We all desire clean homes and fresh carpets. If you have a clean freak hidden somewhere deep inside, then you might give attention to every speck of dust that’s lying around.
However, have you ever wondered how dirty your vacuum cleaner may be?
The device that you use to clean your home has the most dirt in it. Sanitizing vacuum cleaner is not only healthy, but it’s also crucial when you want to avoid dirty carpets.
In this post, we’ll show you exactly how it’s done. From going over the parts that you must clean and how to do it, we’ll leave no stone untouched. Let’s see how it’s done.
How to Sanitize a Vacuum Cleaner?
A dirty vacuum cleaner can make cleaning pretty useless.
Since a vacuum cleaner is a device, cleaning it requires you to have a bit of knowledge of its make and model.
You see, the cleaning procedure is going to have a sea of difference when you take a regular vacuum cleaner with a bag or a bagless canister vacuum cleaner.
The first step that we suggest you do, is take out your user manual. Then give it a read while sipping your evening tea. Take your time and you’ll find that things automatically get a lot easier.
Now that you have an image on the model of your vacuum cleaner, let’s see how it’s done.
Step 1: Cleaning the bag / canister
If your vacuum cleaner is equipped with a bag, then this is where all dust and debris get collected. So, after a while, this bag is bound to get filled.
If you don’t replace the bag periodically, then you’ll notice the efficiency of your vacuum reducing, since the dirt has nowhere to escape.
We don’t suggest that you reuse the bag. Instead, take it out and seal it in a plastic bag and dispose of it carefully. Next, use a disinfectant area around the area to remove any bad smell.
After that, you can install a new bag altogether.
Now in case you have a canister vacuum cleaner, things get a little different. It’s best if you clean out the canister each time you use the vacuum cleaner.
Also, don’t forget to clean the hose of the vacuum cleaner since this is where dirt could also accumulate and block the suction.
Step 2: Cleaning the filters
Filters are another place that accumulates dirt and can make your vacuum cleaner dirty. When it comes to cleaning filters, you must determine what kind of filter you have.
These normally come in two types: washable and non-washable.
Washable filter
If your filter is washable, things are quite easy. Just run some warm water and hold the filter under it. Warm water is a great way even to banish carpet streaks!
Beware, your sink may need a scrubbing after all the dirt that is going to wash off. Next, you want to let the filter air-dry for at least a day before you reattach it to the vacuum.
Also, it’s best that you avoid soapy solutions if the manufacturer’s guide doesn’t allow it.
Even if it’s great for taking care of carpet pad stains, in most cases soap solutions can do more harm than good and damage your filters.
Non-washable filter
However, if your filter can’t be washed, then you can either dry clean it or replace it altogether. To clean it, insert the filter in a plastic bag and then tap it against the floor.
This will make any loose dirt fall into the plastic, without dirtying your floors. Next, just attach it back to the vacuum cleaner.
Step 3: Cleaning the brush heads
Now that we’ve cleaned both the bag/canister and the filters, it’s time to give the brush heads a cleanse.
Often, you may find pets or human hair stuck in this. Moreover, it’s a hotspot for dust and other debris to get stuck.
If you find a lot of hair that’s collected, simply wear some gloves and pull it free.
If it’s tangled badly, then take out a pair of scissors and you’ll get the job done. In fact, blunt scissors or putty knives are also a great way to get fabric paint out of carpet.
Next, immerse the brush heads in some warm soapy water and then give them a good scrub. This will remove any further debris that may be stuck.
Step 4: Cleaning the exterior
After cleaning your carpets from time to time, the exterior of your vacuum cleaner also can get super dirty.
Just like some stains blend in with some carpet colors, the same goes with vacuum cleaners. If you have a dark-colored one, you may not realize how dirty it gets.
In order to clean your vacuum cleaner, you’ll need a disinfectant spray. Although there are some great options in the market, you could also make one at home.
Simply mix one cup of water with one cup of rubbing alcohol and your disinfectant is ready. Pour it into a spray bottle and mix well. Additionally, you could add some essential oils to give your spray a beautiful scent.
Spray this on any exposed area of the vacuum cleaner and wipe it off with a cloth. Don’t forget the nooks and crannies as this is where dirt accumulates the most.
Remember to spray liberally and then let the vacuum cleaner air dry after you’ve wiped it off. This disinfectant spray can be used for any cleaning purposes around your home.
Wrapping up
So that was our post on how you can disinfect your vacuum cleaner. Remember, if the vacuum starts smelling, it might be time to empty the bag.
We hope you enjoyed your time with us. If you have any residual doubts about sanitizing vacuum cleaner, don’t forget to let us know in the comments.
We love getting your feedback. Until next time, stay happy and stay clean.