How to Clean a Vacuum

Written by
Mary Marlowe Leverette
Mary has been writing professionally for more than 20 years and is a leading expert on fabric care and housekeeping.
Learn about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Mary Marlowe Leverette
Updated 05/10/20
Red and grey canister vacuum on wooden floor

monticello/ iStock/ Getty Images Plus 

Overview
  • Working Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Whether you have a canister, upright or hand-vacuum, it should be cleaned regularly for optimum performance. How can your vacuum capture all the dust and soil on your floor if the filters, hoses, and beater bars are clogged? You're just spreading the dust around with a soiled cleaning tool.

We'll cover how to clean every type of vacuum and address how to care for the different types of filters. Many vacuums have a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter that traps 99.97 percent of particulates larger than .3 microns. Made of finely-woven synthetic fibers, HEPA filters usually cannot be washed at home and must be replaced. Refer to your manual for the suggested frequency of replacement.

However, almost every vacuum does have one or more sponge-like filters that can, and should be washed regularly.

How Often to Clean a Vacuum

Bagless vacuums that use a dust cup or bin should be emptied when the debris level reaches the top of the cup or after every use. Vacuum bags should be removed and discarded when captured debris reaches the indicated full line.

At least quarterly, or monthly if your home is very dusty, take a few minutes to check the brush rollers and hose for problems, wash out the dust cup, change or wash filters, and wipe down the outer housing to remove dust.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Seam ripper or small scissors
  • Small bucket or basin

Materials

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Hot water
  • Microfiber cloth or sponge
  • Compressed air
  • Essential oil (optional)

Instructions

Instructions for Cleaning a Vacuum

  1. Unplug the Vacuum

    When it's time to do a thorough cleaning, unplug the vacuum or remove it from its charging station.

    You may wish to clean your vacuum outside to prevent spreading dust in your home.

  2. Empty the Bag or Dust Cup

    If your vacuum has a disposable bag, remove it and throw it away. For vacuums that use a dust cup or bin, empty out the container. Disassemble as many parts of the dust cup as you can for easier cleaning. Refer to your instruction manual for help. If you can't find your manual, you can usually find instructions online.

  3. Mix a Cleaning Solution

    Fill a sink or large basin with hot water and add one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. If possible, choose a product that also contains a degreaser to cut through any residue in the dust cup.

  4. Wash the Dust Bin or Cup

    Completely submerge the dust bin in the hot, soapy water. Allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes. Use a sponge or microfiber cloth to clean the inside and outside of the bin. Rinse well with hot water and allow to air-dry.

    Warning

    Do not submerge any electrical components or non-washable filters in water.

  5. Clean or Replace Filters

    Many vacuums have lights that indicate when a filter should be cleaned or changed. Learn where the filters are located (many vacuums have more than one) and whether they can be washed or need to be replaced.

    Most sponge-like filters are washable. Remove the filter from the vacuum and shake it out over a garbage bin. To clean, rinse under a cool, running faucet to flush out as much dust and dirt as possible. The filter may still look soiled. Gently press out excess water with paper towels. Lay the filter flat on a rack to dry. Allow up to 24 hours for drying. Replace filter into the vacuum.

  6. Wipe Down the Vacuum Housing

    Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the vacuum housing. If you see dust in crevices that you cannot reach, use compressed air to blow it away.

  7. Detangle the Beater Bar and Inspect Motor Belt

    Unless you have a vacuum that is self-cleaning, remove any tangled hairs or threads from the beater bar by using a seam ripper or very small, sharp scissors. If the brushes look crushed or worn, consider replacing them.

    Wipe down the motor belt with a damp cloth to remove dust. If it seems loose or cracked, it is time to replace the belt.

  8. Clean the Hose and Attachments

    If your vacuum has a suction hose, it will trap dust inside. If you can detach the hose, submerge it in hot, soapy water for 10 or 15 minutes. Rinse well with hot water and hang to "drip dry".

    Tip

    If your hose is clogged, use a yardstick or garden hose to dislodge the clump of debris. Work slowly and carefully so you will not puncture the hose.

    Inspect and clean attachments like the upholstery or dusting brush, crevice tool, turbo brush, and extension wand for clogs, tangled hairs, and dust.

    This is a good time to check the vacuum cord for cracks that may cause problems.

  9. Reassemble Vacuum

    Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the vacuum.

Tip

If your vacuum smells less than fresh, a few drops of your favorite essential oil on the vacuum's filter will make vacuuming more pleasant.