How to clean a vacuum cleaner – A complete guide

Cleaning your vacuum cleaner is extremely important in order to keep your home clean. In this guide, Electrolux Arabia will show you how to clean a vacuum cleaner inside out, from its head and brush to its hose and filter.

What you will need before 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 to clean a vacuum cleaner

Cleaning a vacuum cleaner is essential to ensure its proper functioning and longevity. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate inside the vacuum cleaner, which can decrease suction power and cause clogs.

Follow these steps to clean your 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 vacuum cleaners for home 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

Filters are crucial parts of a vacuum cleaner, and the filter cleaning process itself involves multiple steps. To provide you with detailed instructions on how to wash the filters, we have a separate section dedicated to the filter washing process.

You can scroll down to learn how to clean the vacuum cleaner filters, or you can continue reading to learn how to clean the dustbin in the next step.

Step 5: Clean the dustbin

Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the vacuum cleaner’s interior. Check the manual instructions to see if the dust container is safe for washing or not. 

If the answer is yes, you may use a mild detergent and warm water to clean it. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry completely. Otherwise, only wipe the dustbin with wet cloths if necessary.

Step 6: Clean the vacuum cleaner head, hose and other attachments

Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to remove any dirt from the vacuum cleaner head, especially the base plate, and other attachments such as the hose. You can use the same mix of mild detergent and water to clean them. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.

Cleaning process of vacuum cleaner’s base plate also involves multiple smaller steps. As we also provide a dedicated section for this process, you can scroll down to find the step-by-step instruction on how to clean the vacuum cleaner head or continued your reading with how to reassemble your vacuum cleaner.

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

As mentioned in the previous section, cleaning the filters of your vacuum cleaner is another important process which itself involves multiple steps. 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 head (base plate)

Since it usually does much of the proverbial heavy lifting, your vacuum cleaner’s head, particularly the 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.

Check out some cordless vacuum cleaners from Electrolux that come with BrushrollClean technology:

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 vacuum cleaner brushes or rollers

If your vacuum cleaner head 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.

Electrolux Ergorapido vacuum cleaners offer BrushrollClean technology for effortless and tangle free cleaning

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.

How often to clean vacuum cleaner filters, brushes & dustbag?

Vacuum cleaner filters

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’s head: Base plate & brushes

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.

Vacuum cleaner dust container & dust bag

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 dust bag, it should be replaced when it's full or according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Vacuum cleaner hose & other attachments

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.

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.

Explore our full range of vacuum cleaner models, including cordless vacuums, bagged canister vacuums, bagless canister vacuums, handheld vacuums, and wet and dry vacuum cleaners, for an even easier and more convenient home cleaning experience.