Cleaning your vacuum cleaner is extremely important in order to keep your home clean. In this article, Electrolux Singapore will guide you on how to clean a vacuum cleaner thoroughly.
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.
- Vacuum cleaner base plate & 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.
- Vacuum cleaner dust container & dust bag: 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.
- Vacuum cleaner hose & other 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.
Electrolux Singapore also offers a range of vacuum cleaner accessories including filters, brushes, and crevice nozzles. Check out some of our best-selling floor care products below:
- Designed to give optimal filtration level.
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- Washable, low-maintenance filter.
- Compatible with: Ergorapido vacuum cleaners
- Designed to give optimal filtration level.
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- Average replacement rate: 12 months per kit
- 1x HEPA filter, 1x Exhaust filter, 1x Foam filter
- A brush for optimal results on all floor types.
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- Side PowerBrush gets deep into crevices and corners.
- Washable, low-maintenance filter.
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.
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.
Browse our wide collection of vacuum cleaners:
- Performance for up to 30 minutes* of runtime.
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- Versatile vacuuming and convenient storage.
- Cyclonic system maintains optimal performance.
- Lightweight vacuum at approximately 1.9kg*.
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- Triple the suction power* for thorough cleaning.
- Up to 50 minutes* runtime on a single charge.
- Lightweight vacuum at approximately 1.9kg*.
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- Triple the suction power* for thorough cleaning.
- Up to 50 minutes* runtime on a single charge.
FAQs about cleaning vacuum cleaner
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Question 1: What happens if you don't clean your vacuum?
Neglecting vacuum cleaner cleaning can result in reduced suction, clogged filters, odors, motor damage, and rare fire hazards. To prevent these issues, follow manufacturer's instructions: empty the dustbin, clean or replace filters, and remove blockages regularly.
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Question 2: Can baking soda cause damage to a vacuum cleaner?
Excessive use of baking soda in a vacuum cleaner can potentially cause damage by clogging filters and reducing suction.
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Question 3: Can I clean my vacuum cleaners 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.
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.
