 3: Remove rough dirt
Tap the filters to remove any loose dust and debris. You can do this by gently tapping the filter against a hard surface, such as a trash can. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that is stuck to the filter.
Step 4: Remove fine dust with a brush
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any remaining dust and debris from the filter. You can use a brush that is designed for cleaning filters or a soft-bristled brush that you have at home. Gently brush the filter in a circular motion to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
Step 5: Rinse the filter under cold water
Hold the filter under a cold tap and run water through it to remove any remaining dirt and debris. Be sure to rinse the filter thoroughly, so no dirt or debris remains.
Step 6: Let the filter dry completely
Once the filter has been rinsed, gently shake it to remove any excess water. Then, set it aside in a dry area to air dry completely. This may take a few hours.
Step 7: Reinstall the filter
Once the filter is completely dry, you can reinstall it in the vacuum cleaner. Follow your instruction manual.
Check out Electrolux’s performance filter kits for your vacuum cleaners:
- Quality bags designed for lasting performance.
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- Average replacement rate: 6 months per kit
- 2x Bags.
- Efficient, long performance dust bags
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- Optimal air flow and constant suction high power.
- Powerflow design optimizes capacity and suction.
How to clean a vacuum cleaner base plate
Since it usually does much of the proverbial heavy lifting, your vacuum cleaner’s base plate is often the part that gets dirtiest. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate and reduce suction power and cause the wheels or brushes to get stuck. Follow these steps to clean your vacuum cleaner's base plate:
Step 1: Clean the base plate with a brush
Use a soft-bristled brush to loosen any dirt and debris that's stuck to the base plate. With certain Electrolux models, be sure to take advantage of the patented BrushRollClean technology. Simply press the pedal on the base and an internal blade cuts up hair and debris, letting it get sucked in.
Step 2: Use a damp cloth to wipe away any loose dirt and debris
You can use a microfiber cloth or any cloth that's dampened with water. Wipe the base plate gently to remove any dirt and debris that's been loosened by the brush.
Step 3: Check for clogs in the base plate
Sometimes, debris can become stuck in the base plate, causing clogs. Use a small tool, such as a toothbrush or a pair of tweezers, to remove any debris.
Step 4: Clean brushes or rollers
If your vacuum cleaner has any brushes or rollers that are attached to the base plate, clean them according to your instruction manual. This may involve removing the brushes or rollers and cleaning them with a damp cloth.
Step 5: Dry the base plate
Once you've finished cleaning the base plate and any attachments, dry them with a clean, dry cloth. Be sure to dry them completely before reassembling the vacuum cleaner.
Read more: How to use a vacuum cleaner efficiently
FAQs about cleaning vacuum cleaner
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Question 1: What happens if you don't clean your vacuum regularly?
Your vacuum cleaner, being one of the frequently used household tools, can easily accumulate dirt and grime. Neglecting to clean it regularly can result in reduced suction power, making your cleaning tasks more challenging, and it can also pose health risks.
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Question 2: Can I clean my vacuum cleaner’s filter with water?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions, some vacuum cleaners may have washable filters that can be cleaned with water, but it is important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines.
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Question 3: Can water damage the vacuum cleaner’s motor?
Yes, water can damage the motor and the other electrical components, potentially rendering them ineffective or even causing them to malfunction.
Conclusion
Taking good care of your vacuum cleaner and keeping it clean will ensure that it keeps its suction power and keeps your home free of dirt instead of spreading grime. With Electrolux vacuum cleaners that feature multi-layer filtration systems to keep your home’s air clean as well as the BrushRollClean technology for easy cleaning, Electrolux should be your first choice when it comes to cleanliness.
Browse our cordless vacuum cleaners:
- Powerful 150W clean with 5x the suction power*.
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- Grab & Go, Roll in Roll out for efficient access.
- PowerPro Hard Floor Nozzle polishes as it cleans.
- Powerful 150W clean with 5x the suction power*.
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- Grab & Go, Roll in Roll out for efficient access.
- PowerPro Hard Floor Nozzle polishes as it cleans.
- Powerful 150W clean with 5x the suction power*.
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- Grab & Go, Roll in Roll out for efficient access.
- PowerPro Multi-surface Nozzle for all floor types.
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- 2-step dust emptying reduces spillages.
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- Uncompromised performance*, throughout the clean.
- 6-Step filtration system for a clean home.
- 2-step dust emptying reduces spillages.
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- Uncompromised performance*, throughout the clean.
- 6-Step filtration system for a clean home.
- 2-step dust emptying reduces spillages.
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- Uncompromised performance*, throughout the clean.
- 6-Step filtration system for a clean home.
Check out more tips to choose the right vacuum cleaner for your home from Electrolux:
