How to Clean a Vacuum Cleaner That Smells
Does your vacuum stink when you suck it up? Does it smell like mildew or is it smokey every time you use you use it?
Getting a stinky vacuum can lead to bad odor taking over the entire house and a house full of smelling good and smelling bad.
Great news for you the following articles help you to know vacuum cleaners give off a bad smell, and how to clean a smelly vacuum cleaner to make for yourself the vacuum has a fresh scent.
Continue to read why vacuum smells and deodorize vacuum odor from vacuum cleaners and make your clean house fresh-scented.
Why Does My Vacuum Cleaner Smell?
There are a few common culprits that can create foul odors in your vacuum:
- Dirt, dust, and debris — Everything you suck up with your vacuum (dirt, dust, pet hair, and dander, among other items) can start to smell over time. As it builds up, it also leaves pleasant odors in your vacuum.
- Mold or mildew — If your vacuum traps moisture inside, you are providing conditions for the growth of mold and mildew, which will leave behind a musty odor.
- A Clog, — If there is a clog inside the hose, filters, or other areas of the vacuum, dirt and debris will build up causing a smell.
- Full vacuum bag or bin — This one you have to replace frequently or your vac will stink.
- Burning odor — a burning smell indicates a problem, such as a worn belt or a blocked hose.
So now that you know why your vacuum stinks, let’s look at the steps to clean it and eliminate odors.
How to Clean the Filters
One of the most important ways to keep vacuum odors away is by regularly cleaning or replacing the filters. Here’s how:
- Check your manual – The steps to clean your vacuum filter depend on the model. Check the manual for specific instructions.
- Remove the filter – Take out the filter from its housing. With some bagless vacuums, you simply open a compartment on the machine.
- Tap it out – Gently tap the filter against the trash can to remove dust and debris. Don’t damage the filter.
- Wash it – For HEPA and other washable filters, rinse it under warm water. Let it air dry completely before putting it back.
- Change it – Disposable vacuum filters need regular changing, about every 3-6 months.
Cleaning the filters prevents odor-causing dust and allergens from recirculating through your vacuum and home.
Freshen the Vacuum Bag or Canister
If you have a bagged vacuum cleaner, changing the bag frequently will help avoid smells. Follow any instructions to replace vacuum bags.
For bagless vacuums, empty and clean out the canister or chamber that collects all the dirt:
- Remove the canister and empty it over the trash.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe out any dust or debris inside the canister.
- Let the canister dry completely before replacing it.
This step keeps all that trapped dust and dirt from stinking up your vacuum.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that will soak up smells. Try these tips:
- Vacuum it up – Sprinkle baking soda on your carpets and vacuum it up. The baking soda will absorb odors inside the vacuum.
- Air filter – Place baking soda in a small container and poke holes in the lid. Attach it to the vacuum’s exhaust so the air leaving the vacuum passes through the baking soda.
- Vacuum bag – If your vacuum uses bags, put some baking soda in a new bag before installing it.
Add a Scent or Essential Oil
A nice scent can help mask any musty odors coming from your vacuum:
- Scented vacuum bags – Look for scented or perfumed vacuum bags to make your vacuum smell fresh.
- Essential oils – Put a couple drops of lemon, lavender, or eucalyptus oil on a cotton ball and place it in the vacuum bag or canister.
- Freshening spray – Lightly spritz a freshening spray like Febreze on the vacuum filter.
Be careful not to overdo it or use strong oils that could damage the vacuum parts.
Check for Blockages
If certain areas of your vacuum are clogged, it can create a burning smell and allow dirt to build up.
Check common problem areas like the hose, intake opening, brushes, and all filters. Remove any blockages.
For upright vacuums, take off the base plate brush roll, and clear away any tangled hair or debris.
Replace Vacuum Parts
Some vacuum cleaner smells indicate that certain parts need replacement:
- Worn-out belt – A burning rubber smell means the belt is worn and needs changing.
- Damaged hose – Small cracks in the hose can let in dirt. Replace if needed.
- Worn brushes – Check the brushes and drive belts. Replace them if they look worn.
- Old vacuum – Very old vacuums that smell may need professional cleaning or replacement.
Replacing worn parts helps remove odors and improves vacuuming.
Deep Clean the Vacuum
For severe smells, do an intensive vacuum cleaning:
- Remove all parts like hoses, brushes, and bags.
- Clean each part thoroughly – wipe down with a cloth, rinse under water, etc.
- Rinse the vacuum body and let the air dry completely.
- Vacuum up baking soda to deodorize it.
- Put all parts back once fully dry.
Deep cleaning of the entire vacuum removes built-up dirt, hair, and grime that cause odors.
Tips to Prevent Future Smells
Here are some tips to keep your vacuum smelling fresh:
- Empty canisters and change bags often.
- Freshen the vacuum after each use.
- Regularly clean filters and replace them when needed.
- Check for clogs and remove them right away.
- Clean all vacuum parts thoroughly.
- The store opened boxes of bags in an airtight container.
- Use your vacuum frequently to avoid dirt buildup.
- Always dry the vacuum fully before storage.
When to Call for Professional Cleaning
Some vacuums may need professional cleaning if they have severe clogs, dirt buildup, or smells that you are unable to eliminate at home.
Signs your vacuum may need professional cleaning include:
- A burning smell when in use
- No airflow or suction
- Visible dirt inside that you cannot access
- A musty smell
- Pet urine or feces sucked into the vacuum
- Loud, abnormal noises
Vacuum repair specialists will know how to do the absolute best job cleaning your vacuum with the proper tools. Inquire about vacuum shops and manufacturers for cleaning services.
Conclusion: Keep Your Vacuum Smelling Fresh
Bad vacuum odors can stink up your home and make cleaning less pleasant. By regularly maintaining your vacuum cleaner and cleaning any dirty parts, you can keep unwanted smells away.
Use the tricks in this article to go straight for the source of any strange vacuum odors and get them smelling fresh again! It only takes some time and effort to get back to vacuum fresh.
Here are some key tips to remember:
- Clean or change vacuum filters regularly
- Empty and wash out the dirt canister/bag
- Use baking soda to soak up odors
- Add scented bags or essential oils
- Check for clogs and clear them
- Replace any worn-out parts
- Do a deep clean if smells persist
- Prevent smells by maintaining it well
- Call a professional for severe issues
Keeping your vacuum free of smells means you and your home can breathe easily!
Hey, I’m Abdul Manan, a vacuum enthusiast with a knack for simplifying cleaning. I love sharing tips, tricks, and insights to help you get the most out of your vacuum. Let’s tackle cleaning the smart way!
